Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne - Taken from kayak on Yarra River.
1 / 10

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

4.7
·29k reviews·Richmond, Australia

Iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG): a historic stadium, home to AFL, cricket, and the Australian Sports Museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Event Days

Experience the electric atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne - Taken from kayak on Yarra River.

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

Best Time

Event Days

Experience the electric atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG): a historic stadium, home to AFL, cricket, and the Australian Sports Museum.

4.7
(29k reviews)

"A must-visit spot in Melbourne, rich with sporting history and atmosphere, especially if you are a cricket fan."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Best Seats for Views

Second tier, mid-wicket to long-on (M2-M11) offer great field views. Level 4 GA seats are good value if you arrive early.

🚶 Walk from Federation Square

Enjoy a scenic 15-minute walk along the Yarra River to reach the MCG from the CBD.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Arena

The Arena

Main Stadium

Experience the immense scale of this iconic sporting cathedral, home to legendary AFL and cricket matches.

Australian Sports Museum

Australian Sports Museum

Level 1, Northern Stand

Dive into Australia's rich sporting history with interactive exhibits and fascinating memorabilia.

Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Various locations

Go beyond the stands with a guided tour, accessing player rooms, media areas, and more.

Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

For major events like AFL games or the Boxing Day Test, tickets sell out fast. Book online via Ticketek to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Consider General Admission for value, but arrive early for best seats. Reddit

Getting There & Around

The MCG is easily accessible via public transport from Melbourne's CBD. Trams and trains are frequent. Walking from Federation Square is a pleasant 15-minute stroll. Reddit

Best Times

When
Event Days
Why
Experience the electric atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter tours & museum visits
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How did I not know about this!?! #mcg #mcc #melbournecricketground #melbourne #afl #hack #tips
@martonotsosmarto
35.3K likes • 461.7K views

🎯 Best Seats for Views

Second tier, mid-wicket to long-on (M2-M11) offer great field views. Level 4 GA seats are good value if you arrive early. Reddit+1

🚶 Walk from Federation Square

Enjoy a scenic 15-minute walk along the Yarra River to reach the MCG from the CBD. Reddit

Explore the iconic Sports Stadium @mcg 🇦🇺 🌈 Experience the iconic stadium & Interactive Sports Museum with Friends & Family @australiansportsmuseum 🏏🏈An MCG @mcg Tour is an absolute must on any Melbourne visit. 😍 👉The guided tour is the only opportunity to get an exclusive, behind the scenes 👀👁️ peek of one of the world’s most iconic sports stadiums but is also a chance to hear about the hist...
desicoupleinpardes
132 likes • 15.7K views
The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground is ready for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and here is how they install the drop-in pitch ahead of the season! Video: MCG —————————————————- #viratkohli #rohitsharma #indiancricket #cricket #bcci #testcricket #teamindia #indiancricketteam #bordergavaskartrophy #reelsindia #reelsvideo #reelitfeelit #reelskarofeelkaro
sportzpointcricket
39.7K likes • 679K views

🥧 Must-Try Food

Grab a classic meat pie or a hot jam donut at halftime for an authentic stadium experience. Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection

Bring a hat and sunglasses, especially for afternoon games, as the sun can be intense. Reddit

reddit.com

Where to sit at MCG

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Best Seats for Views

Second tier, mid-wicket to long-on (M2-M11) offer great field views. Level 4 GA seats are good value if you arrive early. Reddit+1

🚶 Walk from Federation Square

Enjoy a scenic 15-minute walk along the Yarra River to reach the MCG from the CBD. Reddit

🥧 Must-Try Food

Grab a classic meat pie or a hot jam donut at halftime for an authentic stadium experience. Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection

Bring a hat and sunglasses, especially for afternoon games, as the sun can be intense. Reddit

📱 Use the MCG App

Check event schedules, stadium maps, and transport info on the official MCG app. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(29k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for its immense historical significance and vibrant atmosphere, especially during major sporting events. The guided tours and the Australian Sports Museum are highlighted as excellent ways to experience the venue's rich heritage. Some guests have noted long security queues on event days, advising early arrival.

