Questacon, on King Edward Terrace in Canberra’s Parkes district, is a science and technology centre built around hands-on discovery. Its galleries span eight levels, with more than 200 interactive exhibits on topics including light, forces and the natural world. Try the earthquake simulator, watch lightning demonstrations or take on the free-fall slide. Live science shows add another reason to plan your route through the centre. Allow several hours to explore; families with young children can also visit Mini Q, a play space designed for them.
Hands-on science across the galleries
Questacon is Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre, on King Edward Terrace in Canberra’s Parkes district. Its interactive exhibits invite you to test ideas and observe what happens, with subjects spanning science and technology. More than 200 exhibits are spread across eight levels, so allow plenty of time to explore rather than treating the visit as a quick museum stop.
The displays range from activities about light and forces to experiences that bring natural phenomena into view. You can encounter an earthquake simulation, watch lightning demonstrations and try the free-fall slide. Other exhibits include a giant moon sculpture, a gravity well and activities involving robots. The centre combines individual displays with themed galleries, giving families and curious adults different ways to engage with the science.
Shows and activities for different ages
Live science shows take place during the day in the theatre. They are popular, so make space in your visit plan to attend one. Show times can change, so check the centre’s website before setting out. Demonstrations such as the lightning show give you a chance to see scientific effects presented live, alongside the hands-on exhibits.
For younger children, Mini Q is a dedicated play space for those up to six years old. Its activities include sensory, climbing, water and pretend play. Older children and adults can spend time testing exhibits throughout the galleries, including the free-fall slide and earthquake simulator. The centre also has a café with seating, which can be useful during a longer visit.
Planning your visit
A visit can take three to five hours, depending on how many exhibits and shows you include. Arriving early is a practical choice if you are driving, as parking can fill up. Parking options have different costs and time limits; an all-day option at the second car park is listed at $17.50 for those staying longer than four hours.
Questacon is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Tickets in advance are recommended. Check the official website for current ticket details and show information before you go. The centre has wheelchair-accessible entry, parking and restrooms, as well as accessible seating.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Questacon?
Plan for around three to five hours to explore the galleries, try the activities and attend a live show.
What can you do at Questacon?
Explore hands-on science exhibits, try an earthquake simulator and free-fall slide, see lightning demonstrations, or visit Mini Q with younger children.
Is Questacon suitable for young children?
Yes. Mini Q is a play space designed for children up to six years old, with sensory, climbing, water and pretend play activities.
Is parking available at Questacon?
Parking options nearby have different costs and time limits. An all-day option at the second car park is listed at $17.50 for visits longer than four hours.
