The 25 best free things to do in Australia

Where: Swanston St & Flinders St, Melbourne

What is it? When Melburnians want to take a break from complaining about the weather, they start whinging about Melbourne's 'meeting place' – aka Federation Square. Love it or hate it, there's always something happening, and many of the events are free. Love or hate its controversial geometric architecture, it's home to ACMI, The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia and Koorie Heritage Trust. As well as cool dining options, you can also find tai chi classes, morning meditation, children's libraries and the occasional free movie on the big screen.

Time Out tip: Check the website for upcoming free events.

Where: St Kilda Pier, Port Phillip, Melbourne

What is it? It's an undeniable truth that you can't help but feel happy while watching penguins waddle home along the beach. Take in the sunset while you stroll down Jacka Boulevard to St Kilda’s breakwater for a peek at a healthy-sized colony of little penguins (also called fairy penguins). Just remember: don’t climb on the rocks (that’s where they lay eggs and rear young), don’t use flash on your camera and don’t feed or touch them.

Time Out tip: The best time to spot the penguins is 30 minutes after sunset, when they waddle home to the rocks along the pier to nest. 

Where: 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

What is it? Given the near-constant rotation of fabulous special exhibitions at the NGV, you’d be forgiven for neglecting the equally impressive (and free!) permanent collection. Next time you visit the St Kilda Road gallery, make sure you spy the Rembrandt, Tiepolo and Picasso, which are all hanging around the gallery. Plus, the magnificent, boiled lolly-like stained-glass ceiling of the Great Hall and the entryway water wall will keep you entertained for a while.

Time Out tip: Free tours exploring both the Australian and international collections run daily. 

Where: Around Melbourne CBD

What is it? The best part of Melbourne’s CBD is easily traversed via the free tram zone. This zone stretches as far north as Queen Vic Market, east to Spring Street and Parliament House, south to Flinders Street, and west to Docklands and Victoria Harbour. It’s ideal for sightseeing in the city as it stretches across to some of the coolest inner-suburban hangouts as well, including cocktail bars like Apollo Inn, karaoke joints like Heroes and inner-city parks, too.

Time Out tip: If you're an early riser travelling outside the free tram zone and touch on and off with your Myki before 7am on a weekday, your trip is also free!

Where: 154 Greenhill Rd, Parkside, Adelaide

What is it? Get up close and personal to the sweet stuff at South Australia’s very own Haigh’s Chocolate Factory. Located on Adelaide’s fringe, Haigh’s is the country's oldest family-owned chocolate company, with 1915 beginnings, and it still operates from its original 1919 Parkside factory. Today, the chocolate oasis is run by fourth-generation Haigh's, and you can take a 30-minute, free guided tour around the factory to learn about its rich history and watch the magic in the making. Gaze upon the handcrafted techniques, be mesmerised by the liquid gold as it drapes over the confectionery like silk, and let your pure imagination run wild.

Time Out tip: Haigh’s Chocolate Factory tours operate during the store’s usual trading hours, and booking is highly recommended.

Where: Main entrance at North Tce, Adelaide

What is it? Located smack-bang in the city centre, Adelaide Botanic Garden covers 51 hectares of diverse habitats, with both outdoor and indoor displays to marvel at. With such vast land to frolic, the gardens can easily meld into one big haze of green – that’s where a free guided walking tour comes in handy. Led by Friends of the Botanic Gardens, this excursion takes you through hidden nooks and passes on plenty of horticultural fun facts, as well as valuable insight into the history of the garden. Departing at 10.30am daily from the Schomburgk Pavilion, the guided journey spans 1.5 hours and doesn’t require bookings unless you bring the whole crew (five or more people). Get your exploration boots on and hop to it.

Time Out tip: If you've got extra time, entry to the on-site Museum of Economic Botany is also free and worth a squiz. 

Where: State Library of South Australia, North Tce, Adelaide

What is it? It’s no wonder that the State Library of South Australia’s Mortlock Chamber is consistently voted as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world – it’s a bygone dream, and you’d just about be mistaken for entering a restricted section of Hogwarts. The North Terrace Mortlock Chamber opened to the public in 1884 and remains a prime example of a late-Victorian library, looks-wise. The grand bibliotheca showcases yesteryear features, with the likes of a glass-domed lantern roof, wrought iron-balustraded balconies and a marvellous clock that ticks above the hall. The Mortlock Chamber is a glorious place for a spot of quiet time, a bit of photography practice or to embrace your inner wizard. It also plays host to pop-up bars and Christmas displays that’ll heal your psyche.

Time Out tip: Deep dive into the history of the library, its exhibitions and its people on a free ambassador-led tour. These run on most weekdays at 11am and on Mondays and Thursdays at 2pm. 

Where: Stanley Plc, South Brisbane, QLD

What is it? The state's Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) spans two airy buildings by the water in South Bank. While the Queensland Art Gallery has been here in all its brutalist grandeur since 1982, the Gallery of Modern Art annex was opened in 2006. These days, the two galleries house an impressive permanent collection – in addition to hosting regular temporary exhibitions (which are usually not free, soz). Brush up on great Queensland artists like Tracey Moffatt and Ian Fairweather before you try to impress your squeeze with culture.

Time Out tip: Visit during weekdays for a more peaceful experience.

Where: Sir Samuel Griffith Dr, Mount Coot-tha, Brisbane

What is it? Only 15 minutes from the CBD, Brisbane's Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout offers panoramic views of the city – so close you could almost reach out and touch the skyscrapers – and is easily accessible by car or walking trail. Take your camera and head up early to see the sunrise from Brisbane’s highest point. If mornings don’t agree with you, the sunset and evening views are equally impressive. Or make a day of it – the reserve is also home to extensive hiking and mountain biking trails, waterfalls, picnic areas, Botanic Gardens and even a planetarium.

Time Out tip: There are more than 70 hiking trails scattered across Mt Coot-tha Reserve. Our favourite is the 1.9-kilometre Summit Track, extending from JC Slaughter Falls to the lookout.

Where: Marine Pde, Cottesloe, Perth

What is it? Sydney and the Gold Coast may hog the limelight when it comes to famous beaches, but here in Perth, the scorching summer temps, azure waters and pearly-white sands make our shores a natural wonder in a class of their own. Hit up Cottesloe Beach for a swim, snorkel or surf, and it’s fair to say you won’t be disappointed. Every day is beach weather, so be sure to add an Indian Ocean sunset and an impromptu seaside picnic to your bucket list. 

Time Out tip: If you have a bike, you can cycle along the stunning 25-kilometre coastline from Cottesloe to Hillary's. 

Where: Fraser Ave, Perth

What is it? The verdant greenery of Kings Park – one of the world’s largest and most beautiful parks covering 400 hectares – is a pretty city escape, boasting mesmerising panoramic vistas of the Swan River and city skyline. You’ll be in good company as you venture down one of the many bush walking trails or rest on the immaculate lawns, as Kings Park is one of WA’s most visited tourist destinations and home to 3,000 species of unique flora.

Time Out tip: Join one of the free guided walks, hosted by volunteers every day at 10am and 1pm. 

Where: Around Fremantle

What is it? There’s always something happening by the seaside in 'Freo', a cultural hub where the Swan River kisses the Indian Ocean. Stroll along the foreshore to South Fremantle, cool down in the free museums (WA Shipwreck Museum or Fremantle Arts Centre), potter around the Fremantle Markets (one of only two surviving market buildings in WA), and enjoy a swim at the beautiful Bathers Beach.

Time Out tip: It’s worth mentioning that Bathers is WA’s first licensed beach area, so bring a few bevvies and settle in for a sunset session with BYO treats. 

Where: Parliament Dr, Canberra

What is it? One of the big drawcards of Canberra is getting to see where all the big decisions get made in our version of the White House. The good news is that entry to Parliament House is free, and the even better news is that you won’t need to fork out any more if you’d like to go on a proper tour. Even though the 25-minute Heart of the House tour is free, you can reserve your spot here. You’ll get an introduction to the architecture, check out one of the chambers and hear all about Parliament House’s political history. 

Time Out tip: While there, check out the Lego Parliament House, which took artist Ryan ‘Brickman’ McNaught 740 hours – or almost 31 days – to build. 

Where: Forest Dr, Canberra

What is it? Not only are there countless picnic spots at the National Arboretum, but electric barbecuing stations too, for a bougie lunch that you can bring from home. Drive right up to the picnic table on Dairy Farmers Hill for a picnic with panoramic views, or go on a little bit of a walk through the Himalayan cedar forest, where you’ll find a bigger picnic area and grills. Once you’re full and content, you can explore the forest sculpture gallery, playground, bonsai collection and more than 20 kilometres of walking and cycle tracks. And none of it will cost you a cent. 

