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A woman in a black blazer walking between indigenous memorial poles.

Barton and Parkes

Parkes is home to the National Triangle and many of Australia's iconic museums and galleries. These cultural icons offer intriguing and ever-changing experiences, each sharing and holding the stories of Australia. Barton is fast becoming a foodie hotspot and wellness hub with day spas and wine bars.

Highlights of the area

Best museums and galleries in Australia

Enjoy short walks between many cultural attractions as you delve into exhibitions dedicated to art, history and science.

Stylish spas and eateries

From fine-dining restaurants to your choice of day spas, this leafy precinct is a great spot to relax and recharge.

Great tours on offer

Choose between Segway tours near Lake Burley Griffin and behind the scenes looks at national attractions.

LEGO Senate Chamber
Featured

Australian Parliament House

Watch democracy in action on a visit to Australian Parliament House. A range of free guided tours are offered including Yeribee, an Indigenous themed tour, to art and architecture tours of this impressive ‘mini city’.

Enjoy high tea at Queen's Terrace Cafe before you have a chuckle at the Lego model of Parliament House which features many humorous references to the building's history. While tickets are free, bookings are essential for all visits.

Australian Parliament House
A vibrant acrylic artwork depicting artist Kaylene Whiskey soaring surrounded by colourful elements.
15 Nov 2025 – 9 Mar 2026

Super Kaylene Whiskey

National Portrait Gallery, Parkes
Next on today from 10:00am to 5:00pm
NAA: A1200, L56937
12–23 Jan 2026

Up, up and away holiday program

National Archives of Australia, Parkes
Next on 12 Jan 2026 from 10:15am to 2:30pm
A tour group in the chambers

Insights of Old Parliament House - Auslan Tour

by Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House

Parkes, ACT
The Gurindji Freedom banners hung up in a gallery.
19 Aug 2025 – 31 Dec 2026

Gurindji Freedom Banners Exhibition

Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, Parkes
Next on today from 9:00am to 5:00pm
Children seated at a table doing craft activities
28 Jan 2026

School holiday activity: Our Treasures, your treasures

National Library of Australia, Parkes
Next on 28 Jan 2026 from 10:30am to 11:30am
Entrance of National Archives of Australia

Guided Tours at National Archives of Australia

Parkes, ACT
Old Parliament house at night

Paranormal Investigations of Old Parliament House

by Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House

Parkes, ACT
Collection pieces at a gallery

Mabo v Queensland (No. 2): 30th Anniversary Exhibition

Parkes, ACT
Eagle on night sky
24–26 Jan 2026

FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow + Night Markets

Lake Burley Griffin, Parkes
Next on 24 Jan 2026 from 5:00pm to 10:30pm
Two women view artwork in gallery.
5 Dec 2025 – 30 Nov 2026

Behind the Lines

Museum of Australian Democracy, Parkes
Next on today from 9:00am to 5:00pm
Entrance sign of National Press Club of Australia

National Press Club of Australia

Barton, ACT
Not specified
Illustration of Australians in uniform

Remembering the War Exhibition

Parkes, ACT
view of seats in an empty theatre
28 Jan 2026

School holiday activity: Our Treasures, your treasures

National Library of Australia, Parkes
Next on 28 Jan 2026 from 10:30am to 11:30am
Front entrance

Med

Barton, ACT
Over $30
Image taken of the outside of the venue

The Marion

Parkes, ACT
Between $20 and $30
Historic black and white image of Old Parliament House

History of Old Parliament House

by Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House

Parkes, ACT
Participants crossing the start line
10–12 Apr 2026

The Canberra Times Marathon Festival

John Dunmore Lang Place, Parkes
Next on 10 Apr 2026 from 12:00pm to 2:00pm
Icons of Canberra
11 Dec 2025 – 31 Aug 2026

Canberra: A Monumental Vision

National Capital Exhibition, Parkes
Next on today
outdoor

KOTO Japanese Restaurant

Parkes, ACT
Not specified
Bill Onus teaches the Republic of Korea’s Junior Red Cross Deputy Director how to throw a boomerang,

'In real life' exhibition gallery talk

by Guided Tours at National Archives of Australia

Parkes, ACT
A group of people admiring a painting in a Gallery

Icons Tour

by National Gallery of Australia Tours

Parkes, ACT
A photo of a seated audience
26 Mar 2026

A Deep Dive Into Julius Caesar

National Library of Australia, Parkes
Next on 26 Mar 2026 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm
People gathered around a work of art

National Gallery of Australia Tours

Parkes, ACT
Voices / Dhuniai: Federation, democracy and the Constitution’ exhibition gallery

Lifting the lid

by Guided Tours at National Archives of Australia

Parkes, ACT
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