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Discover the Biggest Historical Site in Canberra, Australia

3 min read February 2, 2024

Immerse yourself in Australia’s rich history and discover the captivating stories of its past at these 10 historical sites in Canberra. From ancient Aboriginal origins to modern political landmarks, these destinations showcase the significant events and people that have shaped the nation’s identity.

Explore the Australian War Memorial, a poignant tribute to the sacrifices of those who served in conflicts, and delve into the interactive exhibits of the National Museum of Australia, uncovering the diverse cultural heritage of the land.

Top Historical Site in Canberra, Australia

Canberra ( KAN-bər-ə) is the capital city of Australia. Founded following the federation of the colonies of Australia as the seat of government for the new nation, it is Australia's largest inland city and the eighth-largest Australian city overall. The city is located at the northern end of the Australian Capital Territory at the northern tip of the Australian Alps, the country's highest mountain range. As of June 2022, Canberra's estimated population was 456,692.The area chosen for the capital had been inhabited by Aboriginal Australians for up to 21,000 years, by groups including the Ngunnawal, Ngunawal and Ngambri. European settlement commenced in the first half of the 19th century, as evidenced by surviving landmarks such as St John's Anglican Church and Blundells Cottage. On 1 January 1901, federation of the colonies of Australia was achieved. Following a long dispute over whether Sydney or Melbourne should be the national capital, a compromise was reached: the new capital would be built in New South Wales, so long as it was at least 100 mi (160 km) from Sydney. The capital city was founded and formally named as Canberra in 1913. A plan by the American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin was selected after an international design contest, and construction commenced in 1913. Unusual among Australian cities, it is an entirely planned city. The Griffins' plan featured geometric motifs and was centred on axes aligned with significant topographical landmarks such as Black Mountain, Mount Ainslie, Capital Hill and City Hill. Canberra's mountainous location makes it the only mainland Australian city where snow-capped mountains can be seen in winter; although snow in the city itself is uncommon. As the seat of the Government of Australia, Canberra is home to many important institutions of the federal government, national monuments and museums. This includes Parliament House, Government House, the High Court building and the headquarters of numerous government agencies. It is the location of many social and cultural institutions of national significance such as the Australian War Memorial, the Australian National University, the Royal Australian Mint, the Australian Institute of Sport, the National Gallery, the National Museum and the National Library. The city is home to many important institutions of the Australian Defence Force including the Royal Military College Duntroon and the Australian Defence Force Academy. It hosts all foreign embassies in Australia as well as regional headquarters of many international organisations, not-for-profit groups, lobbying groups and professional associations. Canberra has been ranked among the world's best cities to live in and visit. Although the Commonwealth Government remains the largest single employer in Canberra, it is no longer the majority employer. Other major industries have developed in the city, including in health care, professional services, education and training, retail, accommodation and food, and construction. Compared to the national averages, the unemployment rate is lower and the average income higher; tertiary education levels are higher, while the population is younger. At the 2016 Census, 32% of Canberra's inhabitants were reported as having been born overseas.Canberra's design is influenced by the garden city movement and incorporates significant areas of natural vegetation. Its design can be viewed from its highest point at the Telstra Tower and the summit of Mount Ainslie. Other notable features include the National Arboretum, born out of the 2003 Canberra bushfires, and Lake Burley Griffin, named for Walter Burley Griffin. Highlights in the annual calendar of cultural events include Floriade, the largest flower festival in the Southern Hemisphere, the Enlighten Festival, Skyfire, the National Multicultural Festival and Summernats. Canberra's main sporting venues are Canberra Stadium and Manuka Oval. The city is served with domestic and international flights at Canberra Airport, while interstate train and coach services depart from Canberra railway station and the Jolimont Centre respectively. City Interchange is the main hub of Canberra's bus and light rail transport network.

Top Historical Site in Canberra, Australia

Australian War Memorial

  • Address: Treloar Cres, Campbell ACT 2612, Australia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (13163)
  • Phone: +61 2 6243 4211
  • Website:
Lanyon Homestead in Canberra, Australia
Lanyon Homestead in Canberra, Australia

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The 10 Best Historical Site near Canberra, Australia

Lanyon Homestead in Canberra, Australia
Lanyon Homestead in Canberra, Australia

Old Parliament House

  • Address: 18 King George Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.6 (4365)
  • Phone: +61 2 6270 8222
  • Website:
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Reviews:
    X X✭✭✭✭✭
    a month ago
    The Old Parliament House in Canberra is a remarkable historic gem, wonderfully preserving the essence of Australia’s political past. Its rich history is palpable in every room, offering an intimate glimpse into the nation’s legislative evolution. The architecture is stunning, blending elegance with the gravity of governance. The museum’s exhibits are engaging and informative, perfectly capturing the spirit of Australian democracy. A must-visit for history buffs and tourists alike!
    Kara Lackmann✭✭✭✭✭
    in the last week
    Well this was a lovely surprise, Old Parliament House is full of history but also wonderful exhibitions related to Aust politics and history, but done in a superbly engaging, interesting and interactive way.

    Make sure you eave plenty of time, we spent over 3 hrs at Old Parliament House and could have spent more.

    Something for everyone, there were Discovery Trails, Treasure Hunts and other games to play as you weave your way through this beautiful building. We went with our 7yr old and he loved it.

    The volunteers who were available and ready to chat and share snippets of info and answer questions were fabulous.

    Thanks for making our visit awesome. And it’s free…

    Ian Scott✭✭✭✭
    3 weeks ago
    Wow, what an awesome place. So full of the history of politics in this country. I really enjoyed this. You can take a tour or opt to just wander through at your own pace. There is a lot to take in, so allow some time to see it all. Www.Youtube/@IanandLorrainesAussiadventure
    Vivek Krishan✭✭✭✭
    3 weeks ago
    Great atmosphere all wood panelled and all. Some of the work rooms are so small! Can understand what the journos said about it being an intimate space. A courtyard cafe in there too.
    N Chan✭✭✭✭✭
    3 months ago
    This is a fun and interesting place to visit. It’s great to see the place preserved. You can step into offices and halls and the whole place is really immersive.

    Fun bonus: you can have a go at a working typewriter!

Lanyon Homestead

  • Address: Tharwa Dr, Tharwa ACT 2620, Australia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.5 (302)
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Blundells Cottage

  • Address: Wendouree Dr, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.2 (199)

Government House Lookout

  • Address: 420 Lady Denman Dr, Molonglo Valley ACT 2611, Australia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4 (49)

Captain James Cook Memorial

  • Address: Barrine Dr, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.4 (45)

Captain Cook Memorial Jet

  • Address: Barrine Dr, Acton ACT 2601, Australia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.4 (37)

Historic Waterloo Bridge Memorial

  • Address: Acton ACT 2600, Australia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.9 (34)
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Calthorpes House

  • Address: 24 Mugga Way, Red Hill ACT 2603, Australia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.4 (28)

Old Canberra Brickworks

  • Address: Yarralumla ACT 2600, Australia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.3 (24)

Trench Trail

  • Address: Fyshwick ACT 2609, Australia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.3 (24)

Thank you for reading! If you have any additional information on the best Historical Site in Canberra, Australia, please leave a comment above. We would love to hear from you!

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Syarif Muhamad

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5 Replies to Discover the Biggest Historical Site in Canberra, Australia

  1. Visiting the Australian War Memorial was a truly touching experience. I highly recommend everyone to stop by. The free entry is a bonus, and there’s so much to see. Make sure to allow plenty of time; it’s worth every moment. A poignant tribute and a must-visit. Five stars without a doubt.

    Reply

  2. A must for those into WW1 and WW2. Lots of historical items are displayed, and you can relate to what you have read in the books. You have a choice to follow the guided tour or go on your own. If you’re more into taking photos, better go on your own. Do get the ticket in advance via online (ticket is free), which allow you to choose the time to visit the war memorial.

    Reply

  3. Great place to visit!!
    Highly recommended!!!
    A wonderful place to visit. Draws out the raw emotions from everyone, be them very high to very low.
    Give yourself plenty of time to visit it all, so much history and personal stories to read and experience. Then, to cap off the day, appreciate the calling of the Last Post.
    A truly memorable visit with many more to come once the construction and refurbishments are complete.

    Stunning display of Australian war memorabilia and homage to the living and lost veterans of war. Freedom isn’t free for any country and this memorial takes you straight to that fact.

    It’s a free tour but you have to schedule a time online. They also have free guided tours.

    Reply

  4. Breathtaking memorial! The whole history of wars! The entrance is free and there are card machines where you can donate! You will find a cafe, restrooms, and souvenirs! Don’t miss the view from the balcony!

    Reply

  5. Undergoing huge upgrade, but still able to put on a really moving and informative exhibition. An excellent learning experience. Love how they tell the story as it is and allowed my emotions to draw from the facts. I brought guests from Melbourne and South Africa and they were very moved and impressed, especially the Last Post. We did ask the memorials to Anzac Parade too, well worth it.

    Reply

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