Travel Escapes for Your ANZAC Day Long Weekend

There are few things better than a long weekend! It’s the perfect time to jump on a plane and escape reality for a few days. Thankfully, the NSW government has announced an extra public holiday for ANZAC Day weekend. Discover how you can make the most of it with these fun travel destinations.

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

Australia’s capital is a great choice to go to for your next long weekend, particularly if you are looking to pay your respects this ANZAC Day. Canberra is super accessible with flights from Sydney taking under an hour!

ANZAC Day Services

First and foremost, if you are looking to attend an ANZAC Day ceremony, look no further than Canberra. The National Ceremony Dawn Service is held at the Australian War Memorial and is one of the most significant in the country. Previously, more than 32,000 people gathered for the service, which runs from 5.30am to 6am, to commemorate the anniversary.

Museums

There are many other reasons to visit Canberra. It has so many exceptional museums that are sure to keep you busy for hours!

Make sure to visit:

• The National Gallery: Includes world-class exhibitions and a large collection of works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. The perfect choice for art buffs!
• Questacon (The National Science and Technology Centre): A highly interactive museum that is great for kids!
• National Museum of Australia: Ideal if you are looking to delve into Australian history. As an added bonus, it overlooks the gorgeous Lake Burley Griffin.

Cultural and Historical Sites

As Australia’s capital, cultural artefacts and historical sites will fill your itinerary! Be sure to check out the following:

• Australian Parliament House: Located on Capitol Hill and known as the heart of our democracy. You can visit and watch Question Time or see bills being debated whilst Parliament is sitting. Parliament House is open every day except Christmas Day.
• Old Parliament House: Showcases Australia’s political history and currently houses the Museum of Australian Democracy. It was the running parliament from 1927 to 1988.
• The International Flag Display:  A strip of 110+ flags symbolises diplomacy in Australia. The flags represent each country with missions in Canberra.

Nature

Canberra is surrounded by gorgeous landscapes, particularly with all the autumnal colours this time of year. With expansive nature reserves, lakes, and mountain ranges, it seamlessly blends urban development with nature. Make sure to check out Mt Ainslie and have a stroll around the famous Lake Burley Griffin. The snow-capped mountains in Namadgi National Park are also just a short drive away! Canberra has so much natural beauty on its doorstep — great for a weekend city escape.

This getaway offers something for everyone, whether you are seeking a trip filled with education and culture or one that is more off-the-grid.

 Hobart, Tasmania

Head down to Hobart for a weekend escape filled with historic charm, art, and all-encompassing nature. Base yourself in the city so you can soak up the vibrant atmosphere whilst still being a short drive from gorgeous hikes.

Food

Attention foodies! Hobart has a vibrant food scene filled with world-class seafood, cool-climate wines, and fine dining experiences. For local produce, head to the Salamanca markets on a Saturday, set up along the historic waterfront. There are over 300 stalls selling locally sourced Tasmanian whiskies, street food, groceries and crafts. It is also the state’s most visited tourist attraction!

Art

Whilst you’re in Hobart, make sure you catch the ferry out to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). It is known for boundary-pushing and controversial exhibitions. With extensive exhibitions and a restaurant on site, you’ll want to set aside a day for it.

Nature and Hiking

Hobart is known for its stunning backdrop of Mount Wellington (Kunanyi), which looms 1271m above the city. It’s not hard to spot, as you can see it just about anywhere in the city. Just a half-hour drive away, it offers some great hikes for differing skill levels. Popular routes include:

• The Organ Pipes Circuit (7.4km): Famous for its dramatic column cliffs.
• Zig-Zag Track (4.4km one way): A steep, scenic trail connecting the springs to the summit.
• Pinnacle Circuit (8.9km): A rocky and high-altitude track on the summit plateau.

Skip the hike and drive to the summit car park for panoramic city views. Make sure you pack a jacket as it’s much colder than the city, with temperatures dropping to 8-10°C.

Hobart is a small and easy-to-explore city. It is ideal for visitors wanting to take a break from the bustling CBDs of mainland Australia.

The Whitsundays, Queensland

If you are looking to escape the impending cool change, head up to the Whitsundays for your long weekend. Consisting of 74 islands, this tropical location is situated within the Great Barrier Reef. Most visitors choose to sail around the islands or stay at Hamilton Island to enjoy the warm, turquoise waters. Whether you are a thrill seeker or someone who prefers to chill out on the beach, the Whitsundays have you sorted.

Marine Activities

Tropical Queensland is home to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This makes for exemplary snorkelling and diving. Popular day trips include the outer reef and coral gardens near anchorages. Whilst exploring, look out for turtles and other sealife!

Nature and Hiking

The Whitsundays offer opportunities for hiking, including a trail to the peak of Whitsunday Island. This track is short and steep, but offers panoramic views of the crystal-clear waters. The trail is about 5km return.

If nothing else, the Whitsundays offer the opportunity to disconnect from your busy suburban life. With the wet season having just ended, this tropical spot is the perfect choice! You can fly into Hamilton Island or Whitsunday Coast Airport.

Affordable Airport Parking Every Long Weekend

Long weekends provide the perfect opportunity to jump on a plane and get out of the city for a few days. Park on King is open year-round, including public holidays and weekends, meaning we’ve got your parking covered. Relax and unwind by leaving your car in a trusted, secure parking space, and we will take the stress out of your travel day by handling your transportation to the terminal. We offer flexible options for:

• Short-term or long-term stays.
• Domestic or international airport parking.
• Seniors parking.
• Oversized vehicle parking.
• Corporate parking.

Park On King has made the process seamless. Simply secure your spot online, park, then hop on our shuttle service. We are located just minutes from the airport and offer a premium experience. Explore our range of services or contact us to start your holiday off right.