Parkes Travel Guide
Canberra
Popular places to visit
National Gallery of Australia
Australia’s national gallery has objects from across Asia and the Pacific, European and American works, and indigenous, colonial and contemporary Australian art.
Questacon
Join the kids for a day of learning about the wonders of science and technology at Australia’s national science centre.
Old Parliament House
Tour this building to see where Australian politicians met and debated for over 60 years and learn about the history and workings of Australian democracy.
Commonwealth Park
After visiting Commonwealth Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Canberra. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
National Capital Exhibition
See the fascinating history of Canberra laid out for you through engaging and interactive exhibits in this modern, family-friendly museum.
National Library of Australia
Explore the collections of Australia’s biggest reference library to find books from all over the world, early European maps and documents from the first explorers.
Top hotels in Parkes
Forrest Hotel and Apartments
Location is superior, the room and service great, easy all the way from booking to checking out
Reviewed on 19 Jan 2026
Novotel Canberra
Check in was pretty minimal - they just handed over our room key. There isn't information about the facilities in the room - a QR code comes up on the TV, which links you to the information. We don't usually turn on the TV, though - maybe this information could be better displayed on a card in the ...
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
Avenue Hotel Canberra
The staff were friendly and helpful. The rooms were clean and quiet. Paid parking. Walking distance to shops, cafes and restaurants. Easy drive to all Canberra's tourist sites
Reviewed on 20 Jan 2026
Hotel Realm
Great room with comfortable beds
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
Pavilion on Northbourne
Room excellent smell clean and comfortable
Reviewed on 22 Jan 2026
Hyatt Hotel Canberra - a Park Hyatt
Best experience! Would highly recommend and will definitely stay again. Only downside was people a few rooms away thinking it’s okay to let their kids have a meltdown in the hallway at 7.30am when you’re on holidays!
Reviewed on 20 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Parkes
Barton
Barton is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Lake Burley Griffin and Merchant Navy Memorial while you're in town.
Capital Hill
The abundant dining options and interesting museums are top of the list for many visitors to Capital Hill. A stop by Parliament House or National Archives of Australia might round out your trip.
Kingston
Kingston is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Lake Burley Griffin and East Basin while you're in town.
City East
While visiting City East, you might make a stop by sights like Civic Square and Canberra Theatre Centre.
Northern Canberra
Northern Canberra is known for its popular shops, and with sights like Canberra Museum and Gallery and Civic Square, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Canberra.
Manuka
While visiting Manuka, you might make a stop by sights like Manuka Shopping Centre and Manuka Oval.