"Visiting the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for the first time was truly a memorable experience. The sheer history of this iconic stadium is impressive, and the guided tour brings it to life in a unique way. Our guide, Jerry, was knowledgeable and engaging, making the 60–70 minute tour informative and enjoyable. The tour takes you deep inside the MCG, including exclusive areas like the players' seating boxes, and members' lounges. One of the highlights was the bird’s eye view from the top, which gives you a real sense of how massive the ground is.

There are a few facilities on site including a small café and a gift shop for souvenirs. Parking can be tricky since it’s not available inside the stadium, but we were lucky to find street parking easily on a weekday.

For cricket fans, timing your visit is key. The stadium often hosts football games, so the pitch is not always set up for cricket. The best time to experience it in its full cricketing glory is during the Boxing Day Test match around Christmas. Overall, it’s a must visit spot in Melbourne, rich with sporting history and atmosphere especially if you are a cricket fan."

Yasser Jamal

"This is the second largest cricket ground. We were welcome to visit the cricket ground. Each and everything of the auditorium was clearly presented to us. We saw the cricketers landing area , their changing rooms , Physio therapy rooms , resting rooms . The ground was being maintained. We also saw the place where the speakers sit , the management sitting area cafeteria and so on . The best part is the museum. Very informative. Must visit whole you are at Australia don’t miss it."

Inthira

"Went to see the Lions v the Wallabies. What a venue. 90,000 + people so great atmosphere. Even though it's normally an AFL and cricket ground, didn't feel too far from the pitch.
Was lucky enough to be on hospitality, great fun."

Colin Henderson

What People Like

Iconic sporting venue
Rich history and atmosphere
Informative guided tours

What People Dislike

Long security queues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The MCG is easily accessible by public transport. Trams run frequently along Wellington Parade and Brunton Avenue from the CBD. Trains to Jolimont Station are also a short walk away. Many visitors enjoy the scenic 15-minute walk from Federation Square. Reddit

On-site parking is limited and usually reserved for event personnel or premium ticket holders. Street parking in the surrounding areas can be difficult and expensive on event days. Public transport is highly recommended. Reddit

For major AFL games, public transport is the most efficient. Trains and trams are the preferred methods. Arriving early is advised to avoid crowds. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant 15-20 minute walk from Federation Square in the CBD. Follow the path along the Yarra River for a scenic route. Reddit

Yes, the MCG is accessible via public transport with accessible stations and tram stops nearby. Information on accessible routes can be found on the Public Transport Victoria website.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for events at the MCG are primarily sold through Ticketek Australia. It's recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially for popular events like AFL matches and the Boxing Day Test. Reddit

For cricket, seats around the mid-wicket to long-on area on the second tier (e.g., M2-M11) offer excellent views of the entire ground. General Admission seats on Level 4 can also provide good value if you arrive early. Reddit

Generally, there are no bad seats at the MCG due to its design. Even seats further back on Level 4 offer a good perspective of the game. Reddit

General Admission tickets allow access to unreserved seating areas, typically on Level 4. Arriving early is recommended to secure your preferred spot. Reddit

For major events, it's advised to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the start time to allow for security checks and to find your seats without rushing. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can visit the Australian Sports Museum, take a guided stadium tour, or enjoy the atmosphere on non-event days. The MCG also hosts concerts and other large-scale events. Instagram

The MCG offers a variety of food and beverage outlets, including classic stadium fare like pies and hot dogs, as well as more diverse options. Hot jam donuts are a popular treat. Reddit

Yes, personal photography is generally permitted for non-commercial use. However, tripods and professional camera equipment may be restricted during events. Always check the specific event's policy. TikTok

Parts of the MCG are covered, particularly sections in the Ponsford Stand and Members' areas. However, if it's raining heavily and windy, some seats may still get wet. Check the MCG's undercover seating guide for details. Reddit

The MCG has robust security measures, including bag checks and metal detectors. Arriving early is crucial to avoid long queues, especially for large events. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For panoramic views, head to the upper levels. The player tunnels and change rooms offer unique perspectives during tours. The exterior architecture is also photogenic. TikTok

Selfie sticks and tripods are generally not permitted inside the stadium during events to ensure the safety and viewing experience of all patrons. TikTok

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Instagram

Yes, drone usage is strictly prohibited within the airspace of the MCG and surrounding parklands due to safety and security regulations.

