The High Life: Canberra’s elevated drinking spots
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Canberra might be known for its lakes and leafy outlooks, but sometimes the best view comes with a few extra floors between you and the ground.
From rooftop cocktails to sky-high sundowners, these are the elevated drinking spots where the city skyline takes centre stage. You won’t find any lakeside beer gardens or pretty garden vistas here – just city views, a good drink and a fresh perspective on the capital.
Oh My Papa! (City)
Dinner plans that turn into rooftop cocktails? Now we’re talking. The newest addition to Canberra Centre brings modern Asian flavours, cheeky cocktails and a graffiti-inspired rooftop bar with views across the city.
Start with smoky chicken yakitori, crispy karaage chicken bao buns and caramelised pork belly, then head upstairs to settle in for sunset drinks. With bold design, playful Asian-inspired cocktails and plenty of personality, Oh My Papa! is giving Civic a fresh reason to stay out a little longer.
Canberra Centre, Bunda Street, Civic | Open Monday to Sunday, 11.30 am – 3 pm and 5 pm – 10 pm | ohmypapa.com.au
Leyla Bar (Barton)
Overlooking sweeping skyline views of the city, Lake Burley Griffin, and beyond, Leyla Bar is the place to go if you’re craving a classic cocktail while watching the sunset behind some of Canberra’s most iconic buildings. And with breezy, coastal vibes and a menu packed full of delicious Spanish tapas, it’s (literally) an elevated drinking experience.
Level 7, Burbury Close, Barton | Open Tuesday to Sunday, 3 pm until late | leylabar.com.au
The Inn (Ainslie)
You might not expect to find killer views of Canberra at the Ainslie Shops, but that’s where The Inn proves you wrong. Perched upstairs from Edgar’s, not only is this drinking and dining destination refined, but it also offers a unique panoramic view of Telstra Tower and Mount Ainslie. Enjoy the view as you sip champagne with Sydney Rock oysters before digging into simple, wholesome, and flavoursome dishes.
Level 1, Edgar Street, Ainslie | Open Tuesday to Saturday, 5.30 pm until late | edgarsinn.com.au/the-inn
Bar 59 (Belconnen)
Bar 59 is the newest addition to Mercure Canberra Belconnen, bringing locals a luxe spot for a cold drink. Helping you kick off the weekend in style from 4 pm until late on Thursdays and Fridays, Bar 59 will be pouring everything from local spirits, beers, and wines to classic cocktails, all best enjoyed taking in the stunning views of Lake Ginninderra.
Level 11, 59 Cameron Avenue, Belconnen | Thursday and Friday, 4 pm until late | mercurebelconnen.com.au
The Howling Moon (Braddon)
You can’t write a list of rooftop bars in Canberra without mentioning The Howling Moon. Located on top of the Rex Hotel, the views are just as vibrant as the cocktails and are spectacular no matter the weather. Watch the sunset while wolfing down (get it?) delicious snacks and dance under the stars long into the night.
150 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon | Open Monday to Sunday, 4 pm until late | thehowlingmoon.com.au
Highball (City)
With a private, lush, greenery-filled terrace that seems worlds away from the light rail construction of London Circuit and City Hill, Highball isn’t just a bar – it’s a destination. With a fresh and fun vibe (and a very, very extensive rum menu), even with the reminder just out the window, you’ll forget you’re in the heart of Canberra’s city.
Level 1, 75 London Circuit, City | Open Sunday to Wednesday, 4 pm – 12 am and Thursday to Saturday, 4 pm – 3 am | highball.bar
