A guide to Questacon in Canberra for a fun-filled day with science
Forget the park or the beach, why not go full-out nerd with your family?
Somewhere in Canberra, science does not sit boringly behind a glass. Things light up in your hands, the ground shakes, and you’ll get a 30-minute lecture about what crocodiles and bananas have in common!
Well, that’s what Questacon is all about. The best part is, you can bring the whole family to experience all the science fun!
Where is Questacon?
Questacon is located at King Edward Terrace, Parkes. It is part of the Parliamentary Triangle, just between the High Court and National Library.
How to get to Questacon
Via bus: Bus lines 6, 2, and 58 pass near Questacon, and it will only take a few minutes to walk to the science centre from the drop-off location.
Via taxi or ride-sharing: Find a taxi or connect with one using a ride-sharing app like Uber. Let your driver know that you’re going to Questacon and they’ll drive you there immediately.
Via private car: Set your GPS to “Questacon” and find the best route to get there. Upon arrival, you can get paid parking in two carparks in Parkes Place West.
What to do in Questacon
Have fun with your little scientists at Mini Q
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Your little ones can step into themed areas like the Water Play to experiment with water flow and motion. There’s also the Construction Zone, where they can role-play as engineers to test the kids’ creativity.
Just imagine the sight of your toddler figuring things out without your help. Cute and endearing, right?
Mini Q is specially designed for kids ages 0-6, where every corner and activity is built for developmental learning.
What’s great about Mini Q is the parent-friendly facilities – there’s a baby changing area and a private breastfeeding room.
Have fun outdoors at the Science Garden
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The Science Garden lies outside the walls of Questacon. It’s an open-air exhibition inspired by the natural elements of the sun, wind, rock, and water.
The most popular areas are the Photovoltaic Flowers and NKRYPT.
The Photovoltaic flowers stand at 5.4m tall. These sculptural sun orchids are made with photovoltaic cells that react to real-time light levels, illustrating how diurnal flowers normally behave in the wild.
And there’s NKRYPT – eight stainless steel pillars with strange letters, numbers, and symbols. Each pillar contains a secret message, and solving one pillar unlocks a clue to solve the others.
Here’s a fun fact – all the pillars have not been solved since they were installed back in 2013! Give it a try, and who knows – you might be the first to crack the codes!
Find the answers at Spectacular Science Show
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Ever wondered how fire is made? How machines work? What mushrooms and humans have in common? Find the answers by watching the Spectacular Science Show!
Performed by Questacon’s theatre group Questacon Excited Particle, this 30-minute live show will answer the common wonders of science and technology.
They use storytelling, humor, and interesting demonstrations to make the show more engaging and interactive. Not to mention – this show is family-friendly and suitable for all ages!
See, feel, and hear the earth at Awesome Earth Exhibit
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This section of Questacon digs into awe-inspiring forces that shape, shake, and color our planet, like why the sky is blue and how the rainbow is made.
Here you will see how the natural phenomena we see, hear, and feel every day take place.
You’ll also be captivated by the Sounds of the Sea corner, where you get to listen to various underwater recordings, such as the songs of migrating whales and the sounds of coral reefs.
On the other hand, the Earthquake House is where things get a little shaken up – literally. Here, you’ll get to experience a simulated 5.8-magnitude earthquake for five minutes.
Take a quiz while you explore with Discovery Quest
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Discovery Quest is an interactive online quiz that visitors can take while exploring the galleries. The quiz syncs with the different galleries, giving you the science behind each exhibit.
All you need is a tablet or a smartphone, and you can scan the QR code at the entrance ramp or information desk. And don’t worry about data because Questacon provides guest Wi-Fi!
The quest is open for everyone, but Questacon highly recommends it for ages 8+.
Explore the Under the Moon exhibit
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You don’t need to go to space to see the moon because at Questacon, you’ll get to have a lunar experience at the Under the Moon Exhibit.
Suspended from the ceiling is a giant and realistic moon sculpture where you’ll get a close-up look at the moon’s surface – craters, textures, and all.
Aside from the visual marvel, the exhibit also dives into the historical and cultural significance of the moon by inviting visitors to see the early moon maps and listen to moon stories from across the world.
