Australian National Botanic Gardens

The basics

The collection at the Australian National Botanic Gardens is arranged by theme, with plants often grouped by geographic origin, botanical family, or their significance to Australia’s Indigenous population. Themed boardwalks and bush tracks wind through the gardens, including an Aboriginal Plant Use Trail, Bushland Nature Walk, and a main path that loops past some of the garden’s highlights. Visitors can also explore the gardens on a guided tour aboard an electric bus.

Things to know before you go

*The botanical gardens are a must-visit for families and outdoors enthusiasts.

*Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces, especially if you plan to take some of the bush tracks.

*Wheelchair users can access much of the garden via the accessible Main Path Walk.

How to get there

The main entrance to the garden is on Clunies Ross Street, about 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) from central Canberra. While it’s easy to get there on foot or by bike, it’s also possible to take one of several local buses or Transport Canberra’s Tourist Loop bus.

When to get there

The gardens are open from morning to early evening daily (closed on Christmas). Each season brings something new to the gardens, so there isn’t really a bad time to visit. For the best spring flowers, plan to visit between September and November.

Wildlife in the gardens

While plants are the star of the show at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, the natural habitats here attract a diversity of animals as well. As you’re exploring, keep an eye out for echidnas, swamp wallabies, water dragons, possums, snakes, and some of the 100 or so species of birds that call the gardens home.