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 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.
National Capital Exhibition
See the fascinating history of Canberra laid out for you through engaging and interactive exhibits in this modern, family-friendly museum.
Activities
Personalised Sightseeing in Canberra, with John
Canberra Discovery Tour - Australia's Capital by Gray Line Sydney
Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines
Riverside Canberra Stargazing Tour with Astronomer
Our pick of the best Parkes Hotel Deals
Forrest Hotel and Apartments
Comfortable basic motel in Forrest. Clean, comfortable bed, well located just 10 minutes walk to Manuka and restaurants. Supplied some crockery and cutlery which was useful.
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
The Sebel Canberra Civic
I enjoyed my stay here for work. It was comfortable and all amenities were there. Close to everything in the heart of ACT. I would stay there again without hesitation
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
Pavilion on Northbourne
Great value option close to city with light rail stop outside. Very clean and comfortable for a one or two night stay.
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
Deco Hotel
Great property, central to all attractions
Reviewed on 12 May 2026
Rydges Canberra
This hotel is now getting a little dated. My shower wa pretty old. The reality is that it was cheap to stay here and for the cost it was excellent. I am happy to have affordable nice accomodation. At the end of the day it is somewhere to sleep. The breakfast was dry md pretty ordinary.
Reviewed on 5 May 2026
Avenue Hotel Canberra
Pubic hair in toilet. Toilet behind toilet seat did not look like it had been cleaned.
Reviewed on 13 May 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 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.
