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Canberra has quite a diverse range of shopping opportunities, including the large 300-store Canberra Centre on Bunda Street in the heart of the city, and the well-to-do inner suburbs of Manuka and Kingston, where designer clothes and home wares can be had. There are also a number of high-quality arts-and-crafts outlets where you are likely to come across some unusual gifts and souvenirs. The galleries and museums sell interesting and often innovative items designed and made in Australia.
Apart from the major galleries, Canberra has a wealth of smaller private art galleries showcasing and selling the works of Australian artists. You can find paintings, sculpture, woodworking, glassware, and jewelry at these spots. Entry to most galleries is free, and it is always advisable to call ahead for business hours.
South of Lake Burley Griffin, this lively Sunday market is in the former Kingston bus depot. Handmade crafts are the staples here, and buskers and inexpensive exotic food enliven the shopping experience. The markets also run on Saturday throughout December leading up to Christmas. When you've had your fill, wander across the road to the Canberra Glassworks to watch artisans at work.
This space has four exhibition galleries and a sculpture garden, where works by contemporary Australian artists are showcased.
The charming streets of this shopping precinct on the city's northern outskirts are lined with all sorts of fun little places to explore. Peek into art galleries and pottery shops, browse through clothing boutiques and gift stores, and nosh at several eateries.
