A Guide to Canberra’s Belconnen That’ll Make You Wish You Could Stay Here Forever
As someone based in Canberra, I’ve been to the most popular attractions a couple of times. But it got to a point where I felt like I hadn’t seen the rest of Canberra as much.
So I made it my mission to see more of the capital. Since Canberra has an abundance of districts and suburbs, I’ve been combing them for some hidden gems and underrated joints that aren’t as well-known.
My latest fascination has been with Belconnen. As the largest district in Canberra, it’s home to plenty of scenic spots and exciting adventures.
If you’re not sure where to start exploring, then this is the perfect guide for you. I’ve listed down all the best Belconnen sites to visit, whether you’re a tourist or a local.
Where is Belconnen?
The district of Belconnen can be found at the north-western end of Canberra. It’s situated below the district of Gungahlin and above Molonglo Valley. Various suburbs in the district surround the man-made Lake Ginninderra.
How to Get to Belconnen
Via Bus: There are several bus stops across the district of Belconnen (not to be confused with the suburb of the same name). The following transport routes can get you there: 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 23, 24, 30, 31, 32, 40, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, and 47.
Via Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: Call a taxi or connect with one using your preferred ride-sharing app (like Uber). Let your driver know what the name of your specific destination is in Belconnen and they’ll take you there.
Via Private Car: Set your car’s GPS to a location within Belconnen and it should give you the best directions. Upon arrival, you can park your car for free at places like Westfield Belconnen, 9 Weedon Close, and College Street.
What to Do in Belconnen
Cycle around Lake Ginninderra
– Media credit: exquisitepics20_travels
Address: Lake Ginninderra, ACT 2617
Hours: Open 24 hours
Lake Ginninderra is undoubtedly one of Belconnen’s pride and joys. It’s common to see many residents spending their weekends at this man-made attraction.
Surrounding the lake is a paved pathway that’s great for walking, running, or cycling. The latter is ideal considering that this is the second largest lake in Canberra, after Lake Burley Griffin. The whole trail spans 7.1km, taking around an hour to complete.
Along your bike ride, you’d be able to see lots of lush native and exotic trees around. You’ll also be immersed in the sounds of nature because there’s plenty of bird life in the area.
Once you get tired, you can stop by one of the many benches and have a picnic. Catch your breath as you take in the scenery around you: kids playing, people fishing, paddling, and more.
It’s a lovely place all year round, so feel free to drop by whenever you can.
Support local artists at the Belconnen Arts Centre
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Address: 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: +61 2 6173 3300
Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Monday – Closed
Creative people flock to Belconnen for this facility and you can be one of them. The Belconnen Arts Centre hosts an array of activities, perfect for anyone who wants to hone their artistic talents.
If you prefer sitting back and getting inspired, you can watch one of the stellar theatre performances held regularly. You can also walk around and see some of the exhibits they have on display.
But if you’d rather participate and let your creativity flow, you can join one of the many workshops. They offer courses for all ages, from preschool ballet to senior dance classes.
You can also sign up for other artistic lessons, such as jewelry making, music direction, theatre training, and more. They have a lineup of events and classes planned months ahead so just check for one that would coincide with your visit.
Get some shopping done at Westfield Belconnen
– Media credit: westfieldbelconnen
Address: Benjamin Way, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: +61 2 6251 4333
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Friday – 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
One of the reasons why residents love the district is because of Westfield Belconnen. Affectionately called ‘Belco Mall’, this shopping center is one of the largest in all of Canberra.
Inside, you’ll find a diverse variety of stores, including all the major international brands. It’s super easy to find apparel that’s both in style and reasonably priced.
What’s so great about it though is that you’ll also see small specialty shops that offer local goods. So whether you’re in need of everyday clothing or a trip souvenir, this is the place for you.
Just be warned that time really flies at this place. You won’t notice that you’ve been walking around for hours. But if you ever get hungry, they also have great food options in their impressive food court.
Find fresh produce at Capital Food Market
– Media credit: capitalfoodmarket
Address: 10 Market Street, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: +61 2 6103 8000
Hours:
- (Core Hours) Monday to Friday – 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Saturday to Sunday – Closed
- (Traders) Wednesday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Tuesday – Closed
- (Dining) Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Capital Food Market, originally known as the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets, has been a staple in the area for over 40 years. It’s attracted a huge number of foodies, both from in and out of the country.
Initially, it was meant to encourage and support local businesses. But over the years, it’s grown to be something much bigger—a space where everyone can feel connected.
You can create any dish from scratch using the goods you buy from here. There are fruit and vegetable shops, high-quality meat and deli products, as well as fresh seafood.
They also have casual dining options for those who are looking for a nice meal. You can get baked goods, dine at a Korean barbecue place, taste some Indian cuisine, and more.
As long as it’s fresh, they’ll have it here. Bring the entire family as well because they definitely have something for everyone.
