Dating in Parkes
In shortParkes is the lakeside home of the national institutions, so it is busy with visitors by day and quiet by evening. It is neutral ground, away from most offices and suburbs. A gallery date here gives you something to talk about from the first minute.
A first date idea
The National Gallery and its Sculpture Garden
The National Gallery of Australia on Parkes Place is free to visit and open 10am to 5pm daily, with a free general entry ticket you can book online or get at the door. The Sculpture Garden on Lake Burley Griffin has almost 30 works, including James Turrell's Skyspace and Fujiko Nakaya's fog sculpture. Some special exhibitions need a paid ticket, so check prices.
Source: National Gallery of Australia: Visit, checked 9 November 2026
Wander the National Gallery's Sculpture Garden by the lake.
For more ideas, read free dates in Canberra or dating where everyone knows someone.
