National Zoo and Aquarium

Things to do near National Zoo and Aquarium

The National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra offers a range of exciting activities, including wildlife experiences and informative zoo tours. Visitors can embark on an unforgettable ultimate overnight safari or enjoy a delightful day trip exploring the diverse animal exhibits. In addition to animal encounters, the surrounding area provides opportunities for walking, shopping, and appreciating local art, making it a perfect destination for a well-rounded visit.

Shopping

The Canberra Centre, located 2.5km from the National Zoo and Aquarium, offers a vibrant mix of shopping and entertainment. Similarly, the Manuka Shopping Centre, also 2.5km away, provides a family-friendly atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, the Capital Region Farmers Market, 4.3km away, features local produce and crafts.

Recreation

Canberra Stadium, located 2.5km from the zoo, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts. Stromlo Forest Park, 1.9km away, provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and wellness activities. The Royal Canberra Golf Club, just 621m from the zoo, invites you to enjoy outdoor sports in a picturesque environment.

Adventure

The Black Mountain Woodland Walk Trailhead, located 1.2km from the National Zoo and Aquarium, offers a scenic hiking experience amidst lush greenery. For more adventure, the Link Walk Trailhead, 1.9km away, and the Black Mountain Summit Walk Trailhead, also 1.9km distant, promise stunning vistas and outdoor thrills.

Nightlife

In Canberra, the Canberra Theatre Centre offers a vibrant cultural experience with its diverse performances, while the Mount Stromlo Observatory provides a unique evening under the stars for families. For a charming outdoor vibe, the Canberra Merry-Go-Round is perfect for a delightful carousel ride.

Find the best attractions near National Zoo and Aquarium

While visiting the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra, explore nearby attractions such as modern civic government buildings, nature reserves, and urban parks that offer a blend of culture and outdoor activities. For a memorable family experience, consider the wildlife sanctuary and various hotels conveniently located near the zoo. Don't miss the chance to discover the wonders of the aquarium, making your trip truly enriching.

• Australian National University: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, where contemporary architecture meets lush green spaces. The campus is a hub of student life, offering a glimpse into the academic spirit of Australia’s top university.
• Parliament House: This impressive civic building showcases Australia's political heart. Visitors can explore its grand architecture, learn about the nation’s governance, and even witness parliamentary sessions when they are in session, all while absorbing the business-like energy of the area.
• Questacon: A fun-filled science museum perfect for families, Questacon features interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. With an emphasis on culture and learning, it’s a delightful way to spark curiosity and inspire future scientists.

Best time to go to National Zoo and Aquarium

The best time to visit National Zoo and Aquarium is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	69.3°F (20.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.6°F (13.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	47.8°F (8.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	42.1°F (5.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	48.9°F (9.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
December	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for National Zoo and Aquarium

To save money on your visit to the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra, consider travelling during the off-peak months of May, August, and December for lower accommodation rates. Sundays tend to be the cheapest days to book, while Saturdays are pricier. Use Expedia to filter hotel options by budget and eco-friendly choices, and consider package deals that bundle your stay with flights and activities. Look out for top deals on accommodations and aquarium-related vacations to maximise your savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around National Zoo and Aquarium are May, August and December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around National Zoo and Aquarium is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around National Zoo and Aquarium is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to discover the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to narrow down your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels ready for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save some money by booking a package with Expedia that combines your hotel stay near the National Zoo and Aquarium with your flights and activities.