Have some family bonding time at John Knight Memorial Park
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Address: Off Aikman Drive, Townsend Place, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: +61 132 381
Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
It’s not a proper residential area without a park and Belconnen has a terrific one. John Knight Memorial Park celebrates one of the first two Australian Capital Territory senators, and in the 80s, his ashes were placed under the park’s sundial.
The place itself is quite huge, offering lovely views of Lake Ginninderra. It also has several water features such as a water garden and jetties for model boats, canoes, and sailboats. However, swimming is currently prohibited.
Kids will especially love how many things they can do at the playground. There’s a tree house, flying fox, climbing net, play structure with an accessible ramp, and lots more.
Grown-ups, on the other hand, can get some exercise using the various equipment, basketball courts, golf courses, and the woodlands fitness trail.
With all of its views and its activities, the park is a nice way to spend a lovely day in Belconnen.
Catch a game at GIO Stadium
– Media credit: stadium.canberra
Address: Battye Street, Bruce ACT 2617
Phone: +61 2 6256 6700
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Sports fans would feel right at home here in Belconnen because of the world-renowned GIO Stadium. This building has been around since the 1970s and has accommodated numerous sporting games over the years.
It regularly hosts the matches of the famous rugby teams the Canberra Raiders and the ACT Brumbies. But international events, such as the 2018 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifier, have also been held here.
With over 25,000 seats, you’d be surprised that there are no bad seats in the house. Plus, their speedy bar and catering service serves yummy food for you to enjoy while you spectate a game.
From time to time, the stadium partners up with brands like McDonald’s and Coca-Cola for events that are open to the public. One example of this is Stadium Golf, where kids and adults can join and practice their golf swings on the field their favorite players use.
See the Australian Institute of Sports
– Media credit: theais_
Address: Leverrier Street, Bruce ACT 2617
Phone: +61 2 6214 1111
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM
When you see the Australian Institute of Sports (AIS), you’ll understand why our country’s athletes do so well in competition. This premier training center is where they hone their talents with cutting-edge equipment.
Visitors can join a 90-minute tour that’ll take them around the precinct. This happens daily, including weekends, every 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, and 2:30 PM.
A professional athlete will guide you through the different areas, such as the training facilities and Sportex, which is an interactive sports exhibit. They also have a first-rate collection of sports memorabilia that’ll fill any fan with nostalgia.
You can try some of the sports too with virtual downhill skiing, rock climbing, football, wheelchair basketball, and more. You don’t have to be a good player to have fun here.
If you’re lucky, you might even get a chance to bump into one of your favorite Australian players across the grounds.
See Australia’s biggest skate park at Belconnen Skate Park
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Address: 77 Emu Bank, Belconnen ACT 261
Phone: +61 132 281
Hours: Open 24 hours
Ask any skater and they’ll tell you that the Belconnen Skate Park is the best one in Oz .
It’s been around for 30 years and it still has a thriving community up to this day.
It’s got a range of obstacles and ramps for skaters at every level, from beginner to advanced. Just in 2024, there was a new half-pipe installed that can support both amateur and professional skating tournaments.
The skaters who frequent the place are also kind and welcoming to newbies. They keep an eye out for the younger ones and offer tips so that everyone can improve and start having fun.
Every year, they also hold the Belco Bowl Jam here. For three days, skaters from all over the world flock to this place to skate, listen to music, and compete for cash prizes. It’s a fun and lively event for every aspiring and experienced skater.
Stroll around with a furry friend at Diddams Close Park Circuit
– Media credit: slankytoby
Address: Diddams Close, Belconnen ACT 2617
Hours: Open 24 hours
Lots of places in Canberra are pet-friendly, but Diddams Close Park is where your dogs might have the most fun. Unofficially labeled as Belconnen’s dog park, this is where you can bump into plenty of other pet owners walking their furry friends.
The park has a variety of trails, ranging from ones for more casual strolls to those that are a bit more challenging for experienced hikers. You can bring your dog to all of these paths, just as long as they’re on a leash.
However, there’s a dog-friendly beach here too that allows pets to roam freely. There are separate areas for small and large dogs so your pet can safely run and splash around as much as they want.
While your dog is having fun, you can sit around and watch wildlife. The park has got diverse birdlife, with kookaburras and cockatoos always hanging around. You’ll also find Australian staples here, such as kangaroos and wallabies.
Have some much-needed R&R at Sauna Float ACT
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Address: 9/114 Emu Bank, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: +61 450 789 843
Hours:
- Monday, Thursday – 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Tuesday – 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Wednesday, Friday – 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday – 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sauna Float ACT is for those who take relaxing very seriously. It’s essentially an elevated spa experience that uses the latest technology to rejuvenate both the mind and the body.
They have a 45-minute sauna session that uses infrared heat to penetrate the muscles and joints. This type of heat will encourage circulation, boost metabolism, and detoxify your body.
You can also luxuriate in something called flotation therapy. By going with their flotation package, you can stay in a tub for 60 minutes where you don’t experience gravity. There, you can focus on your well-being and meditate without external distractions.
Both packages are meant to promote mindfulness and holistic wellness. Whichever one you go with, they’ll be able to provide some well-deserved harmony between your mental and physical states.
Where to Eat in Belconnen
Stella’s By The Lake
– Media credit: stellasbythelake.cbr
Address: 1 Beissel Street, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: +61 2 6253 0370
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Just as it says in the name, Stella’s By The Lake has great scenic views of Lake Ginninderra. You can enjoy this beautiful sight along with dishes from their all-day breakfast lunch and menu.
Their Savoury Brunch Tacos are a favorite among locals, so you should definitely give those a try. But if you’re looking for something more filling, you can order their yummy Bacon & Egg Roll with additional hash browns.
You can also never go wrong with any of their beverages, especially their coffee which can revive anyone’s spirit. Their Refreshing Melon Mint Delight also pairs well with most of their menu.
One thing that makes them stand out is that they’re incredibly dog-friendly. They have a separate pup menu, and they provide beds, grass mats, and water bowls for all those who want to spend a nice meal with their furry companions.
Bella Vista Restaurant
– Media credit: littleqq
Address: 84 Emu Bank, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: +61 2 6253 2266
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday – Closed
Bella Vista will have you transported to Italy without ever having to leave Belconnen. This popular lakeside restaurant has been serving authentic Italian flavors in Canberra since the 90s and its quality has remained consistent over the years.
You can never go wrong with ordering the classics here, especially the spaghetti marinara. Don’t miss out on their selection of seafood as well because these dishes are sensational.
On top of it all, their service will never fail you. No matter how busy they are or how big your group is, they’re guaranteed to be attentive throughout your entire meal.
No. 10 Restaurant + Bar Belconnen
– Media credit: number10restaurantandbar
Address: Abode Belconnen, 3 Grazier La, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: +61 2 6220 0356
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday – 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Even though they’re called No. 10 Restaurant + Bar, they might just be your next top dining choice. It’s hard to find exceptional service like the one they have here anywhere else.
They’ve got a wide array of dishes but we especially recommend any of the seafood plates, such as their grilled Fish of The Day and the Seafood Linguine. If you still have room, indulge in their yummy Sticky Date Pudding as well.
You can also enjoy their Happy Hour + Half on weekdays, every 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. For only $6 dollars each, you can sample their famous house wine, beer, and cider.
Be sure to try some of their other cocktails as well. People from all over Canberra visit this place just for the drinks.
Where to Stay in Belconnen
Abode Belconnen
– Media credit: abodehotels
Address: 3 Grazier La, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: +61 2 6220 0355
Pricing: $
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Abode Belconnen prides itself on being ready for any kind of trip. It has over a hundred apartment-style rooms and you get to pick one that suits your needs.
They have rooms for big tourist families, pet-friendly ones for those traveling with cats or dogs, accommodations for corporate groups, and inclusive rooms that are specifically designed for those who are mobility impaired.
Each of these comes with free wifi, full kitchenette facilities, and a washer/dryer so that you can be prepared no matter what your purpose is here in Belconnen. You can also just ask their friendly staff for anything else and they’d be happy to help.
The hotel itself is strategically placed beside a few parks and a big shopping area. Lake Ginninderra is also a short walk away if you feel like going on a relaxing stroll.
Mercure Canberra Belconnen
– Media credit: mercurecanberrabelconnen
Address: 59 Cameron Avenue, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: +61 2 5104 3000
Pricing: $
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 2:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Mercure Canberra Belconnen is the top choice for most sports fans because of how close it is to GIO Stadium. However, most of them choose it as their regular hotel any time they decide to visit Belconnen.
A big reason behind this is that the hotel comes complete with anything you might need. Each room has a big, comfortable bed for a peaceful night’s sleep, as well as a dedicated workspace in case you need to get some work done.
They have laundry facilities for guests, which comes in very handy. The hotel’s gym is also a nice size and comes fully equipped with all the machines you might need.
Lastly, there’s a bus stop right in front of the hotel so you can easily reach any part of Canberra that you wish to go to.
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Belconnen Canberra
– Media credit: roundhousehotels
Address: 110 Benjamin Way, Belconnen AT 2617
Phone: +61 2 6253 3633
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Belconnen Canberra is the perfect hotel for those who are looking to get to know the district more.
Their attentive staff will ensure that all your needs are met so that you can focus on relaxing whilst in the hotel and then exploring when you’re ready to go out. They’ll even have your room heated for you when you get back.
You can ask their reception for recommendations on where to go and they’ll help you sort it out. The hotel is near popular attractions such as the Australian Institute of Sports, Belconnen Arts Centre, and Westfield Belconnen so you’ll have lots of choices.
Guests are also spoiled with food because Capital Food Market is right next door. You can have your pick of fresh produce, baked pastries, and other delightful treats every day during your stay.