A Guide to Canberra’s Weston Park That’ll Inspire the Whole Family to Get Out and Have Fun
From time to time, I get the urge to take a break, stretch my legs, and breathe fresh air. Since I’m lucky enough to live in Canberra, I’ve got plenty of parks to choose from.
Weston Park is one of my favorites due to its size and features. And clearly, I’m not the only one who loves going here because it’s one of the most popular in the capital.
There’s definitely something to enjoy here for everyone. To give you an overview, here’s a sample of what you can do at Canberra’s beloved Weston Park.
Where is Weston Park?
Weston Park is located at Weston Park Road, Yarralumla ACT 2600. The park is situated on a peninsula on Lake Burley Griffin’s western end.
How to Get to Weston Park
Via Bus: You can take transport route 57 to get there. It passes near Weston Park Road, where the park can be found.
Via Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: Call a taxi or find one using a ride-sharing app (ex. Uber). Tell the driver that you’d like to go to Weston Park and they’ll take you there.
Via Private Car: Type ‘Weston Park’ into your GPS to get directions on how to go there. The place provides plenty of free parking for visitors.
What to Do in Weston Park
Get some exercise
– Media credit: cbr_hiddengems
Weston Park is one of the best places to get some exercise in Canberra. Its impressive size and scenic views are enough to motivate anyone to get moving in the mornings.
It’s got plenty of well-maintained paths to choose from for walking, running, or cycling. Plus, the park is so beautiful that you can essentially stop anywhere and snap a quick pic for your Instagram.
If you’re looking to learn a new sport, you can also try your hand at bocce and petanque. The park is home to Canberra’s The Bocce Club of ACT and the Capital Petanque Club so it has full-sized courts where you can practice.
Have fun with the kids
– Media credit: playgrounds_canberra
One of the things families love the most about Weston Park is its abundance of play spaces. Kids can play with a range of equipment, such as climbing nets, slides, and swings.
The young ones will also adore riding the miniature railway, which the park is famous for. It’ll take you and your family through several parts of the park and show you some of the wildlife at a safe distance.
If your kids love the latter, you can then head on to the petting zoo, which houses friendlier and cuddlier animals.
Cool off during the summer
– Media credit: maksylicious
Due to its location on Lake Burley Griffin, Weston Park is a great hub for water activities. It’s especially popular during the warmer seasons because of its family-friendly features.
You and your loved ones can swim around in several designated swimming spots and enjoy the refreshing water. Most of these have fences lining the shallower areas so your toddlers can wade around safely without going too far.
You can also participate in more exciting activities such as fishing and kayaking. There are a number of good launching points for kayaks and paddle boards throughout the park.
Bring your furry friend
– Media credit: damonism
Pet owners flock to Weston Park because of how dog-friendly it is. Dogs are allowed in most parts of the park as long as they’re on leash, so you can stroll around with them leisurely.
At the very edge of the park, there’s also a fenced area for dogs where they can go off-leash. There are separate sections for small and big dogs so they can play and zoom around safely.
There’s also a designated dog swimming area nearby where your furry companion can splash around and meet new friends. Both of these zones have benches for owners, so you can relax as your dog has the time of their life.
Where to Eat near Weston Park
Mocan & Green Grout
– Media credit: mocanandgg
Address: 1/19 Marcus Clarke Street, ACT 2601
Phone: +61 2 6162 2909
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Mocan & Green Grout is where you can get your caffeine fix, whether it’s through coffee or tea. Many people go to them for takeaway but we recommend sitting down and trying some of their quick bites.
Their menu’s small, but everything on it is done well. Any of their breakfast items are worth it, but their rolls are especially good.
Apart from this, we also loved the relaxed, trendy vibe. They have an open kitchen with attentive staff so you can sit back and watch your food being prepared.
The Cupping Room
– Media credit: thecuppingroom
Address: 1/1-13 University Avenue, ACT 2601
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM
- Saturday – 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Those who take coffee seriously haven’t lived until they’ve visited The Cupping Room. This place isn’t afraid to get crazy with flavors, which is why people from all over the country visit.
Their Iced Long Black Coffee is definitely a must-try. But if you’re feeling adventurous, you can ask one of their friendly baristas for a recommendation on one of their more interesting blends.
This cozy cafe also offers an all-day brunch menu full of savory and sweet options for those who prefer their coffee with something to eat. They get quite full during the weekends, so it’s best to visit on a weekday.
Where to Stay near Weston Park
Avenue Hotel Canberra
– Media credit: avenuehotelcbr
Address: 80 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon ACT 2602
Phone: +61 1800 828 000
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Regardless of how long your stay is, Avenue Hotel is ready to be your home in Canberra. You can rely on their knowledgeable staff for any help or information on the area.
You’ll also find that the rooms are spacious and well-appointed. They come with a fully-equipped kitchen, a fridge, a washer/dryer, and a separate work desk.
The hotel itself is strategically located in the city. With restaurants and shops nearby, everything you need is at your fingertips.
QT Canberra
– Media credit: qtcanberra
Address: 1 London Circuit, ACT 2601
Phone: +61 2 6247 6244
Pricing: $
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
QT Canberra is a designer hotel where style meets comfort. Each room is pristine and elegantly designed.
Their service also deserves praise for how well they take care of their guests. The staff is the type to memorize your name and drink of choice for the next time you visit.
But perhaps, one of the best perks of staying here is that they’re connected to the renowned Capitol Bar & Grill. Here, you’ll find the best wood-grilled steaks and the freshest seafood in Canberra.