Five cool things to do in Canberra this winter

When it comes to holiday destinations, Canberra is often overlooked in favour of the bright lights of Sydney and Melbourne. But with easy access to snowy peaks, wineries, national parks and foodie experiences, Canberra is home to a world of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Discover Australia’s capital at your own pace with cashback on your trip with Cashrewards.

Go like a local at Lake Burley Griffin

Fringed with stunning parks, gardens and lake-side eateries, Lake Burley Griffin is a perfect introduction to Canberra. Nestled just outside the city centre, the lake is a sanctuary for many Canberrans and provides the perfect aquatic playground for visitors. Don your wetsuit and sail, row, stand-up-paddleboard or kayak your way across the water, or warm up onshore with a brisk walk or cycle along the 40-kilometre stretch of pristine lakefront.

Expand your mind at Questacon

Touted as the nation’s favourite science museum, Questacon has been a beloved part of Canberra’s culture since the 1980s – and, with over 200 interactive displays and exhibits, it’s easy to see why. From experiencing centrifugal force on a spinning chair, to feeling an earthquake simulation, gazing at moon replicas and free-falling from a vertical slide, Questacon is guaranteed to entertain the whole family. The best part? It’s located centrally in the Parliamentary Triangle, so you can wander home starry-eyed to your comfortable Canberra accommodation.

Sip your way through world-class wineries

Canberra is renowned for its beloved bar scene, but did you know it also boasts some of Australia’s best wineries? Home to over 30 cellar doors within easy reach of the city, Canberra is a well-established wine region with a soft spot for Riesling, Viognier and Tempranillo.

Looking to sample the cream of the crop? Join a day tour and let the experts lead you through the best drops in the region. If you prefer to choose your own adventure, Capital Wines, Four Winds Vineyard cellar door, Surveyor’s Hill Vineyard and Helm Wines should be enough to start you off. Lucky enough to have a designated driver? Make your wine-hopping even easier with cashback on your car hire!

Grab a bite at Braddon

With an eclectic array of delicious fare waiting at every corner of the city, good food is the fuel that keeps Canberra going. One of the best-loved local haunts is Braddon, nestled just a few minutes’ walk from the CBD. From cafes to bakeries to fine-dining restaurants and bars, this quirky and bustling precinct of shops and eateries is enough to keep any food-lover drooling all day.

Escape to Cockington Green Gardens

Twenty minutes north of Canberra, you’ll find the sprawling world of Cockington Green Gardens. Opened in 1979, the gardens feature a mesmerising display of beautifully handcrafted miniature buildings from across the globe, plus a miniature steam train ride and more.

With meticulously manicured gardens, a licensed cafe, free BBQs, a picnic area and a playground, there’s something for every member of the family at Cockington Green Gardens. Whether you eat homemade scones with jam and cream in the gardens, explore the 34 rooms of the famous Waverley doll house or wind down in the sun, this is a unique Canberra experience unlike anything (or anywhere) else.

Instagram, Cockington Green Gardens

Ready to explore the sights of Canberra? Book your city break and get cashback on accommodation, transport and activities with Cashrewards.