Parkes Travel Guide
Canberra
Popular places to visit
Questacon
Join the kids for a day of learning about the wonders of science and technology at Australia’s national science centre.
National Gallery of Australia
Australia’s national gallery has objects from across Asia and the Pacific, European and American works, and indigenous, colonial and contemporary Australian art.
Old Parliament House
Tour this building to see where Australian politicians met and debated for over 60 years and learn about the history and workings of Australian democracy.
Commonwealth Park
After visiting Commonwealth Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Canberra. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
National Library of Australia
Explore the collections of Australia’s biggest reference library to find books from all over the world, early European maps and documents from the first explorers.
National Capital Exhibition
See the fascinating history of Canberra laid out for you through engaging and interactive exhibits in this modern, family-friendly museum.
Things to do
Personalised Sightseeing in Canberra, with John
Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour
Badass Women of Canberra: Meet the Women Who Shaped the Nation
Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines
Top hotels in Parkes
Forrest Hotel and Apartments
Friendly check-in staff. Adequate room with comfortable bedding and blockout curtains. Addition of a microwave would be useful along with updated bathroom, tea and coffee making area. Good discount provided by Wotif.
Reviewed on 17 Feb 2026
Novotel Canberra
Just fine. Location and Breakfast are the best parts. There was a big queue when I arrived so I did the self check-in but it didn't really work and ended up back down at the desk. Could be improved especially with the information you would normally get at check in with a person (e.g. Breakfast time ...
Reviewed on 16 Feb 2026
Avenue Hotel Canberra
yes friendly staff good location
Reviewed on 18 Feb 2026
Pavilion on Northbourne
Clean, great location, great customer service
Reviewed on 17 Feb 2026
Deco Hotel
The room was spotless,
Reviewed on 16 Feb 2026
Rydges Canberra
One of the worst hotels I’ve ever stayed in. So unhygienic, needs a huge renovation. It was really bad all round
Reviewed on 18 Feb 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Parkes
Barton
Barton is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Lake Burley Griffin and East Basin while you're in town.
Capital Hill
The abundant dining options and interesting museums are top of the list for many visitors to Capital Hill. A stop by Parliament House or National Archives of Australia might round out your trip.
Kingston
Kingston is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Lake Burley Griffin and The Cusack Centre while you're in town.
City East
While visiting City East, you might make a stop by sights like Civic Square and Canberra Theatre Centre.
Northern Canberra
Northern Canberra is known for its popular shops, and with sights like Canberra Museum and Gallery and Civic Square, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Canberra.
Manuka
While visiting Manuka, you might make a stop by sights like Manuka Shopping Centre and Manuka Oval.
