Telstra Tower (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Telstra Tower?
What makes it 54% Kids-Friendly: Kids can enjoy free lawns, picnic spots and spotting birds on Black Mountain, yet lifts, museum and paid decks are shut until 2026 and no playground exists, so entertainment time is limited; check reopening.
Positives:
- Panoramic lookout: The drive-up summit offers broad city views accessible by car.
- Wildlife spotting: Kids can see native birds and wildflowers on nearby trails.
Challenges:
- Facilities closed: Indoor deck, café and museum remain closed until reopening in 2026.
- Steep trail section: Flower-to-Tower path is steep and not stroller-friendly.
What is Telstra Tower?
- A telecommunications tower rising 195.2 meters atop Black Mountain, serving as one of Canberra’s defining skyline landmarks
- A structure that integrates multiple observation decks, conference spaces and a heritage exhibition tracing the evolution of Australian communications
- An architectural composition of a slender concrete shaft crowned by a circular, glass-clad pod offering panoramic connectivity
What is so special about Telstra Tower for with kids?
- Scenic drive to a summit with city panoramas
- Picnic tables and open lawns for kids to run
- Wildflower and birdwatching on easy bush trails
- Gentle walks and electric-bus tour in Botanic Gardens
- Future indoor deck and café will add more fun
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a scenic drive, picnic and easy walks without rushing young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Telstra Tower
Summit picnic and views:
Drive up Black Mountain Drive to the summit carpark for panoramic city views.
Tip: Pack snacks and a blanket; arrive early to secure a picnic table.
Flower-to-Tower walking trail:
Follow a 5.4 km return bushwalk to spot wild orchids and native birds.
Tip: Start in the morning; wear sturdy shoes and carry water.
Botanic Gardens base stroll:
Walk gentle paths in the Australian National Botanic Gardens at the tower base.
Tip: Pick up a free map at the entrance; look for cockatoos and banksias.
Electric-bus garden tour:
Take a small electric bus around themed garden zones.
Tip: Book tickets in advance; tours fill up quickly on weekends.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Telstra Tower
- Check reopening date: Confirm tower deck and café reopen schedule before your visit.
- Pack essentials: Bring water, hats and snacks since no shops are open at the summit.
- Early visit: Go before noon to avoid heat and find picnic spots easily.
Reviews of Telstra Tower
Yonghyun Jung
Matt Carter
A truly abysmal place. The birds just stare at you. The worms are scared to stay underground. A strange man touched my ear. There is the smell of urine and fear.
Michael Dummett
Not a Telstra store
Bob Miller
Great place to work
Frank Smallwood
Really good facility. Parking in the general area is average, but this isn't Telstras fault.
When is the best time to visit Telstra Tower (Canberra, Australia)?
Visit in spring (Sept–Nov) to see wild orchids. In summer, bring hats and sunscreen. Enjoy autumn colours in the gardens.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Electric-bus tour (family of 4) | AUD 32 |
| Picnic supplies (estimate) | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 52 |
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 Telstra Tower
Address: 18 Mort St, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Telstra Tower (Canberra)?
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇦🇺 Australia, with kids
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities