Canberra is teeming with things to do that are ideally suited to groups — you can captain your own ship, throw axes, sip wine, sing badly and sleep like royalty, all before Monday rolls around. Photo: Love Boats Canberra.
Who says you need a passport (or even a highway) for a getaway that feels like a mini adventure?
Staycations are on the rise and, in the national capital, ‘stay-cationers’ are finding a lot more than the national institutions Canberra’s known for.
They’re channelling their inner Vikings at Maniax axe-throwing (nothing says bonding like hurling deadly weapons), or heading to Kingpin for karaoke, bowling or darts.
They’re taking on the challenge rooms at Hijinx Hotel (like a grown-up obstacle course for the young-at-heart), or bringing their own cheese platters and spritzers and captaining their own electric boats out on the lake.
They’re unleashing their creativity, drink in hand, at art wine bar Paint Pinot, or hitting up GIO Stadium or AIS Arena to catch a game.
And when the night winds down, they’re ditching the taxis and the group chat chaos, and checking into places like Deco Hotel Canberra.
This hotel offers versatile accommodations — a crucial aspect for group staycations.
There are ready-to-go two-bedroom apartments, as well as rooms that can be combined, and king beds that can be split into two singles.
Deco Hotel general manager Herman Lee says staycations at Deco are about creating opportunities for togetherness, which take you out of the ordinary, but without the hassle and expense of far-flung journeys.
“Locals tell us they rediscover their own city when they stay here. It’s familiar, but feels completely different when you’re not the one doing the dishes,” he says.
“It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion or just reconnect with someone — no distractions, just time together.”
“We take care of the little things, so you can actually switch off — no packing stress, no long drives, no airport queues.
“Our rooms are also tech-driven for comfort,” Herman says.
“If you forget to turn off the aircon, motion sensors will pick up when no one’s there and automatically shut things down or draw the curtains. It’s all part of our environmental promise.”
Restaurant Two14, the hotel’s onsite dining option, caters for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a focus on traditional Italian flavours.
“Our chef, Federico Pitasi, is from Rome, and brings a lot of passion to his dishes,” Herman says. “From handmade pastas to local favourites and regional wines, every menu item reflects Chef Federico’s passion for Italian cuisine and hospitality.”
The restaurant offers happy hour, marks special occasions like Mother’s Day and Christmas, and can accommodate functions.
“A table at Restaurant Two14 is about more than just a meal, it’s a moment to slow down and connect with good food, wine and company,” Herman says.
Throw in two levels of parking (with EV chargers), a 24-hour gym and easy access to Canberra’s best shopping and nightlife, and Deco ticks all the boxes for a stress-free group stay.
So if you’re after a memorable weekend escape, you can skip the airport queues — Canberra’s got adventure, indulgence and the perfect place to crash.
For more information, visit Deco Hotel Canberra.
