Canberra experiences to gift this Christmas

Ascend at dawn in a hot air balloon above Canberra, with Balloon Aloft. From your basket, take in the sights and sounds of the early morning, as you skim over the city and Lake Burley Griffin. A customary champagne toast upon landing will bring you back down to earth for a perfect day spent in the capital.

For animal lovers, a stay at Jamala Wildlife Lodge is an unforgettable treat. Sleep next to a lion, bathe near a bear, or chat with a giraffe over coffee. This all-inclusive experience not only provides luxury accommodation but will also enrich your understanding of the conservation practices undertaken by the National Zoo & Aquarium.

From stately cellar doors to rustic tin sheds, the Canberra District Wine Region champions variety in their impressive array of cool climate wines and the venues that serve them. Don’t chance the discovery of your new favourite drop, leave it to the experts to curate your day amongst the vines. Van du Vin, helicopter tours and e-bike tours are some of the many keys to unlocking the region.

Give the gift of providing the time and space for your loved ones to do nothing other than enjoy themselves. From the immersed-in-nature Jindii to the refined Hale, allow these experts to put the ‘treat’ into ‘spa treatment’.

For the history buffs, why not give a behind-the-scenes tour of some of Canberra's national attractions? The More Than Politics tour at the Australian Parliament House  offers a fascinating look at the building’s art collection, followed by High Tea crafted by their executive chefs. The Big Histories tour at the National Museum of Australia  lets you explore the most significant stories of the museum alongside a museum curator, ending your journey at the lakeside Museum Cafe.

The Soul of the Nation tour by the Australian War Memorial takes you behind the scenes to discover the stories behind the collection. And at the National Gallery of Australia, enjoy Feast of Icons, a unique opportunity to enjoy a degustation dinner inspired by the gallery’s artistic masterpieces.

Uncover the untold stories of the nation with a She Shapes History tour. This guided walk through the National Triangle delves into some of the inspiring ways women and queer people have helped shaped Australia’s history.

Or go on a jaunt with Tim the Yowie Man, to explore Canberra’s underground secrets, haunted corners, and hidden political history—perfect for lovers of the mysterious and historical.

Give the gift of a whole year of fun and learning with annual passes to some of Canberra’s best attractions including Questacon, the ultimate science wonderland. Or check out the Canberra Mega Pass and Gold Creek Adventure Ticket for family passes promising endless entertainment for all ages.

Water lovers of all ages will love a day pass to Canberra Aqua Park, which allows its water-sliding visitors to experience the central lake like never before. Get ready to have an awesome day out with friends or family as you climb, splash, slip and slide through the giant, inflatable obstacle course on top of Lake Burley Griffin. Or gift a pass to SUPCBR stand-up paddle boarding to combine fun, sightseeing, and exercise for all the water lovers in your sphere.