CANBERRA CBD
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THE AREA
There is a lot going on in our nation’s capital, and Canberra City is no exception. In what is locally known as Civic, high-flying offices sit alongside pedestrian malls, heritage buildings and shiny new developments, all of which are overflowing with an ever-evolving roster of designer stores and chic hangouts. Including late-night revelry that’s not always for the faint-hearted.
Lifestyle
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Find Out MoreThings To Do
Where to eat, drink, stay and play - these are the local events and activities you need to know about.
Find Out MoreLifestyle
Say Canberra City, and you may get a confused look from the locals. An area that’s long been known by its unofficial name Civic, this bustling city is a real mixed bag. A metropolis that likes to be the centre of attention, Civic has no intention of being side-lined by its vibrant neighbours.
Pulsing with an impressionable foodie, bar and shopping scene, Civic is a standout for its many attractions; Canberra Centre, Canberra Museum and Gallery, Civic Square, The Canberra Theatre, The Street Theatre, Canberra Carousel and Casino Canberra (just to name a few). And unlike other cities, thanks to building height restrictions, Civic’s skyline isn’t punctuated by high-rises.
Read MoreLifestyle
Say Canberra City, and you may get a confused look from the locals. An area that’s long been known by its unofficial name Civic, this bustling city is a real mixed bag. A metropolis that likes to be the centre of attention, Civic has no intention of being side-lined by its vibrant neighbours.
Pulsing with an impressionable foodie, bar and shopping scene, Civic is a standout for its many attractions; Canberra Centre, Canberra Museum and Gallery, Civic Square, The Canberra Theatre, The Street Theatre, Canberra Carousel and Casino Canberra (just to name a few). And unlike other cities, thanks to building height restrictions, Civic’s skyline isn’t punctuated by high-rises.
A widely popular shopping destination, Canberra Centre houses all the big brand names and smaller boutiques, as well as a dedicated health and wellness precinct on the ground floor. North Quarter is the centres outdoor dining destination and pedestrian malls, City Walk and Garema Place, are overflowing with more shopping ops, culinary delights and after-hour hangouts.
The heritage-listed Melbourne Building plays a starring role on Civic’s foodie trail and clubbing scene. Garema Place is also a popular go-to, not only for its seriously good food but also for its vast selection of cocktail lounges, wine bars and the much-loved pub, King O’Malley’s.
But Civic is not all about fun and games. Canberra City is also home to the ACT Legislative Assembly, ACT Magistrate’s Court, and the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science. And right next door is the sprawling campus of the prestigious Australian National University. Needless to say, there’s a buzz to Civic that ebbs and flows throughout the week that appeals to many.
Neighbours
One of Canberra’s hot-spots, Civic has broad appeal. With Australian National University nearby and apartment living on the rise, Civic tends to attract professionals, the well-educated, civil servants and students in droves.
Read MoreNeighbours
One of Canberra’s hot-spots, Civic has broad appeal. With Australian National University nearby and apartment living on the rise, Civic tends to attract professionals, the well-educated, civil servants and students in droves.
Its prime location also means Civic has more than its fair share of tourists, all who check-in to one of the many big-name and smaller boutique hotels around town.
Area features
Civic Square
Part of Canberra’s tourist trail, Civic Square holds plenty of local significance, with a dash of culture and democracy thrown in; ACT Legislative Assembly, Canberra Museum and Gallery, Civic Library and The Canberra Theatre can all be found here.
Shopping
A firm favourite around town, Canberra Centre is the go-to shopping destination. Boasting all the big brand names, high-end boutiques and all the alternative shopfronts that you can imagine. The ground floor is a dedicated health and wellness district, and there’s a plethora of food options to choose from.
Eat & Drink
Civic is a real culinary experience with many on-trend cafes and fine-dining restaurants at the top of their game. Coffee-mad folk are well-catered for and much to the delight of locals, multi-cultural eateries have a strong presence. Civic is also home to Canberra’s largest nightclub district, with the beats kicking-on well into the small hours of the morning.
Australian National University
One of the nation’s most prestigious academic institutions, the Australian National University has a sprawling campus in neighbouring Acton. Academics and students hailing from all corners of the globe are drawn to this highly revered institution. And the students love to make the most of Civic’s café scene and after-hours hotspots.
