Experience the AFL Grand Final in Melbourne

Melbourne transforms into Australia's sporting capital every September, and there's nothing quite like the atmosphere when the AFL Grand Final rolls around. 

It doesn’t matter if you're a seasoned footy fan or new to the game, this guide will help you make the most of one of Australia's biggest sporting spectacles - the AFL Grand Final 2025. 

Get ready for the roar of the crowd that captures the hearts of millions of Australians. This is your 2025 guide to experience the magic of Grand Final weekend in Melbourne – it's going to be absolutely brilliant.

What Is the AFL Grand Final and Why It Matters

Credit: AFL

The 2025 Toyota AFL Grand Final will be held on Saturday, 27 September 2025, at 2.30pm AEST at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The AFL Grand Final is the culmination of 23 home and away matches over 25 rounds of football plus elimination, semi and preliminary finals. It all leads up to this - the Grand Final is a single game that determines the premier team for the season, and there can be only one winner. 

The Grand Final is played in front of 100,000 fans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and watched by an estimated 80 million television audience worldwide. 

In Melbourne and across Australia, AFL is a way of life. It's a celebration of Australian culture, camaraderie, and sporting excellence. The excitement builds throughout the week with events like the Brownlow Medal presentation and the Grand Final Parade, making it a truly national celebration.

The Cultural Significance of the Grand Final

The AFL Grand Final represents something special in Australian culture – it's a moment when the entire country comes together. 

The event transcends geographical boundaries, with fans from around the world tuning in to watch the spectacle, and many travelling to Melbourne to witness it live. A cherished Australian tradition, the Grand Final is more than just a sports event, it's a cultural phenomenon where families, friends, and communities gather to watch the game. 

The atmosphere at the MCG is electric, with the excitement, music, halftime entertainment, and iconic Norm Smith Medal presentation all contributing to the cultural significance of this event. 

What to Expect on Game Day in Melbourne

Game day in Melbourne is unlike anything else you'll experience. Melbourne city buzzes with energy as over 100,000 fans descend on the MCG and surrounding areas. Expect massive crowds, street celebrations, and an atmosphere that's absolutely infectious. 

The game kicks off at 2.30pm AEST, maintaining the traditional afternoon time slot that has defined the Grand Final for generations.

Melbourne's weather in late September can be unpredictable, so prepare for anything from sunshine to showers. The excitement builds from early morning, with many venues opening for breakfast and pre-game festivities. Whether you're heading to the ground or watching from a pub, the energy is palpable throughout the city.

Getting 2025 AFL Grand Final Tickets in Melbourne

AFL tickets for the Grand Final are notoriously difficult to secure due to high demand.

 The ticketing process typically involves a ballot system for club members, with different priority groups having designated time frames to register. Priority groups include guaranteed ticket holders like Legends Members and various club memberships, followed by ballot entries for other member categories.

To register for Grand Final tickets, you'll need your membership barcode number and will be required to register via Ticketek. Members wishing to attend together must register as a group, providing all membership barcode numbers in one transaction. Keep in mind that each member barcode will be charged a non-refundable administration fee at the time of registration.

For those without club memberships, premium hospitality packages are available through authorized providers, though these come at a significantly higher cost. It's important to be vigilant when purchasing tickets, as the AFL has warned about ticket scalping and digital security breaches in recent years.

Getting to the MCG on Game Day

Like every year, the 2025 AFL Grand Final is set to send Melbourne city into a frenzy. Regardless of where you’re venturing from, here are your top tips for getting to the game.

Best Tram and Train Routes

Public transport is absolutely your best bet for getting to the MCG on Grand Final day. 

Two train stations serve the ground: Jolimont (also known as MCG Station) is just a five-minute stroll through Yarra Park to the ground. From any CBD railway station, take the Hurstbridge or Epping lines to reach Jolimont.

Richmond Station is the other option, located on the southeastern side of the MCG with a slightly longer walk. To reach Richmond station from the city, take any train on the Lilydale, Belgrave, Alamein, Glen Waverley, Dandenong, Pakenham, Cranbourne, Frankston or Sandringham lines.

For trams, three routes provide excellent access to the MCG. Route 75 (City-Vermont South) travels along Flinders Street and connects with the eastern suburbs via Wellington Parade12. Route 48 (Docklands/City-North Balwyn) travels along Collins Street and also connects via Wellington Parade. Both routes stop just outside the MCG. Route 70 (Docklands/City-Wattle Park) travels along Flinders Street then detours via Melbourne Park, with the tram stop just a short walk across the footbridge to the ground.

Using Your Myki Card

You'll need a Myki card to travel on Melbourne's trains, trams and buses. If you're only travelling in the city's Free Tram Zone, you don't need a Myki, but getting to the MCG will require one. You can pick up a Myki at major stations and news agencies. Once you’re ready to get onboard, simply tap on with your Myki - and tap off as you disembark. 

