How to make the most of the warm autumn weather

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The weather is unseasonably warm for April and with tops of at least 26 degrees predicted for the next few days, it’s time to make the most of it.
From stunning foliage walks to lakeside drinks, local wines to beach escapes, now’s the time to soak up the sunshine before the ANZAC Day cold snap. Get out there and make the most of these bonus warm days while they last!
Find Canberra’s most gorgeous autumn foliage

Credit: @snapsbysal
It’s not autumn until you grab some snaps of the stunning autumn leaves around Canberra. Luckily, the Autumn Leaves Map is back for 2025 and has plenty of suggestions. But if you’d rather avoid the crowds, here are seven walks perfect for a clear and crisp autumn morning that provide the perfect opportunity for a stroll and a snap.
Grab yourself a glass of local wine

Credit: Darcy Oliver.
There’s nothing like a glass of red wine in the autumn and with 140 vineyards on our doorstep, Canberra is spoilt for choice. Here’s our ultimate guide to Canberra’s wine district, stretching across the towns of Murrumbateman, Gundaroo, Yass, Wallaroo and Bungendore.
Short on time? Here are eight cellar doors located a short drive from the city.
Pack a picnic
Make the most of the sunny outdoors and pack a picnic for an alfresco adventure. Here are 21 picnic spots where you can soak up the sun. Worried about the weather turning? Don’t be – here are five spots where we’ve factored in wind chill, proximity to parking, shelter opportunities, the ability to cook hot food and the availability of a hot cup of coffee.
Go to the beach

Credit: Destination NSW.
Okay, hear us out – yes, you can still swim. And this might be your last chance before winter hits. And with the long weekend on the horizon, why wouldn’t you go for a quick and breezy autumn escape? Here are three recommendations.
Visit the local markets

Supplied.
Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy Canberra’s markets, pick up some seasonal produce and support local businesses. If you’re keen to get outside, take a lakeside stroll to visit Little Burley Market on Saturday morning or head to Haig Park Village Markets in Braddon on Sunday. Another highlight is the Old Bus Depot Markets in Kingston. It’s Canberra’s oldest market, and has lots of see, do and eat!
Say ‘cheers’ lakeside!

Credit: Snapper and Co.
There’s nothing quite like being by the water with a cold drink in hand, especially when the day is hot. Luckily there are plenty of waterside venues to cross off your list before it gets too cool to venture out without a puffer jacket. Here are five of our favourite spots.
Looking for somewhere new to explore? Might we suggest a visit to Kiln at Belco Arts? Open both day and night, here you’ll find a fusion of art and global flavours.