The Big Bounce Melbourne

If you've seen the pictures online and wondered if it's as epic as it looks, I'm here to tell you it absolutely is! The Big Bounce Melbourne is a massive, outdoor inflatable event that travels around, and we caught it when it was set up at Flemington Racecourse. It's not just one bouncy castle; it's a whole inflatable theme park. The main attraction is the certified Guinness World Records holder for the World's Biggest Bouncy Castle, and it feels like a vibrant, bouncy city with different zones, slides, and climbing towers. But that's not all – your ticket also gets you access to other incredible inflatable areas, including a 300-meter-long obstacle course called "The Giant" and a space-themed wonderland named "airSPACE" with aliens and giant planets to climb. It’s a high-energy, screen-free day out that will have your kids (and you!) completely worn out in the best way possible.

Age Appropriateness

One of the best things about this event is that they've really thought about how to keep it safe and fun for different age groups. They run dedicated sessions to stop the tiny tots from getting tumbled by the bigger, more boisterous kids. They have Toddler Sessions specifically for children aged 3 and under, accompanied by their parents. Then there are Junior Sessions for kids 7 and under, and Bigger Kids Sessions for everyone aged 15 and under. This is fantastic because you know your little ones are in an environment with kids of a similar size and energy level. They also offer Adult Only sessions, so if you want to go back and release your own inner child without worrying about trampling on a toddler, you can!

The Highlights (Pros)

First and foremost, the scale of this thing is just incredible. The main bouncy castle is a world of its own with a DJ booth in the middle pumping out fun, family-friendly music, creating a real party atmosphere. There are basketball hoops, giant slides, and a massive ball pit right in the center. The variety is a huge plus. After your timed session in the main castle, you get unlimited access to "The Giant" and "airSPACE" for the rest of your three-hour slot. The Giant was a massive hit with my older one – it’s a proper challenge with over 50 different obstacles to crawl through and climb over. My younger one adored the slides and ball pits in airSPACE. The staff were all super friendly and visible, helping kids navigate the obstacles and ensuring everyone was playing safely.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

It is an intense, high-energy experience, which can be overwhelming for some children (and adults!). It gets very busy, and even with the timed sessions, the main castle can feel crowded. While it's well-staffed, you absolutely need to keep a close eye on your own kids, especially in the larger areas. The whole event is outdoors, so you are completely at the mercy of the Melbourne weather – it can get incredibly hot on the plastic on a sunny day. Also, it’s a workout! Chasing kids around for three hours on an inflatable surface is exhausting, so be prepared. The price can also be a bit steep for a family, especially once you factor in snacks and drinks on-site.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Book Online in Advance: Sessions sell out, especially on weekends and school holidays. Book your specific age-appropriate session online to avoid disappointment.
• Grip Socks are a Must: Everyone needs socks to bounce, but I highly recommend grip socks. You can buy their branded ones there, but bringing your own will save you a few dollars. It makes a huge difference on the slipperier surfaces.
• Dress for the Weather (and the Bounce): Light, comfortable clothing is key. On a hot day, be prepared for the inflatables to get warm. Sunscreen and hats are non-negotiable.
• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Bring your own water bottles! There are places to buy drinks, but it’s much easier and cheaper to have your own on hand. You will all get very thirsty.
• Parking and Arrival: We went to the Flemington Racecourse location, and parking was plentiful, though it was a bit of a walk from the car park to the actual entrance, so factor that in. Arrive about 15-20 minutes before your timed session to get checked in and sorted without feeling rushed.