Make sure your Myki is topped up before you travel, as services will be extremely busy on Grand Final day.

Road Closures and Transport Tips

Like any major event, expect significant road closures and traffic delays around the MCG precinct on Grand Final day. 

Public transport is strongly recommended over driving, as parking is limited and traffic congestion is severe. If you must drive, car parking is usually available at the MCG in Yarra Park for $15, payable by EFTPOS only. However, pedestrians are given priority when exiting MCG events, which can cause delays for vehicles leaving the park.

Where to Eat and Drink Near the MCG

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The area around the MCG offers fantastic options for pre and post-game dining and drinks. Raise a beer to your team at classic pubs or trendy rooftop bars, there's something to suit every taste and budget. Here's where the locals go to fuel up for the big game.

Top Pre-Game Pubs and Cafés

Richmond Club Hotel is an absolute winner for pre-game festivities, located at 100 Swan Street in Richmond. 

This venue opens early on Grand Final Day, serving breakfast from 9am in the Public Bar & Beer Garden, and from 10am on Level One & Rooftop. You can catch the game live across the entire venue, with a DJ keeping the energy pumping on Level One. The location makes it perfect for a quick walk to the MCG after you've soaked up the atmosphere.

The London Tavern Hotel at 238 Lennox Street, Richmond, is renowned for live TV sport screenings and has just installed a massive new screen. 

This relaxed watering hole boasts a covered beer garden that offers a comfortable atmosphere to enjoy pre-game drinks and meals. Its prime location just a short walk from the iconic MCG means it's consistently packed with fervent fans, creating that authentic footy atmosphere you're after.

Beer DeLuxe Fed Square is perfectly positioned between Flinders Street Station and the MCG, making it incredibly convenient for match-goers. 

All venues in Fed Square are popular, but Beer Deluxe is the place to be, offering pre-match meals and post-game drinks, with a fantastic selection of beer, wine and cocktails. The menu features pub favourites like schnitzels, burgers and chips. If you're catching the Grand Final Parade on Friday, they're also open from 10am with live music after the parade.

Post-Match Rooftop Bars and Celebrations

The Albion in South Melbourne at 172 York Street is a classic choice for post-match celebrations. 

The bar opens at 11am on Grand Final morning with free entry until 8pm. After the match, local DJs take over and mix all night long, making it perfect for keeping the party going. The rooftop bar provides a great atmosphere for celebrating (or commiserating) with fellow footy fans.

The Imperial at 2-8 Bourke Street in Melbourne CBD installs a grand screen on its terrace for the Grand Final. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations, The Imperial is a sports bar with  an unbeatable view over Spring Street and Parliament House. In a nutshell, The Imperial is where you go for great vibes and great views after the Grand Final. 

Footy Snacks and Quick Bites Near the Stadium

The Food Store locations throughout the MCG provide traditional footy food and drinks. These outlets offer classic favourites like Four'N Twenty meat pies, McCain SureCrisp Chips, and DON hotdogs – perfect for half-time snacks. The Food Store also features premium burgers made on-site and seasonal offerings throughout the year. You'll find outlets conveniently located across all stadium levels.

Along Swan Street heading toward the MCG, you’ll find numerous options for quick bites and drinks. The strip features about 100 venues including Corner Hotel, The Swan, Beer and Burger, and heaps more. This concentration of venues makes Swan Street perfect for a pub crawl or finding the right spot for your footy crew’s needs.

AFL Grand Final Weekend Activities

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Grand Final weekend in Melbourne extends far beyond the game itself, with the city hosting a spectacular array of events and activities. The weekend kicks off with the Grand Final Parade on Friday, continues with breakfast events on Saturday morning, and culminates with post-match celebrations that can last well into the night - not to mention the public holiday on Monday. 

Federation Square and Yarra Park Live Sites

Federation Square transforms into a footy fan's paradise during Grand Final weekend, hosting live screenings of the big game on massive screens. The atmosphere is electric as thousands of fans gather to watch the match together, creating a genuine community celebration. Food trucks provide fuel for your enthusiasm, and the venue recommends bringing a blanket and something to sit on as it gets incredibly busy.

The AFL Footy Festival at Yarra Park runs for four days from Wednesday to Saturday, bringing together AFL player appearances, food and drink, kids' activities and giveaways.

 The Toyota AFL Grand Final Live Site is the heart of the festival, operating from 9am on Grand Final Day with a huge screen showing the game. You'll be so close to the action you'll hear the 100,000-strong crowd cheering from inside the MCG.

Grand Final Parade and Fan Events

The AFL Grand Final Parade takes place on Friday, 26 September 2025, which is a public holiday throughout Victoria. The parade kicks off at 10:30am, featuring a new route through Melbourne Park Precinct as of 2024, via the Tanderrum Bridge to Birrarung Marr, across William Barak Bridge to the MCG, finishing at the AFL's free Footy Festival in Yarra Park. 

