Babies are welcome; Little Faces sessions, stroller loans and baby-change toilets ease care, but long gallery rooms may still require breaks for feeding and settling.
Why 2-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for a Little Faces session, drop-in play and feeding breaks.
Little Faces session:
Join a 30-minute program of songs and portrait viewing designed for babies.
Tip: Book Wed–Fri at 9:30 am or 10:30 am on the Gallery website.
Family Space drop-in:
Explore safe textures and simple art materials in a supervised play area.
Tip: Visit during school holidays for daily access; outside holidays check dates.
Quiet Breakout Areas:
Use sunlit benches near Gallery 6 or the parkland edge for feeding or resting.
Tip: Ask staff for locations on arrival to find the nearest spot quickly.
Sensory Kit:
Borrow items like fidget toys and ear defenders to support your baby’s needs.
Tip: Request at the Information Desk when you enter.
Portrait Café pause:
Grab a coffee or light meal on the Terrace with high chairs available.
Tip: Order child-friendly snacks or bring your own picnic; seating is mixed indoors and out.
During school holidays (especially summer), Family Space opens daily. Outside these periods, focus on the Little Faces program on weekdays.
Explore These Activities
Robert Somerville
A Celebration of Australian Stories – One of Canberra’s most engaging cultural attractions Set in a striking modern building, the National Portrait Gallery showcases portraits of the people who have shaped Australia’s identity, from early leaders to contemporary icons. Permanent displays sit alongside rotating exhibitions, each thoughtfully presented to highlight diverse stories and artistic styl...
Timeshare Chinchilla
Free art gallery specialising in portraits of famous Australians. There is a slight skew to more contemporary art styles but there are still traditional oil paintings (which I love!) The staff are really friendly and helpful at this museum. The first gallery is overwhelming with floor to ceiling portraits on both sides. Use a room guide to read up about each artist and subject. Some of the oil pai...
Lynne Cowan
I spent a lovely morning exploring two of Canberra’s cultural gems. The National Portrait Gallery (Free entry) was a highlight — beautifully curated with a wide range of portraits that offer a unique insight into Australian identity and history. The space is modern, light, and thoughtfully laid out, making it easy to enjoy each work at your own pace.
John John
A beautifully curated gallery that perfectly blends art, history, and storytelling. The space is bright, modern, and thoughtfully designed — it’s a pleasure just to walk through. Each portrait captures more than just a face; it captures a story, a moment, a piece of Australia’s cultural identity. Staff were welcoming and knowledgeable, and the temporary exhibitions are always worth seeing. Highly ...
Korda Design
Korda was so lucky to be able to create this Beautiful Bespoke Rug for the Gordon Darling Hall at The National Portrait Gallery in Canberra, home to some of the nation's most significant portrait artworks, showcasing those who have shaped the culture of Australia. The light grey background of the rug is luxurious cut pile New Zealand wool and the dark grey accents are textured loop pile New Zealan...
Item | Cost (Approx.) |
---|---|
Coffee for two adults | AUD 10 |
Light lunch for two adults | AUD 30 |
Special exhibition tickets for two adults | AUD 40 |
Total Estimated | AUD 80 |
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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Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
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