Are you a sports lover who wants to witness the action and excitement of some of the world's most famous events? Do you want to explore the history and heritage of Australia's sporting culture? Do you want to experience the thrill and atmosphere of being in one of the largest and most iconic stadiums in the world? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you need to visit the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
The MCG, or the 'G as it is affectionately known, is more than just a stadium. It is a symbol of Melbourne's passion and pride for sports, a place where legends are made and history is written, a venue that hosts some of the biggest and best events in cricket, Australian rules football (AFL), soccer, rugby, tennis, and more. It is also a destination that offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests, such as guided tours, museums, restaurants, and bars.
In this article, we will give you the ultimate guide to the MCG, covering everything you need to know before you go, how to experience the MCG in different ways, how to get to the MCG, and what else to do near the MCG. Whether you are a local or a tourist, a fan or a curious, a solo traveller or a family, you will find something to enjoy and remember at the MCG.
How to Experience the MCG
There are many ways to experience the MCG, depending on your preferences, budget, and availability. Here are some of the most popular and recommended ways to enjoy the MCG:
Catch a game of Aussie rules
One of the best ways to experience the MCG is to watch a game of AFL, the most popular and unique sport in Australia. AFL is a fast-paced, high-scoring, and physical game that combines elements of rugby, soccer, and basketball. It is played on a large oval-shaped field, with 18 players on each team, and four posts at each end. The aim is to kick the ball between the posts, scoring six points for a goal and one point for a behind.
The MCG is the home of AFL, hosting the grand final every year, as well as regular season games from March to September. The MCG can seat up to 100,000 spectators, creating an electric and exhilarating atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. You can buy tickets online or at the gate, but be sure to book in advance for popular games or finals. You can also immerse yourself in the grandstand culture, cheering, singing, and chanting with the passionate fans, and enjoying the food and drinks on offer.
Watch a cricket Test match in summer
Another great way to experience the MCG is to watch a cricket Test match in summer, especially the Boxing Day Test, which starts on December 26 and lasts for five days. Cricket is a bat-and-ball game that is played between two teams of 11 players, with one team batting and the other team bowling and fielding. The aim is to score more runs than the other team, by hitting the ball and running between the wickets, or by dismissing the batsmen.
The MCG is the birthplace of Test cricket, hosting the first ever Test match in 1877, and the first ever One Day International in 1971. It is also the venue for the Ashes, the most prestigious and historic series between Australia and England. Watching a cricket Test match at the MCG is a quintessential Australian experience, where you can witness the skill and strategy of the players, the drama and tension of the game, and the fun and festive mood of the crowd. You can buy tickets online or at the gate, but be sure to prepare for the weather, as it can be hot, cold, or rainy during the summer.
Take a tour of the stadium
If you want to see the behind-the-scenes of the MCG, you can take a guided tour of the stadium, which runs daily from 10 am to 3 pm, except on event days. The tour lasts for about 75 minutes, and takes you to the inner sanctum of the MCG, where you can access the players' changing rooms, the media centre, the members' area, the coaches' box, and the famous Long Room. You can also walk on the hallowed turf, see the iconic scoreboard, and learn about the history and stories of the MCG from the knowledgeable and friendly guides.
The tour costs $25 for adults, $15 for children, and $65 for families, and you can book online or at the gate. The tour also includes admission to the National Sports Museum, which is located inside the MCG and showcases Australia's sporting achievements and heritage.
Visit the National Sports Museum
If you are a sports enthusiast or a history buff, you will love the National Sports Museum, which is located inside the MCG and open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, except on event days. The museum features a collection of exhibits and memorabilia that celebrate the rich and diverse history of Australian sports, such as cricket, AFL, soccer, rugby, tennis, golf, cycling, swimming, and more. You can see the trophies, medals, uniforms, equipment, and photos of some of the most famous and influential athletes and teams in Australia, as well as interactive displays and games that test your skills and knowledge.
The museum also has a special section dedicated to the MCG, where you can learn about the origins and development of the stadium, its role in major events such as the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games, and its impact on the culture and identity of Melbourne and Australia. The museum costs $15 for adults, $10 for children, and $40 for families, and you can buy tickets online or at the gate.
How to Get to the MCG
The MCG is located in the heart of Melbourne, within walking distance from the city centre and other attractions. Here are some of the ways to get to the MCG:
- By train:
The closest train station to the MCG is Jolimont, which is a five-minute walk from the stadium. You can catch a train from Flinders Street, Southern Cross, or Richmond stations, which are all connected to the city loop and the suburban network. You can also walk from Flinders Street station, which is about 15 minutes away, along the scenic Yarra River.
