What’s open in Canberra right now?

Here's a list of the shopping centres, public venues, attractions and dining spots open to Canberra locals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

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By

Courtney Edwards

Updated

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While everything in Canberra is open there are some restrictions in place.

If you need to head out, but don't know what's open, you'll find all of the details here. Plus, see our top recommendations for things to do in Canberra.

What are the lockdown restrictions in Canberra and the ACT?

Note: Density limits for businesses have been removed.

  • Masks must be worn in indoor settings including retail stores, workplaces, hospitality venues and public transport.
  • There is no limit on the number of people that can visit a home or on the number of people that can gather outdoors. You're encouraged to minimise the number of visitors to your home and gather with your known social groups.
  • You can return to work at your and your employer's discretion and children can return to school.
  • Weddings, funerals and religious, ceremonies can proceed. Dancing is permitted at weddings.
  • Restaurants, nightclubs and bars can open, eating and drinking while standing is allowed. Dancing is allowed.
  • Non-essential retail, hairdressers and personal care services can open.
  • Community centres, zoos, museums and other tourist attractions can open.
  • Bootcamps, personal training and outdoor contactless coaching can recommence. Swimming pools can open.
  • Organised outdoor events are allowed and indoor theatre-style venues can open.
  • You can take recreation in National Parks.
  • Auctions can proceed.
  • Aged care facilities can have 5 guests per day with a max. of 5 at any one time. End-of-life residents have no limit.

Travelling in the ACT

You can travel inside and outside of the ACT, as long as borders remain open with other states and territories.

This means Canberrans are free to travel to Melbourne for culinary experiences or head to Sydney and the South Coast for beach vacations.

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What's open in Canberra

Attractions in Canberra are open. You'll need to book ahead for some attractions to secure your spot as density limits still apply.

Canberra attractions open in December 2024

AttractionOpening hours
National Zoo and Aquarium Open 9:30am–5pm Monday to Sunday
National Museum of AustraliaOpen 9am–5pm Monday to Sunday
The National Dinosaur MuseumOpen 10am–5pm Monday to Sunday
National Gallery of AustraliaOpen 10am–5pm Monday to Sunday
National Portrait GalleryOpen 10am–5pm Monday to Sunday
Australian War MemorialTemporarily closed
Palace Electric CinemaOpen 10am–10pm Monday to Sunday

Parks and walking trails

There are plenty of great spots in Canberra for you to explore. Just be sure to keep a 1.5-metre distance from any person you come into contact with while outside.

Here are some of the top parks and walking trails you can visit:

Parks

  • Acton Park
  • Australian National Botanic Gardens
  • Canberra Nara Peace Park
  • City Hill
  • Commonwealth Park

Walking trails

  • The Centenary Trail
  • Mount Ainslie
  • Murrumbidgee Discovery Track
  • National Arboretum

Shopping centres and grocery stores

It's business as usual for shopping centres and grocery stores. Shoppers are encouraged to use the tap and go payment method, to use the hand sanitiser that is likely to be found at the entry and exit point of a store, and to be mindful to keep a distance of at least 1.5 metres between you and other shoppers.

  • Canberra Centre. Open and trading as usual. Retailer trading times may vary.
  • Homeworld. Open and trading as usual. Homeworld has increased the frequency of cleaning in high-touch areas, including bathrooms and common spaces.
  • Majura Park Shopping Centre. Open and trading as usual.
  • Manuka Shopping Precinct. Open and trading as usual. Retailer trading times may vary.
  • Westfield. Westfield Belconnen and Westfield Woden are open. Trading hours may vary between stores. Hand sanitiser is available at the concierge desk and increased cleaning measures have been implemented.

Are hotels open in Canberra?

You can make a booking and stay at a hotel in Canberra. Additional hygiene measures will be in place and some amenities may be unavailable.

Looking to book accommodation in Canberra? These hotels are open now.

  • Pavilion On Northbourne
  • Novotel Canberra
  • Hotel Kurrajong Canberra
  • Abode Kingston
  • Nesuto Canberra Apartment Hotel
  • Adina Serviced Apartments Canberra Dickson
  • Forrest Hotel & Apartments
  • Crowne Plaza Canberra
  • Pacific Suites Canberra
  • Canberra Rex Hotel
  • Ibis Styles Canberra
  • Adina Serviced Apartments Canberra James Court
  • Avenue Hotel Canberra
  • Alivio Tourist Park Canberra
  • Mercure Canberra
  • Mantra on Northbourne
  • Best Western Plus Garden City Hotel
  • QT Canberra
  • Little National Hotel
  • Burbury Hotel & Apartments
  • East Hotel Canberra
  • Hotel Realm

Do I need to pre-book to visit dining venues and attractions?

If you're looking to visit an eatery or attraction, it's best to book in advance while some restrictions are still in place in Canberra.

What restaurants and cafes are open in Canberra?

Restaurants and cafes in Canberra are open and trading. If you're heading out for coffee, leave your keep cup at home for now as takeaway cups are being used as a hygiene and safety precaution.

See our top picks for dining in Canberra

If you know of any other eateries that are trading, let us know in the comments below.

Quick ways to save cash

Spending some money in Canberra? How about saving a little too? There are plenty of little changes that you can make to your daily expenses to save some extra cash, which is a pretty good idea in this time of uncertainty.

Find out how to save money on your credit card or switch your energy provider for better rates. Here are some guides on how to save money.

Picture: GettyImages

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Assistant publisher

Courtney Edwards was associate travel publisher at Finder. She has a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Journalism and sub-majoring in English from Western Sydney University and a Certificate II in Tourism. She discovered her love for travel while completing a semester abroad in England and travelling around Europe. Outside of work, you’ll find Courtney visiting new brunch spots and planning her next adventure. See full bio

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