Parkes Travel Guide
Canberra
Popular places to visit
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.
Questacon
Join the kids for a day of learning about the wonders of science and technology at Australia’s national science centre.
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.
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.
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.
High Court of Australia
Observe justice in action at the highest court in the land inside a modern edifice on the banks of a tranquil lake.
Things to do
Personalised Sightseeing in Canberra, with John
Canberra Discovery Tour - Australia's Capital by Gray Line Sydney
Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour
Top hotels in Parkes
Forrest Hotel and Apartments
"The best things about the place are the location and reasonably well priced. The room was too big and was unable to heat it properly."
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
The Sebel Canberra Civic
"Great location, clean and spacious"
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Deco Hotel
"Great hotel only problem is the light switches are touch sensitive and not good to find in the dark"
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Rydges Canberra
"Extraordinarily helpful staff at the front desk the hotel is dated an old but a wonderful experience in a great area in Canberra will definitely stay again."
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Novotel Canberra
"Our stay was nice and convenient, especially being within walking distance of the Civic Centre. While the hotel felt a bit old and dated (which is to be expected for the price), the bed was comfortable and the pool area was a real highlight. The cleanliness could have been better, but overall it’s ..."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Avenue Hotel Canberra
"Clean and fresh rooms, great location, helpful staff…equals an amazing stay…absolutely five stars."
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Parkes
Canberra City Centre
The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Canberra City Centre. A stop by Canberra Museum and Gallery or Canberra Theatre Centre 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.
Belconnen
Unique features of Belconnen include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Belconnen Arts Centre or Bimbi Beach while you're exploring the area.
Braddon
The abundant dining options and relaxing spas are top of the list for many visitors to Braddon. A stop by Ainslie Arts Centre or Gorman Arts Centre might round out your trip.
Queanbeyan
Visitors to Queanbeyan enjoy its bars, and if you want to do some exploring, The Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre is worth a stop.
