Six things to do on Canberra’s southside that are worth crossing the bridge for
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Let’s broaden our horizon, Northsiders. South Canberra does exist, even if you like to pretend it doesn’t.
We know, we know, there is a sibling-like rivalry between north and south and sometimes, crossing the bridge is out of the question. But here’s a list that just might push you towards taking the plunge over to the other side.
Kita, the hotspot for nocturnal foodies
Picture this: it’s 2 am, your late-night cravings decide it’s the perfect time to attack, and fast food simply won’t do. Luckily, there is a restaurant in Narrabundah ready to placate your appetite.
Open from 6 pm to 6 am (that’s right, folks, no mistakes with am and pm), Kita is a family-owned Indonesian restaurant feeding Canberra’s night owls since 2018. Now, you can ditch your instant Mi Goreng for the authentic thing by taking a long-ish drive on the empty streets.
59 Boolimba Crescent, Narrabundah | kitakafe.com.au
There’s always more on the Foreshore
Take a stroll on the bank of Kingston Foreshore as the first rays of sunlight light up the sky, let the aroma of some freshly baked goods lull you, and the next thing you know, you’ll be sitting on the pier with a sweet treat in your left hand and a coffee in your right.
Or catch the sunset in the evening on the patio of a lake-view restaurant, with your pick of cuisines available. Any time of the day, Kingston Foreshore has something for everyone, all with a pretty view.
Eastlake Parade, Kingston | visitcanberra.com.au
Parkes and recreation
One would be remiss not to mention the museum precinct of Parkes in the inner south.
The National Triangle is home to a horde of institutions like the National Gallery of Australia, National Portrait Gallery, National Archives and Questacon, along with the National Library and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, the suburb is the hottest place to be for those with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. So, put on your berets and get your culture fix!
Bounded by Kings, Commonwealth and Constitution Avenues | nca.gov.au
Money, money, money…at the Royal Australian Mint
Mama said that money doesn’t grow on trees; the coins are actually meticulously minted and produced by the one and only Royal Australian Mint in Deakin.
As the primary producer of circulating coins in Australia, the Royal Australian Mint also keeps its doors open for visitors to discover their rare and historical coin collection, watch live as robots meld metal into pocket change and unleash your creativity by minting your own uncirculated coin!
62-114 Denison Street, Deakin | ramint.gov.au
Spend Koala-ty time in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
If you are going to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, block off your entire day, because there are a million things to do. As you make the drive and leave the city and the suburbs behind, the landscape transforms from the quintessential yellowish-green bushland to lush green forests and rolling mountain ranges, making you feel like you’re in a different region altogether.
Once in the nature reserve, there are several walking trails to choose from, but don’t miss out on the Koala Path in the Eucalyptus Forest. These cuddly creatures are definitely a sight to behold.
Tidbinbilla Visitor Centre 141 Paddys River Road, Paddys River | tidbinbilla.act.gov.au
Brews in the Capital
Sometimes, a freshly poured beer and a juicy burger can solve all the problems in life. Capital Brewing Co in Fyshwick does just that, on top of being one of 10,059 B Corp-certified organisations across the world. While you may go for the brews, you will stay for the Brodburger food truck, permanently joined in this holy union. It would truly be difficult to leave this place feeling surly and hungry, as they have great beer, great food and most importantly, great vibes.
Building 3/1 Dairy Road, Fyshwick | capitalbrewing.co
Feature image: Tim Bean Photography
