Looking for a place where your kids can burn off energy while you enjoy a genuinely good coffee — maybe even a cheeky cocktail? Let us introduce you to Hoopla, South Morang’s game-changing indoor play and dining venue that’s truly designed with both parents and kids in mind.
I visit with a mum friend and our three kids, and honestly? We have such a blast we don’t want to leave. Hoopla isn’t your typical play centre. It’s huge, imaginative, full of surprises — and best of all, it’s got great food and a bar you’ll actually want to sit at. Yes, really.
Hoopla’s Play Space: Big, Bright and Way Up High
As soon as we walk into Hoopla, our kids spot the towering indoor climbing playground and are off like rockets. It’s high — really high — but completely enclosed and safe, so even my two-year-old feels confident to explore on her own.
I climb up once to help out, but for the most part, the kids are happy sliding, climbing, and discovering all the nooks and tunnels solo.
If you’ve got a toddler in tow, like I do with two-year-old Bubba D, you’ll appreciate the thoughtfully designed toddler play area.
It’s Outback-themed (think wombats, kangaroos and climbing logs) and packed with soft play options for little ones still getting the hang of running, climbing, and crawling.
Bowling for All Ages
We can’t resist giving the Blitz Bowling lanes a go. Our preschoolers are a bit too young to play a full game, but the kid-friendly setup — with small balls and shorter lanes — means they still have fun rolling a few down the alley. Little E is excited to give it a go.
And for bigger kids or adults? There are proper tenpin lanes too, perfect for families or groups with varying kids’ ages.
More Than Just a Playground
Beyond the playground and bowling lanes, Hoopla has packed in a lot. From an ice cream truck cubby (a surprise favourite with our crew) to arcade games and a kids’ car track, there’s entertainment at every turn.
Some of the extras like the arcade and car rides are an additional charge, which is worth noting if you’re on a budget. That said, the core play areas are so extensive you could easily spend hours there without needing the add-ons.
Slides, Slides, and More Slides
If your kids love slides, they’re going to think they’ve hit the jackpot. Hoopla boasts over 21 different slides, including a massive double-wave slide that towers over 7 metres high and stretches 15 metres long. Not for the faint-hearted!
There’s also a Volcano slide, Great Barrier Reef-themed zones, and a ball battle arena with interactive challenges that older kids absolutely love.
Little E is especially enchanted by the Great Barrier Reef section — not only because of the colourful sea creatures, but also because the slides there are just the right mix of thrilling and manageable.
Mess-Free Messy Play? Yes Please.
We hear that Messy Play is coming soon to South Morang. Perfect for preschool kids, it will be themed and rotated regularly, offering sensory craft and hands-on activities.
And the best part? Hoopla handles the clean-up. That’s a win in every parent’s book.
Get ready to enjoy new messy themes in the last week of every month!
Great Food, Great Coffee, and a Bar You’ll Actually Use
Now, let’s talk about the food — because Hoopla takes it seriously. Forget soggy chips and instant coffee. The Hoopla Kitchen serves up proper meals like lamb gyros, burgers, eggs benedict and fresh baked goods.
We have dinner while keeping an eye on the kids as they come and go, and everything is fresh, delicious, and well-presented.
There’s also a bar right in the heart of the action. Parents can sip on tap beer, cocktails or wine while still being within eyesight of the kids — something you don’t often get in family venues.
For peace of mind, Hoopla even offers free breathalyser tests so parents can safely enjoy a drink and still drive home responsibly.
Quiet Rooms for Working Parents
One thoughtful touch I didn’t use this time (but will definitely keep in mind for the future) is the range of quiet rooms. If you’re a parent juggling remote work and childcare, you can actually plug in your laptop while the kids play. Genius.
Parties and Private Events
Planning a birthday party? Hoopla’s got seven themed party rooms and a mezzanine-level private space for bigger gatherings. Packages start from just $350.
The catering is all done through the Hoopla Kitchen and Bar, so you can expect a higher standard than your usual party fare.
Hoopla South Morang: Our Verdict
Honestly, the only downside? We don’t live closer.
Hoopla nails that sweet spot between fun-for-kids and actually-enjoyable-for-adults. Whether you’re after a casual playdate spot, somewhere to entertain the kids on a rainy day, or even a relaxed night out where everyone’s happy, it’s a place that ticks all the boxes.
If you’ve ever wished for a play centre that didn’t make you want to pull your hair out — this is it.
Top Tips for Visiting Hoopla
- Opening hours:
Monday–Thursday: 9am–5pm
Friday & Saturday: 9am–10pm
Sunday: 9am–6pm - Baby-friendly facilities: A baby change room and high chairs are available.
- Need to catch up on work or scroll while the kids play? Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available.
- No outside food allowed, except for birthday cakes and lolly bags during booked parties.
- No need to print tickets—just show your email QR code or give your name at reception.
- Book ahead, especially on weekends, public holidays and school holidays—it gets busy!
- Yes to free parking! There’s plenty of off-street parking on site.
Location: You’ll find Hoopla at 330 McDonalds Rd, South Morang VIC 3752.
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We visited as guests of Hoopla. All opinions are the writers own.
