Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour

If you’re visiting Canberra and have an interest in sports or simply want to see a behind-the-scenes side of Australia’s elite athletes, the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Tour offers a fascinating peek. While we haven’t personally been on this tour, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of an engaging, educational experience that appeals to sports fans, families, and curious travelers alike.

What we love about this tour is its combination of informative guides who share insider knowledge and the interactive activities at Sportex, which make the visit memorable and hands-on. Plus, the chance to see some training routines in action adds an authentic touch. One potential drawback noted by some is that parts of the facilities might sometimes feel a bit quiet or underwhelming—especially if no athletes are training at that moment. Still, if you’re after a value-packed, family-friendly, and insider look into Australian sports excellence, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is perfect for sports enthusiasts, families with kids, or anyone interested in seeing how top athletes prepare—especially if you’re curious about the facilities that produce Olympians and national champions. Keep in mind the two-hour duration and the modest price make it accessible for most travelers.

Key Points

• Insightful Guides: Knowledgeable, engaging guides help unpack the stories behind the facilities and athletes.
• Interactive Fun: The Sportex zone offers hands-on tests of strength, speed, and accuracy, making it suitable for all ages.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: Tour the impressive 160-acre AIS campus where Australia’s best athletes train.
• Potential Quiet Moments: Some reviews mention the halls being empty at times, which might reduce the excitement if no athletes are training.
• Cost-Effective: At $14 for about two hours, it offers good value for a deep look into elite sports.
• Family Friendly: The activities and exhibits are designed to entertain and educate kids and adults alike.

Exploring the Full Experience

What You Can Expect at the AIS Tour

The tour begins at the AIS Visitor Centre, where your guide will meet you and start the journey into Australia’s sporting world. This is not just a walk around, but a chance to learn about the facilities and history of Australian sports excellence. The guides tend to be very knowledgeable—many are current or former athletes—bringing a personal touch to the storytelling.

One of the main highlights is Sportex, an interactive zone that’s included with every ticket. It’s a place where you can try wheelchair basketball, virtual downhill skiing, or even rock climbing. For children and the young at heart, this zone offers a fun way to test your own sports skills. The activities also include ball skills testing and reaction timers, which challenge your accuracy and reflexes.

The Grounds and Facilities

The AIS campus is sprawling, covering around 160 acres. It includes various sports training facilities, lodges, and camps for Australia’s top athletes. As you walk through, you might catch glimpses of athletes training or doing routines—though, as some reviews note, sometimes the halls can seem eerily quiet, especially if you visit outside of training hours.

The grounds are designed to be functional but impressive, and the tour gives you an idea of the scale and professionalism involved in preparing Olympic-level athletes. Some visitors have expressed admiration for the size and quality of the facilities, describing them as “impressive” and “massive,” which truly underscores the commitment and investment in Australian sports.

Exhibits and Memorabilia

During the tour, you’ll have the chance to browse exhibits related to the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Heroes and Legends, and Sports Science. These add context and depth, connecting current facilities with Australia’s sporting past and future. It’s a good way to see how the nation’s sporting culture is celebrated and preserved.

End of Tour Options

After the tour, many visitors head to the AIS café for refreshments or browse the AIS shop for souvenirs. The campus also hosts events in the AIS Arena, including concerts and shows like Cirque du Soleil, so check the schedule if you wish to extend your visit.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off at the AIS Visitor Centre, where you’ll meet your guide. Expect to spend about 90 minutes exploring the grounds, with stops that showcase different sports facilities, training areas, and exhibits. The highlight for many is Sportex, where engaging activities like football penalty shootouts or virtual skiing keep the energy high.

Next, your guide might point out training routines or spot athletes doing their exercises—though this can vary depending on the time of day and scheduling. Some reviews mention the possibility of seeing athletes in action, which adds a layer of authenticity. Others note that, at times, sections of the facilities might seem quiet or unoccupied—a reminder that this isn’t a continuous training session but a guided tour.

The exhibits provide a brief history of Australian sporting achievements. For example, some visitors enjoy recalling past Olympic heroes or learning about the latest sports science innovations that keep Australian athletes at the top.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, often describing them as “very knowledgeable” and “enthusiastic.” This makes a big difference, turning what could be a routine tour into a lively, informative experience. Several reviews highlight the interactive activities as a favorite part, especially for families and children—“great fun,” as one reviewer put it.

A handful of reviews mention some disappointments, such as facilities being out of order or halls feeling quiet and empty. One comment noted that “everything we saw could have been a photo,” suggesting that some visitors might find the experience less lively if no athletes are training. Still, even those who found some parts quiet appreciated the insight and value for money.

Price-wise, at $14, the tour is considered excellent value. It doesn’t include food or transportation, but the proximity to public transit makes it easy to reach.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable activity without feeling rushed.
• The meeting point is at the AIS Visitor Centre, centrally located with good public transport access.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is suitable for most travelers interested in sports.
• If visiting during Sportex refurbishment (from June 23 to August 3, 2025), some activities might be closed, so check ahead.
• Group size is capped at 15, which helps maintain a personal and engaging atmosphere.
• Remember, no food or drinks are included, so plan to grab a snack afterward at the café.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a sports lover, this tour offers a rare glimpse into the training of world-class athletes, making it well worth the modest price. It’s also fantastic for families with kids, especially those who enjoy interactive activities and want a fun, educational experience. The knowledgeable guides and exhibits make it informative for all ages.

It’s especially suited for those interested in the Olympic spirit or curious about how elite athletes prepare and recover. However, if you’re hoping to see athletes actively training during your visit, keep in mind that this might not always be possible—some reviews note the halls can be quiet.

For travelers who appreciate good value and a mix of education and entertainment, the AIS Tour is hard to beat in Canberra.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 90 minutes, providing a thorough look at the facilities and exhibits.

What’s included in the price?
For $14, you get a guided tour plus access to the Sportex interactive zone. Food and drinks are not included.

Is there any chance of seeing athletes training?
You might catch athletes doing routines, but it depends on the timing. Some reviews mention seeing training sessions, while others find the halls quiet.

Are children welcome?
Yes, children are encouraged, and the interactive activities are especially suited for younger visitors. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

What activities can I try at Sportex?
Activities include wheelchair basketball, virtual downhill skiing, rock climbing, penalty shootouts, and sports skill tests.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible, and service animals are allowed.

Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, there is an AIS shop where you can purchase memorabilia after the tour.

Is transportation to the AIS difficult?
The AIS Visitor Centre is located in Canberra with near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

What if some facilities are under refurbishment?
Sportex is undergoing renovations from June 23 to August 3, 2025, so check if activities are available during your visit.

Final Thoughts

The Australian Institute of Sport Tour offers a cost-effective, engaging, and insightful experience into the world of Australian athletics. Whether you’re a sports fan, a curious family, or someone who appreciates seeing where champions are made, this tour balances interactive fun with informative storytelling.

While some visitors may find the facilities quiet at certain times, most agree that the guides’ knowledge and the interactive activities compensate well, making it a memorable part of a Canberra visit. It’s a prime choice for those wanting a blend of education, entertainment, and authentic sport culture in a manageable two-hour package.

If you’re in Canberra and have even a passing interest in sports, this tour can deepen your appreciation of Australia’s sporting achievements—and might even inspire your own athletic ambitions.