A Guide to Canberra’s Capital Hill That’ll Give You a Glimpse of the Nation’s Important Past and Exciting Future
From time to time, I get a tourist friend asking me what’s the most Australian thing they can do while in Canberra. I think they expect me to say something like petting a koala or doing a shoey. Instead, I point them to Capital Hill and tell them to find a Hemsworth.
Ok, that last part was a joke. But in all seriousness, I love taking non-Australians to Capital Hill. They always end up feeling closer to being a Canberra local afterward.
From learning all about its history as a completely planned city to actually seeing the Parliament House, it’s a culturally rich expedition that most tourists won’t even think to try. But once they do, it’s guaranteed to be unforgettable.
If you’re curious about what fascinating sights and activities are in-store there, then this is for you. By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to learn all the historical tidbits and see all the stunning views available at Capital Hill.
Where is Capital Hill?
Capital Hill can be found at the southern end of Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin. It is one of the apexes that form the Parliamentary Triangle, alongside the Defence Headquarters and City Hill.
How to Get to Capital Hill
Via Bus: The closest bus stop to Capital Hill is at Federation Mall. The following bus routes should get you there: 57, 58, 180, 181, 182.
Via Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: Find a taxi or use your preferred ride-sharing app (such as Uber). Let your driver know that you wish to get to Capital Hill and they’ll take you there directly.
Via Private Car: Type Capital Hill into your GPS system to find the best route going there. Upon arrival, you can find parking at the Forecourt Basement car park. This car park also provides accessible lots near its lifts.
What to Do Around Capital Hill
Take a guided tour at Parliament House
– Media credit: parliamenthousecanberra
As the home of Australian democracy, Parliament House welcomes (and even encourages) visitors. It provides a variety of tours to further entice people to learn more about its historic halls.
For family-friendly options, you can choose tours like the ‘Heart of the House’ tour and the ‘How Parliament Works’ tour. These give short introductions to the political events that happen in Parliament House and its chambers.
There are also focused tours like the ‘Yeribee Indigenous Experiences of Parliament House’, which tells the stories of Indigenous parliamentarians. Many also enjoy the ‘Architecture of Parliament House’ tour, which is about the design of the halls within.
If you have the time, try to join in on more than one because you’re sure to learn something new each time. Just make sure to book in advance since all of these have specific time slots and group limits.
Drop by the Old Parliament House (Museum of Australian Democracy)
– Media credit: oldparliamenthouse
Visiting the Old Parliament House, now known as the Museum of Australian Democracy, feels like stepping back in time. This heritage building stands as the safe keeper of many interesting political tales over the years.
It’s been well-preserved so you can see areas such as the Senate Chamber and the Prime Minister’s Suite in their original state. Even the design of the bathrooms and the kitchens have been retained, so all of the decor still has that 70s/80s flair.
You’d also be surprised to know how much kids enjoy this museum. The curators made sure to include interactive exhibits and collections such as fun political cartoons and old board games so that people of all ages could be entertained.
It’s a fun way to learn about the history of Australia, complete with insider scoops about previous prime ministers. You can opt for a guided tour for more facts or just wander around and marvel at the architecture. Entrance is free daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
See breathtaking masterpieces at the National Gallery of Australia
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With over 150,000 artworks, the National Gallery of Australia is home to the most valuable collection in the country. Its main goal for having this much is to inspire, elevate, and celebrate art from Australia and the rest of the world.
Here, you’ll find a variety of art styles such as French Impressionism, Dada, Surrealism, Russian Avant-Garde, Expressionism, and more. You can even come face-to-face with originals from some of the world’s best artists including Pollock and Monet.
Of course, they have sections dedicated entirely to Australian artists. Some of the most renowned Australian names are on display here, including Arthur Boyd and Lindy Lee.
They also carry the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. It shows their commitment to amplifying and embracing the diverse culture of Australia.
Most of these exhibits, as well as the sculpture garden, are available for free. However, special and seasonal events may require fees.
Browse important collections at the National Library of Australia
– Media credit: nationallibraryaus
The National Library of Australia is doing an important job of keeping Australian history alive. By collecting and preserving significant historical documents, they’re making history accessible. Naturally, you should visit and make use of this accessibility.
