An industrial centre of Canberra turned delightful day-out destination, Fyshwick’s warehouses house more than a few surprises. Step into one of this area’s large structure and you might expect to see crates and building supplies, but instead you will be greeted by breweries, bouldering walls, artistic masterpieces and vintage finds.
A 15-minute drive from the city, Fyshwick is frequented by locals on the weekend and is a popular spot for families and friends alike.
DO
Pack your shopping bags because Fyshwick is full of speciality stores and steals. If you’re on the hunt for a bargain, head to Canberra Outlet Centre or try your luck on the local vintage trail. The Designer Op Shop Emporium and Dirty Janes are great for those who are looking for retro homeware pieces and outfits that stand out from the crowd.
For local produce and signature Canberra flavours stop by the Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets or to find your next great read from 1.2km worth of bookshelves drop by Canty’s Bookshop.
WHERE TO GO
Do as the locals do and head to the Dairy Road precinct to enjoy a classic combo – bouldering at BlocHaus, burgers from the BrodBurger food truck, and locally crafted beers from Capital Brewing Co. Sharpen up your skiing skills at Vertikal Indoor Snow Sports or surround yourself with art at Grainger Gallery. See if you can time your trip with The Forage, a seasonal pop-up food and wine festival showcasing local producers and food trucks.
Just down the road you’ll find the Jerrabomberra Wetlands. Home to over 160 species of bird, take a walking trail through these wetlands and see how many you can spot. Or for a complete change of pace, learn the art of axe throwing and indulge your inner viking at Axxe.
SLEEP
Thanks to Canberra’s design everything is just a stone’s throw away – including the perfect place to rest after a day exploring Fyshwick. Book a stay at the Ramada by Wyndham Diplomat Canberra to enjoy bespoke touches such as a book exchange, bike hire, pillow menu and in-room workouts. In the leafy nearby suburb of Narrabundah you’ll find Ibis Styles Canberra. This 4-star hotel has everything from an outdoor pool to a guest laundry to make your stay relaxing and easy. For self-contained studios complete with kitchenettes and tranquil views over the Capital Golf Course, book in at Abode Narrabundah.
EAT
The urban reinvention of industrial Fyshwick has been fuelled by the coffee houses and bakeries the locals love in this suburb. Open the door to the smell of freshly baked bread and leave with an array of exquisitely decorated tarts at Flute Bakery. For gourmet paninis and brunch fare, head to Wildflour. Coffee aficionados will love Red Brick Coffee‘s flagship store – part roastery, part coffee shop this café is a great way to start the day. If you like your cuppa brewed by a barista with a mantlepiece filled with awards, order the hitman at Ona Coffee House. Founded by a World Barista Champion from Canberra, their signature blend is a coffee connoisseurs dream come true. To gather some artesian products to take home with you, or create a hamper to send to a loved one, Urban Providore is your one-stop-shop.
