Thoroughbred Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Thoroughbred Park?
What makes it 74% Kids-Friendly: On Family Focus Cup Day under-18s enter free and enjoy rides, pony cycles and petting zoo, plus open grass for picnics; however gambling, loud PA and limited play gear on regular days lower suitability.
Positives:
- Child-friendly entry: Under-18s enter free on all race days.
- Open play areas: Grassy spaces let kids run safely between activities.
- Pram & wheelchair access: Smooth ramps reach all public areas without steps.
Challenges:
- Crowds on race days: Popular events draw large families, causing queues at kids’ activities.
- Limited shade: Few shaded picnic tables available on hot days.
- Soft ground: Grass areas can be muddy after rain, wear shoes with grip.
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 with kids?
- Under-18s enter free, saving on family costs.
- Enjoy free pony rides, petting zoo and kids’ shows.
- Picnic at trackside tables with space for games.
- Accessible ramps make prams and wheelchairs easy.
- Seasonal family race days offer extra entertainment.
Recommended visit duration: 34 hours
Why 34 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A half-day visit lets your family enjoy races, animal encounters and kids activities without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Thoroughbred Park
Family Race Day at TAB Canberra Cup:
Catch live horse races and free kids entertainment on family-focused race days.
Tip: Arrive early to join pony cycles and comedy shows at 2pm, 3pm and 5pm.
Pony Rides & Petting Zoo:
Let children meet gentle ponies and farm animals in the petting zoo.
Tip: Head there first as sessions fill quickly on busy days.
Trackside Picnic:
Use free picnic tables near the track for a family lunch.
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket; shaded tables go fast under umbrellas.
Kids Shows & Games:
Enjoy giant slides, cup-and-saucer rides and face painting.
Tip: Check the event schedule for showtimes to plan your visit.
Meet a Horse Experience:
Book a behind-the-scenes session to pat retired racehorses.
Tip: Register online in advance during National Thoroughbred Week.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Thoroughbred Park
- Plan with schedule: Check online for showtimes and pony ride sessions before you arrive.
- Early arrival: Get there 30 minutes before opening to grab shaded picnic tables.
- Pack snacks: Bring your own drinks and snacks to skip food queues and save.
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)?
Attend TAB Canberra Cup Day in spring for extra kids’ shows. In summer, bring hats and sunscreen. In winter, wear warm layers and sturdy shoes for damp grass.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult general admission tickets (2) | AUD 20 |
| Food & drinks (picnic supplies) | AUD 20 |
| Parking (general race day) | AUD 0 |
| Souvenir treats | AUD 15 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 55 |
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 Thoroughbred Park
Address: 1 Randwick Rd, Lyneham ACT 2602, Australia
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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
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