You can participate in their guided library tours to learn about all the reading rooms they have. These offer information about the public artworks they have displayed and the clever architecture of the building.
You’ll also see that not only do they have books, but they also have manuscripts, films, and sound recordings that are integral to Australia’s past. They even have the journal of James Cook, the legendary navigator who mapped the east coast of Australia in 1770.
Personally, my favorite place in the library is the Bookplate Cafe located at one of its corners. It’s a cozy little hang-out spot where you can catch up with your friends over some coffee and cake.
Cruise around Lake Burley Griffin
– Media credit: loveboatscanberra
Lake Burley Griffin plays a huge part in Canberra’s design. This artificial lake was built to be the midpoint between many important institutions, making it a great destination for a cruise.
The hour-long cruises happening on the lake provide some great information on all the attractions around it. They’ll also give you a unique vantage point of these buildings so you definitely should snap a couple of stunning pictures while you’re here.
During your tour, you’ll have a knowledgeable tour guide manning the boat. These guides are all residents of Canberra, so they’re sure to share some of the local humor with tourists.
The boats are also electrically powered so they’re environmentally friendly. Their quiet nature also means that they won’t disturb the other activities happening around the lake, such as people kayaking, windsurfing, and rowing.
If you’re visiting Canberra in August, consider yourself lucky. You’re in time for the annual balloon festival and these boats are the best way to view it.
Where to Eat near Capital Hill
Queen’s Terrace Cafe
– Media credit: karenfitzgerald_66
Address: Parliament Drive, Capital Hill ACT 2600
Phone: +61 2 6277 5239
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Queen’s Terrace Cafe is the perfect afternoon stop after a bit of walking around Parliament House. Here, you can enjoy a nice hot cup of coffee as you look at the historic war memorial view.
This is one of the few places in Canberra where you can get a quality high tea experience without breaking the bank. You can choose from a fine selection of pastries and scones that are sure to please everyone with a sweet tooth out there.
For savory options, you can never go wrong with their bacon and egg roll, which is a favorite among the regulars. Just make sure to ask for their seasonal dishes as well, especially because they feature unique indigenous flavors from time to time.
Water’s Edge Canberra
– Media credit: watersedge_canberra
Address: 40 Parkes Place, Parkes ACT 2600
Phone: +61 2 6273 5066
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Tuesday – 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM
- Wednesday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM,
Water’s Edge Canberra provides a stellar fine dining experience right at the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. Guests can enjoy the carefully crafted course menu in the privacy of their own dining dome, complete with a picturesque view of the water.
Their food is mostly an experimental fusion of modern European-Australian cuisine. All of their guests end up loving their duck dishes so make sure to try those when you’re there.
For the best scenery, go and have your meal there during sunset so you can see the waters sparkle. Just keep in mind that their reservation list does get full so it’s best to book a dinner weeks in advance.
Where to Stay near Capital Hill
Little National Hotel
– Media credit: littlenationalhotel
Address: 21 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600
Phone: + 61 2 6185 1988
Pricing: $
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
If you’re itching for a weekend getaway but can’t leave Canberra, then Little National Hotel is the place for you. This hotel will give you a luxury stay without having you pay exorbitant prices.
You’ll surely love the feeling of sinking into their ultra-comfy pillows and super-king-sized bed. Moreso, when you see the picturesque view of the mountains brought to you by the wall-to-wall windows in each room.
Whether you’re unwinding after a long day of exploring or needing to get some work done, drop by their famous hotel lounge & library. This serene little oasis is the perfect place to get some rejuvenating peace and tranquility.
Hotel Kurrajong
– Media credit: hotelkurrajong
Address: 8 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600
Phone: +61 2 6234 4444
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
At first glance, Hotel Kurrajong seems like it remained in a time bubble while the rest of Canberra moved on to the 21st century. But once you enter, you’ll realize that this heritage hotel is fully equipped with all the modern amenities you can ask for.
Originally built in 1926, Hotel Kurrajong has retained its charm and character over the years. You can see it in distinct touches like the black and white photos on the pavilion walls or the cozy fireplace that all the guests can warm themselves on in the lounge.
You can even have a taste of history at Chifley’s Bar and Grill. Named after the 16th prime minister of Australia, you can bask in nostalgia and sample Ben Chifley’s favorite whiskey drink at the very same bar he used to sit at.