Overview
The Captain Cook Memorial Jet is a striking water fountain located on the southern shore of Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra. It was built in 1961 to commemorate the bicentenary of Captain James Cook's sighting of the Australian coast. The jet shoots water up to 147 meters (482 feet) into the air, making it one of the tallest fountains in the world.
The Captain Cook Memorial Jet is a significant landmark in Canberra, symbolizing the bicentenary of Captain James Cook's exploration and the European discovery of Australia. It is also an iconic feature of Lake Burley Griffin and a popular tourist attraction.
Location
Address
Barrine Drive, Acton, Canberra, Australia Capital Authority
Neighborhood: Acton
Coordinates
-35.280900, 149.130000
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
September-November, March-May
Best Time of Day
Evening
The jet is lit up at night, offering a spectacular view. The evenings are generally cooler and more pleasant during the warmer months.
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Beautiful evening views
- • Pleasant weather for walking around the lake
summer
Hot and sunny
- • Jet is lit up at night
- • Long daylight hours
autumn
Mild to cool
- • Cool evenings
- • Beautiful fall colors around the lake
winter
Cool to cold
- • Cool evenings
- • Fewer crowds
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check the weather forecast
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Bring a jacket for cooler evenings
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low
- • Stay hydrated in hot weather
- • Be cautious near the water's edge
Medical facilities: Nearest hospital is Canberra Hospital (5 km away)
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate or offensive clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but consider booking tickets for nearby attractions in advance.
- • Official website or third-party booking platforms for nearby attractions.
- • Varies by nearby attractions.
- • Available for nearby museums and attractions.
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Canberra Explorer
Size: 25 MB
Features: Map of Canberra attractions, Information on the Captain Cook Memorial Jet, Event listings, Tickets for nearby attractions
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Nearby cafes and restaurants
Charging Stations: Nearby cafes and restaurants
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Canberra Airport
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 15 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The Captain Cook Memorial Jet is a beloved landmark that offers stunning views and a sense of pride in Canberra's history.
Historical Significance: The jet commemorates the bicentenary of Captain James Cook's sighting of the Australian coast, a significant event in Australia's history.
Insider Tips
- Visit the jet at night for a magical experience
- Combine your visit with a walk around Lake Burley Griffin
- Check out the nearby attractions for a full day of exploration
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the National Museum of Australia nearby
- • Try local Canberra cuisine at nearby restaurants
- • Explore the Australian National Botanic Gardens
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Mandarin, Japanese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Near the jet's base
Best Time: Sunset or nighttime when the jet is lit up
Tips: Capture the jet from a low angle with the lake in the background
Result: Stunning photographs of the jet against the evening sky
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
National Museum of Australia
Distance: 2.5 km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Museum
Australian National Botanic Gardens
Distance: 1.5 km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Botanic Garden
Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Science Museum
Lake Burley Griffin
Distance: 0 km
Walking: 0 min
Type: Lake
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit at night for the best views"
- "Combine with a walk around the lake"
- "Check out nearby museums"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
0
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$0 (free to view the jet)