National Capital Exhibition
The National Capital Exhibition tells the story of Canberra, Australia's national capital. It is located on Regatta Point, Commonwealth Park, with spectacular views of the Parliamentary Triangle and the Captain Cook Memorial Jet.
Through interactive displays, the Exhibition illustrates Canberra's vital role as a symbol of Federation. It features the people, events, history and design which contributed to the development of this unique, modern, fully planned capital city.
To plan your visit or to view some of the fascinating exhibits explore the new National Capital Exhibition online virtual tour.
The National Capital Exhibition Building and Forcourt
A visit to the NCE is a chance to;
- Explore the Griffin Legacy Light Model and the plans to revitalise the central national areas of our capital.
- Find out how Canberra was selected to be the Australia's national capital and the other towns which were considered.
- Discover the history behind the winning entry for the design of the national capital of Australia.
- View the stunning terrazzo artwork of Walter Burley Griffin's 1913 plan for the capital.
- Learn about the Indigenous people of the Canberra area and their fascinating link with the Bogong moth.
- Relax in our comfortable theatrette and experience the short film 'The Story of Canberra'.
- See the Parliamentary Triangle and the central area of the national capital in a spectacular all new, scale model, including an exciting light and audio show.
- Hear the story of Canberra presented in seven different languages.
- Enjoy one of the best lakeside views of the Captain Cook Memorial Jet, Commonwealth Avenue Bridge and the Parliamentary Triangle.
The National Capital Exhibition won the Canberra and Capital Region Tourism Award for Heritage and Cultural Tourism in 2006 and 2007.
Bookings for groups are essential on 02 62571068
Location
Regatta Point
Barrine Drive, Commonwealth Park off Commonwealth Avenue
Opening Hours
9am to 5pm Monday to Friday
10am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday
Closed public holidays
Admission is free
Non English Speaking Facilities
The Canberra Light Model of the national capital is available in the following six non-English languages:
- Mandarin
- Japanese
- Korean
- German
- French
- Spanish
Exhibition self guides are also available in the above six non-English languages as well as:
- Cantonese
- Italian
>Picnic Facilities
A sheltered picnic facility with a well equipped children's playground is available to the left of the entrance of the National Capital Exhibition.
Parking Facilities
Easily accessible free parking facilities are available for coaches within walking distance of the National Capital Exhibition. Extensive free car parking is available for up to four hours close to the Exhibition enterance.
For further information contact the National Capital Exhibition on:
- Telephone: 02 6257 1068
- Fax: 02 6247 1875
- Email: nce@natcap.gov.au