For capturing action, a telephoto lens is useful. For general atmosphere and wider shots, a standard zoom lens or a prime lens like a 35mm or 50mm works well. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The MCG is a fantastic destination for families. The Australian Sports Museum offers interactive exhibits that will captivate children, making learning about sports fun. InstagramReddit For game days, consider General Admission tickets and arrive early to secure seats with good views and space for kids. Bringing snacks and drinks (within venue policy) can also help keep little ones happy. Reddit

Many tours are family-friendly, and the sheer scale of the stadium is often awe-inspiring for younger visitors. Ensure you check the MCG's website for any specific family-friendly events or facilities available on your visit date. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, opt for General Admission (GA) tickets for events. While they don't guarantee specific seats, arriving early can help you find good vantage points, especially on Level 4. Reddit+1 Consider packing your own snacks and water bottle (check venue rules) to save on concession prices. Reddit

Walking from the CBD is a free and enjoyable way to reach the MCG, saving on public transport fares. Reddit On non-event days, exploring the exterior of the ground and the surrounding parklands is a great free activity. Look out for special offers or package deals that might include museum entry or tours.

🏏 Cricket Enthusiasts

Timing your visit for a major cricket match, like the Boxing Day Test, is the ultimate experience for cricket fans. The atmosphere is electric, and the MCG is renowned for its iconic cricket history. Reddit For the best views, aim for seats around the boundary or on the second tier, offering a comprehensive view of the pitch. Reddit

Even if there isn't a match, a guided tour will take you through the cricket history of the ground, including the players' facilities and the MCC Long Room. The Australian Sports Museum also has extensive cricket exhibits. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding MCG Seating

Navigating the seating at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) can seem complex, but understanding the different sections and tiers is key to a great experience. The MCG has three main tiers: Level 1 (closest to the field), Level 2 (mid-level), and Level 4 (upper level). Within these tiers, sections are numbered, and rows are lettered (e.g., M29, Row AA). Reddit

For AFL and cricket, seats in the Ponsford Stand (Gates 1-4) and Olympic Stand (Gates 31-36) are often favored for their central views. Seats around mid-wicket to long-on are generally considered prime viewing spots. General Admission (GA) tickets typically grant access to unreserved seating on Level 4, meaning arriving early is crucial to snagging a good spot. Reddit+1

It's important to note that certain areas, like the AFL Members Reserve (often marked in red), are exclusively for AFL members. For other games, sections might be reserved for club members. Always check the seating plan when purchasing tickets and consider factors like shade and proximity to the action based on your preferences. Reddit

The MCG Guided Tour Experience

A guided tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) offers an unparalleled glimpse into the heart of Australian sport. These tours typically last 60-70 minutes and are led by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating stories and historical anecdotes. You'll get to see behind-the-scenes areas that are usually off-limits to the public, such as the players' change rooms, the media facilities, and the MCC Long Room. Instagram

One of the most thrilling parts of the tour is walking through the player's tunnel and emerging onto the hallowed turf, imagining the roar of the crowd. You'll also get a bird's-eye view from the stands, truly appreciating the stadium's immense capacity and iconic status. The tour provides a deep dive into the MCG's rich history, from its early days to hosting major international events. TikTok

For an even more exclusive experience, consider the premium access tour, which may include additional areas and a more personalized itinerary. Regardless of the tour type, it's a must-do for sports enthusiasts and anyone wanting to understand the cultural significance of the MCG in Australia. Reddit

The Australian Sports Museum

Located within the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the Australian Sports Museum is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the nation's sporting heritage. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia exhibits that celebrate a wide range of sports, from cricket and Australian Rules Football to Olympic Games and beyond. Instagram

Visitors can explore the evolution of sports equipment, relive iconic sporting moments through engaging stories, and even test their own athletic skills in interactive zones. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of Australia's sporting achievements and the cultural impact of sport on society. It's an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. Reddit

Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum. It's a fantastic complement to attending a live event at the MCG or can be a destination in its own right for a deeper dive into Australian sporting culture. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2