Who needs the beach? Eight fun-filled ways to spend the summer holidays in Canberra.
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From axe-throwing to art-making and singing your heart out at karaoke, here are some fun ways to spend the summer holidays in Canberra (no sand or surf required).
Splash Lab
If you’re craving something creative and cathartic, Splash Lab is Canberra’s premier splatter paint studio — and it’s exactly as fun (and messy) as it sounds.
Perfect for date nights, birthdays, family outings or a colourful catch-up with friends, this interactive studio lets you suit up and fling paint freely, no artistic talent required. Just show up, let go, and make a joyful mess together.
Inclusive, high-energy and guaranteed to leave you smiling, Splash Lab is one of the most vibrant and unexpected things to do in Canberra this summer – especially when the weather isn’t playing nice.
8/160 Lysaght Street, Mitchell | splashlab.com.au
Axxe
Looking for a group activity with a serious wow factor? Axxe is Canberra’s high-tech axe throwing venue, blending traditional skill with digital scoring and interactive gameplay.
Competitive types can test their precision on official axe throwing targets, while those after a more relaxed (and laugh-filled) session can jump into a rotating lineup of mini games—think beer pong, balloon pop, Battleship, zombie hunt and more.
With expert coaching, real-time scoring and a welcoming vibe, it’s perfect for birthdays, team outings or a night out that’s a little different.
Suitable for ages 11+ (with conditions). Closed shoes required.
4/1 Lyell Street, Fyshwick | axxe.com.au
Breakr
Need to let off some steam? Breakr is Canberra’s ultimate smash room experience, where breaking things isn’t just allowed – it’s the whole point.
Suit up in protective gear, grab your weapon of choice, and go to town on glassware and breakables in a fully enclosed space designed for safe, stress-busting fun.
Want to turn things up a notch? Check out the latest upgrades, hit Disco Mode for a colour-splashed smashing session, and blast your favourite tunes while you break it down – literally.
Cathartic, chaotic, and wildly satisfying.
4/1 Lyell Street, Fyshwick | breakr.com.au
Riddle Room
Think fast, work together, and see if you can beat the clock. Riddle Room delivers immersive escape room experiences designed to challenge your brain and reward clever teamwork.
Locked inside a meticulously crafted puzzle room, you and your team must uncover clues, crack codes, and connect the dots using only what’s around you. Every room tells a story – and every second counts.
Perfect for friends, families, and teams who love problem-solving with a dash of adrenaline.
8/160 Lysaght Street, Mitchell | riddleroom.com.au/canberra
Kingpin
Bowling, escape rooms, karaoke, Kingpong, pool tables, and more – if you’re bored in the City, Kingpin has plenty to choose from.
From singing your heart out in private karaoke rooms to playing over 100 arcade games and enjoying a nice cold drink from the fully licensed bar, spending a few hours here will leave everyone smiling.
Canberra Centre, Bunda Street, Canberra City | kingpinplay.com
Holey Moley
Mini golf… but make it wild. Often dubbed the ‘craziest game of golf’, Holey Moley takes your standard putt-putt and turns it into a neon-filled, nostalgia-packed experience.
Play your way through 18 imaginative holes inspired by everyday objects and pop culture throwbacks from the 80s and 90s. Best suited to older kids, teens and adults who’ll appreciate the references — and the friendly competition.
Canberra Centre, Bunda Street, City | holeymoley.com.au
Hijinx Hotel
Leave the suitcases at home – this is a hotel where you play, not stay.
Hijinx Hotel is packed with 15 immersive challenge rooms designed to test your teamwork, problem-solving skills and ability to think fast under pressure. Working together is key as you race against the clock in a series of collaborative games, making it a surprisingly fun way to bond as a family or group of friends.
Canberra Centre, Bunda Street, City | hijinxhotel.com.au
Timezone Woden
Game on. Canberra’s very own standalone Timezone in Woden has more than 85 cutting-edge arcade games to test your reflexes, skills and competitive spirit.
From classic favourites to viral hits like the interactive game PIXEL (yes, the one all over TikTok), there’s plenty to keep players of all ages entertained. Not into arcade games? No worries — there’s also laser tag and bowling, making it an easy crowd-pleaser for families, friends and birthday celebrations alike.
Westfield Woden, Phillip | timezonegames.com
