Australian Institute Of Sport

In the heart of Canberra's sporting precinct, the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) is the nation's elite training hub and a fascinating peek behind the scenes of high-performance athletics. Even if you're not a die-hard sports fan, the AIS offers an engaging, hands-on experience that reveals the science, dedication and sheer grit behind Australia's sporting success. Think Olympic gold medals, state-of-the-art training facilities and the chance to see future champions in action.

Highlights & What to See

• AIS Sport Tours – Guided tours take you through the high-performance training centre, swimming pools, gymnasiums and the Athlete Dining Hall. You might spot current athletes training.
• Sportex Exhibition – An interactive sports science display where you can test your reaction time, balance and strength against elite benchmarks.
• Indoor Stadium – Home to basketball, netball and volleyball training; check the schedule for public access or events.
• AIS Track & Field Centre – The outdoor athletics track where Olympians train; you can walk the perimeter and soak in the atmosphere.
• Australian Sports Hall of Fame – A small but inspiring gallery celebrating legendary Aussie athletes and their achievements.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for around 1.5 to 2 hours for the guided tour and exhibition. If you want to explore the grounds and grab a coffee at the café, allow an extra 30 minutes. It's a compact site, so you can easily combine it with other Canberra attractions in a half-day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra – The AIS is just a 10-minute drive from the city centre, so pair your visit with the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House or the National Gallery of Australia.
• Lake Burley Griffin – A scenic 15-minute drive away; perfect for a walk, bike ride or picnic after your tour.
• National Arboretum Canberra – Offers stunning views and forest walks, about 20 minutes from the AIS.

Please check official sources for current details.