Surprises are abundant everywhere in Canberra's districts. Take time to get out and explore, and you are sure to take away fond memories of the bush capital. Ginninderra Falls is a short drive from Belconnen, while Mt Stromlo Observatory and the Cotter Reserve are only 15 minutes drive from Woden. Tuggeranong is the gateway to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

Tharwa

This beautiful, historic rural village is on the way to Namadgi National Park and is home to Australia's oldest bridge. Enjoy a picnic at the Tharwa Bridge Reserve or take time to peruse the Cuppacumbalong Craft Centre during your rural outing.

Queanbeyan

Settled before Canberra, Queanbeyan is a typical inland Australian "city" with a township built around the main street, a welcome lack of high-rises and one shopping mall. Although only a 15 minute drive from Canberra's city center, Queanbeyan can feel like a world apart. The city is close to Molonglo Gorge and the magnificent Googong Dam — which is both an amazing engineering feat and a pleasant spot for a picnic, fishing or bushwalking.

Bungendore

Rural Bungendore is Canberra's historical region. This small, colonial-style village established in 1880 is now a thriving tourist attraction. Art, craft, and antique stores are great for shopping or just browsing. And the Bungendore Wood Works is a must. The beautiful Carrington Hotel in the center of the village serves as restaurant and function center, and even has a resident ghost!

Captains Flat

Originally a booming mining town, Captains Flat is now a great place for an afternoon drive, being only 45 minutes from the city center. Tipped to become one of the city's next big tourist venues, Captains Flat is still a sleepy township that seems miles from anywhere. Enjoy a peaceful picnic in the park, a bushwalk or a lazy lunch at the pub while you can.

Murrumbateman

Another rural village center, Murrumbateman is an ideal stopping off point between Canberra and Yass. Home to many of the region's noted wineries, such as Clonkilla Wines and Doonkuna Estate, Murrumbateman makes a great destination for wine lovers. Antique stores are also plentiful here.