Fun Activities for Families with Toddlers in Canberra

Whether you live in the ACT or you're just visiting, Canberra is full of fun and inspiring activities that families can enjoy together – even the smallest members of the pack. Here's our pick of toddler-friendly Canberra, sure to put a smile on their faces while giving mums and dads an excuse to get out and about.

1. National Zoo & Aquarium

Kids never cease to be fascinated by animals, and Australia's only combined zoo and aquarium offers plenty of opportunities for close encounters with all manner of native and exotic creatures, just five minutes from the city centre.

2. Cockington Green Gardens

Tiny toddlers will feel like giants next to the beautifully detailed replicas of famous buildings in miniature. They can also take a ride on the mini steam train before tiring themselves out in the playground while their parents watch from the cafe.

3. Canberra Walk In Aviary

Nearby Cockington Green in Gold Creek Village, the Walk In Aviary is home to 400 beautiful birds from 50 different species. Kids can hand-feed the friendly parrots and there'll be plenty of opportunities for classic photos.

4. Questacon

Canberra's National Science and Technology Centre is mainly for the older kids who'll get the most out of the interactive exhibits, but the Mini Q area is dedicated to curious preschoolers and features equally inspiring activities. A great choice if you're bringing older siblings along too.

5. Merry-Go-Round

This vintage carousel celebrated its 100th birthday in 2014, and it's still a big hit with kids today. Originally based in Melbourne, the Merry-Go-Round was extensively refurbished and relocated to Canberra's Petrie Plaza in 1974, where it's been a fixture ever since.

6. Nature walks

It's not only the man-made attractions that make Canberra so appealing, with beautiful parks and gardens all over the city offering plenty of opportunities for a stroll in the fresh air. All the major parks are stroller-friendly, including the Australian National Botanic Gardens, Tidbinbilla and Commonwealth Park, and you'll always come across a playground before too long.

7. Free kids' activities

Carrying out a little research or just heading to your nearest shopping centre, you'll find there are lots of free activities for kids taking place in Canberra all the time – especially over the school holidays. From art and gardening workshops to storytime and soft play areas, you'll never have to worry about the little ones running out of things to do.