Free things to do with teenagers in Canberra

Canberra suits teenagers more than its reputation suggests. The big national institutions are free and have real depth, from the Australian War Memorial to the National Gallery and the Museum of Australian Democracy, and many teenagers find them more interesting than they expected. Mount Ainslie offers a hilltop view and a decent walk or ride. The Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex Visitor Centre appeals to science-minded teens, and skate parks at Tuggeranong and Fadden Pines give those with a board somewhere to go. The city's layout makes it easy to let older teens explore a little on their own, with paths and public transport nearby. The best approach is to give them a say. Let them choose between the gallery and the skate park, or whether to climb the hill at sunrise or sunset. A snack stop is almost always a good idea. Free outings keep days out sociable without the cost, and Canberra's compact size means they rarely feel like long trips. Check each listing for what is open, since some venues change their arrangements from season to season, and bring warm layers for the colder months.

Our picks

Before you go

Best for which ages

These ideas suit thirteen and older, from early teens who want company to older ones heading out with friends. Active teens will enjoy the hill and the skate parks, while others will prefer museums, galleries and science. Younger teens may want a parent nearby, while older ones prefer a friend and a looser plan.

What to bring

Water, snacks, a charged phone and layers. A helmet and pads for skating, sturdy shoes for walking and a little spare cash for a snack. A notebook or camera can add interest for creative teens. A refillable water bottle and a warm hat are worth packing, since teens rarely bring their own.

Parking and facilities

Many venues are close to public transport, which suits older teens travelling in a group. Parking can be limited near the national institutions. The listing explains what facilities are on site. Older teens can catch a bus, which also gives them a taste of independence in the city and a ride home.

Best time of year

Autumn and spring are the most comfortable for outdoor activities. Winter suits museums and galleries, and summer is best early or late in the day. School holidays are busier. Mid-week visits are calmer at galleries during school holidays, when family groups fill the foyers.

How to make a day of it

Let teens plan part of the day, agree on a meeting point and give them room. Mix an active morning with a relaxed lunch, and keep the plan flexible so they do not feel managed. Fix a time and place to meet, then let them roam and send you a photo.

Waterfalls, lookouts and forest walks

Walks the park service or council describes with a length and grade. Each listing says how far, how hard, and what is at the start.

  • Mount Ainslie Lookout Mount Ainslie Lookout

    Mount Ainslie Lookout sits at the summit of Mount Ainslie (842 metres) in Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve, looking over Canberra, Lake Burley Griffin and the mountains of…

    ★ 4.7 (5,403)

All walks, waterfalls and lookouts in Canberra, free and paid

Free museums, galleries and science

Permanent collections with free entry. Special exhibitions can be ticketed; the listing says so.

Skate parks, pump tracks and bike paths

Council-run and free. Bring helmets; the listing notes lighting, shade and whether there is a beginner area.

  • Tuggeranong Skatepark Tuggeranong Skatepark Greenway

    Tuggeranong Skatepark is an ACT Government skatepark in Tuggeranong Town Park, off Bartlet Place in Greenway.

    ★ 4.4 (57)

  • Fadden Pines Skate Bowl Fadden Pines Skate Bowl Fadden

    Fadden Pines has a small public skate bowl in Fadden Pines District Park, Fadden, reached from Bugden Avenue.

  • Gungahlin Skate Park Gungahlin Skate Park Gungahlin

    The Gungahlin skatepark at Yerrabi District Park is one of seven major skateparks in Canberra that ACT City Services describes as suitable for all levels of use.

    ★ 4.1 (37)

  • Weston Creek Skate Park Weston Creek Skate Park Weston

    Weston Creek Skate Park is one of seven major ACT Government skateparks, which City Services describes as suitable for all levels of use.

    ★ 4.1 (30)

All skate parks and bike tracks in Canberra, free and paid

Questions parents ask

What can teenagers do in Canberra for free?
They can visit the national museums and galleries, climb Mount Ainslie, skate at a park or explore the visitor centre. Each listing shows what is free and what may vary.
Is the War Memorial suitable for teenagers?
Many find it moving and engaging, though some content is serious. Check the listing for what is on display and for any age guidance.
Can teens get around Canberra on their own?
Older teens can use buses and trams, and many paths are safe and separate from roads. Agree on a plan and a way to stay in touch.
What can teens do in Canberra when it pours?
The museums, galleries and visitor centres are all good options. Check the listing for details and opening times.

Other kinds of free day in Canberra

For teens in other cities