Dive in
Set yourself the 10 metre challenge this summer and dare to jump off the top tower. Canberra Olympic Pool is the only place in town to get down, so to speak. Built in 1955 the COP has seen plenty of changes over the years, with the dome, volleyball courts and health club all on site. But there's something nostalgic about the diving platform and generations of Canberra kids have jumped into summer from the top. Family passes from $20. Open from 8am to 6pm on December 27 and then 7am to 7pm for the rest of the week, closing at 6pm on New Year's Eve.
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Climbing time
Just because it's hot it doesn't mean you have to stop being active. Indoor rock climbing is fun for all the family, safe and challenging at the same time. Canberra Indoor Rock Climbing has two venues, in Mitchell or Hume and great deals over the summer break. Open from 11am to 5pm all this week and then extended hours in January. You can hire everything on site and all levels are catered for.
Movie madness
You might have to book tickets given all the new releases are out this week but the movies is always a great choice when the temperature rises. Grab a choc-top and choose between La La Land or A United Kingdom if it's grown-ups only or take the kids to see Sing or Moana. Indeed the kids are often a great excuse to see a film you wouldn't normally go and see. Both Sing and Moana look fantastic. Screening at cinemas across Canberra now.
Gone to the dogs
Don't forget your furry friends when the weather warms up. While it's not much fun out walking on hot day, most dogs will appreciate a cooling dip, even if they just get their paws wet. There's a little spot just off Brown Street in Yarralumla, only minutes from the dog park, with easy access to the water. It's officially an off-leash area but there's a cycle path close by so keep an eye on your dog. Plenty of shade for humans too. Or try the shore of Lake Ginninderra off Diddams Close, again, near the Belconnen dog park. Easy access in a nice shady location.
Virtual world
Immerse yourself in David Attenborough's world via two virtual reality documentaries at the National Museum. Go back 540 million years to the dawn of life, in First Life, as Attenborough introduces us to its earliest inhabitants, exploring ancient oceans and interacting with extinct sea creatures. Or join him in a submersible and explore the Great Barrier Reef viewing vibrant coral, darting fish and majestic sharks . There's daily sessions at 9.30am, 11am, 1pm and 2.30pm. Tickets are $20 from nma.gov.au. And if you can't get there these holidays, don't stress - they're on until June 30, 2017.
