AIS Visitor Centre (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is AIS Visitor Centre?
What makes it 83% Kids-Friendly: Kids aged up to 12 can try Sportex games, watch athletes train and swim together; family tickets, wide paths and a casual café make the outing easy and fun.
Positives:
- Interactive Fun for Kids: Sportex and the pool keep children moving and engaged
- Accessible, Pram-Friendly Facilities: Family change rooms and step-free toilets simplify visits
- Built-In Rest Spots: Café seating and shaded patios let you recharge between activities
Challenges:
- Tour Length for Young Kids: The 90-minute walk may be long for a 3-year-old; schedule snack breaks
- Pool Hours Vary: Public swim times change daily; check the AIS website before you arrive
What is AIS Visitor Centre?
- A purpose-built visitor centre for the Australian Institute of Sport campus in Bruce, Canberra, serving as the gateway to Australia’s premier elite sports training facilities
- A modern architectural structure housing interactive exhibits such as Sportex, plus information services detailing the science and technology underpinning high-performance athletics
- A versatile facility with accessible amenities, an on-site café and merchandise outlet, and dedicated spaces for orientation and ticketing
What is so special about AIS Visitor Centre for with kids?
- Hands-on Sportex games let kids try kicks, cycling and racing
- Guided 90-minute tour reveals behind-the-scenes of elite training
- Family swim pass gives access to a heated 50 m pool
- Café and shop offer healthy snacks and fun souvenirs
- Accessible facilities and pram-friendly spaces ease your visit
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the 90-minute guided tour, Sportex play, café snack and a family swim
Kids-Friendly Activities in AIS Visitor Centre
Family Guided Public Tour:
Join a 90-minute walk around the AIS campus with a guide. See training areas and athlete drills.
Tip: Book the 10 am or 11:30 am tour online; confirm entry rules for your 3-year-old in advance
Sportex Interactive Zone:
Kids try penalty kicks, virtual cycling and wheelchair racing in this hands-on exhibit.
Tip: Arrive early in each tour to beat small crowds and help young children reach controls
Family Swim at AIS Aquatic Centre:
Use the family swim pass for 2 adults + 2 kids in the heated 50 m pool.
Tip: Bring swim gear and towel; check lane availability online before you go
Relax at AIS Café:
Order smoothies, fruit bowls and toasties at GG Espresso.
Tip: Sit on the outdoor patio so kids can stretch their legs between sips
Browse the AIS Shop:
Pick up kids’ AIS Active Packs, caps and water bottles.
Tip: Look for end-of-season sales and limited-edition souvenirs
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to AIS Visitor Centre
- Combine Tour and Swim: Bring towels and swimwear to head straight to the Aquatic Centre after the tour
- Book Tours Early: Reserve your preferred time slot online up to 30 days ahead
- Arrive 15 Minutes Early: Check in at least 15 minutes before tour or pool entry to avoid queues
Reviews of AIS Visitor Centre
Liam Oddie
Great experience if you have any interest in sport. Tour guide Kobi was excellent. A definite must do when visiting Canberra!
Ben N
Went here for the wiggles concert. It was a great venue. We didn't have to worry about tall people blocking our view due to the different levels of seating so your guaranteed to see what is happing onstage . Wish they had some rails on the different spilt levels so I didn't have to worry about my kids falling forward
Adam Laws
Great tour of the AIS facility - we saw one of the pools, basketball/netball courts, volleyball, combat sports, strengthening gym and the basketball stadium, as well as spent time in the interactive games area. Great for kids
Marie Flechas
We did this tour with a sport mad 10yo boy, an 11yo girl + 2 adults only partially interested, and one adult not at all interested in sport. We all found the tour interesting and enjoyable. The kids loved the Sportex section and would have loved more time in there!
Luke Davis
Yeah, it's OK if you have 2 hours to kill. A little bit of sports history, a little bit of a walking tour, and a hands-on play area. You can't play with the nice equipment, but you can take photos from the gallery. Nothing that YouTube couldn't bring you up to speed on in 15 minutes.
When is the best time to visit AIS Visitor Centre (Canberra, Australia)?
In winter the Aquatic Centre is heated to 27.5 °C, making post-tour swimming cozy. In summer start with a morning swim to cool off, then join an air-conditioned tour.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family Guided Public Tour | AUD 60 |
| Family Swim Pass | AUD 24 |
| Café snacks and drinks | AUD 40 |
| Souvenirs at AIS Shop | AUD 30 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 154 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of AIS Visitor Centre
Address: 26 Leverrier St, Bruce ACT 2617, Australia
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About AIS Visitor Centre
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 2 6214 101010 BEST nearby Activities
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