A guide to Kingston Foreshore, a leisurely spot within Canberra
If you’re looking for your next weekend hangout in Canberra, Kingston Foreshore is a place where people like to stay a little longer. With its waterfront views and a hub of stores and restaurants, maybe you’ll find this place worth visiting.
Some people say there’s something about this place that feels different from the rest of the city. It’s gentle in the morning, relaxing in the afternoon, and then comes alive in the evening.
It’s slow-paced and you can take your time to relax. If you’ve got a few hours to spare in this place, we can help you make the most of it.
Where is Kingston Foreshore?
Kingston Foreshore is a waterfront precinct located along the southern edge of Lake Burley Griffin, approximately 4 km southeast of Canberra’s city center.
How to get to Kingston Foreshore
By bus: Take bus routes 2, 6, 56, or 182. These routes offer convenient locations to access Kingston Foreshore.
By taxi or ride-sharing app: Hire a taxi or book via a ride-sharing app, like Uber. Just input the location on the app to let the driver know that you’re going to Kingston Foreshore, and they’ll take you there immediately.
By private car: In your Google Maps or Waze app, just type “Kingston Foreshore Canberra,” and it will show you the best route to get there quickly. Metered parking is available along the streets of Eastlake Parade, Eyre Street, and Wentworth Avenue.
What to do and see in Kingston Foreshore
Sail away with GoBoat
– Media credit: GoBoat Canberra
If you want to experience Lake Burley Griffin beyond just enjoying the sights, GoBoat offers a unique way to experience it. You’ll get to cruise the lake in eco-friendly, electric picnic boats.
There’s a picnic table with cup holders and bench-style seating for up to eight people. The best part is, you’ll get to captain your own vessel without the need for a boat license!
You don’t have to worry because the staff will provide a brief orientation before you sail away to help first-time boaters feel confident. And believe us when we say that the boat is surprisingly easy to maneuver!
The boats are pet-friendly too, so feel free to bring them along! The cruise lasts for an hour, but there are also options for longer durations.
The short journey starts from Trevillian Quay at Kingston Foreshore, allowing you to see the city from a different perspective.
Take a quick stroll
– Media credit: The House of Bubbles
Kingston Foreshore offers a walking loop that takes approximately an hour to finish. It starts at Jack Ross Park, passes along Kingston Foreshore, and then continues past Norgrove Park and Causeway Hall.
You’ll surely enjoy the walk with many things to see along the way, including lakeside views, greenery, and stunning buildings. The walk also passes by several cafes, restaurants, and shops that you can mentally bookmark to check out later on.
The paths are well-maintained and the slopes are gentle, so it’s perfect for a leisurely walk without exhausting yourself too much compared to other trails or paths around Canberra.
Look around the shops and markets
– Media credit: The Renovation Shop
Along with the numerous cafes and restaurants along the foreshore, there’s also a wide array of retail stores that offer handcrafted goods, outlets, and collectibles.
With everything within walking distance, you’ll be able to browse through designer clothes, homewares, and local crafts.
If you’re interested in design, there’s also a selection of stores that offer authentic Australian decor like handmade ceramics and glassware.
Kingston Foreshore is also known for seasonal pop-ups and fairs where you can find nicer, locally-made finds. So, make sure to keep updated about these events as these events are perfect for your spontaneous weekend day out.
It’s basically a place to get thoughtful gifts, souvenirs, or home additions!
Experience the nightlife
– Media credit: The Dock
At night, Kingston Foreshore comes alive with bars, pubs, and lounges that offer concoctions for every taste. With waterfront views and a lively atmosphere, it’s up to you to choose the best spot.
There’s The Dock, where you can enjoy live sports on the big screen while enjoying a drink. Betti Bravos has a more vibrant setting with flamingo decor, creative cocktails, and a high-energy playlist.
On the other hand, if you want a more laid-back atmosphere, you can check out Little Brooklyn, which offers craft beers paired with comfort foods and live music performances from local artists.
There’s more around the area; you’ll just have to look for the place that matches best with the vibe that you’re going for!
Enjoy the dining options
– Media credit: Molto Italian Canberra
If there’s one thing that visitors frequent in the area the most, it’s the diverse food scene from the restaurants and cafes. There’s Italian, Asian, German, and more!
One of the popular places is Molto Italian, which is well-known for offering authentic Italian dishes that are perfect for romantic dinners and casual special celebrations.
There’s also Wild Duck for a more sophisticated dining experience with Asian-fusion offerings like Crispy Duck and Kung Pao Chicken.
If you’re a brunch person, you can check out Local Press Cafe. It’s a cozy place where they offer organic dishes made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.
To be fair, it seems like the dining options at Kingston Foreshore are endless. It’s bustling with visitors looking for the perfect place to satisfy their cravings and enjoy good food surrounded by a picturesque waterfront.
What’s nearby
Canberra Glassworks
– Media credit: Canberra Glasswork
Website: http://www.canberraglassworks.com/
Address: 11 Wentworth Ave, Kingston
Phone: +61262607005
Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Just a few steps away from Kingston Foreshore, you’ll find Canberra Glassworks, a glass studio where you can witness firsthand the making of, well, glass. You can also experience hands-on workshops or purchase crafted glass pieces from their shop.
