Canberra is rightly known as Australia’s "bush capital."
Designed to harmoniously integrate with the surrounding landscape, the capital boasts an extraordinary amount of green spaces, national parks, and botanical gardens that make it one of the greenest cities in the country. The urban planning of Walter Burley Griffin, who envisioned the city as an "irregular amphitheater" surrounded by nature, has left a legacy of parks, lakes, and woodlands that still define the character of Canberra .
Australian National Botanic Gardens
Located on the eastern slopes of Black Mountain, just minutes from the city center, the Australian National Botanic Gardens are much more than just a garden: they are the largest living collection of Australian flora in the world, with over 4,300 different species of native plants . Established in 1949 and officially opened in 1970, these gardens cover 90 hectares, of which 35 are cultivated gardens and 50 are untouched bushland .
A walk through the gardens is a botanical journey across the entire Australian continent. The themed sections include the Rainforest Gully, which replicates the rainforests of eastern Australia, the Rock Garden with plants ranging from desert to alpine zones, and the Mallee Plants, dedicated to the multi-stemmed eucalypts typical of arid regions . The Eucalypt Lawn hosts about one fifth of the Australian eucalyptus species, while the collection of Banksia, Waratah, and Grevillea (Proteaceae family) is a unique display of colors and shapes
The entrance to the gardens is free, with a small cost for parking (3.80 AUD per hour or 16.00 AUD per day) . The garden is open every day from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM . For those who wish to explore with an expert guide, free guided tours are available that depart from the visitor center at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM . On weekends and during the summer holidays, it is possible to take a ride on the small electric train Flora Explorer (8 AUD adults, 5 AUD children) .
The gardens are fully accessible to people with disabilities, with step-free paths, dedicated parking, and the option to book wheelchairs or electric scooters for free . The Pollen cafe, award-winning, offers the opportunity to have lunch with a view of the garden, while the Paperbark Treehouse is an elevated observation point that is very popular with children .
The National Arboretum Canberra
On the other side of Lake Burley Griffin, just 6 km from the center, is the National Arboretum Canberra, an extraordinary project born from the ashes of the bushfires of 2001 and 2003 . This 250-hectare arboretum hosts over 44,000 trees from more than 100 countries, many of which are rare, endangered, or culturally significant species .
The arboretum was designed as a mosaic of "100 forests, 100 gardens" . About a third of the species are native Australian, while the rest come from all over the world . Among the main attractions, stand out the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection, the Forest Sculpture Gallery and the National Rock Garden, which combine art, nature, and landscape . The POD Playground, an iconic playground designed to stimulate imagination, is a beloved place for families .
The arboretum is an example of excellence in ecotourism and accessibility, having won national awards in both categories . Admission is free and the facilities are designed to be accessible to everyone . The view from Dairy Farmers Hill is one of the most scenic views of Canberra. The arboretum regularly organizes seasonal events, guided tours, and educational programs .
The Historic Parks and Gardens on the Lake
Lake Burley Griffin is surrounded by a series of parks and gardens that offer perfect spaces for picnics, walks, and relaxation.
Commonwealth Park: One of the most famous parks in Canberra, located on the northern shore of the lake. It hosts the annual Floriade flower festival and offers expansive lawns, formal gardens, and scenic views of the lake.
Lennox Gardens: On the southern shore of the lake, these well-maintained gardens include the Beijing Garden and the nearby Canberra Peace Park, which celebrate the twinning between the two cities . They are a popular place for picnics and to enjoy the view of the water .
Canberra Peace Park: Opened in 1990, it is a beautiful memorial garden dedicated to peace. Its central monument bears the word "Peace" inscribed in the official languages of the United Nations and in the Ngunnawal language .
Glebe Park: An urban park classified as heritage in the heart of Canberra. With its 4.7 hectares, it features mature elms and English oaks, traditional stone walls, and about 700 trees, of which 500 elms were originally planted in the 19th century .
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
About a 40-minute drive southwest of Canberra, the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a protected stretch of bush that offers an experience of unspoiled nature. Here you can see kangaroos in the wild, koalas in their habitats, and, with a bit of luck, the elusive platypus. The reserve is also home to the Birrigai Rock Shelter, the oldest known inhabited rock shelter in the region, dating back over 25,000 years.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Canberra Parks and Gardens
What is the most famous park in Canberra?
Commonwealth Park, on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, is especially famous for hosting the Floriade flower festival every year. It is an ideal place for walks and picnics.
Are the Australian National Botanic Gardens free?
Yes, entry to the gardens is free for all visitors. There is a charge only for parking .
What can I see at the National Arboretum?
The National Arboretum offers a collection of over 44,000 trees from around the world, the National Bonsai Collection, the Forest Sculpture Gallery, the POD Playground for children, and a breathtaking view of Canberra from Dairy Farmers Hill .
How much time is needed to visit the botanical gardens?
For an in-depth visit, it is recommended to dedicate at least 1-2 hours to the botanical gardens. The main path takes about 45 minutes and covers the most representative sections .
Are there guided tours of the botanical gardens?
Yes, free guided tours are available that depart from the visitor center at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. On weekends, you can also take a ride on the Flora Explorer train .
How do I get to the National Arboretum?
The Arboretum is located 6 km from the center of Canberra. It can be reached by car, taxi, bicycle, or on horseback. There are no bus or light rail lines that go directly to the entrance .
Are Canberra's parks family-friendly?
Absolutely yes. All the main parks and gardens offer play areas, picnic spaces, and easy paths. The Arboretum's POD Playground and the Paperbark Treehouse in the botanical gardens are particularly loved by children .
Can I have a picnic in the parks?
Yes, most parks and gardens in Canberra offer large lawns and equipped picnic areas. Commonwealth Park, Lennox Gardens, and the botanical gardens are all excellent options.
Parks and Gardens of Canberra
The parks and gardens of Canberra are the true hidden treasure of the capital. From the extraordinary collection of Australian flora in the botanical gardens to the global vision of the National Arboretum, through the historic parks lining the lake, every green space offers a unique experience. Canberra is not just a city of museums and monuments, but also a place where nature is always at hand, ready to surprise with its beauty and tranquility. Whether you are looking for a relaxing walk, a family picnic, or an immersion in biodiversity, the gardens of Canberra will welcome you with their generosity.
For a complete guide to all the attractions of Canberra, including museums, monuments, and itineraries, check out our main article: Complete Guide for Holidays in Canberra. You will find all the information to plan an unforgettable trip to the Australian capital.
Review date: March 15, 2026