Canberra's National Arboretum is an ever-developing showcase of trees from around the world, with 94 forests of different species currently on site. It is early days for many of the plantings, but it's still worth visiting for the spectacular visitor center and the excellent views over the city. Regular guided tours are informative, and there is a brilliant adventure playground for kids.

The parking lot is paid. Admission to the park and guided tours are free.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Canberra attractions

1. National Zoo & Aquarium

0.76 MILES

It's certainly not the biggest in Australia, but Canberra's zoo is well laid out and animal friendly, with native fauna such as Tasmanian devils and…

3. Telstra Tower

1.91 MILES

Black Mountain (812m), northwest of the city, is topped by the oddly stumpy 195m-high Telstra Tower, which offers a sweeping vista from its 66m-high…

4. Australian National Botanic Gardens

2.41 MILES

On the lower slopes of Black Mountain, these sprawling gardens showcase Australian floral diversity over 35 hectares of cultivated garden and 50 hectares…

5. Royal Australian Mint

2.54 MILES

The Royal Australian Mint is Australia’s biggest money-making operation. Its gallery showcases the history of Australian coinage; learn about the 1813 …

6. Black Mountain

2.76 MILES

On the western side of the city, the forested slopes of Black Mountain (812m) provide some easily accessible bushland perfect for bushwalking and mountain…

7. Embassy of Japan

2.86 MILES

The white walls and black beams of the elegant embassy building and adjacent Ambassador's Residence are reminiscent of traditional Japanese design. The…

8. Embassy of Finland

2.87 MILES

Constructed in 2002, the glass-and-steel 'Ilmarinen' building of the Embassy of Finland is designed to resemble a ship – its name recalls the hero of the…