Sportpaleis (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Sportpaleis?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Child-focused events, free earplugs, lap or seat tickets and free public transport suit ages 3-12, yet late start times, loud volume and no indoor play space limit comfort.
Positives:
- Free public transport: Your event ticket doubles as a De Lijn tram or bus pass on the day of the show.
- Accessible facilities: Wide corridors, wheelchair areas and clear signage make moving with kids easier.
- Nearby play areas: Outdoor playgrounds at Slachthuislaan and Park Spoor Noord help burn off energy.
Challenges:
- Strict bag policy: Only A4-sized bags allowed—plan to carry minimal toys and snacks.
- Noise levels: Concerts can be loud; foam earplugs help but TF-filtered plugs cost €10.99 each.
- Late start times: Some shows begin after 7 PM, which may be past younger children’s usual bedtime.
What is Sportpaleis?
- A multi-functional indoor arena in Antwerp with a seating capacity of up to 23,000 for concerts, sports events and exhibitions
- Dating from 1933, the Art Deco building presents an expansive domed roof and bold blue exterior
- Incorporating a glass-fronted entrance alongside upgraded acoustics and lighting, the venue supports major international events
What is so special about Sportpaleis for with kids?
- Live children’s shows with singing, dancing and gifts
- Free De Lijn tram or bus travel with your event ticket
- Nearby playgrounds for pre- or post-show fun
- On-site lockers, accessible facilities and ear protection
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to arrive, explore nearby play areas, enjoy the show, and return without rushing younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Sportpaleis
De Grote Sinterklaasshow:
Stage show by Studio 100 with singing, dancing and gifts for 3–12 year-olds.
Tip: Book tickets 2–3 months ahead and choose seating in the lower tiers for best views.
Slachthuislaan playground:
Small playground a 5-minute walk from the venue entrance.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early so kids can play before doors open.
Park Spoor Noord:
Big park with multiple play structures and cafés, one tram stop away.
Tip: Use your free tram ticket, pack snacks and plan 20 minutes to explore.
Pick up foam earplugs:
Free foam earplugs available at the main info desk.
Tip: Collect earplugs as soon as you enter to protect kids’ ears during loud moments.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Sportpaleis
- Aisle seating: Book seats near an aisle for quick bathroom and snack breaks.
- Early arrival: Get there 45 minutes before the show to collect locker key and explore play areas.
- Digital ticket: Download your free tram/bus ticket in the Sportpaleis app to save time at entry.
Reviews of Sportpaleis
Rianne van Setten
Went to see Duran Duran here with my mum, very friendly staff at the venue, drink and food prices are decent. Toilet facilities are vast and clean. Would definitely recommend as a venue type over ones in the Netherlands. If you book a hotel close by you can easily go there by foot. Otherwise public transport will be very busy as many people are using that
Nicky
Had so much fun at pitbull, needs air conditioning like crazy. Staff offered us water at least. Friend of mine had seats and apparently they are very strict about that so watch out. There's only one main entrance so if you want to be at the front of the pit just be there on time.
Marc Mustin
Came for Kylie, thank God she was amazing, because the venue was a disaster: no AC, awful sound, clueless staff. It felt like they’d never hosted a show before. Charging these prices for such a pathetic venue is laughable. Maybe focus less on overpriced drinks and more on basic comfort next time.
Halide Aydin
Went to see pitbull and the show was great and checking the tickets was quite fast which was nice since we didn’t have to wait long BUT there was no air conditioning system (or at least it wasn’t working) so everyone including the artist was struggling. At some point it became so hot in there that some people had to leave due to health conditions. On top of that the water bottles they were selling...
Johan van Duijne
We went there for a Dus Lipa concert. The combo ticket with free public transport is just great. We travelled there with team 6 from the Crow. plaza hotel. Our view was blocked a bit by the recording candidate but the very friendly gentle.em of the venue was so kind to guide us to a seat with a much better view. That is how you treat guests! Bravo!
When is the best time to visit Sportpaleis (Antwerp, Belgium)?
Check the Sportpaleis calendar for holiday shows in November–December (e.g. Sinterklaasshow, Ketnet Gala). These sell out fast—book 2–3 months in advance.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult tickets (€35 each) | EUR 70 |
| 2 child tickets (€30 each) | EUR 60 |
| Medium locker | EUR 8 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 138 |
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 Sportpaleis
Address: Schijnpoortweg 119, 2170 Antwerpen, Belgium
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