What can you do in Acton, Canberra?

Acton is the lake-side cultural heart of Canberra. Visit the free National Museum of Australia and National Film and Sound Archive, walk the ANU campus and the Drill Hall Gallery, hear classical and chamber music at Llewellyn Hall, or eat and catch a film in the NewActon precinct at Palace Electric.

Is the National Museum of Australia free?

Yes, general entry to the National Museum of Australia in Acton is free, including the Kspace digital play zone for kids. Some major touring exhibitions are ticketed, so check the museum's website before a special show.

What's the best walk in Acton?

The Lake Burley Griffin west basin path links Acton Park to Commonwealth Park and is flat, sealed and pram-friendly. From Acton most of the national institutions in Parkes are a 15-minute lake-side walk south.

Acton, Canberra

Things to do in Acton

3 min read

Nestled between the city centre and the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, Acton is a vibrant hub where culture and lakeside leisure meet. As one of Canberra's oldest suburbs, it offers a sophisticated mix of world-class educational institutions, grand architecture and creative spaces. Whether you are wandering through peaceful sculpture gardens or admiring the striking modern design of the local precincts, the area provides a unique atmosphere that feels both academic and contemporary.

Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of activities, from quiet walks along the water to exploring heritage sites and art galleries. The suburb is well known for its lively dining scene and boutique cinema options, making it a popular choice for a weekend outing or an evening stroll. Take a look at the live list below to discover the latest events and experiences currently happening in this lakeside precinct.

What Acton is known for

Acton is the lake-side cultural heart of Canberra – home to the Australian National University, the National Museum of Australia, the National Film and Sound Archive, Lake Burley Griffin’s west basin, and the NewActon precinct’s mix of bars, restaurants and the Palace Electric cinema.

Anchor places to visit

National Museum of Australia – free entry; Kspace digital play zone for kids.
National Film and Sound Archive – free exhibitions and the Arc cinema.
Australian National University – campus walks, Drill Hall Gallery, ANU School of Art.
Llewellyn Hall – classical and chamber music.
NewActon precinct – Palace Electric cinema, Mocan & Green Grout, Monster.
Lake Burley Griffin west basin – lake-side path linking Acton Park to Commonwealth Park.

Eating and drinking

The feed below picks up food events in Acton as they’re confirmed. For broader food planning, see our food guide.

Getting around

Acton is well-connected by ACT public transport – Transport Canberra’s app shows live bus and light-rail times. Cycling is easy on the off-road paths; the Canberra cycle map covers the connectors. Parking is mostly free on weekends.

What’s nearby

Acton sits between Civic, Turner and the parliamentary triangle, so most national institutions are a 15-minute lake-side walk south.

What’s on this week

Scroll to the live feed below for every confirmed event in Acton over the next two weeks. For wider planning, see things to do this weekend.

Frequently asked questions

What can you do in Acton, Canberra?: Acton is the lake-side cultural heart of Canberra. Visit the free National Museum of Australia and National Film and Sound Archive, walk the ANU campus and the Drill Hall Gallery, hear classical and chamber music at Llewellyn Hall, or eat and catch a film in the NewActon precinct at Palace Electric.
Is the National Museum of Australia free?: Yes, general entry to the National Museum of Australia in Acton is free, including the Kspace digital play zone for kids. Some major touring exhibitions are ticketed, so check the museum's website before a special show.
What's the best walk in Acton?: The Lake Burley Griffin west basin path links Acton Park to Commonwealth Park and is flat, sealed and pram-friendly. From Acton most of the national institutions in Parkes are a 15-minute lake-side walk south.

Sat, 14 Nov · 7:00pm · Music

Llewellyn Hall, Acton

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