An Unforgettable Weekend in Canberra

We spent Melbourne Cup weekend exploring Canberra! For all of us except Ava, it was our first time visiting, and we brought along our 5th adorable family member (our 2-year-old groodle), Cookie, for the adventure. The road trip from Melbourne was a breeze - an easy 7-hour drive up the Hume Highway.

We stayed at Mercure Canberra, a centrally located, dog-friendly hotel which is perfect for families. It’s just 600m from the Australian War Memorial and a quick 10-minute walk to Canberra’s centre. Just a short 2-minute drive away is Braddon’s restaurant scene, which is known to be a foodie’s paradise. Despite its central location, Mercure Canberra felt like an oasis, surrounded by lush gardens and a peaceful internal Courtyard Garden that Cookie loved exploring.

This hotel goes above and beyond to welcome pets! Not only did our room have a private courtyard for Cookie to roam, but she could also join us for breakfast each morning in the restaurant courtyard. With a beer garden for evening meals, a central internal garden, and charming dog-themed art in the lobby, Mercure Canberra truly made our whole family feel welcome.

Our Weekend Itinerary

Day 1:

• Lunch at Rosa’s at The Lawns

After arriving in Canberra at lunchtime, we headed straight to Rosa’s at The Lawns, an outdoor garden bar and cafe in Canberra’s National Triangle. Nestled beside the National Rose Garden and right across from Old Parliament House, this spot has the perfect mix of ambiance and delicious bites. We enjoyed a wood-fired pizza lunch on the terrace - a perfect way to kick off our trip!  Find Rosa’s at The Lawns on King George Terrace, Parkes ACT.

• National Rose Garden

After lunch, we strolled through the National Rose Garden, admiring the blooms and taking in the views of Old Parliament House nearby.

• Checking into Mercure Canberra

We stayed in adjoining pet-friendly Superior Rooms, each with a private courtyard. I literally squealed when I walked in and saw the beautiful swan towel art on our beds - and the kids had matching swans too! Plus, there was an incredible charcuterie board waiting for us. Such an amazing welcome! 

Mercure Canberra is a stunning heritage hotel that beautifully blends old-world charm with all the comforts you expect in a modern hotel. Originally built in 1927, this iconic property has retained its historic architecture and character and offers guests a glimpse at Canberra’s past. We loved it! 

• Afternoon Treat at The Kitchen Garden at Rodney’s

Later in the afternoon, we visited The Kitchen Garden at Rodney’s, a charming nursery and cafe where we tried the dark hot chocolate bomb - an absolute must-try!

• Questacon

Questacon was such a highlight for the kids! They loved the Free Fall experience, where you hang from a bar and let go to fall down a two-storey slide. This interactive science and technology museum has so much to offer for families; it’s engaging, educational and thrilling!

• Dinner at Olims Bar & Bistro at Mercure Canberra

We wrapped up the day with a relaxed family dinner at Olims Bar & Bistro, the hotel’s dog-friendly pub. With Canberra’s largest outdoor screen (perfect for sports fans) and a massive mobile meat smoker, this venue combines great food with a welcoming vibe. The kids were thrilled with their special menus, and Cookie had plenty of room in the spacious beer garden.

Day 2:

• Breakfast at the Courtyard Restaurant at Mercure Canberra

Our day started with a buffet breakfast at the Courtyard Restaurant overlooking Mercure’s serene gardens, complete with a GIANT Nutella machine! Our Nutella-loving kids were in heaven, and it was lovely to have Cookie by our side at Breakfast. 

• National Gallery of Australia

Our first stop was the National Gallery of Australia to see Lindy Lee’s immersive public sculpture, Ouroboros, which celebrates the gallery’s 40th anniversary. This exhibition is also illuminated at night, do not miss it!

• National Portrait Gallery

Next, we explored the National Portrait Gallery, where the kids received iPads to scan portraits and learn more about the artists. I loved it all but a standout was the portrait of Nick Cave by Howard Arkley - just incredible!

• Lake Burley Griffin Walk

We took a scenic stroll along Lake Burley Griffin and had a memorable encounter when we spotted a kangaroo near the National Gallery’s sculpture garden! 

• Coffee at Margot’s

We enjoyed a quick coffee break at Margot’s, perfectly perched on the lake, where we soaked in the beautiful views.

• Question Time at Parliament House

Next, Pete and the kids visited Parliament House to experience Question Time and see Australian politics in action. Watching the lively debates and discussions in person was fascinating for the kids and they thoroughly enjoyed the experience. You can book free tickets here.

• Australian War Memorial

Our final stop was the Australian War Memorial, where we attended the daily Last Post Ceremony. This tribute to fallen soldiers is so moving, and I highly recommend reserving free tickets in advance on the Australian War Memorial website.

After an incredible day of exploring, we returned to the Mercure Canberra for one last dinner at Olims before settling in for the night.

What a weekend! Canberra completely exceeded our expectations, from its pet-friendly charm to the rich history and vibrant arts scene. We’re already looking forward to our next visit to explore even more of this beautiful city. Thank you so much to Mercure Canberra for hosting us for this unforgettable weekend!

You can find out more about Mercure Canberra at www.mercurecanberra.com.au. Xx