EMF Jnr play centre, Nerang

EMF Junior was once considered one of the biggest and most impressive indoor play centres on the Gold Coast, and while newer facilities have since entered the market, it still offers plenty of fun for active kids at a more budget-friendly price point.

Originally designed as a place for parents to leave their children while they trained at EMF Fitness, the facility also includes kids’ training spaces, a crèche, party rooms and a large indoor play centre. The good news for families is that the play centre is also open for casual visits.

The centre is divided into five main zones: toddler play, trampolines, jumping castle, play structure and Ninja Warrior. While some areas are showing signs of age and wear, there is still a lot here to keep children entertained, particularly on hot, rainy or humid Gold Coast days.

One of the standout features for younger visitors is the separately gated toddler area. This space includes a mini climbing structure, ball pit, small slides and plenty of opportunities for little ones to explore safely at their own pace.

Older children will likely gravitate towards the large jumping castle and trampoline zone. The trampoline area remains one of the centre’s most popular features, with multiple trampolines and wall trampolines that encourage energetic play.

The main play structure offers a maze of tunnels, climbing challenges and slides, while the ball pit continues to be a favourite with younger visitors. There is enough variety throughout the centre that most children can easily spend several hours exploring the different zones.

For children seeking an extra challenge, the Ninja Warrior course is available on select days for an additional fee. Participants must meet the height requirements and complete a safety briefing before taking part.

Parents will find plenty of seating throughout the centre, along with a café, toilets, a parents’ room and onsite parking. Its convenient location just off the M1 makes it easily accessible for families across the Gold Coast.

While EMF Junior may not have the shiny new appeal it once did, it remains a solid indoor play option with plenty of space, a good range of activities and often a lower price tag than some of the newer competitors. For families looking for an affordable way to burn off energy indoors, it’s still well worth considering.

Need to know:

• Address: 33 Hinkler Drive, Upper Nerang
• Opening hours: Monday – Friday 8am – 6pm, Saturday 8am – 4pm, Sunday 8am – 3pm
• Website: https://emfpc.com.au/clubs/emf-jnr-nerang/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emfjnr/
• Price: Casual visits are $12.50 Per Child on weekdays, $15 per child on weekends, school holidays and public holidays. Adult entry is free.