GIO Stadium Canberra (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is GIO Stadium Canberra?
Kids enter free under 5 or at junior prices, enjoy face painting, sensory room, and cheap snacks, yet crowds, late kick-offs, and no playground shorten comfort; bring ear protection.
Positives:
- Family-Friendly Zones: Free fan spaces like The Huddle let kids roam safely before the game.
- Junior Discounts: Children under 5 sit free on a lap and many matches offer reduced junior tickets.
Challenges:
- No On-Site Playground: You won’t find a play structure inside – plan a visit to Chifley Park (3 km away) before or after.
- Noise Levels: Crowd chants and music can be loud. Bring ear protection for sensitive kids.
What is GIO Stadium Canberra?
- An outdoor stadium accommodating 25,000 spectators for rugby union’s ACT Brumbies and rugby league’s Canberra Raiders
- Multi-tiered grandstands, corporate hospitality suites and broadcast-quality facilities encircle a floodlit grass playing field
- A purpose-built venue opened in 1977 as Bruce Stadium and rebranded GIO Stadium Canberra in 2015 under a naming-rights agreement
What is so special about GIO Stadium Canberra for with kids?
- Hands-on kids’ golf on the field
- Free pre-game fan zones with face-painting
- Low-cost snacks under AUD 5
- Discounted junior tickets and lap seating
- Covered grandstand seats for shade
Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours
Why 3–4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the kids’ stadium golf session, fan zone fun, match viewing, and snack breaks without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in GIO Stadium Canberra
McDonald’s Stadium Golf – Kids Edition:
A 60-minute session on the playing field with guided golf drills and free play.
Tip: Book online during school holidays in advance. Dress in runners and bring a hat. An adult must stay on the field.
Fan Zone & Face Painting:
Free pre-game area with live music, mascots, balloon artists and face-painting.
Tip: Arrive at least one hour before kick-off. Pack wet wipes and ID bands for kids. Let them choose team colours.
The Huddle Snack Pit-Stop:
Covered fan hub with pies, sausage rolls, hot dogs and drinks priced under AUD 5.
Tip: Grab food here before heading to your seat. Carry small coins to speed up orders.
Watch a Brumbies or Raiders Match:
Experience live Super Rugby or NRL action in a 25,000-seat stadium.
Tip: Buy junior tickets online for a lower rate. Choose seats under the Meninga Grandstand roof for shade.
When is the best time to visit GIO Stadium Canberra (Canberra, Australia)?
In summer, bring sunscreen, hats and refillable water bottles. Winter games start later – pack layers. Stadium Golf runs only in school holidays; check dates online.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of GIO Stadium Canberra (Canberra)
David Steller
All very convenient and on time. Bus and light rail not crowded. Customer service great on Route 9
Mate Antolos
Nice stadium with plenty of food options. Great seating and protection from the elements.
Mi Aqui
The stadium is great and easy to access, and I appreciate the efforts being made. However, the food options really need improvement. The sushi from the Sushi Sushi food truck was very disappointing, and the chicken and chips from the burger trailer weren’t any better. I’d love to see better food choices and dedicated parking for electric bikes. With those improvements, I’d happily give a 5-star ra...
nick korbakis
Parking is atrocious. If you are sending patrons to UC Overflow you need to provide a shuttle service, not expect them to walk half hour. No concierge to locate seating. We had seating allocation similar to others. Difference was SBAY30 and BAY30??? On a positive note, the stadium is beautiful, the fans are well behaved, family orientated. The view was great.
William shakespere
I went to this stadium last year and am going to it again this year for the Eels V.S Raiders game. Last time l went we got thrashed, not a big stadium but still nice atmosphere. Get's very VERY cold though, bathrooms are good and parking is alright.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult general admission tickets | AUD 100 |
| 1 Junior ticket (12 yrs) | AUD 25 |
| 2 Kids’ stadium golf sessions | AUD 30 |
| The Huddle snacks for 4 | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 175 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to GIO Stadium Canberra
- Buy Tickets Online: Use Ticketek to secure junior pricing and choose covered seats.
- Use Public Transport: Take the free ACTION bus (Route 7) to avoid parking fees and long walks.
- Arrive Early: Be at the gate 60 minutes before kickoff to enjoy the Fan Zone without crowds.
Map of GIO Stadium Canberra
Address: Battye St, Bruce ACT 2617, Australia
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About GIO Stadium Canberra
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 6256 6700See available options
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