A Guide to Tuggeranong That’ll Have You Surprised at the Abundance of Scenic Spots in Canberra
As much as I love being in the city, I end up feeling a bit disconnected from nature from time to time. Especially with Lake Burley Griffin being man-made, I start craving foliage, cliffs, and tides.
Don’t get me wrong, the city has lots of trees and fresh air. But Tuggeranong is right here in Canberra and has loads of beautiful natural views. I feel like it would be such a waste not to take advantage of that.
Tuggeranong also has a whole host of invigorating activities that make me feel ready when I go back to the city. The only disadvantage here is that it isn’t already a top destination choice in Canberra.
But this guide is here to change that. Below are all the things you should try when you decide to visit the idyllic district of Tuggeranong.
Where is Tuggeranong?
Tuggeranong is situated at the southernmost end of the Australian Capital Territory. The district’s border is right next to New South Wales and Murrumbidgee River.
How to Get to Tuggeranong
Via Bus: There are many bus stops all over the different suburbs of Tuggeranong. Just hop on one of these bus lines to get there:
4, 5, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 180, 181, 182, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, 2019, 2035, 2036, 2042, 2043, 2048, 2049, 2060, 2061, 2062, 2063, 2064, 2065, 2066, 2067, 2068, 2069, 2071, 2074, 2078, 2079, and 2081.
Via Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: Find a taxi or get one using your favorite ride-sharing app (like Uber). Inform your driver about your destination within Tuggeranong and they’ll drive you there immediately.
Via Private Car: Type in a specific place in Tuggeranong into your GPS to locate the best route going there. You’ll find several free parking lots across the district, such as the ones on Cowlishaw Street, Reed Street, and Pitman Street.
What to Do in Tuggeranong
Spend a relaxing day at Lake Tuggeranong
– Media credit: trihards
Lake Tuggeranong is a popular weekend spot for everyone — families, couples, or just people looking to relax alone. Surprisingly though, the lake itself never gets too crowded because there are a variety of activities for people to do here.
Firstly, you’ll always see people strolling, running, or cycling on the paved walkway surrounding the edge of the lake. Nearby, there are benches where people love to sit and watch wildlife, such as swans and ducks, for hours.
There are also plenty of stores and cafes nearby so you can easily pick up stuff for an impromptu picnic. The cool breeze will have the time passing by so quickly while you enjoy some yummy snacks with your friends.
Most of the action happens in the water though, where people row, swim, fish, or go kayaking. Being here for an afternoon makes you feel like you’re part of a scenic painting.
Have a picnic at Pine Island Reserve
– Media credit: willkit72
Website: https://www.parks.act.gov.au/find-a-park/murrumbidgee-river-corridor/pine-island
Address: Pine Island Rd, Greenway
Hours:
- Sunday 9 AM–4 AM
- Monday 8 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday 8 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday 8 AM–9 PM
- Thursday 8 AM–9 PM
- Friday 8 AM–9 PM
- Saturday 8 AM–9 PM
Phone: +61 132281
Even though Pine Island Reserve is well-known among locals, it’s not as famous among tourists. Although, something tells me that that’s about to change soon.
This lovely little spot is a great choice in the summer when all the beaches are too crowded. The water is refreshing and shallow enough that kids can swim safely and cool off with the rest of their family.
The whole place is shaded too, making it ideal for a picnic. The place has electric barbecues, tables, and drinking water for everyone. Do note that there are no bins though because visitors are encouraged to take their trash with them.
Avid bird watchers are going to love this place too. A walk to the north brings you to Kambah Pool, where you can find beauties like Peregrine Falcons and Yellow-Faced Honeyeaters.
Get your creative juices flowing at the Tuggeranong Arts Centre
– Media credit: tuggeranongarts
Website: http://www.tuggeranongarts.com/
Address: 137 Reed St N, Greenway
Hours:
- Sunday Closed
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday 10 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday 10 AM–5 PM
- Thursday 10 AM–5 PM
- Friday 10 AM–5 PM
- Saturday 10 AM–4 PM
Phone: +61 2 6293 1443
Tuggeranong Arts Centre is committed to making art accessible to everyone. This hub has it all for people looking to hone their craft in different ways.
For those looking for inspiration, you can visit the 3 gallery spaces where they show exhibitions from great artists. These showcase a wide array of art forms, including prints, photography, sculptures, and more.
They also offer short courses for people of all ages, from young artists to seniors. Whatever it is you want to learn, whether it’s ceramic making, drawing, writing, dancing, or acting, there’s a class for you here.
They are open 6 days a week, from Monday to Saturday. You can just go to their online site to check what classes they’ll have available when you visit.