- By tram:
The closest tram stop to the MCG is Rod Laver Arena, which is a 10-minute walk from the stadium. You can catch tram number 70 from Flinders Street or Docklands, or tram number 75 from Flinders Street or Vermont South. You can also walk from Federation Square, which is about 15 minutes away, across the beautiful Birrarung Marr park.
- By bus:
The closest bus stop to the MCG is Melbourne Park, which is a 10-minute walk from the stadium. You can catch bus number 246 from Elsternwick, Clifton Hill, or Latrobe University, or bus number 605 from Gardenvale or Flagstaff. You can also walk from the Arts Centre, which is about 15 minutes away, along the cultural St Kilda Road.
- By car:
The MCG has limited parking spaces, which are usually reserved for members and event staff. You can park at the nearby Yarra Park, which is open on event days and costs $10 per vehicle, but be aware that it can fill up quickly and close early. You can also park at the city centre, which has many car parks and garages, but be prepared to pay higher fees and face traffic congestion.
- By bike:
The MCG is easily accessible by bike, as Melbourne has many bike lanes and paths that lead to the stadium. You can park your bike at the racks outside the MCG, or at the nearby Federation Square, which has a secure bike hub. You can also rent a bike from the Melbourne Bike Share, which has stations across the city and costs $3 per day or $8 per week.
What Else to Do Near the MCG
The MCG is not only a great destination in itself, but also a convenient base to explore other attractions and activities that are close to the stadium. Here are some of the things you can do near the MCG:
Watch Australian Open tennis
If you are a tennis fan, you will be delighted to know that the MCG is just a stone's throw away from Melbourne Park, where the Australian Open is held every year in January. The Australian Open is one of the four Grand Slam tournaments in tennis, and attracts the best players and fans from around the world. You can watch the matches at the Rod Laver Arena, the Margaret Court Arena, or the Melbourne Arena, or enjoy the entertainment and activities at the Grand Slam Oval. You can buy tickets online or at the gate, but be sure to book in advance for popular matches or finals. You can also upgrade your experience with premium packages, such as the Superbox, the Corporate Hospitality, or the Travel Packages.
Visit AAMI Park
If you are interested in other sports, such as rugby league, rugby union, or soccer, you can visit AAMI Park, which is another nearby stadium that hosts these matches. AAMI Park is a modern and innovative stadium, with a distinctive bioframe design and a geodesic dome roof. It can seat up to 30,000 spectators, and offers a great view and atmosphere for the games. You can buy tickets online or at the gate, but be sure to check the schedule and availability for the matches you want to see.
Explore Federation Square
If you are looking for some culture and entertainment, you can explore Federation Square, which is a vibrant and cosmopolitan hub that is located across the river from the MCG. Federation Square is a cultural and civic centre that hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, such as festivals, concerts, exhibitions, markets, and workshops. You can also visit some of the attractions and venues that are located in Federation Square, such as the Ian Potter Centre, which showcases Australian art, the ACMI, which celebrates film and digital media, and the Koorie Heritage Trust, which honours the Aboriginal culture. You can also relax and enjoy the views, food, and drinks at the many cafes, restaurants, and bars that are scattered around the square.
Stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens
If you are looking for some nature and tranquility, you can stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens, which are a short walk from the MCG. The Royal Botanic Gardens are one of the most beautiful and diverse botanical gardens in the world, covering 38 hectares of land and featuring over 8,500 plant species from around the world. You can explore the gardens at your own pace, or join a guided tour, a punting cruise, or a Aboriginal heritage walk. You can also visit some of the highlights of the gardens, such as the Ornamental Lake, the Tropical Glasshouse, the Children's Garden, and the Guilfoyle's Volcano. You can also relax and picnic at the lawns, or enjoy a bite or a drink at the cafes or restaurants that are located in the gardens.
The MCG is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Melbourne, as it offers a unique and unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Australian sports, culture, and history. Whether you watch a game, take a tour, or visit the museum, you will be amazed and inspired by the MCG, and its stories and legends. You will also find plenty of other things to do and see near the MCG, such as watching tennis, visiting AAMI Park, exploring Federation Square, or strolling through the Royal Botanic Gardens.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to experience the MCG, the ultimate destination for sports lovers and travellers alike. Thank you for reading, and feel free to share your feedback or questions with us. We hope to see you soon at the MCG!
