Commonwealth Park | Canberra

Commonwealth Park – A Scenic Green Space in the Heart of Canberra

Commonwealth Park is one of the most beloved public parks in Canberra, Australia. Located on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, this expansive green space offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature while providing beautiful views of the surrounding cityscape. Known for its picturesque setting and recreational opportunities, Commonwealth Park is a fantastic place to relax, explore, and enjoy outdoor activities.

The park is home to a variety of native Australian flora, themed gardens, and several public art installations. It also hosts a number of events throughout the year, making it a vibrant hub for both locals and tourists.

Why Visit Commonwealth Park?

Beautiful Lakeside Location: The park is situated along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, providing visitors with stunning views of the water, the surrounding landscape, and the iconic National Carillon.

Relaxing Atmosphere: With its expansive lawns, mature trees, and peaceful environment, Commonwealth Park offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Perfect for Outdoor Activities: Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or enjoy some recreational activities, Commonwealth Park is an ideal spot.

Key Highlights of Commonwealth Park

1. Themed Gardens

Commonwealth Park is home to several beautiful gardens that feature a variety of plants and flowers, often themed around specific regions or plant species.

Floriade Gardens: The Floriade Festival, which takes place every year in spring, transforms Commonwealth Park into a vibrant flower festival, with thousands of flowers in bloom. The park is beautifully adorned with tulips, daffodils, and other seasonal flowers, creating a colorful and fragrant landscape.

Australian Native Gardens: The park also features a section dedicated to Australian native plants, where visitors can discover a diverse array of species indigenous to the country.

2. Lake Burley Griffin Views

One of the standout features of Commonwealth Park is its breathtaking views of Lake Burley Griffin. The park provides multiple spots where you can sit and enjoy the serene beauty of the water, with the National Carillon (the bell tower) in the background.

Relax by the Lake: The park has several benches and picnic areas along the waterfront, making it an ideal location to enjoy a quiet afternoon. The walking paths along the lake’s edge allow you to stroll and take in the stunning views of the water and surrounding landmarks.

Rowing and Kayaking: The lake is also a popular spot for rowing and kayaking, with facilities for water sports available nearby. If you enjoy being on the water, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake.

3. The National Carillon

Located on an island in Lake Burley Griffin, the National Carillon is a striking landmark within Commonwealth Park.

A Symbol of Canberra: The carillon is a bell tower that chimes throughout the day, offering a melodic soundtrack for those visiting the park. It is a gift from the British government and serves as a symbol of Canberra's relationship with the UK.

Guided Tours: The National Carillon offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the history of the bell tower, its construction, and how the bell mechanisms work. Visitors can also ascend the tower for stunning views of the park and lake.

4. Public Art and Sculptures

Commonwealth Park features several art installations and sculptures, making it a cultural as well as natural attraction.

Art in the Park: The park is home to a variety of public art pieces, from modern sculptures to contemporary installations. These pieces are strategically placed throughout the park, encouraging visitors to explore and engage with the artwork.

Floriade Art: During the Floriade Festival, the park features additional art displays, with large-scale outdoor sculptures and exhibitions designed to complement the floral displays.

5. Floriade Festival

The Floriade Festival is a major event that takes place annually in spring and is one of the most iconic celebrations in Canberra. Commonwealth Park is the festival’s main venue, and the event draws large crowds from all over the country and beyond.

Flower Displays: During Floriade, the park is transformed into a vibrant celebration of flowers, with elaborate floral displays and garden designs that change each year. Visitors can stroll through themed garden beds, taking in the vibrant colors and fragrant blooms.

Cultural Activities: In addition to the flower displays, Floriade features live performances, local food stalls, art installations, and family-friendly activities, making it a fun and educational event for people of all ages.

6. Picnic and BBQ Areas

Commonwealth Park is an ideal place for a family picnic or a relaxing BBQ with friends.

Picnic Shelters: The park has several picnic shelters and BBQ areas, making it easy for visitors to spend time outdoors with a meal. The sheltered areas are equipped with BBQs and plenty of seating.

Spacious Lawns: For those who prefer a more casual experience, there are plenty of open lawns where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic while watching the activity on the lake or listening to the chimes of the carillon.

7. Walking and Cycling Paths

For those who enjoy being active, Commonwealth Park offers walking and cycling paths that wind through the park and along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin.

Stroll Through the Park: The park’s walking paths are perfect for a leisurely walk, allowing you to take in the beauty of the gardens and the water. The paths are well-maintained, making it easy to navigate around the park.

Cycle Around the Lake: The park connects to the larger network of paths around Lake Burley Griffin, allowing cyclists to take a scenic ride around the entire lake. There are bike racks available in the park, so visitors can park their bikes and enjoy the surrounding attractions.

8. Playground and Family-Friendly Features

Commonwealth Park is an excellent destination for families with children.

Playground: The park includes a well-equipped playground for kids, featuring slides, swings, climbing structures, and interactive play areas. It’s a great spot for children to burn off some energy while enjoying the outdoors.

Open Spaces: The expansive lawns and open areas are perfect for families to play games, relax, and enjoy quality time together.

Accessibility

By Car: Commonwealth Park is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available nearby. It is located near the Canberra city center, making it a short drive from most attractions in the city.

Public Transport: Public transport options are also available, including bus routes that stop near the park. Visitors can easily get to Commonwealth Park via public transport from various parts of Canberra.

Wheelchair Access: The park is wheelchair accessible and includes paths, facilities, and picnic areas that are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges.

Best Time to Visit

Spring: For those interested in experiencing the Floriade Festival, spring (September to October) is the best time to visit. The park is alive with vibrant flowers and special events, making it a particularly exciting time to be there.

Year-Round: Commonwealth Park is open year-round and is a peaceful destination no matter the season. The park is particularly stunning in autumn and summer, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities.

Fun Facts About Commonwealth Park

Home to the Floriade: Commonwealth Park is the venue for the Floriade Festival, Australia’s largest flower festival. It attracts thousands of visitors each year, showcasing the city’s love for horticulture.

Named for the Commonwealth: The park’s name reflects its connection to the Commonwealth of Australia, and it was designed as part of the broader plan for Canberra as the national capital.

Historical Significance: Commonwealth Park has been an important part of Canberra’s development, serving as a central green space for locals and tourists alike.

Final Thoughts – Why Visit Commonwealth Park

Commonwealth Park is one of Canberra's most beautiful green spaces, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in leisurely walks around the lake, exploring themed gardens, attending the Floriade Festival, or enjoying a picnic with family and friends, Commonwealth Park provides a stunning setting for outdoor recreation and relaxation. With its beautiful scenery, excellent facilities, and year-round events, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone in Canberra.