Aerial view of the Arboretum showing the Visitors Centre, Central Valley Gardens and the view across Canberra. Overlayed are the Tourism Awards badges.
aerial view of canberra as the sunrises, casting golden tones over the city, with the trees of the arboretum in the foreground
Drone photo of forests with autumnal colours of orange, pink and green foliage. The Margaret Whitlam Pavilion can be seen in the distance.

The National Arboretum Canberra is a mosaic of living forests and gardens offering breathtaking views, unique experiences, and a world-class entertainment and events hub including the award-winning Margaret Whitlam Pavilion and the popular Village Centre.

With over 44,000 rare and endangered trees across a 250-hectare site, the Arboretum is a place of beauty, conservation, science research, education, tourism and recreation.

What's here

Discover an exciting variety of things to do, see and experience at the Arboretum.

Eat, drink and shop

Take a break at the Arboretum Cafe or The Curatoreum gift shop at our award-winning Village Centre.

POD Playground

Let kids of all ages run wild in the popular nature themed playground with acorn and banksia cubbies, sand-play, slides and swings.

Tracks and trails

Explore the multi-purpose, family-friendly walking, running and cycling trails for all ability levels.

Host an event

Have your wedding, party, meeting or event at one of Canberra's most iconic and sought-after venues.

National Bonsai and Penjing Collection

See the world-class display of miniature trees and forests, created by some of Australia's leading artists.

Top stories

A Mile of Smiles

3 October 2025

For World Smile Day 2025 we would like to feature a volunteer initiative that’s been quietly spreading warmth and smiles for years: Warm Trees.

You may remember seeing trees wrapped in vibrant, hand-crafted scarves during July and August. But have you ever wondered what happens to those scarves once the season changes?

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Open Gardens Australia: Celebrating a decade of legacy

12 September 2025

At a recent gathering to mark a decade since the garden’s inception, former OGA members, including Mrs Tamie Fraser AO, Helen Stevens, John Mackey AM (Patron of the National Arboretum Canberra) and Andrew Buchanan, reflected on the journey to the opening of the Celebration Garden, nestled within the Gallery of Gardens. Their stories highlighted the enduring impact of the scheme and the importance of creating spaces that invite reflection, celebration, and connection.

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Arboretum Named Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards Winner for 2025

5 September 2025

The National Arboretum Canberra and the National Bonsai & Penjing Collection of Australia have been named among the top 10% of attractions worldwide — thanks to our amazing visitors! As a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Winner for 2025, this recognition highlights the genuine experiences and glowing reviews shared by our incredible community.

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Tourism Award and Trip Advisor Award Badges
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EcoStar Accredited Business Badge, Quality Tourism Accreditation Badge, and Sustainable Tourism Accredited Business Badge
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Quality Tourism Accreditations badges for Low Vision, Limited Mobility, Wheelchairs & Scooters
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