A Guide to Kings Park in Canberra That’ll Make You Want to Spend All Your Weekends Here
When I think about how most locals pass the time here in the capital, the top answer seems to be parks. Canberra is full of them and we truly are spoiled when it comes to picking which one to go to.
Out of all of them, Kings Park is one of my personal favorites. It’s spacious and there are a ton of enjoyable activities for all ages, from play spaces to significant landmarks. Additionally, it’s got some great views of our very own Lake Burley Griffin.
So if you’re one of those people who aren’t very familiar with the area, this is your key to unlocking its secrets. Find out all the things you can see and stuff you can do in Canberra’s Kings Park with this handy guide.
Where is Kings Park?
Kings Park is located in the suburb of Parkes, Canberra. It is right on the shore of Lake Burley Griffin and adjacent to both Commonwealth Park and Kings Avenue.
How to Get to Kings Park
Via Bus: There are a couple of bus routes that pass near Kings Park. You can take transport routes 2, 3, 6, 55, and 59 to get there.
Via Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: Find a taxi or connect with one using a ride-sharing app (such as Uber). Tell your driver that you wish to go to Kings Park and they’ll drive you there immediately.
Via Private Car: Set your GPS to ‘Kings Park’ to find the best directions. Upon arrival, you’ll find that the park provides free parking for its guests, including disabled parking spots.
What to Do in Kings Park
Take your kids to Boundless Playground
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There’s a reason why Boundless Playground has been crowned as the number one playspace in Canberra. This playground was made to be inclusive and enjoyed by children of all abilities.
They’ve got state-of-the-art facilities that’ll allow kids to have fun and challenge themselves. It’s got your classic swings and slides, but there’s also equipment that has lifts and can accommodate wheelchairs.
Disabled parking spots are also conveniently located nearby.
Every Monday, the park holds a Boundless Buddies Program with support playgroup activities for children and their guardians. It’s a great way to socialize and have the kids soak up some sun.
Have a picnic
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Kings Park is the perfect place to have a picnic. The park is full of trees so you’ll have a lot of shade during your meal.
You can choose between wooden benches or setting down a blanket on one of the grassy areas. There are tons of wildlife to watch, which just adds to the beautiful view of Lake Burley Griffin.
There are also walkways if you decide that you want to stroll around and walk off what you ate. Although the park is rarely crowded, it’s common to see joggers, cyclers, and other strollers around and about.
See the National Carillon
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Kings Park is actually the gateway to a unique and striking attraction. In the park, you’ll find Queen Elizabeth II Island where the National Carillon is situated.
With a height of 50 meters and 57 bronze bells inside, the carillon produces music that can be heard across the park. Originally, this attraction was given as a gift to the city by the British government.
Local and international carillonists go to the park to play songs with this historic instrument. Visitors have the chance to hear original pieces or renditions of popular songs.
There are recitals every Sunday from 11 AM to 12 PM so make sure to time your visit accordingly if you want to hear the carillon in action.
Visit the various memorials
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Kings Park houses several memorials that commemorate an important part of Australian history. Each one has a unique design that tells a story.
For example, the National Emergency Services Memorial features images of emergency services personnel in action, while the National Workers Memorial is an abstract representation of the impact of those who lost their lives to work accidents.
You’ll also be able to see the National Police Memorial, which honors officers, and the Indian Ocean Tsunami Memorial which remembers the victims of this disaster.
Through these displays, tourists and local parkgoers have the chance to learn more about the country and its people.
Where to Eat near Kings Park
Vincent Restaurant
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Address: 48 Macquarie Street, Barton ACT 2600
Phone: +61 2 6273 7773
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday – 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- Sunday to Monday – Closed
Vincent Restaurant is the place to go to if you want to experience a night to remember. This place’s moody and laid-back atmosphere immediately sets the tone as soon as you enter.
As an establishment known for its wines, it’s best to enjoy them by the glass so that you can sample as much as you want from their curated wine list. We highly recommend sitting at their long communal bar to get the full experience.
The service is top-notch as well. They’re very attentive throughout the meal and will happily make great recommendations when asked.
You get to choose between exquisite small plates or something much more filling. If you ask us, the best course of action is to try their course-tasting menu and as many of their seafood dishes as possible, especially the scallops and the kingfish.
Little Bird Barton
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Address: 47 Macquarie Street, Barton ACT 2600
Phone: +61 400 022 426
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Those who need a full breakfast to get their day going can head to Little Bird Barton. This cafe has everything you need to get energized, including a delicious cup of coffee.
The interiors are just as pleasant because of how bright, airy, and spotless they are. So this can be a good place to have a lovely brunch with your friends or to pick up a takeaway and bring it as a picnic in one of the nearby tourist attractions.
Wherever you choose to eat, just make sure to get their sourdough and poached eggs. A lot of their regular customers come back specifically because of these.
Don’t be discouraged if you see that the cafe is busy. This is common for the place and service is always quick and friendly, so you won’t have to wait long until you get your hands on their yummy food.
Where to Stay near Kings Park
East Hotel Canberra
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Address: 69 Canberra Avenue, Kingston ACT 2604
Phone: +61 2 6295 6925
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
East Hotel does hospitality like no other. This Italian-owned hotel fully embodies the passion of the culture through its welcoming and attentive staff.
Of course, the hotel also comes complete with an in-house restaurant that serves Italian authentic flavors. Ask any local and they’ll tell you that Agostino’s serves some of the most fantastic pizzas in the capital.
But if you’d like something homemade, you can also whip up your own meals in your chosen accommodation. Apart from being spacious and stylish, the rooms come with a fully equipped kitchen.
The location is another advantage when staying here. They’re conveniently located in the heart of Canberra so you’ll have no trouble exploring the city and everything it has to offer.
Hotel Realm
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Address: 18 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600
Phone: +611 2 6163 1800
Pricing:
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Hotel Realm is a luxury hotel that promises a completely tailored stay that’s all about you.
Starting with their curated packages, you can choose one based on your priority. For example, the Realm Romance package includes wine and chocolates, while their Linger Longer option, has discounts and access to amenities if you plan on staying awhile.
And speaking of amenities, you get to enjoy state-of-the-art facilities dedicated to making you feel relaxed and pampered. You can work out at the Hale Gym, relax at Hale Spa, or even get your hair done at Kundalini Hair.
At the end of the day, you’ll get to sink into a plush bed in your spacious room. Most of their accommodations come with a kitchenette and a balcony that has striking views of the city, so the hardest part of staying at this hotel will definitely be leaving at the end.