Bowen Park, Canberra Travel Guide

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Discover lakeside serenity at Bowen Park in Canberra: perfect for picnics, walks, and scenic views of Lake Burley Griffin.

Bowen Park, a 6-hectare lakeside haven on Lake Burley Griffin's East Basin in Barton, offers a serene escape with picnic spots, walking paths, and distant views of Canberra's landscape. Named in 1963 to honor Sir George Bowen and other notable Bowens, the park's origins trace back to Walter Burley Griffin's 1918 plan for Canberra.

A brief summary to Bowen Park

Bowen Dr, Barton, Australian Capital Territory, 2600, AU
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bowen Park.

Enjoy a picnic with the free electric and gas BBQs available.
Take a walk or cycle along the paved pathways around the park and Lake Burley Griffin.
Visit in spring to see the spectacular crabapple and cherry blossoms in bloom.
Grab a coffee or meal at the On Lake Cafe located within the park.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Australian War Memorial

Jack Ross Park

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Norgrove Park

Kingston Foreshore

Explore Bowen Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Bowen Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the National Gallery of Australia, walk east along the lakeside path. Follow the path as it curves around the lake's edge. Bowen Park will be on your left, approximately a 10-15 minute walk. No costs involved.
Public Transport

From the city center, take a bus towards Barton. Alight at a bus stop on Bowen Drive, near the park entrance. Check Transport Canberra for the most up-to-date bus routes and schedules. A single bus fare is around $3.20 AUD.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Parliament House, a taxi or ride-share to Bowen Park will take approximately 5-10 minutes. Expect to pay around $15-25 AUD, depending on traffic and the specific service.
Parking

Limited parking is available off Bowen Drive, with time restrictions on weekdays. Parking is free. Alternatively, parking is available at the National Gallery of Australia, a short walk away, with paid parking until 5pm on weekdays and weekends. Rates range from $4 AUD for 0-1 hour to $32 AUD for 7+ hours.

Discover more about Bowen Park

Bowen Park provides a tranquil retreat with its scenic lakeside setting and ample space for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy picnics with electric and gas BBQs, explore the paved pathways, and observe local birdlife. The park is also a great starting point for exploring Lake Burley Griffin and nearby attractions like Kingston Foreshore.The park's history dates back to Walter Burley Griffin's early vision for Canberra, with initial plantings carried out in 1922 by Charles Weston. In the late 1980s, a special planting of cherry blossom trees occurred. The park was officially named Bowen Park in 1963, commemorating Sir George Bowen, the first Governor of Queensland, as well as John Bowen and Richard Bowen.Today, Bowen Park features the Bowen Park Pavilion, sculptures, and a café. It's also located on Ngunnawal Country, recognizing the area's ancient connection to the Ngunnawal people. A unique Hungarian Székely Gate stands in the park, symbolizing the friendship between Australia and Hungary. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll, a family picnic, or a scenic spot to unwind, Bowen Park offers a delightful experience in the heart of Canberra.