15 Things To Do In Fyshwick, Canberra

Canberra’s former industrial hub has been transformed into an epic family-friendly playground by forward-thinking entrepreneurs and a feast of new delights.

Fishwyck. It’s an odd name for this tiny suburb, south of Canberra’s CBD and just metres from Canberra Airport. Yet it feels strangely appropriate. Named after Tasmanian politician Sir Philip Fysh, it’s one of the most eclectic areas of Canberra.

The area’s reputation for adult entertainment venues is a thing of the past with a brighter, more family-friendly vibe fueled by artisanal bakeries, op-shop emporiums, breweries and markets.

In its early days, Fyshwick was considered a light industrial area with a few warehouses here and there. Not much happened here and hardly anyone wanted to make the trek outside of Canberra City. Fast forward to today and Fyshwick is one of the coolest suburbs in Canberra, on par with lifestyle meccas like Braddon and Manuka with plenty of fun things to do. Here are the best of them.

1. Grab a paddle at Capital Brewing Co.

The award-winning Capital Brewing Co . is one of the driving forces behind Fyshwick’s artisanal boom. The progressive craft beer label is best represented in the hub’s lively taproom where tasting paddles showcase the team’s penchant for experimental and sustainable brewing.

friends raising their beer glasses at Capital Brewing Co., Fyshwick — Raise your beer glasses at Capital Brewing Co. (Image: VisitCanberra)

A dozen taps are regularly switched out for Capital’s beers, which have picked up plenty of accolades for the label’s sustainability ethos. This is consistently named one of Australia’s best breweries for good reason.

pouring tap beer into a glass at Capital Brewing Co., Fyshwick — The progressive craft beer label serves up a delicious on-tap brew. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: Building 3/1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick

2. Grab a flaky croissant at Wildflower

Wildflower is an artisan bakery and cafe standing tall at the forefront of Fyshwick’s progressive food scene. The croissants are generally the most popular thing here, coupled with some of Canberra’s finest coffee, best enjoyed in the leafy outdoor area.

You’ll spot Wildflower’s sourdough and various pastries at other cafes across Canberra, but nothing beats getting everything fresh from the source in a simple, family-friendly setting within spitting distance of Canberra Airport.

Address: 8 Townsville St, Fyshwick

3. Find some treasure at Designer Op Shop Emporium

Just over a dozen of Canberra’s finest makers, artisans and craftspeople have come together under one roof, building Designer Op Shop Emporium into something special for Canberra shoppers.

the exterior of Designer Op Shop Emporium, Fyshwick — The Emporium is a shopping destination for pre-loved fashion. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Helmed by mother and daughter duo Sharyn and Taylor Pitsilos, DOS Emporium is a veritable oasis of vintage chic fashion, design, homewares, luxury toiletries, fresh flowers and other highly individualised items packed with personality.

Much like POP Canberra in Braddon, the Emporium is an essential part of the city’s identity and locals are fiercely proud of it. You’ll be too after you find your next treasured item.

a woman browsing through vintage items on display at Designer Op Shop Emporium, Fyshwick — Peruse vintage goods at Designer Op Shop Emporium. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: Corner Of Barrier Street And, 1 Lyell St, Fyshwick

4. Scale a wall at BlocHaus

BlocHaus is Canberra’s original bouldering gym and a big reason why locals regularly fly through Fyshwick. The range of unique climbing walls caters to both beginners and hobbyists, with enough space so you won’t be stuck waiting for your turn for too long.

wall climbing at BlocHaus, Fyshwick — Challenge yourself at this indoor rock climbing gym. (Image: Izzy Huang)

There’s also a separate section, FamilyHaus, designed for anyone over the age of 5 so younger climbers can build up their skill set. Consider this one of the best kid-friendly things to do in Canberra.

a group of people exercising at BlocHaus, Fyshwick — BlocHaus caters to both beginners and hobbyists. (Image: Izzy Huang)

Address: 2, 2/1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick

5. Sort through the piles at Canty’s Bookshop

Dating back to 1922, the family-owned Canty’s Bookshop dusts off the charm of yesteryear and acts as a time capsule for Canberra. You’ll find 1.2 kilometres of bookshelves and piles upon stacks of both old and new books at generous prices.

Owner Luke Canty is a well of knowledge so think of him as a kind of book sommelier, keen to match your inclinations with the right page-turner so you’ve got a new favourite to spend time with.

piles of books inside Canty’s Bookshop, Fyshwick — Score a good read at Canty’s Bookshop.

Address: Fyshwick Plaza; 59-61 Wollongong St, Fyshwick

6. Bring some binoculars to Jerrabomberra Wetlands

Canberra’s manageable size is typically what makes the city such a unique and incredible part of Australia. There are very few places where bountiful wetlands sit so close to the CBD, and yet Fyshwick is the home to one of the city’s favourite natural habitats: Jerrabomberra Wetlands .

It only takes around 40 minutes to walk the entire loop of the 174-hectare protected area, which sits on the Molonglo River floodplain and is most popular amongst enthusiastic birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Scan your surroundings carefully and you may even spy some trenches used for training during the war days by Duntroon Royal Military College.

views across Jerrabomberra Wetlands from Grevillea Park — The Jerrabomberra Wetlands can be seen from Grevillea Park. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: Dairy Rd, Fyshwick

7. Pack a picnic basket at Urban Providore

Although Sydney and Melbourne’s top-heavy dining scenes are in constant lock-step, Canberra is far from an insecure middle child. Having the best of both Victoria’s and New South Wales’ produce at your doorstep will do that to you.

It’s no secret that Canberra is a foodie’s paradise so make sure to pop by Urban Providore , a food hall that celebrates local and specialises in gourmet artisanal products.

Spend some time browsing through shelves of chocolate delights and local wines, or get the owners to whip you up a gourmet picnic hamper before you head to any of the best picnic spots in Canberra.

Address: 80 Kembla St, Fyshwick

8. Take a trip to Paris at The Flute Bakery

Authenticity isn’t important just to lock in precise flavours and ensure consistency, it also plays a part in ambience. Step inside the unapologetically French Flute Bakery and it’s like you’ve just zipped straight to Paris, with beautiful pastries made to exacting standards.

the exterior of Flute Bakery in Fyshwick — This homely patisserie has all the French treats you could hope for. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Mousse cakes, tarts and multi-coloured macarons line the display cabinet at this homely patisserie, which in true Parisian style is only open on weekdays. Those sweet and savoury pies are some of the best in Canberra as well, so make sure you bring your appetite with you.

French pastries on display at The Flute Bakery, Fyshwick — The Flute Bakery is one of the best purveyors of French pastries. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: 8 Barrier St, Fyshwick

9. Get inspired at the Niche Markets

The heart of this tiny suburb is Fyshwick Markets with rows of stallholders touting fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood. But look closer and you’ll find the separate Niche Markets : an extension dedicated to local craftspeople with a great range of goods from flowers and jewellery to homewares and hand-crafted gifts.

Niche Markets is open from Thursday to Sunday only, and there’s live music on weekends. It’s a great place to bring the whole family together and spend some time picking apart Canberra’s irrepressible sense of creativity.

Address: 36 Mildura St, Fyshwick

10. Bite into a Brodburger

Not one for beer? In case you need a different reason to hit up the team at Capital Brewing Co., you can go just to find Canberra’s favourite burger truck, Brodburger , parked up with its locally famous red van.

Brodburger's Sascha Brodbeck and Joelle Bou-Jaoude — Meet the co-owners behind Brodburger’s success, Sascha Brodbeck and Joelle Bou-Jaoude. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Brodburger has been slinging the best burgers in Canberra for years. With Capital as their new forever home, it’s easy to chow down on one of their pitch-perfect burgers or hot dogs before heading on out to explore Fyshwick’s unique charms.

a close-up of burgers at Brodburger, Fyshwick — The famous red van slings hearty burgers. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: Building 3/1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick

11. Sharpen your mind at Revelation Puzzle Rooms

Work around the clock to find a cure to a mysterious illness, solve a murder or uncover a drug stash at Revelation Puzzle Rooms . Real-life role-playing has never been more popular now that Escape Rooms (or Puzzle Rooms) are getting more sophisticated and creative.

There are four different themed puzzle rooms at this Fyshwick favourite, where two to eight players work together to decipher riddles and thread information together before it is too late.

Address: 155 Gladstone St, Fyshwick

12. Accio some wizarding merch at Quizzic Alley

Harry Potter fans are usually shocked to hear that Canberra hosts the biggest collection of Wizarding World merchandise in the entire country. You’ll find it all at Quizzic Alley , an old-school magic shop that doesn’t mess around when it comes to fun visuals and interesting finds.

the entrance at Quizzic Alley — Step into the Wizarding World. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Even if you aren’t walking away with a new broomstick, snap some selfies in Weasley’s flying Ford Anglia and chug a QBrew (a stand-in for butterbeer).

Harry Potter merchandise at Quizzic Alley, Fyshwick — Find all things magic at Quizzic Alley. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: 5 Pirie St, Fyshwick

13. Build up some (friendly) rage at Breakr

Did you know that Canberra has its very own smash room? It’s a space where you, dressed in protective wear, have a time limit to break, smash, wreck and shatter various common items as a stand-in for whatever frustrations you’re holding onto.

Teacups, old printers, glassware – nothing stands a chance once you step inside one of Breakr’s smash rooms and safely dial in some controlled cathartic chaos.

two people wearing protective clothes at Breakr smash room, Fyshwick — Sign up for Canberra’s ultimate smash room experience at Breakr.

Address: 4/1 Lyell Street, Fyshwick

14. Practice your aim at Axxe

Darts are a thing of the past. We want big, sharp axes and we want them now. Given Fyshwick is now a hotbed of recreation centres and modern group activities, Axxe feels inevitable.

Slink into a checked flannelette, channel your inner lumberjack, take a deep breath, and let that axe fly like the wind as it chops into that big bullseye. Note that this experience is only for those over 18 and you must be wearing covered shoes.

Address: 4/1 Lyell St, Fyshwick

15. Go op shopping at Material Pleasures

You may not be in Brunswick, but who needs Melbourne’s gritty hipster tastes when you’ve got Fyshwick? Material Pleasures is every bit as vibrant and diverse as anything you’ll find on Sydney Road, featuring a dynamic collection of recycled contemporary designer clothing and accessories.

Material Pleasures is one of the best fashion stores in Canberra so next time you need a new outfit – or a flannelette shirt to wear to Axxe – pop by this store, with very approachable prices and a clear love of designer classics.

Address: 3 Barrier St, Fyshwick

Discover the best things to do in Canberra.

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

15 fun things to do in Fyshwick, Canberra