Australian National Botanic Gardens

The 50-hectare National Botanic Gardens, located about a kilometer west of the city center, are a must-see for green thumbs. These well kept collections, spread throughout the slopes of Black Mountain, display a variety of varied habitats and present all of the important species of Australian flora. Children will also enjoy themselves here.

The Rain Forest Gully is quite beautiful. Water dragons can be found among the luxuriant greenery. The Red Centre garden, with deep red dirt and a spinifex grassland, and the Children's Discovery Walk are further attractions. Birds and butterflies can also be found in the gardens.

You may enter Black Mountain Nature Park from the gardens and trek to the summit for spectacular city views. Are you looking for other Canberra gardens to visit? A six-minute drive away, you'll also appreciate exploring the National Arboretum Canberra. The National Bonsai and Penjing collection, a Gallery of Gardens, picnic spaces with panoramic views, and a magnificent children's playground are all part of this 250-hectare nature reserve. If you're seeking for inexpensive things to do in Canberra, this is a great alternative. The gardens are free to enter, although there is a nominal cost to park in the on-site lot.

Google rating: 4.6/5.0

Location: Clunies Ross Street, Acton
Official site: anbg.gov.au/gardens/index.html