THE INSIDER: Canberra Comes Alive
Ovolo Hotels is your passport to the extraordinary, bringing you the most exciting and premium experiences in Canberra. Whether it’s spectacular sky shows, immersive cultural exhibitions, or adrenaline-pumping adventures, there’s something to ignite every sense. And where better to stay than Ovolo Nishi, your stylish sanctuary in the heart of the action?
Upcoming Events
Skyfire: The Ultimate Night in the Sky
As the Official Hotel Partner of SKYFIRE 2025, Ovolo Nishi offers front-row access to Canberra’s most dazzling spectacle. On Saturday 15th March, the night sky above Lake Burley Griffin will ignite with breathtaking fireworks—bigger than Sydney’s New Year’s Eve display with an impressive 20-minute show.
Join 120,000 festival-goers as the city buzzes with energy, featuring local food stalls, live entertainment, and a thrilling RAAF Jet Display. Lake Burley Griffin is just a short stroll from Ovolo Nishi, so you can immerse yourself in the exciting atmosphere mere minutes from the hotel. Read more.
Enlighten Festival (28 Feb – 10 March)
See Canberra in a whole new light as a luminous wonderland awaits as the Enlighten Festival casts its glow across the city. Art, culture, and creativity collide in a dazzling display of light projections, live performances, and interactive installations on foot or a short ride away from Ovolo Nishi.
Explore the city’s pop-up night markets, witness striking art installations, and sip on cocktails under the illuminated sky. From Parliament House to the National Gallery, this festival makes the city shine like never before. Read more
Canberra Comedy Festival (12 to 23 March)
Delivering an exclusive lineup of world-class comedic talent. Set a short distance frmo the hotel, the festival offers a sophisticated blend of sharp wit, masterful storytelling, and unforgettable performances. The prestigious Canberra Comedy Festival Gala on 18 March sets the stage for an extraordinary week, showcasing an elite selection of Australian and international stars. This year’s lineup features Luke McGregor, Wil Anderson, Lizzy Hoo, Dave Hughes, Sara Pascoe, Broden Kelly and more ensuring a festival experience that is both dynamic and unmissable.
With an atmosphere of excitement and cultural vibrancy, the festival has become a must-attend event for those who appreciate comedy at its finest. Whether you seek intelligent satire, observational brilliance, or laugh-out-loud stand-up, this is where comedy meets excellence. Read more.
Balloon Spectacular (15 – 23 March)
Mornings have never looked this good as you rise with the sun and witness a sky filled with colour as the Canberra Balloon Spectacular takes flight. This dreamlike event transforms the city’s morning horizon into a floating gallery of vibrant hot air balloons of all shapes and sizes as they drift over iconic landmarks.
From the comfort of Ovolo Nishi, sip on a barista-made coffee before taking a short walk to the launch site at Patrick White Lawns. Feel the thrill as dozens of balloons ascend in unison, reflecting the golden hues of sunrise over Lake Burley Griffin. It’s a moment of pure magic—one that makes waking up early absolutely worth it. Read more
Pompeii (Until 4 May)
Ste back in time as history comes alive at the National Museum of Australia, where the ancient city of Pompeii is reimagined through cutting-edge projections, soundscapes, and rare artefacts. Walk through the streets of this once-thriving metropolis, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
Ovolo Nishi provides the perfect base for an immersive cultural escape—spend the day exploring, then return for a cocktail and conversation about the wonders you’ve just uncovered during Apero Hour. Read more
In The Wild
Corin Forest Alpine Slide
For adventure seekers, Corin Forest offers the longest Alpine Slide in the Southern Hemisphere. Carve through lush mountain landscapes on a high-speed ride that delivers both adrenaline and breathtaking scenery.
Only a short drive from Ovolo Nishi, this thrilling experience is the perfect escape from the city’s hustle—combining nature and adventure. See more.
The Ultimate Self-Drive Getaway
The beauty of a Sydney-to-Canberra road trip is that it doesn’t have to end when you reach the capital. There’s more to explore—whether it’s a scenic wine detour, an alpine adventure, or a quirky cultural stop on your way back.
Wine & Dine in the Canberra Region
Just 30 minutes outside the city, the Canberra District Wine Region is a treasure trove of boutique wineries and award-winning cool-climate wines. Stop by Clonakilla, famed for its elegant Shiraz Viognier, or sip on something unexpected at Lark Hill, an organic vineyard producing some of the region’s best biodynamic wines. Pair your tastings with a long lunch at Poachers Pantry, where house-smoked meats and local produce steal the show.
Alpine Adventures & Outdoor Thrills
If you’re craving more adventure, head to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve for bushwalking and wildlife spotting, or chase an adrenaline rush at Corin Forest, home to the longest Alpine Slide in the Southern Hemisphere. For something truly magical, time your trip with the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, where you can float above the city at sunrise for an unforgettable view.
