Thoroughbred Park (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Thoroughbred Park?
What makes it 83% Couple-Friendly: Couples can share a trackside picnic, book the Black Opal Room for a carvery lunch and enjoy craft-drink festivals; atmosphere is lively and romantic, yet betting culture and crowds may deter some pairs.
Positives:
- Intimate Trackside Views: Picnic tables bring you within metres of the action for a personal racing experience.
- Exclusive Animal Encounters: Meet retired racehorses up close by booking the free “Meet a Horse” event during National Thoroughbred Week.
Challenges:
- Crowds on Feature Days: Events like Hops & Hooves draw large crowds; arrive early to find seating.
- Limited Shade: Most picnic areas have little cover; pack sunscreen, hats and a light rain jacket.
What is Thoroughbred Park?
- A purpose-built thoroughbred racing precinct on Canberra’s eastern fringe, anchored by a turf racetrack, grandstand and function pavilions
- Headquarters of the Canberra Racing Club, integrating stables, a warm-up training circuit and on-site betting facilities
- A modern venue blending functional racing infrastructure with landscaped lawns, versatile hospitality suites and open-air concourses
What is so special about Thoroughbred Park for couple trip?
- Picnic trackside just metres from the finish line.
- Enjoy a hot carvery buffet in the Black Opal Room.
- Toast winners at the Winning Post Bar with drinks.
- Join spring’s Hops & Hooves Festival for local craft tastings.
- Book the “Meet a Horse” experience during National Thoroughbred Week.
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: This gives you time to settle at a picnic table, watch several races and enjoy a meal or drinks without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Thoroughbred Park
Trackside Picnic:
Grab a picnic table by the finish line and watch the horses pass just metres away.
Tip: Bring your own food and a bottle of wine; arrive 30 minutes before the first race to claim the best spot.
Black Opal Room Carvery Luncheon:
Book into the covered Black Opal Room for a hot carvery buffet on major race days.
Tip: Reserve online at least a week in advance to secure a window table overlooking the paddock.
Winning Post Bar:
Toast a winning horse together with craft beer, wine or a cocktail.
Tip: Head here between races for a quieter atmosphere and a view of the finish line.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Thoroughbred Park
- Book Dining Early: Secure your Black Opal Room table online at least seven days before race day.
- Plan Transport: Use free on-site parking off non–feature race days; on big days, factor in $5 for charity parking.
Reviews of Thoroughbred Park
Jason Collins
We recently hosted our corporate Christmas party at Thoroughbred Park and it couldn’t have gone better. The team were fantastic to work with, they were organised, proactive, and genuinely invested in making the day a success. The venue looked great, the catering was spot-on, and the whole event ran seamlessly from start to finish. Our staff had an incredible time and the feedback has been overwhel...
Atif Nisar
Attend an event outdoors with kids mid August. Great setup. Paid entry fee for each attendee however there was not much to offer for adults. Food prices were jacked up.
vishal patel
We visited Thoroughbred Park on Sunday for Viral food festival. Parking was hard to find as it was a big event, but we managed to find one near by. Staff at the gate were friendly and helpful. A lot of activities for all age group. Rides for kids - Air castles, slides and many more. Food was amazing, my kids loved the spiral potato and loaded fries. Over all nice experience and a good family outin...
Jaime ODonnell
I've attended thoroughbred park a few times over the recent months each time to attend a car show... Over the past weekend I went to The Canberra Festival of Speed. It was my first time as I was away for last year's inaugural event. It was great, plenty of places to buy water and food and I thought the options were reasonably priced. Great areas for the cars to be on static display, and enough bit...
Heather “Chook” Connolly
Went to the Festival of Speed held here & had a terrific time. All the staff are amazing, the grounds are gorgeous & the event itself was fantastic. Had a total blast & can't wait for next year's event.
When is the best time to visit Thoroughbred Park (Canberra, Australia)?
In spring, attend the Hops & Hooves Festival to sample 30+ local breweries and food stalls. During National Thoroughbred Week (Oct/Nov), book the free “Meet a Horse” session to groom retired racehorses.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| General admission (2 adults) | AUD 40 |
| Black Opal Room carvery luncheon (2 adults) | AUD 100 |
| Drinks at Winning Post Bar | AUD 30 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 170 |
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
Map of Thoroughbred Park
Address: 1 Randwick Rd, Lyneham ACT 2602, Australia
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Thoroughbred Park (Canberra)?
About Thoroughbred Park
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 6204 000010 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇦🇺 Australia, couple trip
🇺🇸 United States, couple trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, couple trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities