Old Bus Depot Markets

Every Sunday morning, the cavernous industrial shell of a former bus depot in Kingston transforms into one of Canberra’s most vibrant marketplaces. The Old Bus Depot Markets are a sensory feast: the scent of freshly roasted coffee mingles with sizzling street food, while live buskers set the soundtrack to a treasure hunt of artisan wares, vintage finds, and regional produce. This is where locals come for their weekend ritual, and visitors get a genuine taste of Canberra’s creative pulse.

Highlights & What to See

• Artisans & Designers: Browse dozens of stalls selling handcrafted jewellery, ceramics, textiles, and original artworks — many by local makers you won’t find elsewhere.
• Gourmet Food Hall: Sample award-winning cheeses, olives, small-batch preserves, and freshly baked sourdough from the Capital Region’s finest producers.
• Global Street Food: Grab a bowl of steaming pho, a wood-fired pizza, or a Korean fried-chicken burger from the bustling food court — perfect for a lazy lunch.
• Vintage & Retro: Hunt through racks of second-hand clothing, vinyl records, and quirky homewares in the sprawling vintage section.
• Live Entertainment: Catch local musicians and roving performers who add a festive buzz throughout the morning.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least two to three hours to soak up the atmosphere properly. Arrive early (around 9am) to beat the crowds and snag the best artisan goods, then stay for a leisurely brunch. If you’re a serious foodie or vintage hunter, you could easily spend half a day here. The markets wind down around 2pm, so plan to visit on a Sunday morning and combine with a wander through the adjacent Kingston Foreshore.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kingston Foreshore: A five-minute walk brings you to a scenic lakefront precinct with cafés, restaurants, and the Canberra Glassworks.
• Lake Burley Griffin: Hire a bike or paddleboat from the nearby Acton Ferry Terminal and explore the lake’s walking trails and monuments.
• Parliament House & Capital Hill: A short drive or bus ride away, the heart of Australia’s political life offers free guided tours and panoramic views from the roof.
• National Gallery of Australia: Home to an outstanding collection of Indigenous and international art, just 10 minutes away by car.
• Mount Ainslie Lookout: For a sweeping view of the entire city and surrounding hills, drive 15 minutes to this iconic summit.

Please check official sources for current details.