Six Must-Do Experiences in Canberra these Winter School Holidays

Questacon

Keeping the kids entertained during the winter school holidays in Canberra is a breeze, with a variety of exciting activities and programs at iconic attractions. Check out our top six must-see attractions and activities that you won't want to miss out on!

1) Get more bang for your buck

Embark on the ultimate adventure with the Canberra Mega Pass, which grants access to three iconic attractions showcasing some of the best Canberra offerings for the whole family. Go-behind the scenes on a guided tour of Australia's premier elite sports precinct at the Australian Institute of Sport, encounter the animal kingdom up close and personal at the National Zoo & Aquarium, and unleash your curiosity at Questacon, with hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.

2) Embrace winter fun at Corin Forest

You don't have to travel to the ski fields to hit the slopes. Just 45 minutes from the city centre you'll reach Corin Forest. During the winter season, the forest transforms into a snowy playground offering an array of exciting activities for all ages. From skiing and snowboarding on dedicated beginner's slopes to the classic toboggan experience, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the serene winter landscape or take a turn on the 1.2-kilometre alpine slide which winds down through the trees of the Mountain Ash Forest. Get creative with snowman building or simply warm up at the cosy Alpine Café with a hot drink or woodfired pizza after a day of snowy adventures.

3) See spectacular science exhibits and shows

The spectacular science shows at Questacon will have the whole family enthralled by experiments run by the Questacon Excited Particles theatre troupe. Access to these amazing shows is included with your paid admission to Questacon. Ignite your sense of adventure as you bounce from one gallery to the next, each one tackling science concepts in an engaging way. The Mini Q area, specifically designed for ages 0–6 helps the tiny tots in the family not miss out on the fun.

Dive into the immersive learning experience of CURIOSITY: Building Breakthroughs in LEGO Bricks (until 11 May 2025), a collaboration between renowned LEGO-certified professional Ryan 'Brickman' McNaught and Questacon. This hands-on exhibit breathes life into science and history, captivating visitors of all ages. LEGO braille bricks have been integrated throughout CURIOSITY, helping to make the exhibition accessible to visitors with low vision or blindness and their accompanying families and carers, thanks to a partnership with Vision Australia.

4) Journey through time with MEGAfauna

Explore Australia's diverse flora at the Australian National Botanic Gardens over the school holidays. Don't miss the exciting MEGAfauna event in July, where you have the chance to meet the magnificent MEGAfauna that roamed Australia more than 20,000 years ago. After your Garden adventures, savour a delicious and wholesome meal at Pollen, set admist the Gardens beautiful surroundings.

5) Unleash your inner wizard

Quizzie Alley

Step into the enchanting world of Quizzic Alley - Australia's most magical store for all things Harry Potter. Quizzic Alley boasts the country's most extensive collection of official Harry Potter memorabilia. During the ACT school holiday period (5-22 July), young wizards and witches can immerse themselves in a spellbinding wand-making workshop, perfect for unleashing their creativity and channelling their inner magic. It's an experience that promises to delight every member of the family who cherishes the wizarding world!

6) Walk alongside prehistoric life

Enjoy everything this delightful precinct has to offer with the Gold Creek Adventure Ticket. The ticket gives you full-day access to Cockington Green Gardens, Canberra Walk-In Aviary, Canberra Reptile Zoo, and the National Dinosaur Museum.

While you delight in your fun-filled day, roam through the interactive National Dinosaur Museum and snap a pic with Sam the T-Rex. Your budding palaeontologist will love the hands-on experiences available. The museum is also home to one of Australia's largest displays of crystals, fossils, minerals, and gemstones. Don't forget to make a stop at Stripey Sundae, where you can enjoy delicious handmade ice cream in a wide range of classic, creative, and unexpected flavours - there's something there to put a smile on your dial!