A Diplomatic Detour
As Australia’s capital, Canberra hosts embassies and high commissions representing numerous nations, each showcasing unique design elements that reflect their home country’s heritage and traditions. Discover unique architecture and cultural influences from around the world by visiting various diplomatic missions through leafy diplomatic precincts at your own pace. Read more.
The Road Home – With a Twist
On your way back to Sydney, mix things up with an alternative route through the Shoalhaven region, where Jervis Bay’s white-sand beaches and Berry’s charming boutiques and cafes offer the perfect way to wind down before heading back to reality. With its mix of gourmet stops, outdoor adventures, and unexpected delights, a Sydney-to-Canberra road trip is the ultimate excuse to hit the road. And with Ovolo Nishi as your stylish base, your capital stay will be just as memorable as the journey itself. Ready to roll? Let the adventure begin.
Cycling Escapes
Discover Canberra’s wild side with epic mountain bike trails that weave through breathtaking scenery. From the technical challenges of Stromlo Forest Park to the serene beauty of Tidbinbilla, the city’s cycling routes offer something for every rider.
Stay with Ovolo Nishi and experience the freedom of two wheels, with curated trails and insider tips to help you explore the best of Canberra’s cycling culture. See more.
Culture, Creativity & Hidden Gems
Canberra’s cultural scene is brimming with hidden gems, from exclusive art exhibits to boundary-pushing theatre. Whether it’s contemporary installations at the National Gallery, unearthing musical geniuses at Fun Time Pony, or an underground performance in an unexpected venue, there’s always something to discover.
A Deep Dive into Art & History
Start your journey at the National Gallery of Australia, home to over 155,000 works, including the breathtaking James Turrell Skyspace and the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. Nearby, the National Portrait Gallery offers a fascinating glimpse into Australia’s most influential figures through striking photography and paintings.
For something immersive, Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre makes learning fun with interactive exhibits, while the Australian War Memorial tells powerful stories of resilience and sacrifice through moving displays and daily Last Post ceremonies.
Theatre & Offbeat Experiences
Canberra’s theatre scene is equally dynamic. Catch a show at Canberra Theatre Centre, where bold productions and touring performances light up the stage. Prefer something intimate? The Street Theatre is a hidden gem for independent productions and experimental performances.
For an offbeat adventure, explore the underground world of ANU’s Kambri Precinct, where pop-up exhibitions, indie film screenings, and live music create a thriving cultural hub.
Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or simply looking for something unexpected, Canberra’s creative scene has something for everyone. Stay at Ovolo Nishi, where design, culture, and luxury blend seamlessly—because your getaway should be as inspiring as the city itself.
Canberra’s Hottest Restaurants: A Culinary Playground Awaits
Canberra’s dining scene is on fire, and at Ovolo Nishi, you’re in the perfect spot to experience it all. From boundary-pushing fine dining to hidden gems serving up bold flavours, the capital is packed with culinary must-visits.
Right here at Ovolo, Monster Kitchen & Bar leads the charge with its reinvented menu bringing meat back to your plate, where dishes like smoked eggplant with miso and crispy tofu with black garlic redefine modern dining.
For handmade pasta and effortlessly cool vibes, Carlotta is a must. Wilma delivers Asian BBQ perfection with a progressive twist, while Paranormal Wines pairs natural drops with curated seasonal bites. If you’re after refined, ever-changing dishes, Onzieme offers an intimate experience, and Pilot is the go-to for masterfully crafted degustation dining.
Craving a steak? Compa is one of the best steakhouses in the city. Love Japanese? Raku blends precision and artistry with its sushi and robata grill. For a Mediterranean escape, Bar Rochford serves up wine, bites, and a moody ambiance. Rebel Rebel is where creativity meets casual dining, and Inka offers a Peruvian-Japanese fusion that’s pure flavour magic.
Wherever you dine, Canberra’s food scene is thriving—and with Ovolo Nishi as your home base, you’re never far from your next incredible meal. Let the feasting begin!
Where to stay in Canberra?
At Ovolo Nishi, we’re more than just a place to stay—we’re an experience, a destination, and the perfect launchpad for your Canberra adventure. Nestled in the vibrant NewActon precinct, our boutique luxury hotel blends art, design, and indulgence, offering a stay that’s as unique as the city itself.
Our rooms? Think plush king beds, deep-soaking bathtubs, and handcrafted interiors, with many offering breathtaking views over Lake Burley Griffin. Whether you’re here for Skyfire’s dazzling fireworks or the creative energy of the Enlighten Festival, you’ll wake up in style and step straight into the action.
Hungry? Monster Kitchen & Bar serves up bold creations in a space as stylish as the plates themselves. And because we believe in the little luxuries, expect a beautifully curated minibar, gym, superspeed Wi-Fi, and a stay infused with fun and flair.
Ovolo Nishi isn’t just where you stay—it’s where your Canberra story begins.
