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
Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines
National Museum of Australia: Hallyu! The Korean Wave
Personalised Sightseeing in Canberra, with John
Our pick of the best Parkes Hotel Deals
Rydges Canberra
Nice hot bath, dry sauna, and nice gym and pool are located in the same area and easy to access. Staff were friendly. Parking are easy to access to the hotel rooms.
Reviewed on 27 Mar 2026
The Sebel Canberra Civic
Best place to stay near Canberra Central
Reviewed on 27 Mar 2026
Forrest Hotel and Apartments
Parking was easy and secure. Location was good. The facilities were minimal and furnishings aged. The lighting was not good with kitchen, dining and lounge lights all on one switch. All on, or none.
Reviewed on 26 Mar 2026
Pavilion on Northbourne
Deco Hotel
Comfortable.
Reviewed on 22 Mar 2026
QT Canberra
Everything was fantastic. Our dinner and drinks at the restaurant and bar were really beautiful. We will be back.
Reviewed on 12 Mar 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 Merchant Navy Memorial 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 Old Parliament House 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 The Cusack Centre 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.
