Welcome to Fyshwick, Canberra’s coolest new enclave that’s buzzing with a hive of activity and creative energy on the edge of the Nation’s capital. Located halfway between Canberra Airport and the city centre, Fyshwick is the ideal spot for all your adventures in the Capital Territory. If you’re ready to experience Canberra like a local and discover a different side of the city that is full of surprises, Fyshwick haas got you covered. Get ready to pack up your Hertz rental car and hit the road, as we explore all that Canberra and beyond has to offer.
Uncovering Hidden Gems in Canberra’s South
After picking up your Hertz rental car from Fyshwick Downtown, it’s time to get acquainted with the area. Before venturing off too far, you’ll want to spend some time exploring the backstreets of Fyshwick, where there’s plenty of exciting and surprising finds to delight you. Fyshwick isn’t your conventional tourist destination, but don’t let its light industrial facade fool you. Dig a little deeper and you’ll uncover a wave of urban reinvention - a suburb buzzing with energy, entrepreneurial spirit and fine food emporiums.
Start your journey with one of Canberra’s finest coffees and an all-day breakfast at Wildflour Artisan Bakery and Cafe, a beautiful space in the heart of Fyshwick. While you’re in here, head to Canberra Outlet for a spot of retail therapy. The outlet centre is the only one in the city and it is conveniently located in the heart of the suburb. With hundreds of leading fashion, designer and specialty stores to peruse, you’ll easily be able to shop the day away under one roof.
Just up the road from Fyshwick, the hip and suburb of Kingston hugs the southern shore of Lake Burley Griffin, and is a fantastic place to base yourself during your time in Canberra. Home to trendy modern eateries and pubs, a beautiful waterfront aspect, vibrant markets and a thriving arts scene, Kingston has something for everyone. If you’re staying locally, Abode Hotels is a stylish and perfectly appointed accommodation option in the heart of Kingston. This new and modern hotel is conveniently located just a stone’s throw away from so many of Canberra’s top cultural attractions, as well as so many great dining and foodie destinations.
For a delectable dinner, head to Otis Dining Hall, a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. Savour mouth-watering mains from their modern Australian menu which highlights the very best of the region’s produce. Pair your meal with a drop from their extensive cocktail and wine list for a fine dining experience you won’t forget. If you are savouring a tipple, be sure to assign a designated driver.
Explore the heart of the country
Just 10 minutes drive from the southern suburbs of Fyshwick and Kingston, head into the centre of Canberra to discover its cosmopolitan flair and thriving arts and creative scene. It may not be a big sprawling metropolis, but this is where the beauty of the country capital lies. Not to mention, it absolutely punches above its weight when it comes to style, sophistication and charm. No trip to Canberra is complete without a visit to the city’s famed cultural icons. Nowhere else in Australia has a higher concentration of galleries, museums and attractions than Canberra and they are widely regarded as some of the best in the country. The National Gallery and Portrait Gallery is home to a spectacular collection, and for a glimpse into the heart of democracy in Australia, a visit to Parliament House is a must. Contrast your time in New Parliament House with a visit to Old Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy, an equally impressive building and important part of Canberra’s story.
There is so much more to Canberra than politics and roundabouts, so while you’re here, you’ll want to get out of the city centre in your Hertz rental car to explore some of the natural wonders that lie beyond the city limits. You won’t have to go far either - you’ll find breathtaking panoramic views from the summit of Mount Ainsley, just a 15-minute drive from the centre of town. If you’re looking to venture that little bit further and get back into nature, you’ll be spoilt for choice in this part of the country. Within an hour’s drive of town, the Brindabellas, Namadgi and Tidbilla National Parks are local favourites with their stunning scenery and endless high country views. In the winter months, an alpine adventure in the Snowy Mountains is only a two hour drive away - proving that Canberra really does have the best of it all.
Nestled on the tranquil shores of Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra is a thriving cosmopolitan city with a serene, country atmosphere. The country capital is well and truly coming into its own, with so much to offer visitors in the way of cultural attractions, culinary delights, natural escapes and unique experiences. While you’re here, don’t just head straight to Capital Hill - make sure to spend some time exploring off the beaten track, you never know what surprises you’ll find.
