The Top 10 School Holiday Ideas in Canberra

The Top 10 School Holiday Ideas in Canberra

Keeping the kids entertained during the school holidays is a mighty task, but it doesn’t have to be hard. Lucky for you, our nation’s capital is jam-packed with fun, educational, and downright awesome activities for kids and teens. So, put down the remote, step away from Netflix, and check out these 10 school holiday ideas in Canberra that will have the kids saying, “Best. Break. Ever!”


1. Get Creative at Pinot & Picasso

First up on our list is a little shameless self-promotion, but trust us, you won’t regret it! At Pinot & Picasso Belconnen, your little Picassos can unleash their inner artist in a fun, relaxed environment. Our kids art sessions are perfect for kids of all ages and skill levels. Plus, you get to enjoy a little sip of wine while they paint (at the studio or at home) – it’s a win-win!

With guidance from our fun and friendly artists, they will mix colours, create masterpieces, and proudly show off their creations. Whether it’s a rainy day or you just need a creative break, Pinot & Picasso offers the perfect school holiday activity for kids from six to 16!

School holiday ideas Canberra include a kids art class at Pinot and Picasso

2. Crack the Code at an Escape Room

Escape rooms aren’t just for adults – they’re a fantastic way for kids to develop their problem-solving skills and teamwork. With either their friends or with the family, you can work together to decipher clues, solve puzzles, and escape before the timer runs out. It’s like being the star of their own Spy Kids movie.

Each room has a unique theme, from mysterious adventures to futuristic challenges, ensuring there’s something for every interest and age group. Plus, there’s no better feeling than the victorious high-fives when you finally crack the last code and make your grand escape.

3. Discover History at the Australian Museum

Take a step back in time at the Australian Museum. With exhibits that cover everything from ancient fossils to indigenous culture, this museum is a treasure trove of knowledge and wonder. It’s an educational day out that won’t feel like school.

Kids can engage with interactive displays, participate in educational programs, and even handle real fossils. The museum’s extensive Australian and international collection provides a fascinating glimpse into our past, sparking curiosity and a love for history. It’s a great way to make learning about history fun and engaging, providing a day full of discovery and excitement.

4. Explore Science at Questacon

When it comes to interactive, educational fun, Questacon is the place to be. As one of the best school holiday ideas in Canberra, this science and technology centre has hands-on exhibits that will keep your kids engaged and learning for hours. From robotics to outer space, there’s something for every curious mind.

The interactive displays and live demonstrations make complex scientific concepts accessible and fun. Watch your kids’ eyes light up as they create electrical circuits, experience simulated earthquakes, or even try their hand at programming a robot. Questacon turns learning into an adventure, making science cool and captivating for children of all ages.

Play with science at Questacon

5. Visit Parliament House

Okay, okay, we know what you’re thinking – Parliament House? Really? But hear us out. There’s more to our nation’s political hub than just politics. Kids can take a guided tour, explore the impressive architecture, and even sit in on Question Time. It’s a unique way to introduce them to the workings of our government during these school holidays in Canberra.

Their tours are designed to be engaging and educational, offering insights into Australia’s political system and history. They aim to make learning about democracy fun and easy to understand for kids of all ages. It might even inspire the inner leader in your child!

6. Go Wild at the National Zoo & Aquarium

Forget Australia Zoo, you can see cute creatures from all corners of the world at the National Zoo & Aquarium. From giraffes and lions to Tassie Devils, your kids can get up close and personal with their favourite animals.

With plenty of close encounters like being a zookeeper for a day, feeding a tiger, and so much more, it’s the perfect activity for animal lovers that will have them talking about it with their friends for weeks! It will be a roarsome hit on your list of school holiday ideas in Canberra.

7. Bowl Over Boredom at Kingpin Bowling

When it comes to school holiday fun for the whole family, you can’t go wrong with a classic game of bowling. Kingpin Bowling offers state-of-the-art lanes, arcade games, and a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for keeping the vibes fun. It’s a great way to spend a few hours indoors, especially if the weather is dreary.

The venue also offers bumper lanes for younger kids and various other attractions like laser tag and karaoke, ensuring a full day of fun. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the friendly competition of trying to score that strike!

8. Have Fun at the National Dinosaur Museum

Dino fans, this one’s for you. The National Dinosaur Museum boasts Australia’s largest permanent display of dinosaurs and other prehistoric fossil material. Kids can marvel at life-sized dinosaur models, dig for fossils, and learn all about these ancient creatures.

Interactive exhibits and hands-on activities make this Canberra experience engaging and educational. It’s an adventure back in time that will captivate the imaginations of young and old alike.

Go to the Dinosaur Museum

9. Blast Off at Laser Tag

For an adrenaline-pumping experience, treat the kids to an exciting game of laser tag. It’s the perfect way to burn off some energy while engaging in friendly competition. Armed with laser guns and equipped with vests, players navigate through a maze of obstacles, scoring points by hitting targets on opponents’ vests.

It’s a high-energy, interactive game that’s perfect for kids who love a bit of action. It’s a great school holiday activity they can do with their friends or make it an energetic family day out. With various game modes and challenges, it’s an experience that can be enjoyed multiple times without getting old.

10. Wander Through the National Arboretum

For a more relaxed yet equally captivating experience, visit the National Arboretum. What’s an arboretum, you ask? It’s a botanical garden that is home to rare and endangered trees from around the world. With playgrounds, picnic areas, and breathtaking views, it’s a perfect spot for a family day out.

The Arboretum offers various walking trails and the popular Pod Playground, designed to engage children with nature through play. It’s an ideal way to round off your school holiday ideas in Canberra.


Book a Kids Paint and Sip School Holiday Session 

These 10 incredible school holiday ideas in Canberra are sure to keep the kids happy and entertained, no matter the weather. Whether they’re budding artists at Pinot & Picasso Belconnen, aspiring scientists at Questacon, or little adventurers, there’s something here for everyone. So, grab your calendar, start planning, and get ready for the best school holidays ever!

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