Joanna M.
Yelp
This museum is such a great place to get an engaging overview of Australia's history and Canberra's role in it. Just to name a few, there are sections on European settlers, Aboriginal traditions, big bush fires and various ecosystems across the country. Not to mention, they've got Pharlap's Heart on display downstairs!
Now that I've been a few times, I prefer to come when they've got a new exhibition on--I've learned so much about Australian of the Year nominees, Paralympians and Miss Universe competitors--who would have thought?! The gift shop here is also incredibly diverse and well stocked.
As museums go, this one is relatively large, so you can easily pass a whole afternoon. However, the cafe is rather expensive, so bring your own snacks. There are generous windows in the main lobby which overlook the lake, so the people watching is also superb. Highly recommend!