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.
National Capital Exhibition
See the fascinating history of Canberra laid out for you through engaging and interactive exhibits in this modern, family-friendly museum.
High Court of Australia
Observe justice in action at the highest court in the land inside a modern edifice on the banks of a tranquil lake.
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
Ultimate Museum Experience | Tour + Dine + Shop (10am daily)
Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines
Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour
Badass Women of Canberra: Meet the Women Who Shaped the Nation
Our pick of the best Parkes Hotel Deals
Deco Hotel
Room was spacious, super clean and quiet. Kitchen well equipped. Location convenient, just far enough out of civic to be peaceful, but only a short walk or 2 stops on the light rail if you want to go out for a bite to eat.
Reviewed on 10 Nov 2025
ibis Styles Canberra
Over all Excellent experience.
Reviewed on 11 Nov 2025
Rydges Canberra
Clean rooms, fresh air, showers clean and very quiet.
Reviewed on 7 Nov 2025
Forrest Hotel and Apartments
Yes
Reviewed on 11 Nov 2025
Hotel Realm
Very clean and comfy
Reviewed on 11 Nov 2025
Pavilion on Northbourne
Friendly staff comfortable beds great food
Reviewed on 11 Nov 2025
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 National Archives of Australia might round out your trip.
City East
While visiting City East, you might make a stop by sights like Civic Square and Canberra Theatre Centre.
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.
Forrest
Check out the restaurants, shopping and forests while spending some time in Forrest. Though there might not be many attractions in the neighbourhood, you won't need to go far to find top spots like Manuka Shopping Centre or Manuka Oval.
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.
