Just because you’ve got a little one in tow, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the fun and festivities that Melbourne & Olympic Parks (M&OP) has to offer. 

From our ‘free on the knee’ policy across M&OP venues to the best seats and green spaces for youngsters – here’s everything you need to know about attending an event with kids. 

Places to Play

One of the best things about Melbourne Park is the vast number of open spaces and parkland we have on our doorstep. Whether you want to let your little one frolic on the grassy hills outside Rod Laver Arena or kick the footy at Gosch’s Paddock, there’s plenty of room to burn some energy.  

Some of our favourite spots include:  

• Gosch’s Paddock
• Olympic Park Oval
• Grand Slam Oval
• Garden Square

Free on the Knee

At M&OP venues, babies and toddlers aged two years and under can come with you to most sports and entertainment events under our ‘free on the knee’ policy. This includes at Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena,John Cain Arena and AAMI Park. But make sure you check the specific policy for your event and venue beforehand, just to make sure.

Comfortable Surrounds

For some parents, being nearby a toilet or changing room during an event can be a big relief. All M&OP venues have parents rooms and accessible toilets that are designed to make our guests comfortable. In addition, Rod Laver Arena and John Cain Arena offer a changing places facility. 

You can view all bathroom locations via the map on each venue’s website, and if you or someone in your party needs extra assistance or has accessibility requirements, you can contact us to organise your trip. 

Getting Here

The beauty of Melbourne Park is there’s an easy route to getting here – whatever your mode of transport.  

Whether you’re catching the train with your little one to Richmond Station, jumping on Tram 70 from the city or driving into the Eastern Plaza Carpark – we want to ensure your journey is as smooth as can be.  

We always recommend that families arrive early and plan your visit ahead of time. Little legs can tire easily when walking from transport to the venue, so be sure to factor in breaks for children. It’s also important to note that prams aren’t permitted in the arenas unless it’s a family event where we offer specific pram parking.  

Parking

Our top tips for parking at the precinct would be to book ahead and consider the walking distance from the parking spot to the venue. Drive-up parking is available on the day, but it’s limited and tends to book out in advance. Head to prebook.mopt.vic.gov.au to pre-book your parking prior to the event.

For parents, parking at Federation Square or ACDC Garage on Flinders Street is a good option, and from there you can take two stops into the precinct. You can book the Federation Square via their website and likewise, the ACDC Garage parking can be accessed via the Centro Parking website. 

Food and Beverage

Keeping your little ones entertained often involves yummy treats, and without child-friendly food options available you can quickly enter tantrum territory. M&OP has a variety of healthy food choices suited to young palates, as well as event-specific menus like our Kids’ High Tea for Disney On Ice. 

Be sure to plan ahead and arrive early if you’re thinking of doing dinner before an event and check the menus ahead of time to be sure that there is something suited to your little ones.

Bag Requirements

Be sure to pack your bag ahead of time, keeping in mind that there are bag restrictions for entertainment events which means bags must be smaller than A4 in size. For family and sports events, larger bags are permitted but must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. 

We’re here to help!

If you can’t find what you’re looking for or need suggestions on the best way to navigate an event with kids, just ask one of our friendly staff members. We’re here to ensure the event is enjoyable for all – including your kids.