The parade features live entertainment, with a stage on the western side of Melbourne Park Oval so fans can enjoy all the action.

Giving fans unprecedented access to players and coaches, the Grand Final Parade creates more viewing opportunities and allows more people to cheer on their favourite players as they make their way through the heart of Melbourne's sporting precinct. 

Live Music and Nightlife Options

Credit: FedSquare

Melbourne's nightlife scene comes alive during Grand Final weekend, with venues across the city hosting special events and live music. 

Many pubs and bars feature DJ sets and live entertainment that continues long after the final siren. The atmosphere throughout the city is infectious, with celebrations spilling onto the streets and continuing well into the night.

Setting the tone for the entire weekend's celebration, Sunrise hosts their annual Grand Final Brekky Party at Federation Square from 5:30am on Friday, featuring live performances from Australian music icons. The event includes free breakfast for attendees and gives away AFL Grand Final tickets to the best-dressed fans. 

Where to Stay for the AFL Grand Final

Melbourne offers accommodation options to suit every budget and preference during Grand Final weekend, though booking early is absolutely essential. The city's hotels fill up quickly as fans from across Australia and internationally converge on Melbourne for the big game.

Dorsett Melbourne provides the perfect base for your AFL Grand Final weekend experience. Located at 615 Little Lonsdale Street in Melbourne's CBD, you're perfectly positioned between the historic Docklands and the bustling city centre. The hotel's location within West Side Place puts you right in the heart of Melbourne's cultural action, with easy access to public transport connections that'll get you to the MCG in no time.

What makes Dorsett Melbourne special for Grand Final weekend is the combination of modern elegance and genuine Australian hospitality. 

Start your day with freshly ground barista coffee from Little Jin, perfect for those early Grand Final Parade mornings. The gold-flecked Jin Bar offers the ideal spot for pre-game drinks or post-match celebrations with curated cocktails, tap beer, and delicious dining. When you need to refuel, Port Bistro provides a hearty buffet breakfast to fuel your Grand Final adventures.

Book your Grand Final weekend stay at Dorsett Melbourne now – rooms fill up fast during AFL Grand Final week, and you don't want to miss out on being right in the heart of all the action. 

AFL Grand Final in Melbourne FAQ

What should I wear to the AFL Grand Final?

Wear your team colours proudly, but layer up for Melbourne's unpredictable spring weather. Start with a breathable base layer, add a long-sleeved shirt or light sweater, and top with a waterproof jacket. September temperatures range from 9.6 to 19.6 degrees.

How early should I arrive at the MCG?

Arrive at least 2-3 hours before the 2:30pm start time to account for crowds, security checks, and pre-game entertainment. Gates typically open around 11:30am for premium ticket holders and noon for general admission.

Where can I buy official AFL merchandise in Melbourne?

The AFL Store at DFO South Wharf offers the widest range of official merchandise across all teams. You can also find AFL merchandise at various City Sports & F1 locations throughout Melbourne, or shop online for delivery.

How do I get AFL tickets for the Grand Final?

AFL tickets in Melbourne are primarily available through club member ballots via Ticketek. Non-members can access premium hospitality packages through authorized providers. Register early and be wary of ticket scalpers, as reselling is illegal under Victoria's Major Events Act.

What's the weather like in late September in Melbourne?

Melbourne's spring weather is notoriously changeable, with temperatures ranging from 9.6 to 19.6 degrees. October is typically the wettest month, so pack layers and a waterproof jacket. Weather can quickly change from sunny to cold and windy.

Can I watch the Grand Final for free in Melbourne?

Yes, Federation Square and Yarra Park host free live sites with big screen coverage of the game. The AFL Footy Festival in Yarra Park is completely free and runs from 9am on Grand Final Day. 

If you’d rather have a beer in your hand while you watch, most pubs will be playing the game live and loud across the city. 

What are the best ways to get to the MCG on Grand Final day?

Public transport is your best option. Take trains to Jolimont (5-minute walk) or Richmond stations, or trams 48, 70, or 75 that stop near the ground. Avoid driving due to road closures and limited parking.

Are there family-friendly activities during Grand Final weekend?

Absolutely! The AFL Footy Festival features kids' activities, obstacle courses, and playgrounds. The Grand Final Parade on Friday includes family-friendly entertainment and activities. Many venues offer early opening times suitable for families.

What food is available at the MCG during AFL games?

The Food Store outlets throughout the MCG offer traditional footy food like Four'N Twenty pies, McCain chips, and DON hotdogs. MCG Fresh provides healthier options including rice paper rolls, baguettes, and salads. Premium dining options are available in hospitality areas.