Time Out tip: Join a free forest walk, led by a friendly volunteer, to learn more about the Arboretum's purpose and trees. 

Where: Around Canberra

What is it? Most of Canberra's incredible galleries are completely free to explore. Get artsy at the National Gallery of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery, travel back in time at the National Museum of Australia, or ball out at the Royal Australian Mint. You can also listen to the humbling sounds of the Last Post at the Australian War Memorial – but don’t forget to reserve your spot online. 

Time Out tip: Pair your gallery visit with a trip to one of Canberra's best cafés.

Where: Salamanca Place (Salamanca Market) | Bathurst Street (Farm Gate), Hobart

What is it? Every Saturday morning, locals and tourists love heading to the historic Salamanca Place for Hobart's most famous market. There’s plenty to enjoy at the Salamanca Market, with stalls from local artisans, authors and foodies alike. One minute you’ll be sampling a local gin, wine or honey; next you’ll be admiring artwork of Tasmanian devils, jewellery made using local gemstones and toasty socks that Tassie sheep have kindly provided the wool for. If you're in Hobart on a Sunday, it's also worth visiting the local favourite Farm Gate Market – named by Lonely Planet as one of the world's ten best for 2025 – which offers produce only grown or made in Tasmania. 

Time Out tip: Plan a long weekend trip so you can tick off both markets in the one holiday.

Where: Pinnacle Rd, Hobart

What is it? You don't need to pay a cent to experience breathtaking views from the summit of Hobart’s tallest peak, kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Even when the clouds roll in, the mountaintop is an experience in itself. If you’re lucky enough to experience great conditions, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panorama of Hobart. For those feeling active, dozens of walking tracks crisscross kunanyi, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes.

Time Out tip: If you're up for a hike, we love the 7.4-kilometre Organ Pipes Walk starting at The Springs carpark.

Where: Start at Kelly’s Steps, Salamanca Pl, Hobart

What is it? Flanked by the River Derwent and Salamanca Place, Battery Point is filled with history and charm, whose European history really began when 30 hectares of private land were granted to Reverend Robert Knopwood in 1805. Highlights include Kelly’s Steps, the insanely charming collection of houses at Arthur’s Circus, big green spaces and scenic vantage points overlooking the water. Follow your nose or download the Battery Point Walk map for a self-guided tour. 

Time Out tip: Rest your legs with a pint and a parmi at the almost 200-year-old Shipwrights Arms Hotel.

Where: Maria Liveris Dr, The Gardens, Darwin

What is it? Every Thursday and Sunday from 4pm to 9pm, Mindil Beach turns into a mecca of lights, colour and activity for Darwin's most famous sunset market. An emulsion of culture and creativity, it invites you to soak in the beauty of the sunset while the ocean breeze hums in the background. Explore more than 150 stalls serving up delicious Southeast Asian flavours and enjoy the rhythm of free live music all night long.

Time Out tip: The sunsets at Mindil Beach are some of the best in the country! Arrive early and set yourself high on the sand dunes for the best views.

Where: 19 Conacher St, The Gardens, Darwin

What is it? If Darwin had a greatest hits album, the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) would be the opening track. It’s got everything – Indigenous art, a Cyclone Tracy exhibition, 23 gorgeous traditional boats and canoes and mind-blowing local stories that add depth and a hefty dose of ‘whoa, people really lived through that’ to your understanding of northern Australia. The star of the show for kids? Sweetheart, a massive crocodile that once terrorised fishing boats. If you want to see the real deal, head to the Adelaide River for a jumping croc cruise. 

Time Out tip: Kids will love MAGNT's Discovery Centre, which offers free, drop-in activities for families from 10.30am to 12.30pm Friday to Sunday (during NT school term) or Tuesday to Thursday (during NT school holidays). A highlight is the children's book and puzzle library. 

Where: Berry Springs Nature Park, Cox Peninsula Rd

What is it? In the dry season (May to October), locals and visitors alike flock to the warm waters of Berry Springs Nature Park for some free fun (shaded from the sun). Even in the wet season – when swimming isn’t permitted due to the threat of crocs – it’s still a pretty spot for picnicking and wildlife-admiring. On your way back to Darwin, stop for a cold beer at the classic Berry Springs Tavern and hang out with the pub’s pets: goats, emus and deer.

Time Out tip: On your way back to Darwin, stop for a cold beer at the classic Berry Springs Tavern and hang out with the pub’s pets: goats, emus and deer.