Professional sports buffs will find the Australian Institute of Sport worth visiting—cheering for Australia is optional! Multiple daily guided tours give you a look behind the scenes of the elite institute. The interactive sports exhibit shows you what it’s like to surf waves like a professional, box in a sparring session, plunge headfirst down a luge course, and more.
Sports memorabilia also is on display, and you have the opportunity to see top athletes currently in training. A gift shop where you can pick up sports-related souvenirs and clothing is on-site.
Guided tours operate each day, no advance booking required. Groups of 15 people or more should book in advance.
Tours require a ticket, and kids under the age of five are free. Reduced price family, student, and seniors tickets are available.
Guided tours last for 90 minutes. There’s also an on-site café, so leave extra time if you want to grab a coffee or a snack.
The AIS is accessible to wheelchair users and has accessible parking, toilets, and family changing rooms.
The AIS is located in Bruce, a northern suburb of Canberra. Driving or hiring a car is the best way to reach the AIS. It’s a 10-minute drive from the central city, and there’s plenty of parking. You also can get there by public bus from central Canberra, but this is a much slower option; You’ll need to change bus service either at Dickson or Belconnen.
Guided tours run four times a day, from mid-morning to mid-afternoon. The AIS is closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day, and Good Friday. If you’d like to swim a lap in the Aquatic Center during your visit, check the schedule in advance, as availability is subject to change.
Even if you’re not an elite athlete, there are plenty of opportunities to get active in Canberra. Lake Burley Griffin, which sits in the middle of the city, is a popular place to go kayaking, sailing, or paddle boarding. Extensive paths around the lake are ideal for walking, jogging, or biking. Additionally, Canberra’s two mountains—Black Mountain and Mount Ainslie—are good places to take a bushwalk, see kangaroos, and enjoy sweeping views of the city.
