Questacon

Questacon – Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre – is a hands-on wonderland that rockets curiosity into overdrive. Housed in a striking building on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, this interactive museum is a must for families, science geeks, and anyone who loves to push, pull, press and puzzle. With more than 200 exhibits spread over seven themed galleries, you can trigger an earthquake, free-fall down a six-metre slide, or watch a lightning bolt crackle inches from your nose. It’s not just for kids – adults will find themselves lost in the mind-bending puzzles and live shows.

Highlights & What to See

• Free Fall Slide: A six-metre, near-vertical slide that drops you in a split second – pure adrenaline and a great lesson in gravity.
• Earthquake House: Step inside a replica of a 1970s suburban home and feel the floor shake as a simulated quake rumbles through.
• Spectacular Science Shows: Daily live demonstrations that turn science into theatre – expect explosions, liquid nitrogen, and a few gasps.
• Gallery 3: Awesome Earth: Explore the forces that shape our planet, from tsunamis to volcanoes, with hands-on exhibits that let you create your own weather.
• King's Hall: The centrepiece of the building – a soaring atrium filled with giant exhibits, including a suspended model of the solar system.
• Mini Q: A dedicated zone for under-6s, with soft play, water tables, and simple cause-and-effect puzzles.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–4 hours exploring the galleries and catching a show. If you have kids, plan for a full morning or afternoon – there’s so much to touch and try that you’ll struggle to tear them away. Combine with a stroll around Lake Burley Griffin or a visit to the nearby National Museum of Australia to make a day of it. For science enthusiasts, a return visit is worthwhile, as the special exhibitions change regularly.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• National Museum of Australia – just a short walk along the lake, this museum tells the story of the continent from Indigenous history to modern times.
• Lake Burley Griffin – perfect for a scenic walk, bike ride, or a cruise on the lake. The Captain Cook Memorial Jet is a highlight.
• Parliament House – a 10-minute drive away, you can tour the iconic building and walk across its grass-covered roof.
• Australian War Memorial – a moving tribute to Australia’s military history, with a superb museum and the daily Last Post ceremony.
• Canberra Glassworks – watch glassblowers at work and browse the gallery of contemporary glass art, just a short drive from Questacon.

Please check official sources for current details.