Experience zero gravity at the Free Fall exhibit
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If there’s one thing in Questacon that will surely get your adrenaline pumping, it’s the Free Fall Exhibit.
You climb up a two-storey-tall vertical slide, hang from a bar, and then let go to fall smoothly – no ropes or harnesses.
And as you begin your fall, you will feel weightless – no pressure on your feet and just a smooth, silent drop.
This is designed to simulate the “zero gravity” sensation that astronauts experience when orbiting the Earth.
But of course, to keep things safe, participants must be at least five years old and 110 cm tall. Adults participating must be physically healthy with no underlying health issues.
Where to eat near Questacon
Atomic Catering
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Website: https://atomiccatering.com.au/
Phone: 02 6152 1301
Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Atomic Catering is an in-house cafe in Questacon that offers family-friendly food. It’s convenient, relaxed, and a great way to grab a bite after or in between the activities.
They serve up seasonal menus using fresh and local produce. And to make the foods interesting for the kids, they also have handcrafted, science-themed treats like galaxy donuts and rainbow cheese toasties!
But the best thing about the Atomic Cafe is that they cater to all allergies and dietary restrictions. From vegan to dairy-free options, they’ve got you covered!
Bookplate
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Website: https://www.library.gov.au/visit/cafes
Address: National Library of Australia, 25 Parkes Pl W, Parkes
Phone: +61262621154
Hours:
- Monday to Friday 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
- Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Just a short walk from the science centre, Bookplate is a quiet, relaxed cafe where you can enjoy your coffee, brunch, or lunch. The place is well known for its Leonard French stained-glass window, as it gives the interior a nice, aesthetic look.
Situated inside the National Library of Australia, you’ll get to enjoy delicious meals, a nice ambiance, and a stunning view of Lake Burley Griffin.
It’s a great spot for a coffee break or to refuel after a long day of exploring.
Water’s Edge Fine Dining Restaurant
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Website: https://www.watersedgecanberra.com.au/
Address: 40 Parkes Pl E, Parkes
Phone: +61262735066
Hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm
- Wednesday to Sunday
Reservations from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm (Open till 3:30 pm)
Reservations from 5:45 pm to 8:30 pm (Open till late)
If you want a more upscale dining experience near the lake, Water’s Edge is worth looking into.
You’ll not only be greeted by a close-up view of Lake Burly Griffin, but you’ll also get to enjoy seasonal menus made with fresh and local produce.
It makes a perfect place not only for a quick bite but also for a leisurely meal after roaming around Questacon!
It’s best to visit at sunset to enjoy the sunlit view of the lake.
Where to stay near Questacon
Hyatt Hotel Canberra
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Website: https://www.hyatt.com/
Address: 120 Commonwealth Ave, Yarralumla
Phone: +61262701234
This 5-star heritage hotel is the closest accommodation to Questacon. You can get there in just a short drive, or if you’re feeling like getting your steps in for the day, you can walk too!
The hotel is elegant with modern amenities that will give you the ultimate convenience. This includes electric vehicle charging, and should you request it, they have babysitting services too!
So if you want a premier accommodation with a good proximity to the science centre, the Hyatt Hotel is worth looking into!
Hotel Kurrajong
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Website: https://hotelkurrajong.com.au
Address: M4VM+2P Barton
Phone: +61262344444
Hotel Kurrajong is another accommodation that’s close to Questacon, which is located just over 1 km away from the science centre.
It’s a great option for families, as they offer family packages that include interconnecting rooms, complimentary meals for children under 12, and more!
Its proximity to Questacon and other attractions in Canberra makes it an ideal choice for visitors, especially during the summer season.
Little National Hotel
– Media credit: littlenationalhotel
Website: https://littlenationalhotel.com.au/
Address: 21 National Circuit, Barton
Phone: +61261851988
If you want a comfortable stay that’s more on the affordable side, Little National Hotel is the place to go. Located in Barton, it’s just a short drive to Questacon.
It’s a minimalist luxury place with a clean and modern interior. Each room has a super king bed, a wall-to-wall window, and a luxurious bathroom.
Little National Hotel is a favorite among visitors who want a worthwhile stay combined with thoughtful amenities and a convenient location without breaking the bank.