What makes a geek, you ask? Well, you might proudly identify as a geek if your interests align with any of the following:

• gaming

• technology

• science

• comics, manga or anime

• fantasy

• niche hobbies (medieval combat, anyone?).

Canberra is a city that welcomes geeks with open arms. From Tuggeranong to Gungahlin, we’ve rounded up the best geek-friendly groups, activities and venues across Canberra.

The Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex (CDSCC) Visitor Centre 

The CDSCC Visitor Centre has recently reopened. Visit to learn more about Australia’s role in the exploration of space. While you’re there, see a piece of the moon that’s more than 3.8 million years old.

Find out more about the CDSCC Visitor Centre.

Questacon

Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre is a fun, educational venue for people of all ages. Don’t miss CURIOSITY: Building Breakthroughs in LEGO® Bricks. It’s a hands-on exhibition that’s open until May 2025.

Find out more.

Geoscience Australia

Discover Earth science and be dazzled by the collection of minerals, fossils and meteorites. Visit the Education Centre for hands-on experiences, including holding a volcanic bomb and peering at glow-in-the-dark minerals.

Find out more.

School of Arms and Armour

Always fancied yourself the hero of a medieval tale? The School of Arms and Armour teaches the martial arts of medieval Europe. Think: fencing, wrestling, armour, swords and daggers.

Find out more.

The Barony of Politarchopolis

The Barony is the medieval Society for Creative Anachronism in Canberra. Some of their regular activities include:

• scribes workshops

• archery

• armoured combat

• fencing

• dance

• and more.

Find out more

Ancient Arts Fellowship

If early medieval re-enactment is your cup of tea, the Fellowship is for you. They explore a range of historical activities, including:

• combat

• craft

• food.

Find out more.

Dungeons & Dragons

Dungeons & Dragons ACT is a group that brings together the local Dungeons & Dragons community.

Find out more.

There are weekly Dungeons & Dragons events on Wednesdays at:

• Belconnen Youth Centre (people aged 10-25 only)

• Jolt Games, Mitchell.

Virtual reality

Canberra offers a wide range of VR experiences, from mini games to escape rooms.

Some options include:

• VR Canberra

• Metaphysica

• Kingpin

• Vroom at Powerkart Raceway

• Icaros Active Virtual Reality at Jet Flight Simulator Canberra.

Quizzic Alley

Browse Australia’s biggest range of licensed Harry Potter merchandise. While you’re there, you can:

• quaff a QBrew

• get sorted into your rightful house

• try your hand at driving the flying car.

Find out more.

Impact Comics

If a comic store has you acting like a kid in a candy store, you can’t miss Impact Comics. You’ll find a large range of:

• manga

• kids’ comics

• graphic novels

• toys and models

• and more.

Find out more.

Good Games

This shop is a haven for lovers of board games, tabletop games and puzzles. It’s more than just a store: it’s a gathering place for like-minded gamers. They run regular events for fans of:

• Digimon

• Star Wars Unlimited

• Magic: The Gathering

• Lorcana

• Yu-Gi-Oh!

Find out more.

Jolt Games

Visit this Mitchell store to shop from:

• role playing games

• tabletop games

• trading card games

• boardgames

• and more.

Plus, they have a dedicated gaming area where they host regular game nights and events.

Find out more.

Canberra Geek Markets

It’s more than just a market: it’s a free pop culture extravaganza. Shop for geeky merchandise from local and interstate creators. Meet likeminded geeks, comic artists and cosplayers.

Keep your eye on the Geek Markets website for market dates.

Find out more.