Explore the historic Lanyon Homestead
– Media credit: _the.court.house_
Website: https://www.historicplaces.com.au/lanyon-homestead
Address: Tharwa Dr, Tharwa
Hours:
- Sunday 10 AM–4 PM
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday Closed
- Wednesday 10 AM–4 PM
- Thursday 10 AM–4 PM
- Friday 10 AM–4 PM
- Saturday 10 AM–4 PM
Phone: +61 2 6237 6500
Step back into the past by visiting the iconic Lanyon Homesteads. This charming attraction has restored buildings originating from the 1850s (before Canberra was established) and a lovely view, where sheep and cattle still graze on the hills.
You can go through different exhibitions showcasing stories of all those who once dwelled there, their everyday wares, and even archives of their recipes. It’s an insightful glimpse into what life was like at the time.
Moreso, you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this Australian countryside from The Barracks. This cafe whips up a delicious brunch, paired with a nice cup of coffee. It’s so pretty here that a lot of people end up choosing it as their wedding venue.
To see all of this and more, you have to book in advance because entry is only possible with a guided tour (for preservation purposes). The place is open 10 AM to 4 PM, from Wednesday to Sunday.
Enjoy an afternoon at Kambah Adventure Park
– Media credit: twincinos
Address: Springbett St, Kambah
Hours:
- Sunday 7 AM–8 PM
- Monday 7 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday 7 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday 7 AM–8 PM
- Thursday 7 AM–8 PM
- Friday 7 AM–8 PM
- Saturday 7 AM–8 PM
Phone: +61 132281
Kambah Adventure Park is a park like no other. This is where kids and adults can play together to their heart’s content.
Just as it says in the name, this urban park has plenty of adventures in store. You and your kids are spoiled for choice here with their giant swings, space nets, mound slides, and junior and senior flying foxes.
They also made sure to make something for everyone. That’s why they have inclusive equipment such as accessible bird’s nest swings and accessible liberty swings.
There’s also a sizable covered picnic area which you can reserve for events. Just be warned, once you take your kids here, they’ll never want to go to another playground again.
Where to Eat near Tuggeranong
Table Canberra
– Media credit: tablecanberra
Address: 5/146 Scollay Street Cor, Reed St N, Greenway ACT 2900
Phone: +61 2 6231 5847
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday to Thursday – 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 12:30 PM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday to Tuesday – Closed
From the outside, Table Canberra looks unassuming because of its modest exterior. But inside, it’s one of the most fabulous and memorable fine dining experiences in the capital.
When you step in, you’ll notice a warm atmosphere and eclectic decor. They have limited seating, which allows for an intimate setup and a devoted staff.
It’s a must to get their degustation menu so that you can sample all of their exquisite offerings. Each dish is presented thoughtfully so it’s like getting a masterpiece delivered on a plate.
You’ll also be in great hands if you have any dietary needs or preferences. They’re willing to accommodate it all, and they can do so without sacrificing any of their quality.
Little Istanbul
– Media credit: little.istanbul
Address: 9b/2110 Anketell St, Greenway ACT 2900
Phone: +61 2 6293 4383
Pricing: $
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Since 2007, Little Istanbul has consistently served some of the best and most genuine Turkish flavors in all of Canberra. This family-run restaurant welcomes everyone with open arms, whether you’re a regular customer or a newcomer.
Their goal is to always create a memorable meal. And to do this, they only use the freshest and highest quality ingredients.
When it comes to recommendations, of course, you have to get the classic Falafels. But you should also consider ordering their sumptuous Baklava for dessert.
We can’t deny that part of why we love them so much is because of how reasonable their prices are. On top of that, they’re very generous with the servings so it’s hard not to keep coming back for more.
Where to Stay near Tuggeranong
The Statesman Hotel
– Media credit: statesmanhotel
Address: Statesman Hotel Motel, 14 Theodore Street, Curtin ACT 2605
Phone: +61 2 6281 1777
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
The Statesman Hotel feels like a blast from the past, with its funky 70s decor. The playful, retro vibe of this hotel is enough to make anyone want to never leave.
Their rooms are the perfect refuge on a cold night. It’s always toasty warm inside and the soothingly hot showers are perfect to melt in.
You won’t even have to step out for a meal because they’ve got everything on site. There’s the Policy Restaurant, the Sports Bar, the Nancy B Cocktail Bar, and the Ballot Box Cafe — and all you have to do is choose where you want to spend happy hour.
Their helpful staff also deserves some praise. They’re willing to go above and beyond without their service costing an arm and a leg.
Ramada by Wyndham Diplomat Canberra
– Media credit: ramadabywyndham
Address: 2 Hely St, Griffith ACT 2603
Phone: +61 2 6295 2277
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
A stay at the Ramada by Wyndham Diplomat Canberra will have you pinching yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming. That’s because everything in this hotel is perfect to a tee.
The welcoming atmosphere starts with their pleasant reception. Check-in is always speedy and efficient because of how attentive the staff is.
Prepare to be impressed by how spacious and stylish their rooms are, regardless of which accommodation you get. Plus, their beds are so comfortable that laying on one feels like sinking into a cloud.
All in all, the one thing you’ll regret at this hotel is not booking a longer stay.