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
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
Forrest Hotel and Apartments
Staff were lovely, room was spacious and clean.
Reviewed on 31 Jan 2026
Avenue Hotel Canberra
Stayed 2 nights - the room was very clean! Easy parking. Good size bathroom, lots of water, nice towels. Breakfast was very good, selection varied. Great location.
Reviewed on 26 Jan 2026
Novotel Canberra
Room was clean. Tv renote didnt work but they sent someone and changed the remote very quickly. Great service. Breakfast was good too.
Reviewed on 26 Jan 2026
Pavilion on Northbourne
The Pavillon on Northbourne has a massive 1980s retro feel which means bigger rooms and spaces but also amenities My own family are fans of this place wet a few of the vending machines still cash activated! Not no issues with WiFi
Reviewed on 1 Feb 2026
Hotel Realm
Room was really good and breakfast was amazing. Only fault was room aircon could not be adjusted and was too warm to sleep. Ended up opening the sliding doors to cool the from at night
Reviewed on 27 Jan 2026
Crowne Plaza Canberra by IHG
Very good breakfast
Reviewed on 25 Jan 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.
