Captain James Cook Memorial, Canberra

Name: Captain James Cook Memorial
Address: Barrine Dr., Canberra, 2600, Australia
Telephone: +61 2 6205 0044

#25 among attractions in Canberra

Memorial

Gallery (3)

Map

Captain James Cook Memorial location map

Map

Gallery

Facts and practical information

The Captain James Cook Memorial in Canberra, Australia, stands as a proud tribute to the British explorer who charted the East Coast of Australia in 1770. Unveiled in 1970 to mark the bicentenary of Cook's discovery, the memorial is an iconic feature of the capital's landscape, located within the picturesque setting of Lake Burley Griffin.

This memorial comprises two main elements: a water jet and a terrestrial globe. The water jet, one of the world's highest, propels water up to 147 meters into the air, symbolizing Cook's adventurous spirit and the vast oceans he navigated. It operates daily, weather permitting, providing a stunning spectacle against Canberra's skyline.

Accompanying the water jet is a bronze terrestrial globe, illustrating the routes taken by Cook during his three great voyages. This aspect of the memorial offers visitors an educational experience, allowing them to trace the paths that led to significant historical discoveries and the mapping of the world as we know it today.

The Captain James Cook Memorial is not only a commemoration of Cook's achievements but also serves as a reminder of the complex history of exploration and its impacts on indigenous peoples. It invites contemplation and reflection on Australia's history, from its exploration to modern times.

Alternative names: Coordinates: 35°17'25"S, 149°7'48"E

Address

Barrine Dr.South Canberra (Parkes)Canberra 2600 Australia

Contact

+61 2 6205 0044

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Canberra

Day trips

Captain James Cook Memorial – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: National Museum of Australia, Commonwealth Park, Questacon, City Hill.

0.6 miW
Exhibits spanning social history
National Museum of Australia, Canberra
15 min walk • The National Museum of Australia stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Australia's history, culture, and people. Located in the heart of Canberra, the nation's capital, this museum is a contemporary repository of knowledge and exhibits that delve into the...
~760 ftNE
Park
Commonwealth Park, Canberra
4 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Canberra, Commonwealth Park is an urban oasis that offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life. This expansive green space is a cherished sanctuary for both locals and tourists, providing a picturesque setting for leisure, recreation...
0.6 miS
Interactive kids' science and tech museum
Questacon, Canberra
15 min walk • Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre in Canberra, Australia, is a high-caliber institution dedicated to making science accessible and engaging for people of all ages. Established in 1988, Questacon strives to ignite an enduring interest in the...
0.6 miN
Park
City Hill, Canberra
15 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Canberra, City Hill stands as a verdant oasis amidst the urban landscape of Australia's capital. This lush park, located within the Parliamentary Triangle, offers a tranquil retreat for residents and visitors alike.
~1330 ftSW
Bridge
Commonwealth Avenue Bridge, Canberra
7 min walk • Spanning the serene waters of Lake Burley Griffin in the heart of Canberra, Australia, the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge is not only an essential conduit for daily commuters but also a significant landmark in the nation's capital.
0.7 miS
Modern gallery and portraiture collection
National Portrait Gallery, Canberra
18 min walk • The National Portrait Gallery in Canberra is a collection of portraits of prominent Australians who are important in their field of endeavour or whose life sets them apart as an individual of long-term public interest.
0.5 miSE
Park
Commonwealth Place, Canberra
14 min walk • Commonwealth Place is located on the southern shore of Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra. It lies along the ‘water axis’ running along the lake from Black Mountain.
0.7 miNE
Park, Playground
Glebe Park, Canberra
17 min walk • Glebe Park is a public park on the eastern side of Civic, Canberra, Australia. The park is bounded by Coranderrk, Ballumbir, Akuna, and Bunda Streets, and to the south, the National Convention Centre.
0.6 miE
Monuments and statues
National Emergency Services Memorial, Canberra
17 min walk • The National Emergency Services Memorial is a memorial located on the northern shore of Lake Burley Griffin at the southern end of Anzac Parade in Canberra, the national capital of Australia. It was dedicated in July 2004. The overall memorial was designed by Aspect Melbourne Pty Ltd.
0.7 miN
Museum celebrating the Ngunnawal people
Canberra Museum and Gallery, Canberra
18 min walk • Canberra Museum and Gallery is an art gallery and museum in Canberra, the capital of Australia. It is located on London Circuit, in Civic in the centre of the city. The gallery was opened on 13 February 1998.
0.7 miN
Shopping, Shopping centre
City Walk, Canberra
18 min walk • City Walk is a paved outdoor pedestrian area in Civic, Canberra. It was formed by the closure to traffic of Alinga Street between East Row in the east and Binara Street in the south-west, and named City Walk in January 1975.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which popular attractions are close to Captain James Cook Memorial?

Nearby attractions include Commonwealth Park, Canberra (4 min walk), Commonwealth Avenue Bridge, Canberra (7 min walk), Parkes Way, Canberra (9 min walk), Canberra Peace Park, Canberra (10 min walk).

How to get to Captain James Cook Memorial by public transport?

The nearest stations to Captain James Cook Memorial:

Bus

City Bus Station (21 min walk)
City West Bus Station (21 min walk)

Light rail

Alinga Street • Lines: Canberra Metro (Nouthbound), Canberra Metro (Southbound) (22 min walk)