Shout out to the parents who sit on a cold bench, holding everyone’s drink bottles and wondering if it’s too early to check their phone again. Whether it’s juggling (literally), hurtling down a zipline, or teaming up for arcade glory, these Canberra activities are designed to keep everyone off the sidelines and smack bang in the centre of the action.
Flipside Juggling & Object Manipulation at Flipside Circus
Roll up, roll up! At Flipside Circus, you and the kids can juggle, balance, and giggle your way through a seriously fun workout. Open to ages 8 to 101, it’s a unique way to bond while learning something new. Happening Mondays from 6:30pm to 8pm during the school terms. Find out more here.
Mountain Biking at Stromlo Forest Park
Swap screen time for trail time. Whether you’re new to mountain biking or already a two-wheel pro, Stromlo’s tracks cater to all levels. Don’t have a bike? Cycle City Hire at HandleBar Café has you covered on weekends. Daily from 6am to 10pm with hire available on weekends. Find out more here.
Arboretum Adventures
Fly a kite, roll down the hill, wander through the forest, or get lost in the magic of miniature trees at the Aboretum. It’s a post-school chill-out with a side of awe. Daily from 8am to 5pm, with all ages welcome. Find out more here.
Dance Together at Dance Central
Why just watch from the wings when you can jump into the spotlight? Dance Central’s family-friendly classes cover everything from hip hop to jazz, letting you groove right alongside your mini movers. Weekday afternoons and evenings for ages 6+. Find out more here.
Bouldering at BlocHaus
Bouldering is the perfect combo of fun and fitness – no ropes, just problem-solving climbs and soft mats below. They’re open everyday and great for kids aged 5+. Find out more here.
Movie Nights at Banff Film Festival
Adventure doesn’t always mean breaking a sweat. If your family’s into nature, climbing, or epic journeys, the Banff Film Festival is a cinematic treat worth staying up for. Happening at the National Film and Sound Archive from 6-9 May, with screenings from 7pm. Ages 10+ recommended. Find out more here.
Treetop Adventures at Majura Pines
Climb, swing and zip-line through the pines at Treetops Adventure. With courses for tiny tots through to brave-hearted parents, it’s an exhilarating escape into nature. Daily from 9am-4:30pm for ages 3+. Find out more here.
Ice Skating at Phillip Pool & Skating Centre
Glide into a wintery wonderland – at any time of the year. Public skating sessions run all week long, making it an ideal after-school cool-down. Available on weekdays with all ages welcome, under 5s will need a skating buddy. Find out more here.
Arcade Action at Kingpin Canberra
Arcade games, bowling, and karaoke? It’s a nostalgia hit for parents and non-stop fun for the kids. Kingpin makes it easy to turn any night into a family game night. Open every day of the week, staying open later on the weekends. Find out more here.
Snow Play at Corin Forest
Snowball fights, tobogganing and hot chocolates – what’s not to love? Corin Forest offers afternoon sessions perfect for an early pick-up and a snowy adventure. There are two sessions for daily snow play from 1:30pm-3:30pm and 4pm-6pm. Find out more here.
Whether you’re after high-energy adventures or low-key bonding time, these activities are proof that us parents can have just as much fun as the kids.
