Yoga in an art gallery, green architecture, courtyard cafes, and independent bookstores await you in NewActon. Neighbouring the Canberra city centre, this central suburb celebrates art and design in all forms. From stunning paintings and a secret garden of rare ferns through to a perfectly crafted cocktails and dishes that look too good to eat, NewActon is home to the best of the best.
DO
Quirky sculptures are dotted throughout this inner-city precinct leading you on a path to the Nishi Gallery. See local masterpieces at this intimate art space that offers a highly-curated selection of works that explore the beauty of objects and their meaning.
Wherever you go in NewActon there’s sure to be stunning modern art adorning the walls turning every eatery and hotel into its own mini gallery. Even the stairs in this precinct are jaw-droppingly beautiful with the Grand Stair in the Nishi building made of reclaimed wood fast becoming a popular photo spot. At the bottom of these impressive steps grab a glass of something delicious and catch a film at the independent Palace Electric cinema.
WHERE TO GO
Film buffs can test their movie knowledge at the National Film and Sound Archive, home to an extensive collection of Australian flicks, games and audio gems. Check out their exhibitions to see the stories behind Aussie films or watch a classic in their cinema.
Pick up a souvenir of your trip to Canberra at The Curatoreum, an independent bookstore and gift shop full of art, design, photography and botany that you’ll want to sweep straight into your basket.
You can’t miss the Shine Dome – an architectural beauty that is sure to make you look twice. Designed for the Australian Academy of Science, some locals think it resembles a UFO while others say its moat reminds them of historic castles across the sea. Either way, no walk to admire NewActon’s inspired designs is complete without a lap of this heritage-listed building.
Hire a bike or escooter and your minutes away from the National Museum of Australia, a must-see museum telling the story of Australia, from ancient times to modern day. A regular program of exhibitions and updates to gallery objects on show, make this a perfect place for a repeat visitation.
SLEEP
The centrally located QT is a great base to explore NewActon and the Canberra city from. This elegant hotel is full of surprises including a speakeasy hidden behind a barber’s shop and an Italian inspired restaurant with ‘big dish energy’.
Five-star luxury and sustainable style will make your stay at Ovolo Nishi one to remember. With chic décor created from upcycled materials you’ll be whipping out your phone to ‘gram the green chandelier and colourful mosaic wall. Vegetarian feasts are on the menu at Monster Kitchen and Bar, a popular restaurant with a strong focus on seasonal and local produce in the lobby of the hotel. Also in the precinct adjoining Bicicletta Italian restaurant is Peppers Gallery Hotel Canberra.
EAT
For a great cup of coffee that’s ethical and fair trade head to Mocan & Green Grout. This small café evokes the warmth and familiarity of eating in your bestie’s kitchen. The locals love to brunch in NewActon and Morning Glory is top of their list. Dishing up signature flavours that unite Australian and Asian cuisines, every meal is sure to be the glory of your morning.
For dinner and a nightcap, the decadent Parlour Wine Room awaits with its extensive wine list, including a wide selection of local cool-climate vinos. If you’re craving a cocktail and the sound of clinking glasses the mixologist at High Jinks have you covered. This underground bar is the definition of welcoming with barmen you’ve never met before but instantly feel like childhood friends.
