Attractions and Activities Canberra’s famous National icons are within a few minutes drive or a relaxed bike ride to and around the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. Parliament House – home of the Federal Parliament and one of the worlds most famous and interesting pieces of architecture. Excellent free tours every half-hour. Old Parliament House- now houses the National Portrait Gallery and also has tours highlighting the time when it was the seat of parliament and the stories that go with it. National Gallery of Australia – view the works of the famous permanent collection or visit one of the regular spectacular special exhibitions. High Court of Australia - the highest court in the Australian judicial system is open to the public even when court is in session and has informative tours. Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre-an array of ‘hands on’ science with interactive exhibits for the whole family. Australian War Memorial - National memorial to all those who have died in wars, a solemn reminder and an excellent museum. As well as the well known attractions Canberra has a few secrets usually known by those with particular tastes or special interests. Try some of these: Australian Institute of Sport Lake cruises-daily sightseeing cruises Hot air ballooning- Canberra is one of Australia’s best venues for ballooning The National Aquarium and Wildlife Sanctuary Mount Stromlo observatory Tidbinbilla Deep Space Tracking Station The National Dinosaur Museum Cockington Green-miniature English Village Australian Botanic Gardens National Library of Australia Royal Australian Mint Australian Archives Film and Sound Archives Corin forest flying fox and bob sled ride The diplomatic area of Yarralumla- home of most embassies and unique architecture There are days full of a diverse range of activities and attractions within easy reach. Within a short drive by car, or on one of the excellent day tours is the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Namadgi National Park for excellent bushwalking, rock climbing or just a picnic or glimpse of our native birds and animals in their natural environment. Business is only minutes away in any direction with Dickson being a cosmopolitain centre in Canberra. Shopping at any of the major retail centres in Canberra City or at Woden is only 10 minutes away. Old Bus Depot Markets at Kingston are on most Sundays for those who like to stroll through stalls of interesting hand made items. Dining out is always a feature of any visit and the restaurants, pubs and cafes of Dickson and Civic can cater for virtually any taste with award winning venues and all types of cuisine within minutes walk from the Lodges. Wine tasting tours are also available, as Canberra is the centre of the areas Cool Climate wine-growing region.