Planning a winter getaway these school holidays? Canberra is packed with affordable, family-friendly experiences this July, perfect for embracing the cooler months. While the capital’s crisp air and scenic outdoor attractions are part of its charm, the winter season also offer the perfect excuse to discover a wide range of indoor experiences designed to keep children active, curious, and entertained, without braving the chill.
Here are six must-do family friendly experiences that combine learning, creativity and fun this July (and don’t forget to book ahead)
Winter in the Woods at National Arboretum Canberra
From 26 June – 9 August
Step into Winter in the Woods – a cosy, family-friendly winter escape in nature. Rug up and explore the Arboretum as it lights up with fire pits, forest adventures and delicious treats. Spot the colourful “Warm Trees,” toast marshmallows, and enjoy mulled drinks under the stars. Kids will love nature play, storytelling and hands-on crafts, while the whole family can get creative with lantern making and explore the forests on guided walks or an easy bus ride. A fun, magical winter outing for all ages. A mix of free and ticketed experiences – bookings essential via National Arboretum Canberra.
Warm up with Winter in the City
From 8 – 18 July
Canberra’s city centre will come alive this winter with fire, movement and something new to discover around every corner. Expect high-energy circus acts from Circus Oz, spectacular fire performances lighting up the night, and a vibrant program of free experiences hosted across local businesses. Rug up and explore the city centre, stop in for a bite to eat, and stay a little longer as the atmosphere builds throughout the evening.
Family snow fun awaits at Corin Forest
Open Friday to Monday
Snowplay tickets start from $27. Bookings essential.
With easy access to snow play just a 45-minute drive from the city centre, Canberra’s own snow playground offers a relaxed, family-friendly alternative to larger ski resorts. Perfect for first-timers and young families, Corin Forest features gentle beginner slopes for learning to ski or snowboard, plus plenty of space for building snowmen, making snow angels, enjoying snowball fights and tobogganing. Warm up at the Corin Café in the lodge, a cosy spot with hearty food and a fireplace to relax by between snow play.
Antarctica: A Cool Family Adventure at the National Museum of Australia
From 1 July – 11 October
Step into Antarctica with this immersive exhibition at the National Museum of Australia — feel the force of a blizzard, witness the beauty of the aurora australis and track the midnight sun in an immersive polar landscape. Uncover epic stories of exploration through interactive displays and real expedition artefacts.
On opening weekend (4–5 July), hear firsthand from Antarctic expeditioners and museum curators, meet sled dogs, enjoy live performances, and create your own Antarctic adventures journal. Kids aged 5–12 can create their very own feathered penguin pal, while teens can test their survival skills in a polar role-play adventure. An unforgettable exhibition for curious kids and grown-ups alike.
Spy coins, crafts and clever design at the Mint
From 29 June – 17 July
From animal adventures to secret spy codes, there’s something for every budding coin designer. Children aged 7–12 can dive into Mintventures, exploring coin design, cracking codes and uncovering stories of nature, history and unlikely heroes. Younger children aged 4–6 can enjoy Mini-Minties, a playful program of storytelling, creativity and discovery, designing a 60th birthday coin, exploring details with magnifying glasses and discovering amazing animals featured on coins, including sharks, dingoes, snakes and dolphins. Drop into Crafternoon daily from 2–4pm for free crafts, or pick up an activity guide to explore at your own pace. Want to learn more? Join a free 45‑minute guided tour to hear the story of Australia’s coins and walk above the Mint factory floor to see where they’re made today.
Get Creative at Canberra Glassworks
From 1 July – 17 July (Wednesday to Sunday)
Learn from some of Australia’s most acclaimed glass artists at Canberra Glassworks, where kids can get hands-on creating their own unique pieces. From expressive glass bowls to festive tiles, young makers can design and create kiln-fired keepsakes to take home—including workshops like Fire and Ice snowflakes and Painting with Frit: Bowl. Bookings essential. Fees apply.
There is so much more happening in Canberra these July school holidays and beyond. For more family-friendly inspiration, check out: https://visitcanberra.com.au
