A sprawling new entertainment destination has opened in Melbourne’s southeast, bringing together dining, bowling, arcade games and one of Australia’s largest interactive indoor playgrounds under one roof.
Located in Pakenham, Hoopla is a purpose-built, 6,000m² venue designed to appeal to the whole family rather than just children. The $15 million precinct combines play spaces with a full-service restaurant and bar, creating a destination where parents can relax while kids stay entertained.
More than just an indoor play centre
Designed as a one-stop destination for families, Hoopla offers entertainment, dining and activities for visitors of all ages.
Its biggest attraction is a gigantic interactive soft-play playground featuring climbing structures, slides and obstacles, alongside a fully enclosed toddler zone for younger children. There’s also a dedicated race car track where little drivers can get behind the wheel.
Away from the playground, visitors will find an expansive arcade packed with both retro favourites, including Space Invaders and modern interactive games. Bowling is also on offer, with ten modern lanes including eight mini “Blitz” lanes for younger players and two full-sized classic lanes for everyone else.
A restaurant where parents will actually want to stay
The venue serves café-style breakfasts, pub classics and barista-made coffee throughout the day, alongside a fully licensed bar.
The menu covers everything from breakfast favourites like eggs benedict, smashed avocado and big breakfasts to crowd-pleasing lunch options including beef burgers, chicken parmas, lamb gyros, calamari and burrito bowls. Younger visitors can choose from a dedicated kids’ menu featuring options like sliders, chicken tenders, fish and chips, macaroni bolognese and pancakes with ice cream and maple syrup.
Adults can also unwind in dedicated social spaces complete with billiards tables and sports screens, while remaining close enough to keep an eye on the kids.
According to Operations Manager Wayne Gardiner, the venue was designed around the idea that parents should enjoy visiting just as much as their children. “We didn’t build Hoopla just for kids, we built it for families,” Gardiner said.
“If the kids are having an amazing time but parents can’t wait to leave, we’ve missed the mark. We wanted to create somewhere the whole family looks forward to visiting together.”
Hoopla officially opened its doors in Pakenham on 3 August and is now welcoming visitors. You’ll find the new family entertainment destination at 10 Meadow Parade, Pakenham, with opening hours from 9am to 5pm Monday – Thursday, 9am to 10pm Friday and Saturday and 9am to 6pm on Sundays.