There are also guided tours where you’ll be walked through the techniques, artistry, and history of the pieces.
The place is a repurposed 1983 power station that still retains most of its previous look. So the building itself is already worth a look.
If you want to take home a memorable souvenir, you can try the Make Your Own Glass experience. Under close guidance, you can craft your own glass piece, like a vase or a paperweight.
The best part is, you can take it home!
Old Bus Depot Market
– Media credit: Old Bus Depot Market
Website: https://obdm.com.au/
Address: 21 Wentworth Ave, Kingston
Phone: +61262953331
Operating hours: Sunday 9:30 am – 2:30 pm
Every Sunday, the Old Bus Depot Market is filled with a wide array of stalls that sell handcrafted goods, local delicacies, and collectibles. If you like to shop for unique finds while scoring good deals, this place is worth checking out.
The market features over 200 stalls, and visitors can browse jewelry, clothing, souvenirs, and art pieces.
If you get hungry along the way, the food stalls won’t disappoint either! There’s a wide selection of local flavors, pastries, and even casual meals.
The place is festive with live music and entertainment. It’s a nice way to experience how the local community gathers to celebrate creativity, food, and the region’s vibrant culture.
Canberra Railway Museum
– Media credit: Sarah
Website: https://canberrarail.org.au/
Address: 2 Geijera Pl, Kingston
Phone: +61449674790
Operating hours: Sunday and Monday 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
If you’re a fan of vintage trains or history, the Canberra Railways Museum is worth the short drive from the Kingston Foreshore.
Located just in Kingston itself, the museum is a haven for anyone curious about Australia’s rail heritage. The museum displays beautifully restored and maintained steam locomotives, carriages, and memorabilia from 100 years ago.
Guided tours are also offered if you want detailed insights about the historic trains that helped develop Canberra as a city.
There’s a small fee upon entrance, and the proceeds go directly into the restoration and maintenance efforts of the museum.
National Gallery of Australia
– Media credit: National Gallery of Australia
Website: https://nga.gov.au/
Address: Parkes Pl E, Parkes
Phone: +61262406411
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Just a 10-minute drive away, the National Gallery of Australia is worth looking into after a leisurely time at the Kingston Foreshore.
The museum has over 155,000 works on display, spanning Australian art, European classics, and contemporary pieces. The installations are immersive as you walk through the most valuable historic pieces.
One thing you shouldn’t miss is the Sculpture Garden, an outdoor exhibit with large art pieces like Fujiko Nakaya’s fog sculpture.
Interactive programs and art workshops are also available on weekends and holidays, perfect for families with young children to enjoy.
Where to stay near Kingston Foreshore
Hotel Kurrajong
– Media credit: Hotel Kurrajong
Website: hotelkurrajong.com.au
Address: 8 National Circuit, Barton
Phone: +61262344444
The rooms here are appointed with plush bedding, rainfall showers, and vintage-inspired decor. Some even come with garden views or private balconies.
So if you’re into refined, elegant interiors with a touch of history, Hotel Kurrajong is a nice place to stay.
If you want to grab a quick bite before setting out for the day, the onsite restaurant, Chifley’s Bar and Grill, offers gourmet offerings and a well-curated wine list.
Aside from its proximity to Kingston Foreshore, the hotel is also close to the Parliament House. It’s worth a visit too, if you have the time.
Hotel Realm
– Media credit: Hotel Realm
Website: https://hotelrealm.com.au/
Address: 18 National Circuit, Barton
Phone: +61261631800
This five-star hotel is a favorite of many visitors because of its beauty and upscale amenities. It’s just a 10-minute drive from Kingston Foreshore.
Each room has a minimalist design yet the bedding, bathroom, and other amenities are luxurious. Meanwhile, the suite rooms will give you panoramic views of the area and deep-soaking tubs, perfect for relaxing after a long day.
Their Ostani Bar and Restaurant offers shared plates, signature cocktails, and an al fresco terrace.
Though on the pricier side, the range of features alone will make your stay worthwhile.
Little National Hotel Canberra
– Media credit: Little National Hotel
Website: https://littlenationalhotel.com.au/
Address: 21 National Circuit, Barton
Phone: +61261851988
For a compact luxury experience without breaking the bank, Little National Hotel Canberra is the place to go.
Their rooms may be smaller in size, but you’ll still be greeted with a king-sized bed and a floor-to-ceiling window that fills the room with natural light.
There’s also a shared lounge that is quiet and offers complimentary tea and coffee, perfect if you need to catch up on something for work.
The hotel is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or professionals looking for short stays but still want comfortable accommodation.
Brassey Hotel
– Media credit: Brassey Hotel
Website: https://brasseyhotel.com.au/
Address: Belmore Gardens, Barton
Phone: +61261883288
The rooms at Brassey Hotel are generously sized with nice amenities and a view of the surrounding gardens. A stay grants you access to their facilities, like the Hale Gym, spa, and sauna.
It has a residential feel, so you can take it like you’re staying at a rich relative’s vacation house. While it might not be that flashy, the place is well-maintained and comfortable.
It’s also close to many dining options, with many restaurants and cafes in the Kingston area that can be reached within minutes.