The Nations Buildings of the National Triangle

The majority of the National Triangle lies to the south of Lake Burley Griffin. There are many buildings of interest surrounded by fresh vegetation and some gourmet restaurants and cafes. It also hosts markets and a variety of activities.

The National Library , Questacon, and the Canberra Contemporary Art Space, The National Portrait Gallery, The High Court of Australia & The National Gallery of Australia are really worth seeing on a tour around the area if you are up for seeing some captivating diverse exhibits and collections. All these buildings are connected by level, accessible pathways. Several parking areas are situated near these significant buildings on Parkes Place West, each equipped with sufficient accessible parking spots that connect to the accessible footpaths.

At the National Library, all areas on the Ground Floor, including the Bookshop and Bookplate café, are accessible through open doorways. You bypass the 15 stone steps leading to the front entrance via a ramp on the south side of the building. Or, you can phone security on 02 6262 1376 and arrange to enter on Lower Ground Floor 2 (LG2). Accessible toilets are on the Ground and Lower Ground Floors. Wheelchairs are available from the Foyer Information Desk on the Ground Floor if needed. Car spaces are available on the south side of the building. Signage and road markers show these areas.

Further west along King Edward Terrace, after the NPG is Questacon. It's scientific discovery for the whole family. Their specially designed wheelchair-friendly adventure ensures that all visitors can embark on an exciting journey of discovery. Don't miss the live shows, where wheelchair-accessible seating areas are available to ensure that everyone can get up close to the action. Here accessibility is a top priority, with wheelchair-accessible pathways and spacious exhibit areas ensuring that everyone can fully engage with the interactive displays and demonstrations. There is ramp access and automatic sliding doors at both entrances. Accessible restrooms are located throughout.

The Canberra Contemporary Art Space is also accessible, all on one floor. To get from the parking lot to the main entrance, there is a paved path. However, the best idea might to get dropped off in front of the main entrance.

The National Portrait Gallery is fully accessible. The gallery offers free access services for visitors with disabilities or specific access needs, including wheelchair borrowing on-site. Public access lifts provide access to parking spaces, and accessible toilets are conveniently located on the ground level near the Cloak Room and Education Studio.

The suburb of Parkes also houses one of the most significant institutions in the Australian legal system: The High Court of Australia. It is fully accessible. Visitors typically park at either the National Portrait Gallery or the National Gallery of Australia. If you have limited mobility, you can be dropped off at ground level for entry through the security entrance. The building has automatic sliding doors, and there is a button to alert security to open the accessible entrance doors.

You might also want to head in a southerly direction towards the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House to learn about the rich cultural legacy of the first seat of parliament in Canberra. you can find more information about this area in our next activity Easy democracy in a complex world.

Accessible toilets

• Accessible toilets are on the ground level of the National Portrait Gallery near the Cloak Room and Education Studio.
• Accessible toilets are available on the Ground Floor and Lower Ground Floor of the National Library.
• Accessible bathroom facilities are available next to the Fairfax Theatre In the National Gallery of Australia.
• The High Court of Australia has accessible toilets on Level 1.
• Public toilets are located at rear of East kiosk building right in front of the International Flag Display on Queen Elisabeth Terrace.
• More public toilets behind Questacon Science and Technology Centre. Also, there are accessible toilets throughout the centre.

Accessible parking

• Visitors typically park at either the main entrances of the National Portrait Gallery or the National Gallery of Australia. There is lift access to all floors in the car parks of both buildings.
• At the High Court, those with limited mobility can be dropped off at ground level, for entry through the security entrance.
• Car spaces are available on the south side of the National Library. You can access the building by the ramp on the south side of the building.
• Accessible parking spaces are available free of charge for Australian Disability Parking Permit holders at Parkes Place West, next to Questacon.

Here is a map of selected accessible and partially accessible places in the National Triangle on WheelEasy: