Parkes Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Popular places to visit
Questacon
The Questacon lets you walk on the wild side of science and technology, with over 200 exhibits tailored to get your heart pounding and your brain doing somersaults.
National Gallery of Australia
The styles may be wide-ranging, and the content globe-spanning, but the National Gallery takes most pride in its stunning collections of native Australian art.
Old Parliament House
As the building most associated with political power in Australia, treading its one-time corridors of power can be both educational and a little thrilling.
Commonwealth Park
After visiting Commonwealth Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Canberra. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
National Capital Exhibition
See the fascinating history of Canberra laid out for you through engaging and interactive exhibits in this modern, family-friendly museum.
National Library of Australia
This library is about more than just books. It has maps and pictures, audio-clips and long-lost websites. And the occasional rock climber shimmying up its walls.
Activities
Personalised Sightseeing in Canberra, with John
Badass Women of Canberra: Meet the Women Who Shaped the Nation
Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines
National Museum of Australia: Hallyu! The Korean Wave
Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour
Our pick of the best Parkes Hotel Deals
The Sebel Canberra Civic
Very clean and in prime location
Reviewed on 19 Apr 2026
Avenue Hotel Canberra
This was our second stay, and I hope we will have a third stay. Everything was perfect. Breakfast was great, and the staff, especially on the first day was excellent. Thank you for our wonderful stay.
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2026
Pavilion on Northbourne
Construction was going on above our room. No notice was given that we may experience noise. Construction began at 7am on Saturday & 7:25am Sunday morning. Jack hammers were extremely noisy and we could smell concrete dust through the vents in the bathroom. When we complained we were offered a free ...
Reviewed on 19 Apr 2026
Meriton Suites Canberra
The bath towels seamed to be a bit small The pillows were a bit too big/over stuffed, you should put a couple of flatter ones in
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
Forrest Hotel and Apartments
Very clean, spacious and comfortable apartment with plenty of parking right near building. AC was cold, full size fridge, and stocked kitchen was great. Within easy walking distance to restaurants/shops and parliament. Neighborhood was quiet and safe. We enjoyed our stay, highly recommended!
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026
ibis Styles Canberra
Don't think you can get food or drink on an Easter Monday, wish someone had let us know,... Expedia or the hotel
Reviewed on 8 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Parkes
Barton
Barton is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Lake Burley Griffin and East Basin while you're in town.
Capital Hill
The abundant dining options and interesting museums are top of the list for many visitors to Capital Hill. A stop by Parliament House or National Archives of Australia might round out your trip.
Kingston
Kingston is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Lake Burley Griffin and East Basin while you're in town.
City East
While visiting City East, you might make a stop by sights like Civic Square and Canberra Theatre Centre.
Northern Canberra
Northern Canberra is known for its popular shops, and with sights like Canberra Museum and Gallery and Civic Square, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Canberra.
Manuka
While visiting Manuka, you might make a stop by sights like Manuka Shopping Centre and Manuka Oval.
