Parkes Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
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
Forrest Hotel and Apartments
Exceptional value and close to Manuka if you are there for a sporting event. Clean tidy and warm.
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
The Sebel Canberra Civic
Positioned central to city. Clean and good value.
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2026
Rydges Canberra
As there were a lot of guests on Sunday, the buffet breakfast hot dishes were cold and there were a lack of staff cleaning tables and making coffee. Seemed disorganised. The following breakfast was better with warner food and not so busy. The room was satisfactory, but shower did not drain very well ...
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2026
Avenue Hotel Canberra
Great location
Reviewed on 20 Apr 2026
Pavilion on Northbourne
Had a clean room and comfortable bed with good space for one person. Having the restaurant on site with further eating places at Dickson a short walk away is a plus.
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2026
Meriton Suites Canberra
Self care stay. All requests granted. Amenities were excellent. Close by cafes, restaurants and shopping areas.
Reviewed on 29 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 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.
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.
