Your local guide to the National Gallery of Australia
My sister will be visiting me soon, so I’ve been searching for interesting places to take her.
I want to make sure she has a great time exploring the city, as she has only been here a couple of times—three if you count that time she helped me move here a decade ago and the local festival I coordinated I invited her to.
Since she’s an art major, I’m sure she’ll appreciate a visit to the National Gallery of Australia. It’s also one of my favorite places in the city, so it’s like hitting two birds with one stone.
What you’ll read below are my actual plans for our visit to the National Gallery, as well as a day out in the neighborhood (I mean, we’re already there anyway) but more polished and less all over the place, of course!
Where is the National Gallery of Australia?
The National Gallery of Australia is located in Parkes, Canberra, at National Gallery Road, Parkes ACT 2600. It’s about a 5-minute drive from the center of Canberra (Civic) or roughly 20 minutes on foot.
What to do and see in the National Gallery of Australia
See the exhibits and installations
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You’re not really thinking of visiting the National Gallery of Australia without seeing the exhibits and installations, are you?
They’ve got everything from Indigenous masterpieces to big-name works like Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles, plus rotating exhibitions that keep things fresh.
Plus, with free entry to the main collection, it’s an easy and budget-friendly way to soak up some culture in Canberra!
Check out the sculpture garden
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Don’t miss out on the sculpture garden during your visit. From what I’ve heard, a lot of people overlook this spot.
But thanks to this article, you won’t!
You’ll find incredible sculptures from both Australian and international artists, including Rodin’s The Burghers of Calais and Fujiko Nakaya’s mist sculpture, which creates an eerie, dreamlike fog effect.
Where to eat near National Gallery in Canberra
Rebel Rebel
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Address: 23 Marcus Clarke St, Acton
Phone: +61262488548
Pricing: $$
Rebel Rebel serves up bold, flavor-packed dishes with a focus on seasonal, high-quality ingredients.
You’ll find everything from house-made charcuterie and fresh seafood to hearty wood-fired meats and vibrant veggie dishes. Their menu is always evolving, keeping things exciting with creative twists on modern Australian cuisine.
Multi Yummy
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Address: 34 Marcus Clarke St.
Pricing: $
Multi Yummy is a great spot in Canberra if you’re craving a mix of Chinese and Japanese flavors at affordable prices.
Their menu features tasty options like BBQ pork with soft egg rice, Korean chicken mayonnaise rice, and fluffy steamed baos that keep people coming back for more.
Corella
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Address: 14 Lonsdale St, Braddon
Phone: +61261890757
Pricing: $$
Corella Restaurant & Bar highlights native ingredients, offering dishes that are both creative and packed with flavor. With a fantastic wine list, unique cocktails, and top-notch service, Corella delivers a dining experience that’s both memorable and delicious!
Saint Malo
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Address: 23 London Cct.
Phone: +61261128825
Pricing: $$
Dining at Saint Malo, you can expect to savor crêpes and galettes, and traditional buckwheat pancakes.
Here’s a tip: they’re often enjoyed with local cider, as well as fresh oysters from nearby Cancale, renowned for their quality.
Amara Indian Restaurant
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Address: 51-53 Northbourne Ave.
Phone: +61450715990
Pricing: $
At Amara Indian Restaurant, you can enjoy a mix of traditional and modern Indian flavors. Standout dishes include butter chicken and lamb rogan josh.
Of course, vegetarians don’t have to miss out, with options like palak paneer and mini masala dosai as a starter.
Where to shop near the National Gallery of Australia
The Corner Market
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Address: Shop 1 & 3/113-119 Marcus Clarke St.
Phone: +61262488881
If you’re in Canberra and need a convenient spot for shopping, The Corner Market is a solid choice. They offer a wide range of products, including groceries, fresh produce, meats, and even an espresso bar for your coffee fix.
Coles Canberra Civic
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Address: Bunda St.
Phone: +61262762100
Coles often provides fresh bakery items, including bread, pastries, and desserts, which can satisfy your cravings.
The convenience of extended shopping hours and a central location makes it an accessible option for grabbing a meal during your busy day.
Barton Grocer
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Address: 48 Macquarie St, Barton
Phone: +61438414409
Beyond standard grocery items, The Barton Grocer features an in-house coffee bar, perfect for grabbing a freshly brewed coffee during your shopping trip.
There’s also the Barton Flower Bar within the premises that offers fresh bouquets.
Where to stay near the National Gallery of Australia
Knightsbridge Canberra
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Address: 3 Leichhardt St, Kingston
Phone: +61261850000
Pricing: $
Distance from the National Gallery of Australia: 5-minute drive
Knightsbridge is conveniently located in Kingston, meaning it’s close to cafes, restaurants, and local attractions like the Old Bus Depot Markets.
The rooms and apartments are modern and well-equipped, with full kitchens for longer stays. You also get free Wi-Fi, a minibar, a gym, and a pool.
Crowne Plaza Canberra
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Address: 1 Binara St.
Phone: +61262745500
Pricing: $
Distance from the National Gallery of Australia: 5-minute drive
Crowne Plaza Canberra has everything you need for a comfortable and convenient stay. The hotel features spacious rooms with plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, and workspaces, making it great for both business and leisure travelers.
You’ll also find a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant and bar, so you can relax without leaving the hotel.
Pinnacle Apartments Canberra
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Address: 11 Ovens St, Kingston
Phone: +61262399799
Pricing: $$$
Distance from National Gallery of Australia: 5-minute drive
Pinnacle Apartments come with a full kitchen, laundry, and separate living areas, so you get way more space than a standard hotel room—perfect for families or longer stays.
There’s also a gym, an outdoor pool, and secure parking, so you’ve got everything you need.
Peppers Gallery Hotel Canberra
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Address: 15 Edinburgh Ave, Acton
Phone: +61261752222
Pricing: $$
Distance from National Gallery in Canberra: 6-minute drive
If you’re looking for a stylish and comfy place to stay, Peppers Gallery Hotel is a great pick. The rooms are modern, the beds are super comfy, and you get free Wi-Fi.
There’s also an on-site restaurant, a bar, and a gym, plus it’s in NewActon, which is packed with cool cafes and artsy spots.
Ovolo Nishi
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Address: NewActon Precinct, 25 Edinburgh Ave.
Phone: +61262876287
Pricing: $$
Distance from National Gallery in Canberra: 7-minute drive
If you’re after a hotel with serious style, Ovolo Nishi is the place to be. The rooms have a cool, artsy vibe with eco-friendly touches.
You also get free snacks, a free minibar, and an awesome on-site restaurant and bar.