Some of the best places to cool off in Canberra (beyond the pool)
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Think: lakeside spots, galleries with air con, wineries, libraries, late-night dessert bars and more.
With the next few days predicted to hit highs of over 35 degrees, you might be wondering where you can take refuge from the summer heat. And while the local pools might be the first things to come to mind, there are plenty of other cool escapes that don’t involve getting wet.
Ideal for the upcoming sweltering days and the balmy nights, here are some of the best places to cool off in Canberra.
Wineries
There’s nothing like a cold glass of Riesling on a hot day, so why not make the most of daylight savings and head to a local winery for a quiet and cool glass or two? Nick O’Leary’s Heywood features a 16-hectare vineyard, modern winemaking facility, tasting bar, restaurant and event space while Brindabella Hills Winery has picturesque views of the Murrumbidgee River. Shaw Estate is renowned for its award‑winning cool‑climate wines and Mediterranean-inspired dining, making it an ideal summer rest-stop. Looking for even more suggestions? Here are some Canberra region wineries to cross off your bucket list.
Cinemas
With icy air-conditioning and an almost endless supply of choc-tops, the cinema is always a good idea in summer. For those looking for something more local, Hoyts has locations in Woden and Belconnen while Limelight is the place to go in Tuggeranong. In the city you’ll find Dendy, while Acton is home to Palace Electric which hosts a selection of international cinema; arthouse and quality new release films.
Our suggestion? Don’t forget about the Arc Cinema at the National Film and Sound Archive – a stunning Art Deco venue that shows everything from cult classics, to beloved family favourites, and digitally restored gems that have shaped cinema history. With DOM’s Deli serving locally roasted coffee as well as a selection of delicious sandwiches and sweet treats (as well as local wines, drinks, charcuterie, and pre-movie bites for after-hours screenings and events), it has everything you could want.
Lakeside spots
There’s something about being near the water with a drink in hand when the temperature soars. Margot, The Jetty, Walter Café, On Lake Café, and The Dock are the best places to go to soak in the majesty of Lake Burley Griffin, while Kiln, The Lighthouse and Cartel all overlook Lake Ginninderra. And finally Snapper and Co, and Two Before Ten Greenway are both family friendly and serve up some delicious eats alongside stunning views.
Libraries
Consider this your sign to renew your library card. With free air-conditioning and plenty of books to browse, it’s easy to let the heat of the day pass you by in a local library. The National Library of Australia is open from 8 am, Monday to Friday and from 9 am on the weekends, with its in house café keeping you cool and caffeinated as you explore the bookshop and exhibitions. If you’re looking for a more traditional library experience (where you can actually borrow books to take home), you can find your nearest local library here.
Galleries
A cultural experience with air conditioning – what’s not to love? Luckily, Canberra is home to an abundance of galleries where you can find just that. Add the National Gallery of Australia, the National Portrait Gallery, Canberra Museum and Gallery, Grainger Gallery, and Aarwun Gallery to your bucket list. And if that’s not enough to keep you busy, here are five independent art galleries to visit in Canberra.
Late-night dessert
When it’s still 20 degrees after the sun has gone down, a cold sweet treat is a need, not a want. And if you’re looking for a late-night snack, you’re in luck.
At Bunny Beans Late Night Café in Kippax, you can usually order bingsu until 10 pm as well as iced coffee, matcha, milkshakes and frappes. While the night cafe is on summer break until 22 January, you can get your bingsu fix during the day – win!
New gelato bar Mavi Gelati in Woden is open until late while Ujin Matcha House in the city is serving up matcha soft serve, tiramisu, and more until 9 pm Friday to Sunday (or until sold out).
Gelato Messina in Braddon and Kingston serves scoops until 10.30 pm Sunday to Thursday and 11 pm Friday and Saturday while Anita Gelato closes at 11 pm. San Churro in the city is open to cure your chocolate cravings until 10 pm Sunday to Thursday and 12 am Friday and Saturday while Canberra’s late-night artisan bakery Bite & Savor is serving pastries until 10 pm, seven nights a week. Still not satisfied? Pay a visit to Moo Moo Frozen Yogurt and Goodberry’s before 10 pm.
Feature image: Margot. Via Instagram.
