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Australia/Things to Do in Canberra, with kids

National Portrait Gallery (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is National Portrait Gallery?

81%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Art Cart, holiday workshops and a drop-in Family Space keep 3–12s busy, but portraits are untouchable and quiet rules apply, so energetic children may tire and need vigilant supervision.

Google
Reviews4.5/ 5
(from 2,043 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free General Entry: Main collection and touring exhibitions are free for all ages.
  • Pram-Friendly Layout: All public areas are on a single level with ramp access.

Challenges:

  • Booking Required: Family programs like Little Faces and Portrait Play need online reservations.
  • Holiday Crowds: School holiday periods can make family areas busy and noisy.
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🏖️ Explore National Portrait Gallery with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around National Portrait Gallery. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is National Portrait Gallery?

  • A national portrait museum devoted to collecting and exhibiting paintings, photographs and sculptures of influential Australians
  • A collection comprising over 500 works that trace the nation’s history and cultural identity through likenesses of its notable figures
  • A purpose-built 14,000-square-metre contemporary building featuring bold geometric architecture in Canberra’s Parliamentary Triangle

What is so special about National Portrait Gallery for with kids?

  1. Drop-in creative zone with art-making materials for kids
  2. Short, playful portrait tours and sessions for ages 3–12
  3. Free entry to the main collection and family-friendly programs
  4. Single-level layout perfect for strollers and easy navigation
  5. Café serves kid-friendly lunches and picnic options

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour visit lets families explore galleries, join a program, and rest at the café without rushing.

(View National Portrait Gallery on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in National Portrait Gallery

Family Space:

Drop-in art area with craft materials and games inspired by current exhibitions.

Tip: Runs daily in school holidays; arrive 10 minutes early to grab a spot.

Little Faces:

30-minute session for toddlers with songs and simple portrait viewings.

Tip: Book online for Wed–Fri at 9:30 am or 10:30 am; spaces fill quickly.

Portrait Play:

Movement-based tour designed for young children during holiday periods.

Tip: Check the Family activities calendar for dates and book to reserve places.

Art Cart:

Drawing station with prompts to sketch portrait details at your own pace.

Tip: Look for the Art Cart schedule at the Information Desk; bring your own crayons if you like.

Collections Highlights Tour:

30-minute family-friendly walk through key portraits with playful stories.

Tip: Ask at the desk for a shorter route to suit younger kids’ attention spans.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to National Portrait Gallery

  1. Arrive Early: Get a locker and secure spots in Family Space before it fills.
  2. Use Smartify App: Download the free audio guide app to enrich your visit and engage kids.
  3. Plan Around Tours: Check daily tour times online to join the Collections Highlights Tour.
🏖️ Tour National Portrait Gallery like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in National Portrait Gallery. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of National Portrait Gallery

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Robert Somerville

Robert Somerville

Aug 2025

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

Timeshare Chinchilla

Jul 2025

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

Lynne Cowan

Jul 2025

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

John John

Jun 2025

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 Design

May 2025

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...

When is the best time to visit National Portrait Gallery (Canberra, Australia)?

During school holidays, Family Space and Portrait Play run daily. Book special sessions early. Summer afternoons fill up fast—mornings are quieter.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Canberra on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Parking (street or lot)AUD 10
Kids’ lunch box (2)AUD 28
Adult meals (2)AUD 36
Special exhibition tickets (2 adults)AUD 50
Souvenir print or giftAUD 20
Total EstimatedAUD 144

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of National Portrait Gallery

Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia

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About National Portrait Gallery

Opening Hours

Monday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+61 2 6102 7000

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