10 Free (or Cheap) Family-Friendly Things To Do in Canberra This Spring
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Spring is here, which means longer days, blossoming gardens, and the perfect excuse to explore Canberra with the family.
Whether you are the type of family who enjoys culture, outdoor fun, or are looking for a budget-friendly outing, there is something for everyone!
Floriade
Canberra is about to be transformed into a wonderland of colour with the return of the most iconic spring festival.
Floriade is the perfect excuse for a family day out with free entry and many activities involved. The little ones can explore the flower beds, dance along to live music, and discover surprises tucked around every corner, it’s a whole day adventure without needing to spend much.
Saturday 13 September until Sunday 12 October | Commonwealth Park, Canberra | floriadeaustralia.com
Mr Squiggle and Friends
Take a trip back down memory lane with everyone’s favourite upside-down man.
This free exhibition at the National Museum of Australia will reunite Mr Squiggle with his friends Blackboard, Rocket, Bill Steamshovel, and Gus the Snail. This exhibition is perfect to spark creativity in kids with its interactive activities and plenty of playful sketches to discover.
Who knows, parents might end up having more fun than the kids!
Until Monday 13 October | National Museum of Australia | nma.gov.au
Family-Friendly Screenings at the NFSA
The National Film and Sound Archive is offering regular screenings of classic family favourites. It’s the perfect rainy-day activity with plenty of nostalgia for parents and popcorn fun for kids. And the best bit is that the NFSA’s Art Deco building itself is worth exploring, with quirky exhibits sprinkled all over.
Until Saturday 29 November | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia | tickets.nfsa.gov.au
Australian Botanical Gardens
Spring transforms the gardens into a living showcase, from lush rainforest gullies to sun-soaked desert plains dotted with wildflowers.
It’s the perfect spot for kids to channel their inner explorer and connect with nature, while parents can sneak a peaceful coffee or brunch at Pollen Café. Keep an eye out for the free ranger-led walks that are offered during the season.
Open Monday to Sunday | Clunies Ross Street, Acton | anbg.gov.au
Australian War Memorial
Free to visit, the Australian War Memorial offers an experience that goes beyond the history books. The galleries are interactive, insightful, and accessible for children of all ages.
Families can spend the morning exploring the Discovery Zone, then finish the day with the daily Last Post Ceremony, a captivating experience that resonates with both adults and kids.
Open Monday to Sunday | Treloar Crescent, Campbell | awm.gov.au
National Zoo & Aquarium
Although it’s not free, the zoo offers great value for families wanting a full day of adventure. It’s the perfect way for you and the kids to come face-to-face with lions, cheetahs, and meerkats – no long-haul flight to Africa required.
A family pass makes it more affordable, and kids will love ticking animals off their “must-see” list as they go.
Open Monday to Sunday | Lady Denman Drive, Yarralumla | nationalzoo.com.au
Lake Burley Griffin
With spring comes sunshine, and with sunshine comes the best family walks around Lake Burley Griffin. Cycle, scooter, or stroll around the lake, with plenty of perfect picnic spots and cafes. If you want to make a day of it, hire a paddleboat or kayak, or simply soak up the sunshine as the kids race ahead on their bikes.
The National Arboretum
The National Arboretum is a family favourite with 250 hectares of forest, gardens and sweeping views. Kids can let their crazy out with the award-winning Pod Playground, while parents soak up the scenery or wander through the Bonsai and Penjing Collection.
With so much open space, it’s an easy, low-cost outing that blends playtime with a little bit of nature’s therapy.
Open Monday to Sunday | Forest Drive, Molonglo Valley | nationalarboretum.act.gov.au
