20 free and cheap things to do in Canberra this winter
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When the words ‘Canberra’ and ‘winter’ are mentioned together, it’s easy to think about other words like ‘pyjamas’, ‘heater’ and ‘hibernate’.
However, with this list of affordable things to do, you’ll be much more motivated to get out of the house during the cooler months.
The Dressmaker Costume Exhibition
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Whether you’ve read the novel by Rosalie Ham or seen the 2015 film starring Kate Winslet and Liam Hemsworth, the National Film and Sound Archive’s The Dressmaker exhibition is unmissable.
It is open daily from 10 am-4 pm until Sunday 18 August. Admission is only $13 general, $10 concession and $7 children. For a free option, every Friday at 1 pm there is a free floor talk in the gallery about the exhibition.
An incredible glimpse into the Australian film’s work that is bound to keep you occupied on an overcast afternoon.
Corin Forest Fire Pits
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For a nice day trip, take the less-than-an-hour drive South West to Corin Forest Mountain Resort to experience the magic of real snow! Corin Forest‘s picnic area is free with fire pits that you can use, collecting sticks from the surrounding bush.
You’re also able to bring your own portable BBQ or rent their gas ones at $5 for half an hour. The perfect opportunity to have warm hot chocolates, toasted marshmallows and a BBQ lunch in a winter wonderland.
Dendy Cinemas Cheap Tuesday
Every Tuesday at Canberra Centre’s Dendy Cinemas, all tickets are $13.
It’s the perfect time of year to snuggle up inside a warm cinema and catch the latest flick.
Endless free National Gallery Exhibitions
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Want to spend an entire day getting some free cultural insights? If this sounds like you, the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) has a huge range of free exhibitions such as Australian Impressionism, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and more!
Some special ones include Contemporary Worlds: Indonesia until 27 October and a free NGA Play – Sally Smart until 21 July and from $17.35 you can see the NGA’s newest blockbuster, Monet: Impression Sunrise.
One Tree Hill Hike
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Based in Gungahlin, One Tree Hill is one of Canberra’s best lookouts to hike to. The trip is about 9km, which is approximately three hours for most walkers.
While it may be cold, some of the best views for sunrises and sunsets are in the winter months, and you’ll be warm enough after all the hiking!
Australian National Botanic Gardens
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One of the most beautiful hidden gems in Canberra, the National Botanic Gardens is a perfect opportunity to see some native plants that aren’t gumtrees.
After a relaxing day spent wandering you can always finish at Pollen Cafe for coffee and cake.
Special Exhibitions at The National Museum Australia
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The Historical Expression of Chinese Art, Painting on Country and The Studio: Collections Up Close are the current free exhibitions that are running throughout most of winter at the National Museum of Australia (NMA).
Additionally, the NMA has many permanent exhibitions including First Australians, Landmarks and Old New Land. Enough to keep you busy for days. Did we mention free heating?
Telstra Tower Views
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Some of the best views in Canberra are atop Black Moutain, especially if you venture onto Telstra Tower’s protected balconies.
It only costs $7.50 for adults and $3 for aged pensioners abd children (4-16) while children under 4 years are free!
Take a moment to sit at the café and look at the stretching scenery.
CSIRO Discovery Centre
Only $10 for adults and $7 for children, students and concessions, the CSIRO gives you an inside look at everything from Australian scientific history to shark eggs.
csiro.au/en/education/community-engagement/discovery-centre
Parliament House Tours
The building at the heart of Australian politics, Parliament House offers free tours every day.
This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about our political history and the structure of our politicians’ workplace.
aph.gov.au/visit_parliament/tours
Lake Burley Griffin Walk
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For scenic winter vibes, Lake Burley Griffin from any point is perfect to have some pensive moments of reflection – or a darn good workout.
Whether you’re a northsider or southsider, we can all agree that ‘the lake’ is the place to be, year-round.
Royal Australian Mint
If you’re a curious soul, the Royal Australian Mint is perfect for you.
Offering free entry every day of the week, you’re able to see collections of old coins, learn the process of making money and watch interactive videos.
National Library of Australia
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Not only is ‘the Nash’ a beautiful spot to read or study in, but our National Library also has a range of free exhibitions that run year round.
From Inked: Australian Cartoons to Pilgrimages in the Middle East and more, you’re bound to find something fascinating in this historic space.
Old Bus Depot Markets
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The best time to visit the Kingston Foreshore is Sunday from 10 am – 4 pm. Not only is it perfect for beautiful views and café culture, but the Old Bus Depot Markets also gives you a vibrant market scene to get lost in.
Perfect to grab affordable snacks or knick-knacks made by local Canberrans.
Canberra Glassworks
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With an endless array of things to see and do, the Canberra Glassworks has regular events where you can watch artists from all over the world work their magic.
There is also the option of doing a free heritage tour that reveals the features of the iconic building and its history.
High Court of Australia
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One of the Parliamentary Triangle’s most imposing buildings, why not take a free tour of the High Court of Australia?
On the tour, you’ll explore the building’s structure and features, along with the history and processes involved within the High Court.
Kambah Pools
An ideal hiking destination only 15 from the city centre. A very casual and comfortable walk.
Capital Region Farmers Market
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Held every Saturday from 7.30 am until 11.30 am, enjoy a leisurely browse of endless plants, food, homewares and coffee.
The perfect place to do your fresh produce shopping for the week and grab some supplies for winter comfort cooking.
capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au
The Australian War Memorial
A reflective and insightful pocket of Canberra, the War Memorial has free entry to all its exhibitions, galleries and collections.
Whether you’re eight or 80, there is always something new to discover about our military history.
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