Australian War Memorial

Standing solemnly at the foot of Mount Ainslie, the Australian War Memorial is far more than a museum — it is the nation’s heart of remembrance. The monumental building, crowned by its iconic dome, houses an extraordinary collection of military artefacts, personal stories, and art that traces Australia’s involvement in conflicts from the Boer War to the present day. The Hall of Memory’s Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier and the eternal flame create a deeply moving atmosphere, while the sprawling commemorative courtyard and the serene Sculpture Garden offer space for quiet reflection. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, this place leaves a lasting impression.

Highlights & What to See

• Hall of Memory – The soaring domed hall with its stunning mosaic interior and the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier; a space of profound national significance.
• Roll of Honour – Bronze panels listing the names of over 102,000 Australians who have died in war; a powerful, humbling sight.
• World War I & World War II Galleries – Immersive exhibitions with personal diaries, weapons, and large-scale dioramas, including a replica of the Gallipoli trenches.
• ANZAC Hall – Home to iconic aircraft like a Lancaster bomber and a Japanese midget submarine, plus interactive displays.
• Last Post Ceremony – Held daily at 4:55pm; a moving tribute featuring a story of a fallen soldier — a must-attend experience.
• Commemorative Area & Sculpture Garden – Peaceful grounds with reflective pools and sculptures, perfect for a contemplative stroll.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least half a day (3–4 hours) to explore the main galleries and attend the Last Post Ceremony. If you’re a dedicated military history buff, plan for a full day — the collection is vast and the stories deserve unhurried attention. Arrive by mid-afternoon to see the galleries before the ceremony, which ends around 5:30pm. The memorial is free to enter, so you can dip in for a shorter visit if time is tight, but you’ll want to linger.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mount Ainslie Lookout – A short drive or a steep walk up from the memorial; offers panoramic views over Canberra’s parliamentary triangle.
• Lake Burley Griffin – Just south of the city centre; cycle or walk the lakeside paths, visit the Captain Cook Memorial Jet, or take a scenic cruise.
• Parliament House & Old Parliament House – A 5-minute drive; explore Australia’s political history and enjoy the rooftop views from the new Parliament House.
• National Gallery of Australia – Houses an impressive collection of Indigenous and international art, including the famous Aboriginal Memorial.
• National Museum of Australia – On Acton Peninsula; engaging exhibits on Australian social history, from Indigenous cultures to the present.
• Canberra City Centre & Braddon – For lunch or dinner, head to Braddon’s Lonsdale Street for trendy cafés, breweries, and eateries like the iconic BentSpoke Brewing Co.

Please check official sources for current details.