AFL Max - Adelaide

If you’ve got footy-mad kids, or really just any kids with a ton of energy to burn, you have to know about AFL Max. It's an absolutely massive indoor activity centre just near the Adelaide Airport, all themed around Australian Rules Football. But don't let that fool you – you don't need to be a Crows or Power fan to have a blast here. Think of it like a giant, AFL-themed trampoline park mixed with an adventure playground. It’s packed with different zones where kids (and adults!) can test their skills, climb, bounce, and just have a fantastic, active time in a really vibrant and high-energy environment.

Age Appropriateness

One of the best things about AFL Max is how well it caters to a wide range of ages. They have a dedicated soft play area, called the 'Max Zone', which is perfect for toddlers and younger children up to about 5 or 6. It's safely sectioned off from the main action, so you don't have to worry about the little ones getting trampled by enthusiastic bigger kids. For the primary school crowd (ages 6-12), this place is absolute heaven. They can tackle the climbing walls, dive onto giant inflatable bags, and test their kicking and bouncing skills in the various interactive zones. Teenagers will also find plenty to keep them engaged, especially with the more challenging climbing elements and the competitive games. Even parents can get in on the fun – if you’re feeling brave enough to take on the climbing walls or bounce trampolines!

The Highlights (Pros)

• So Much Variety: This isn't just a room full of trampolines. There are dedicated zones for rock climbing, bouncing, interactive gaming screens where you practice kicking and handballing, and even a synthetic grass area for a bit of a run-around. The sheer number of different activities means the kids are constantly moving and never get bored.
• Clean and Well-Maintained: From the moment you walk in, you can tell the facility is well looked after. The equipment is all in great condition, and the whole place, including the bathrooms and the café, is impressively clean, which is always a huge plus for parents.
• Safety First: Safety is clearly a priority here. There are staff members supervising all the key zones, ensuring kids are playing safely and following the rules. Before you start, everyone watches a safety briefing video, and special grip socks are mandatory, which helps prevent slipping.
• Great Café for Parents: The on-site café is a real standout. It serves decent coffee and a good range of food and snacks, not just the usual fried fare. It’s situated on a mezzanine level, offering a fantastic bird's-eye view of the entire centre, so you can comfortably keep an eye on your kids while enjoying a much-needed break.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

• It Can Get Pricey: A family outing here can add up quickly. Tickets are priced per person for a session, and then you have to purchase the mandatory grip socks on top of that if you don't already have them. Add in coffee and snacks from the café, and it becomes a fairly expensive activity.
• Can Be Overwhelmingly Busy: During school holidays and on weekends, this place gets packed. This can lead to queues for the popular activities like the rock climbing walls and can feel a bit chaotic and loud, especially for younger children or those sensitive to noise.
• Session Times: You book for a specific session time (usually a couple of hours). While this helps manage crowd numbers, it can feel a bit rushed, and you might find yourself being ushered out just as the kids are really hitting their stride.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Book Online in Advance: This is a must, especially for weekends or school holidays. It guarantees your spot and saves you from potentially disappointed kids if the session is sold out when you arrive.
• Arrive Early: Plan to get there about 15-20 minutes before your session starts. This gives you plenty of time to find a park, check in, get your wristbands and socks, and listen to the safety briefing without eating into your precious play time.
• Parking is Plentiful: Being located at the airport means there is heaps of free, dedicated parking right out the front, which is a massive relief. You won't be circling for ages trying to find a spot.
• Bring Water Bottles: The kids will get hot and sweaty running around. There are water fountains available for refills, so bringing your own bottles is a great way to keep everyone hydrated and save a bit of money.
• Wear Comfy Clothes: Everyone, including the parents, should wear comfortable, athletic-style clothing that’s easy to move around in. You’ll be much happier if you can easily climb and stretch if you decide to join in