10 things to do at the Australian Grand Prix that aren’t Formula 1

Watching some noisy, fast cars drive around and around a racetrack isn’t everyone’s idea of a fun day out. Whether it’s on your bucket list or in the bucket, the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix draws a huge crowd of visitors from across the world, and Melbourne puts on a big show – one that everyone should experience at some point.

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Don’t worry if fast cars aren’t quite your thing, there are plenty of other reasons to enjoy the event including rubbing shoulders with celebrities, the chance to meet good looking drivers, and bragging rights. Here are 10 more things to love about Aussie Grand Prix that don’t include watching Formula 1:

1. DISNEY ACTIVATIONS
   The kids will love the Disney Zone with the all new Star Wars experience and Pixar Cars activities. From finding your way through the Asteroid Escape Obstacle Course and Jedi Training Academy, to engine building competitions and various rides, there’s plenty here to keep the kids entertained for the day. Not to mention Flo’s V8 Diner for some R&R time for the parents.
2. AIR SHOW
   What’s a major event without an air show? Also a way for people living in the suburbs neighbouring Albert Park to feel involved in the GP. The massive air display, run by the Air Force, is often a crowd favourite. Fighter jet fly-bys are something you feel as much as you see.

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1. SOCIAL MEDIA HUB
   Going to the GP to show Facebook that you’ve done something fun, but struggling to get a photo of the super-fast cars? Never fear. You can always visit the F1 Fanzone and engage with the digital kiosks. Do so, and you get the chance to win F1 experiences like meeting the drivers. If Daniel Riccardo is there, we’re in.
2. PORSCHE KIDS DRIVING SCHOOL
   There is nothing worse than heading to an event with kids who just want to do what the adults are doing. But at the GP, they get their chance. The driving school will teach your kids road safety and also give them the opportunity to drive a Porsche pedal car. NOTE: Enrolment is in the Kids’ Zone Golf Course Precinct.
3. AUSTRALIAN FMX GRAND PRIX
   Prefer Motocross to motor cars? Well, the GP also plays host to the Australian FMX Grand Prix where the best Freestyle Motocross (FMX) riders show off their two-wheeled skills.

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1. BIG AIR SHOW
   No, this isn’t about bigger planes than the air show above. This is where stuntmen and riders bring their BMX, parkour and skateboarding skills to the party and soar high above the crowds below. There’s also workshops run by the pro riders.
2. M-LANE
   Located at the south end of the Action Zone, this new laneway is filled with food trucks, street art, live music and bars. There will be pop-up restaurants, Petaluma Bar, Genovese Coffee bar, two story B Double ‘Cloud 9’ event truck with bar, stage and screen, and celebrities chefs like Shane Delia on hand. You know where we will be!
3. RENAULT TORQUE BAR AND ALUMBRA AFTER PARTY
   Lounging around in front of a big screen telly, with access to food, drink and DJs performing throughout the day, the Renault Torque Bar is the place to be if you want to be at the race, but not really trackside. If you’re lucky enough to make it to the official after party hosted by Alumbra on the Saturday, then have a glass of Moet for us!

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1. LIVE MUSIC
   Of course, a major Melbourne event wouldn’t be a major event without some live music acts. Headlining acts this year include Sneaky Sound System, Rogue Traders and Spiderbait, as well as Vaudeville Smash, Johnny Wonderpants, Dan O’Connor, the Johnny Rollins Band, Josh Owns, Generik, Yo! Mafia and Apax. There are various stages across the venue so make sure you check out the schedule for details.
2. FREE STUFF
   Ok, so aside from all that, and obviously the big race, the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix also allows free admission for kids 14 and under (accompanied by an adult ticketholder) and tickets include a free tram ride from Melbourne’s CBD. Sounds pretty good to us.

Visit the website for more information on the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix.