The Park | 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival

The heart of family fun, food and discovery!

The first dedicated family-friendly space including kids’ entertainment; immersive activities; and dedicated equine well-being zone where visitors can meet retired racing champions. Located near the trains up in Hill Square, this chill out zone has plenty of space to take a seat and relax while you watch the races on the big screens.

Entry to The Park is FREE for all racegoers!

Eat

Get set for a taste adventure! The Park is buzzing with a line-up of food trucks dishing out global flavours, sweet treats, and race-day favourites for all tastes.

Twistto

Korean twist potatoes in tasty flavours, the ultimate crunchy grab-and-go snack.

Mary and a Little Lamb

Authentic Greek souvlakis and plates, fresh and full of flavour.

Have a Slice Day

Fresh, cheesy New York-style pizzas served hot and ready to enjoy.

Sliders on Tyres

Juicy burger sliders and street food favourites made to order.

Zero Gradi

Indulge in Italian gelato, frozen yoghurt and milkshakes - your perfect race-day treat.

Cha Time

From fruity to milky, sparkling to frozen - there's a bubble tea for everyone.

Sip

Keep the whole crew refreshed! From morning coffees to cool soft drinks and sweet sips, there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day.

The Park Bar

Enjoy a refreshing range of cold drinks, relax with an ice-cold beer or one to go as you explore everything there is to see in The Park!

The Coffee Mill

Serving Melbourne’s finest coffee and the city’s best sweet crepes! Get your sugar hit or coffee buzz from The Coffee Mill during Cup Week in The Park.

Ponies & Play

Got little racegoers in tow? Saddle up for pony rides, enjoy roving entertainment, soft play for little ones or take on the lawn games - fun for all the family!

Pony rides

Pony rides are a favourite for families, giving children a chance to be part of the race day atmosphere.

Face painting

Brighten up race day with a splash of colour - kids can enjoy face painting in the family zone.

Children's entertainment

Kids can look forward to a variety of lawn games including Connect 4, Cornhole and soft play, keeping the smiles going all day long!

Horse Carousel

Take a spin on the classic horse carousel, a timeless favourite for little ones.

Teen Zone

Sing your heart out at the karaoke booth, challenge your mates in the gaming pod and pose for a photo in this space created just for teens.

Gaming Pod

Kick back in the gaming pod and challenge your mates on PlayStation or Nintendo Switch!

Karaoke

From chart-toppers to throwback hits, the Karaoke booth is the place to sing loud and have fun with the crew.

Photo Booth

Strike a pose, make memories and snap the fun with friends at the photo booth.

Glitter Gypsy

Add sparkle to your day with glitter, jewels and festival-inspired face art!

Games

Get the squad together for some friendly competitive foosball or 4 square!

Equine Wellbeing Hub

Discover the care behind the sport at the Equine Wellbeing Hub. With Racing Victoria, Living Legends, Equine Pathways Australia and the Riding for the Disabled Association of Victoria, you’ll enjoy interactive experiences that bring you closer to the horses.