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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
Old Parliament house at night

Paranormal Investigations of Old Parliament House

by Tours at The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House (MoAD)

Parkes, ACT
People in Lager House

Lager House

Parkes, ACT
Between $20 and $30
A smiling woman with grey hair sits at a table outdoors, writing in a notebook.
7 Oct 2026

Visual Journalling for Library Lovers

National Library of Australia, Parkes
Next on 7 Oct 2026 from 10:00am to 12:00pm
Entrance sign of National Press Club of Australia

National Press Club of Australia

Barton, ACT
Not specified
The Press Gallery

The Press Gallery

Parkes, ACT
Runners in Canberra
10–11 Apr 2027

The Canberra Times Marathon Festival

John Dunmore Lang Place, Parkes
Next on 10 Apr 2027
Inside view of store

The Curatoreum - National Portrait Gallery

Parkes, ACT
Historic black and white image of Old Parliament House

History of Old Parliament House

by Tours at The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House (MoAD)

Parkes, ACT
NAA: A1200, L26438
10 Jun – 16 Dec 2026

Murrulangalang storytime

National Archives of Australia, Parkes
Next on 26 Aug 2026 from 10:15am to 11:00am
A monochrome photographic portrait of four men with candid expressions wearing suits.
16 May 2026 – 23 May 2027

Power suits: The fit within the frame

National Portrait Gallery, Parkes
Next on today from 10:00am to 5:00pm
View to lake

Water's Edge Canberra

Parkes, ACT
Over $30
Competitors race with lawnmowers on a grass track with a fire truck and spectators visible.
22 Sep 2026 – 19 Sep 2027

Regional Rivalries: Sport, spectacle and community in regional Australia Exhibition

National Library of Australia, Parkes
Next on 22 Sep 2026 from 9:00am to 5:00pm
Black and white photograph of of a mechanic working on a Holden car

'Rear vision' exhibition gallery talk

by Guided Tours at National Archives of Australia

Parkes, ACT
Ethos
11 Dec 2025 – 31 Aug 2026

Canberra: A Monumental Vision

National Capital Exhibition, Parkes
Next on today
Rear vision exhibition banner
12 Jun 2026 – 31 Jan 2027

Rear vision: the Holden collection

National Archives of Australia, Parkes
Next on today from 9:00am to 5:00pm
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