Australian National Botanic Gardens

A 90-hectare garden showcasing Australia's native plants and landscapes, featuring themed gardens, walking trails, and stunning views of Canberra. Ideal for nature lovers seeking to experience the country's botanical diversity.

Things to do

• Rainforest Gully Walk — Stroll through a cool temperate rainforest setting with native ferns, mosses, and subtropical plants along a shaded 1.5km trail.
• Rock Garden Explorer — Discover native alpine and rock-dwelling plants displayed in naturalistic settings showcasing Australia's mountainous regions.
• Eucalypt Woodland Exploration — Experience a traditional Australian bushland landscape with over 600 eucalypt species and accompanying native understory plants.
• Canberra Outlook Vantage Point — Visit the elevated viewing areas within the gardens offering panoramic views across Lake Burley Griffin and central Canberra.
• Native Plant Nursery Browse — Shop at the on-site plant nursery for native Australian species and endemic plants perfect for home gardens.
• Guided Botanical Tour — Join knowledgeable guides who interpret the garden's themed sections and explain the ecological significance of native flora.

Food to try

• Lemon Myrtle Infused Beverages — Enjoy refreshing teas and drinks featuring native lemon myrtle leaves, often available at the garden cafe with bright citrus notes.
• Native Finger Limes in Desserts — Sample cafe pastries and desserts incorporating finger limes, small Australian native citrus fruits with tangy, caviar-like pulp.
• Wattleseed Shortbread — Taste biscuits and baked goods featuring ground wattleseed, an earthy native Australian flavoring used in contemporary cuisine.
• Freshly Brewed Coffee with Local Honey — Pair quality coffee at the garden cafe with local Canberra honey, supporting regional beekeeping communities.

Local customs & good to know

• Acknowledge Indigenous Plant Knowledge — Recognize that many native plants have been used by Aboriginal Australians for thousands of years; the gardens interpret this cultural heritage throughout displays.
• Respect Seasonal Visiting — Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) offer the best wildflower displays and comfortable walking conditions in Canberra.
• Leave No Trace Ethics — Stay on designated paths and avoid picking plants or flowers, as the gardens preserve rare native species and delicate ecosystems.

Nearby

• Mount Ainslie — 3 km
• Australian War Memorial — 5 km
• National Gallery of Australia — 5 km
• Canberra — 7 km