Top 21 ACT Hotspots The first ten

by JENNY BREWER

1. Parliament House

Parliament House, Australia's political centre and Canberrra's most famous landmark, is a must see for all tourists to the capital city. Centrally located, its immaculately tended gardens are dotted with amazing architecture and famous artworks depictive of the political arena. Regular guided tours give you a chance to view the inner workings of the government, and the Queen's terrace cafe gives you the opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery. Kodak opportunities abound, and don't forget the patriotic snap by the flagpole!

2. National Museum of Australia

This Canberra highlight has many attractions,the most distinct being its unique exhibitions which showcase the nation and culture of Australia. Interactive displays, live performances and abstract architecture vividly bring to life the stories of famous and ordinary Australians. The colours and wonder of so much creativity in one space will capture your heart and compel you to stay longer. This is one of the newer Canberra museums, and is certainly worth the visit.

3. National Gallery of Australia

The picturesque shores of Lake Burley Griffin provide the perfect setting for the National Gallery, which houses one of the most extensive and choice art collections in Australia. A wide collection of Aboriginal artefacts, famous 20th Century pieces, European and Asian art and numerous sculptures in the gardens provide perfect viewing fodder for a leisurely afternoon. A large gallery dedicated to Indian art is guaranteed to capture your senses, and free lectures will satisfy the information hungry while the gallery restaurant will satisfy the plain old hungry.

4. National Zoo and Aquarium

This is the only Zooquarium in Australia, and its diverse range of animals and marine life will captivate the young and old. You will need at least a day to explore all of natures treasures on exhibited here, but be sure not to miss the big cats display, the cheeky monkeys, giraffes, snakes, bears and of course the shark tank. Official guides teach you about the animals and their origins, and the strong emphasis on conservation makes this a powerful educational experience for the whole family.

5. Questacon

Located on King Edward Terrace, Questacon has numerous interactive science and technology exhibits, making it an exciting family outing. There are over two hundred displays ranging from science shows, funparks and earthquakes to aboriginal bushcraft and animated predators, and puppet shows will keep the young tots entertained. The kids will love this one.

6. Australian War Memorial

Located at the base of Mt. Ainslie the Australian War Memorial is home to one of the best collections of war memorabilia in the world. It's galleries, sculptures and research centre have turned it into one of Australia's greatest treasures. Classic aircraft such as the Mustang, Mosquito and Kitty Hawk are on display at Aircraft Hall, and there is also a Hall of Valour dedicated to those who received the highest awards of bravery. Interactive displays and historical accounts of the First and Second World Wars ensure our Australian heroes will always be remembered.

7. Australian Institute of Sport

Sports lovers and athletes will not want to leave the Australian Institute of Sport. Top athletes act as your guides, filling you in on everything you wanted to know about training, major events and life behind the scenes. Sportex is where you will find interactive challenges such as a cycling race, rowing, soccer, rock climbing and basketball. The pool, spa or tennis courts are open to the public if you need to unwind. If you're not a sports lover when you arrive, you will be when you leave!

8. National Botanic Gardens

In these Gardens almost seven thousand species of native plants (Australia's largest collection), surround the trails that lead to rainforest plants, desert species, mountain natives and rock gardens that will leave you breathless. Located at the base of Black Mountain, you will love Rainforest Gully, the Mallee Shrublands and the Eucalypt Lawn featuring some of the most picturesque gardens and foliage in Canberra. A must see for all plant lovers.

9. National Library and Amphitheatre

Booklovers beware! You will probably never leave once you discover Australia's biggest reference library, located near Lake Burley Griffin. Seven reading rooms offer maximum privacy, and an exhibition gallery hosts various events which are worth checking out. An on site restaurant will fuel your relaxing day of reading, and an Australian book shop gives you the chance to take your work home.

10. High Court of Australia

A visit to the High Court is essential if you are in Canberra. This seven story building has three courtrooms and a public hall, the walls of which are beautified with stunning murals illustrating the Growth of Australia and it's constitution. You might even get the chance to sit in on the high court sittings which are open to the public. Located close to pretty Lake Burley Griffin and with a waterfall as one of it's chief features, the High Court perfectly combines the serious and the scenic!