Head to Queen Elizabeth II Island for an iconically Canberran picnic. Image: Tourism Australia
05 February 2025
In Brief:
- Canberra has a wealth of excellent places to enjoy a picnic.
- This story lists 10 picnic spots and describes what is available at each one.
Canberra does not disappoint when it comes to picnic spots.
Picture yourself sitting on a picnic blanket under the shade of the impressive trees at Lennox Gardens with a view of Lake Burley Griffin unfolding before you.
Or you could escape the city and venture out to Weston Park with the family to make use of the barbecue facilities. Soak up the views while the kids enjoy the water playground.
Here are some of our picks for your next picnic destination:
National Rose Gardens and Old Parliament House Gardens
In spring, these gardens are bursting with colourful roses. At Old Parliament House Gardens, wisteria drip from the pergolas.
Each of the gardens has plenty of soft grass where you can spread out. Choose a shady spot by the trees or soak up the sun.
Low on caffeine or food? Rosa’s at the Lawns is nearby and offers coffee, pastries and pizza.
Queen Elizabeth II Island
This picturesque island is the home of the iconic National Carillon. It was formerly known as Aspen Island.
With lush grass and shady trees, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy views of Lake Burley Griffin. Time your visit to hear the hourly chime of the Carillon’s 57 bronze bells.
Telopea Park
Telopea Park’s lush green grass and towering trees are the ideal spot for a picnic.
There are also:
- barbecues
- shade sails
- public toilets
- picnic tables
- a playground
- a skate ramp.
With Manuka and Kingston shops nearby, there are plenty of choices for coffee or food to take along with you.
The National Arboretum
There are many idyllic picnic spots at the Arboretum. Head to Dairy Farmers Hill to enjoy 360-degree views across Canberra. You can also check out the iconic eagle sculpture, Nest III, up close.
Another favourite spot is the Himalayan cedar forest barbeque and picnic area. The picnic and barbeque desk has tables and free electric barbeques.
Weston Park
Weston Park spreads across 40 hectares, with plenty of picnic spots to choose from.
The area around Pescott Lane is a popular area for families. Here, you’ll find:
- barbeques
- toilets
- drinking water
- picnic tables
- a playground.
The Yarralumla Play Station is across the road from the picnic. It has a café and miniature railway.
Fadden Pines
Fadden Pines is loved by families in the Tuggeranong region. With three playgrounds and multiple picnic areas, there are plenty of spots to choose from.
It also has:
- large shady trees
- barbecues
- drinking water
- a skate park
- toilets.
Lake Ginninderra
Virtually any spot around the edge of Lake Ginninderra is a beautiful setting for a picnic.
John Knight Memorial Park is particularly suitable. It has beautiful views of the lake and plenty of shady trees. You’ll also find:
- barbecues
- picnic tables
- public toilets
- model boat jetty
- water garden
- drinking water
- playground.
Mount Ainslie
You can choose to hike or drive to the top of Mount Ainslie. Either way, the view across Canberra is bound to get your heart racing.
There are picnic tables so you can take a seat and soak up the views.
Regatta Point
On a sunny afternoon, it’s a common sight to see locals enjoying a picnic on the grassy hill overlooking the lake.
There are public toilets nearby, as well as picnic shelters.
Need food and coffee? Pop into The Walter Café for some takeaway.
Lennox Gardens
The stunning park is home to Canberra Beijing Garden and Canberra Nara Peace Park. It’s right on the waterfront and has beautiful views and shady trees.
You’ll also find:
- public barbecues
- drinking water
- picnic tables
- public toilets.
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