A Guide to the Australian Institute of Sport That’ll Make You Extra Proud of the Country’s Hard-Working Athletes
Just like almost everyone else on Earth, I tune into the Olympics whenever they’re on. Seeing Australia’s athletes compete fills me with so much pride and joy.
However, I also can’t help but wonder how they even get so skilled. Fortunately, the answer is right here in Canberra.
The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) is the premier sports headquarters in the country where the best athletes train. Lucky for us, it’s open to the public.
I’m sure many of you out there have also wondered what it’s like to be an elite athlete, so let this guide give you a glimpse. This is what you can see and do when you visit the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.
Where is the Australian Institute of Sport?
The Australian Institute of Sport can be found at Leverrier Street, Bruce ACT 2617. Spanning 65 hectares, the sports institute is around 7 minutes away from the center of Canberra.
How to Get to the Australian Institute of Sport
Via Bus: You can hop on transport route 9 to get as close as possible to the institute. Bus routes 2, 3, 4, and 30 will also be able to take you to the suburb of Bruce where the institute is located.
Via Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: Hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing app (like Uber) to find one. Let the driver know that you want to go to the AIS and they’ll drive you there.
Via Private Car: Set your car’s GPS to the ‘Australian Institute of Sports’ to find the best route. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of free parking for visitors across the grounds.
What to Do in the Australian Institute of Sport
Learn all about this elite sports precinct
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Get a chance to see various sporting areas inside the Australian Institute of Sport with the AIS tour. This interesting experience takes you behind the scenes and across the grounds to show you all the cutting-edge equipment used by the athletes.
While going around, you may even get the chance to see your favorite Australian player.
Throughout this 90-minute activity, you will be guided by an up-and-coming athlete who trains there. They’re always very knowledgeable especially because they themselves regularly use the facilities.
There’s no need to book this in advance because the tour happens from Monday to Friday, every 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, and 2:30 PM.
Be active with Sportex
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Sportex offers a unique insight into what it’s like to compete professionally. Through advanced technology, you can step into the shoes of Australia’s high-performance athletes and experience their sport from a first-person perspective.
You’ll get to try and learn all about the history of sports like rock climbing, wheelchair basketball, football penalty shootouts, virtual downhill skiing, and more.
They also have an exhibit of historical sports memorabilia that’ll fill you with awe. Displayed here are items such as Jared Tallent’s Olympic medals, Stephen Larkham and Luc Longley’s jerseys, and Caroline Buchanan’s BMX bike and helmet.
Catch a game at the AIS Arena
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The AIS isn’t just a sports campus. Of course, it also has an impressive arena for competition.
This is where athletes can showcase what they’ve been training for. With a seating capacity of 6,000, it regularly hosts a variety of sporting events including basketball, netball, and even rollerball derby.
From time to time, it’s even been used for entertainment purposes, such as concerts and touring shows. They constantly update their schedule of events months ahead so you can just check for what’ll be happening during your visit.
Get new gear at the AIS Shop
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Just like any attraction, the Australian Institute of Sport also has a gift shop full of various items. What makes them stand out though is that their stock is more functional than most.
Yes, you can buy AIS-branded trinkets, accessories, and souvenirs to commemorate your time at the center. Some of their cutest items are actually stuffed classic Australian animals, like kangaroos and koalas, wearing AIS uniforms and playing sports.
But most of their inventory is actually high-quality sports equipment, such as balls, bats, and duffel bags. Not only do they look great with the AIS branding, but they can also help you out in your sports endeavors.
Where to Eat near the Australian Institute of Sport
Tilley’s Devine Cafe Gallery
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Address: Brigalow St &, Wattle St, Lyneham ACT 2602
Phone: +61 2 6247 7753
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday – 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Tilley’s Devine Cafe Gallery is practically an institution at this point. You really can’t say you’ve been to Canberra until you’ve eaten here.
With its reputation as a ‘music mecca’, you’ll find that the place is usually packed with fans of live music and jazz so you better book a table before you go. The dark red interiors only heighten the moody yet electric atmosphere within.
It’s a must to get a drink when you go here, but that doesn’t necessarily mean liquor. In fact, a lot of their customers actually opt for their hot coffees or chai lattes.
But when it comes to food, nothing beats their New York Cheesecake. This has been on their menu for decades and for good reason. Ask any of their regulars and they’ll tell you that a bite of this is life-changing.
Chatterbox Espresso Bar
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Address: 40 Cameron Avenue, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: +61 2 6251 7453
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM
Chatterbox Espresso Bar is the place to go if you want to start your day right. Just be sure to come here with a big appetite because their servings are huge.
They specialize in breakfast, with the Truffle Eggs being their most flavorful bestseller. You can also get their Potato Stack if you feel like having something more filling. Either way, a meal here is incomplete without a cup of their excellent coffee.
The whole place is bright and cozy with a friendly vibe, thanks to their wonderful staff. Just as it says in their name, you can always go to them for a quick chat or for any recommendations on what to get for the day.
Where to Stay near the Australian Institute of Sport
Pavilion On Northbourne
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Address: 242 Northbourne Ave, Dickson ACT 2602
Phone: +61 2 6247 6888
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Pavilion On Northbourne is a modern oasis within the hustle and bustle of the capital. The hotel’s crown jewels are the bright, tropical atriums that all the rooms are facing towards.
Speaking of the accommodations, the rooms are even more relaxing with how spacious, comfortable, and pristine they all are. You can even opt for rooms that come with a kitchenette and a luxurious ensuite spa.
In case you have any other requests concerning your room, just approach one of their staff. They’re always happy and eager to help.
You also won’t be disappointed with their in-house restaurant, which serves delicious yet reasonably priced food.
But what you should really look forward to is their happy hour, every 4 to 6 pm. There’s nothing like sipping drinks while marveling at this hotel’s lovely architecture.
Deco Hotel Canberra
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Address: 214 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon ACT 2612
Phone: +61 2 6246 7700
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
However long you plan on staying in the city, Deco Hotel Canberra can provide you with everything you need. Every part of this hotel has been well-designed, from its sophisticated lobby to its well-equipped rooms.
Even if you only get the one-bedroom accommodation, it’s still spacious and comes complete with appliances. You’ll get a lovely kitchen, which has a fridge and a microwave, a washer/dryer, and a separate work desk where you can focus.
Before heading out, you can also take advantage of their yummy buffet breakfast or get some reps in at their impressive gyms.
The hotel is strategically located near Canberra’s city centre so all the major attractions, shops, and restaurants are close by. Plus, there are plenty of transportation options right outside of the main entrance so you don’t have to worry about getting around.