Civic Square (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Civic Square?
What makes it 71% Baby-Friendly: Wide, level paving suits prams and the library parents’ room offers feeding and changing. Few shaded play corners and limited baby-dedicated activities shorten stay length for families with infants.
Positives:
- Free and accessible: All main attractions have no entry fee and offer easy pram access.
- Baby-friendly amenities: Library Parents’ Room and breastfeeding nooks support feeding and changing.
Challenges:
- Limited baby-change in CMAG: CMAG has no dedicated baby-change table; ask staff for a private space.
- Spring water fountains off-season: Water play areas operate seasonally; bring sunshade and water for your baby.
What is Civic Square?
- A purpose-built civic plaza at the heart of Canberra’s cultural and political precinct
- Anchored by modernist and Brutalist landmarks such as the ACT Legislative Assembly, Canberra Museum & Gallery and Civic Library
- Laid out as an open paved forecourt punctuated by sculptural public art and architectural features
What is so special about Civic Square for with baby?
- Pram-friendly open plaza with seating and shade.
- Complimentary CMAG exhibits with quiet feeding spaces.
- Dedicated Parents’ Room in Civic Library for nappy changes.
- Weekly baby rhymes sessions to engage your infant.
- Free entry and easy access across all venues.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: A short visit lets you explore the open plaza, check CMAG and use the library with breaks for your baby without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Civic Square
Stroll Civic Square Plaza:
Walk the paved pathways around the open plaza bounded by CMAG, Civic Library and ACT Legislative Assembly.
Tip: Use the pram-friendly paths and rest at shaded benches to feed or nap your baby.
Visit Canberra Museum & Gallery:
Browse free permanent exhibitions with quiet corners and occasional family events.
Tip: Ask staff for the breastfeeding nook or a quiet office when you need privacy.
Use Civic Library Parents’ Room:
Find a private space with a nappy-change table and seating for feeding.
Tip: Check library hours online and slip in during quieter times.
Join Giggle & Wiggle Sessions:
Attend free weekly rhymes and songs at Civic Library for babies and carers.
Tip: Book your spot online ahead to secure a space for you and your baby.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Civic Square
- Visit early morning: Arrive when CMAG opens to avoid crowds and find quieter library sessions.
- Combine adjacent stops: Plan a loop: plaza stroll, CMAG, library to reduce walking distance with a pram.
Reviews of Civic Square
Graham ANDREW
Civic Square has the Canberra Centre, a very large shopping mall, close by, and many local bus services operate in the area. The Centre has many high quality up-market shops with many eateries to chose from. One thought: it might help if the the different parts of the shopping centre complex could be given a name or number for reference as it's quite easy to lose your way!
Hassan El Zein
This is where people meet nowadays to support Justice and human rights and reject the genocide and the Israeli crimes against humanity that have been going on for too long in Gaza.
Poly Liong
Pleasant place to unwind during weekends. Various restaurants from Asian to continental! Shops are literally open to 9PM every Friday.
WB Adventures
Feels a bit outdated, I think the city council here are slowly renovating the square, it’s got museums and arts theatre, plenty of space to hang out, it doesn’t feel quite like a city square centre compare to the cities of Adelaide, Brisbane etc…
Ruiqi He
Just went there to watch the navy prade along the street. Too small to be a famous square in a capital city. Located in CBD, next to ACT legislative assembly, Canberra Theatre and CMAG.
When is the best time to visit Civic Square (Canberra, Australia)?
During February's National Multicultural Festival, CMAG and Civic Library host free family spaces with crafts and story times tailored for babies and young children.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Civic Square open plaza | AUD 0 |
| CMAG general exhibitions | AUD 0 |
| Civic Library facilities | AUD 0 |
| Giggle & Wiggle sessions | AUD 0 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 0 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Civic Square
Address: 180 London Cct, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
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About Civic Square
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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