Cosy Canberra activities to help you forget about the cold
Updated 5 Feb 2024
Feeling a getaway in Canberra but wondering what you can do to stay warm? Beat the winter chill with some of these cosy Canberra activities.
You're already breaking the mold by holidaying during the winter, and for that, we applaud you. But just because it's not the warm season, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a pleathora of cosy activities in Canberra. Perfect for day or night, from delicious food to suggestions to shake up the some destination classics, we promise these suggestions will make a Canberra winter even more enjoyable.
Head to high tea
There’s something to be said about indulging in the time-honoured tradition of tiered plates of delicious cakes and tarts and sipping on award-winning tea (or Champagne).
Luckily there are plenty of places in Canberra to book into for this delicious ritual, with an abundance of beautiful venues where you can sip and snack in heritage-listed venues, lakeside venues, and plush surroundings. There’s The Marion, the Hyatt, White Rabbit Cocktail Room, and Queen’s Terrace Cafe, just to name a few.
Explore the galleries and museums
We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again—we’re so incredibly lucky to have so many wonderful national attractions on Canberra’s doorstep. And since we all need a little break from the winter chill sometimes, why not explore some of the indoor exhibitions that are currently showing?
Our What’s On section is a great place to start—listing all exhibitions and events taking place at the National Gallery of Australia, the National Portrait Gallery, Questacon, the National Library of Australia, the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House and Australian Parliament House, as well as the National Museum of Australia and the Australian War Memorial, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Eat some comfort food
Rather sit somewhere cosy and eat your feelings? Yeah, us too. We’ve pulled together a guide on warm and cosy places to eat and drink when Canberra gets cold. From hearty burgers to bottomless pasta, there’s something for every kind of craving.
Relax into spa life
Need to chill out a little (without having to brave the cold)? A day at the spa might be the perfect solution. Fortunately, Canberra has you covered with luxurious experiences on offer from Hale Gym+Spa, to an escape like Jindi Eco Spa at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, there’s a variety of options, and all will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated
Get your creativity on
Painting, pottery, and more—if you’re looking for a night out that doesn’t involve heading to a bar or club, how about a cheeky craft session? Whether you want to learn a new hobby, perfect your craft a little bit more, or just hang out with friends, we promise there is a class for you. Spend a night churning out around 4 works at one of Clay Studio Canberra’s Pop Up Wheel Classes, immerse yourself in nature with a workshop at Nature Art Lab, or combine genres with a night out at Tipsy Sketching Club.
Try something a little... unusual
Sick of the movies? Bored of bowling? How about trying something a little more unusual? From axe throwing to having a big, cathartic break to indoor snow sports (because while it might be chilly, snow isn’t on the cards), there’s something for everyone feeling a bit adventurous in Fyshwick.
It doesn’t take much to enjoy the cosy nooks and crannies of Canberra, and it’s made all the better by the array of lovely options and something for everyone in the cosy indoors. So before you say no to a winter holiday, come explore the nation’s capital and all the variety it has on offer.
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About the author
HerCanberra is one of Canberra’s most influential media brands. Since 2011, the website has been a vital resource for local women, providing an essential guide to life in the Canberra region. From what’s on, places to eat and drink, fashion, beauty, health, fitness and more, if it’s part of ‘her’ life you’ll find it on hercanberra.com.au