ANZAC Parade

ANZAC Parade is Canberra's principal ceremonial thoroughfare, stretching 1.3 kilometres through the heart of the national capital. Flanked by war memorials, monuments, and museums, the avenue runs between Lake Burley Griffin to the north and the parliamentary precinct to the south, forming the ceremonial spine of Walter Burley Griffin's original city design. For Australians and visitors alike, it represents one of the country's most significant sites of military remembrance.

History

The parade was established in 1916, named in honour of the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps servicemen who had served at Gallipoli and on other fronts during the First World War. It was designated as Canberra's primary ceremonial route from the city's earliest planning stages, a reflection of the weight Australians placed on military service in the nation's identity.

Over the decades, memorials and institutions have accumulated along its length, each dedicated to different conflicts, campaigns, and branches of service. The avenue today serves as the focal point for the two most significant days in Australia's calendar of remembrance - Anzac Day on 25 April and Remembrance Day on 11 November - when large crowds gather for formal ceremonies along the route.

What to See and Do

Walking the full length of the parade is the best way to take in the range of memorials and monuments on either side. Each memorial is distinct in character and scale, and together they span Australia's military history across multiple conflicts and eras.

At the northern end sits the Australian War Memorial, one of the country's most visited institutions. The building houses an extensive collection of military artefacts, personal histories, and interactive exhibitions. Entry to some areas of the memorial carries a fee, so it's worth checking ahead if you're planning to spend time inside.

At the southern end, Parliament House provides a further point of interest, and its surrounding grounds are accessible to visitors.

Between the two landmarks, the avenue itself rewards a slow, considered walk. Allow at least two to three hours if you intend to go inside any of the museums or memorials along the way, more if you plan to visit Parliament House as well.

The parade is pram-friendly along its paved surfaces, making it manageable for families with young children, though parents should plan shorter distances between stops to account for younger legs.

Getting There and Access

ANZAC Parade sits in central Canberra, approximately two kilometres from the city centre. It can be approached via Canberra Avenue from the Parkes direction, or via Constitution Avenue. Regular bus services run along the parade, making it accessible without a car.

If you're driving, free parking is available in surrounding streets and in dedicated car parks near Parliament House at the southern end and the Australian War Memorial at the northern end. Street parking along the parade itself is limited. Accessibility spaces are available, and coach parking can be found for group visits. Overflow parking is available in the nearby Parkes suburb.

Best Time to Visit

Anzac Day in April draws large crowds for the dawn service and commemorations - an atmosphere quite unlike any other time of year. If you're attending an Anzac Day ceremony, arrive early and expect significant crowds along the full length of the avenue.

For a quieter visit, the spring months of October and November offer comfortable temperatures and pleasant conditions for walking. Weekday mornings are generally less busy than weekends at any time of year.

Mid-summer - December through February - brings intense heat to Canberra, and with limited shade along the parade, extended outdoor time can be uncomfortable. If visiting in summer, plan to walk early in the morning or in the late afternoon.

Visitor Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes. The full length of the avenue is 1.3 kilometres, and most visitors will cover considerably more ground once they factor in walking around individual memorials and museums.
• Bring water and sun protection. Shade along the parade is limited, and even in mild weather the exposed route can feel warm in the middle of the day.
• Entry to most memorials is free, though some museums along the way charge admission. Budget accordingly if you plan to visit multiple venues.
• Allow two to three hours minimum if you intend to go inside any of the museums, and longer if Parliament House is on your itinerary.
• Food and drink is available at cafés and restaurants at both the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House. Picnic areas can be found near Lake Burley Griffin, and bringing your own food gives you more flexibility if you want to take breaks along the way.