AFL at the Gabba
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The Gabba Brisbane

4.4
·5k reviews·Woolloongabba, Australia

Iconic Brisbane stadium, home to the Lions and cricket, buzzing with passionate crowds and sporting history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

AFL & BBL Game Nights

Electric atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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AFL at the Gabba

The Gabba Brisbane

Best Time

AFL & BBL Game Nights

Electric atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Brisbane stadium, home to the Lions and cricket, buzzing with passionate crowds and sporting history.

4.4
(5k reviews)

"The atmosphere for a Big Bash game is impressive."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Avoid Game Day Traffic

Opt for free shuttle buses or trains. Driving is bedlam! :bus: :train2:

💰 Pack Snacks & Drinks

Stadium food is pricey. Bring your own to save money and enjoy your game! :apple: :water_bottle:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Brisbane Lions AFL Match

Brisbane Lions AFL Match

The Gabba

Experience the electric atmosphere of an AFL game with the Brisbane Lions. Feel the roar of the crowd!

BBL Cricket Action

BBL Cricket Action

The Gabba

Catch a thrilling Big Bash League cricket match under the lights. A quintessential Australian summer experience.

International Cricket Test

International Cricket Test

The Gabba

Witness the drama of an international Test cricket match at this historic venue. A true test of skill and endurance.

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Planning Your Visit

Getting to The Gabba: Beat the Game Day Rush

Traffic around The Gabba is notoriously busy on game days. Many locals recommend avoiding driving directly to the stadium. Instead, consider using public transport like the free shuttle buses from Central Station or major shopping centers, or train to Southbank and enjoy a short walk. Reddit+1

Game Day Essentials: Food & Comfort

Food and drink prices inside The Gabba can be steep. Many visitors suggest bringing your own snacks or eating beforehand. For cooler evenings, especially during cricket season, pack warm layers as it can get chilly. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
AFL & BBL Game Nights
Why
Electric atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Test Cricket Matches
Why
Historic sporting events
Crowd
High
When
Non-Game Days
Why
Quieter, for tours
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

So you only have 3 days in Brisbane! This is how I would do it! @VisitBrisbane AD #visitbrisbane
@joslaloh
41.9K likes • 6.3M views

🚗 Avoid Game Day Traffic

Opt for free shuttle buses or trains. Driving is bedlam! Reddit+1 :bus: :train2:

💰 Pack Snacks & Drinks

Stadium food is pricey. Bring your own to save money and enjoy your game! Reddit+1 :apple: :water_bottle:

NEW Rooftop in Brisbane 🍸 SUNSETS ROOFTOP 📍 95 Linton St, Kangaroo Point Mediterranean-Inspired, with incredible views that stretch from Queen’s Wharf to the Valley. Step out of the lift and into a desert oasis, complete with olive trees, terracotta pots, and a landscaped cacti garden. Be one of the first to experience this epic new spot! Share with a friend 🥂 #brisbane #brisbanebars #brisbanenews...
@brisbane
38K likes • 878K views
Aussie Meat Pie ain Brisbane At The Gabba #afl #meatpie #australia
josiahhein
423 likes • 6.7K views

🧥 Dress for the Weather

Evenings can get cold, especially during cricket. Pack layers! Reddit :cloud:

📍 Arrive Early

Allow ample time for security and to soak in the pre-game atmosphere. Reddit :stopwatch:

🤍 BRISBANE • HEAT 🤍 • Thank you @heatbbl for our tickets to last night’s game at the Gabba. So glad you were able to get the win on the final ball. We had a great night. • • • • • #brisbaneheat #brisbane #cricket #gabba #bigbash #bbl #summer #atmosphere #music #livemusic #dance #cheer #brisbanemodel #teenmodelaustralia #friends #family #nightout #sport #sportingteam #brisbaneheatbbl #lastnight #ex...
maddie_rose_d
102 likes • 2.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Avoid Game Day Traffic

Opt for free shuttle buses or trains. Driving is bedlam! Reddit+1 :bus: :train2:

💰 Pack Snacks & Drinks

Stadium food is pricey. Bring your own to save money and enjoy your game! Reddit+1 :apple: :water_bottle:

🧥 Dress for the Weather

Evenings can get cold, especially during cricket. Pack layers! Reddit :cloud:

📍 Arrive Early

Allow ample time for security and to soak in the pre-game atmosphere. Reddit :stopwatch:

📱 Use the Translink App

Plan your public transport journey easily with real-time updates. Reddit :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise the electric atmosphere at The Gabba, especially for AFL and BBL games, and appreciate the good viewing angles from most seats. However, many find the food and drink prices to be expensive and note that exiting via public transport can be challenging after major events. Some also mention issues with weather policies, like umbrella restrictions.

"We throughly enjoyed our visit to the Gabba to watch the Brisbane Lions play. Our seats were at Gate 7 Section 408. In the shade and fantastic view of the full field. Would book same seats again. The kids loved going onto the field after the game and kicking the ball too."

Matt Edwards Photography

"expensive food and water at the cricket, big bash or AFL. difficult to get out of there via public transport. good seating arrangement and can see the game from anwhere. the atmosphere for a big bash game is impressive. during the test cricket, it was raining and they wouldn't allow umbrellas even though it wasn't even full, which wasn't fun."

Matt Abrahams

"Not a bad stadium really. Sucks that you can't watch the footy unless you're in your seat and nowhere else but it is what it is. Food available was pretty average so eat before you get there. Good atmosphere as we were there for the lions/ hawks game. Would go back."

Jaso

What People Like

Electric atmosphere
Good viewing angles
Post-game field access

What People Dislike

Expensive food/drinks
Crowded exits
Weather policy issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Most visitors recommend avoiding driving due to heavy traffic and limited parking. The easiest options are the free shuttle buses from Central Station or major shopping centers, or taking a train to Southbank and enjoying a 15-20 minute walk. Reddit+1 Check the Translink website for event-specific transport details. Reddit

Parking directly at The Gabba on game days is extremely limited and often expensive. It's generally advised to park at a major shopping center with a shuttle bus service or at a train station and use public transport. Reddit

Yes, often your event ticket includes free travel on public transport to and from The Gabba on game days. Check the specific event details and the Translink website for confirmation. Reddit+1

The Gabba is located in Woolloongabba, about 3-4 kilometers south of the Brisbane CBD. It's a short bus or train ride, or a pleasant walk from South Bank. Reddit

While Ubers and taxis are available, they can be subject to surge pricing and long wait times immediately after a major event. Public transport is often a more reliable and cost-effective option. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for events at The Gabba are typically sold through official ticketing partners like Ticketmaster or Ticketek, depending on the event. It's always best to purchase from authorized sellers to avoid scams. Instagram

The Gabba's opening hours vary depending on scheduled events. Gates usually open 1-2 hours before the start of a game or event. Check the specific event schedule on The Gabba's official website. Reddit

Generally, you can bring sealed, non-alcoholic drinks and small snacks. However, policies can vary by event. Large containers, alcohol, and certain items are prohibited. Check the event's specific conditions of entry. Reddit

There are no general age restrictions for attending most sporting events at The Gabba. Children are welcome, but may require a ticket depending on their age and the event. Instagram

Umbrellas are often not permitted inside the stadium seating areas, especially during cricket matches, to avoid obstructing views. Check the specific event's conditions of entry for details. Reddit

🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience

The atmosphere at The Gabba for a Brisbane Lions AFL game is renowned for being electric and passionate. Expect a lively crowd, chanting, and a strong sense of community. InstagramReddit

The Gabba generally offers good viewing angles from most seats. However, higher seats might trap more heat under the roof sails on hot days. Reddit

The Gabba has numerous facilities including restrooms, food and beverage outlets, merchandise stores, and first aid stations. Reddit

Wi-Fi availability can be inconsistent at large stadiums. It's recommended to download any necessary apps or information beforehand. Reddit

Refund policies typically depend on the event organizer and the reason for cancellation. Check the terms and conditions of your ticket purchase and the event organizer's website for details. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Food options at The Gabba typically include classic stadium fare like hot dogs, pies, chips, and burgers. Some events may offer more diverse options. Reddit+1

Food and beverages at The Gabba are generally considered expensive. Expect to pay around $9-$11 for a schooner of beer and similar prices for other items. Reddit+1

While options can vary, most stadiums offer some vegetarian choices. Vegan options might be more limited, so it's advisable to check the stadium's website or inquire on arrival. Reddit

Re-entry policies can vary by event. For some events, you may be able to get a 'pass out' at lunchtime to grab food outside the ground, but this is not guaranteed. Reddit

Woolloongabba, the suburb where The Gabba is located, has a growing dining scene with various restaurants and cafes. The Lord Stanley hotel is also a popular spot for pre or post-match refreshments. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Personal photography for non-commercial use is generally allowed at The Gabba. However, tripods, professional equipment, and flash photography may be restricted. Check the event's specific photography policy. Instagram

For iconic shots, capture the stadium exterior, the vibrant crowd during a game, and the city skyline from certain vantage points. The atmosphere during a BBL match is particularly photogenic. Instagram

Drones are strictly prohibited at The Gabba and most sporting venues due to safety and security regulations. Instagram

Player access is usually restricted to authorized personnel and players during games. While you might catch a glimpse, getting selfies with players during an event is unlikely. Instagram

Compact digital cameras and mobile phones are generally permitted. Larger cameras with detachable lenses, video cameras, and other professional equipment may be restricted. Always check the event's specific guidelines. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Attending a game at The Gabba can be a fantastic family outing. Many events, like AFL and BBL matches, are designed to be family-friendly with engaging entertainment. A major highlight for kids is often the opportunity to go onto the field after the game to kick a ball around, a tradition particularly enjoyed after Brisbane Lions matches. Reddit Public transport options, especially the free shuttle buses, make getting to the stadium with children much easier than navigating game-day traffic. Reddit+1

To make the experience more enjoyable for families, consider packing snacks and drinks to manage costs, as stadium food can be expensive. Reddit+1 Ensure children are dressed appropriately for the weather, as evenings can get cool. Reddit Arriving a little earlier can also help children settle in without feeling rushed. Reddit Always check the specific event's guidelines regarding age restrictions for tickets and any prohibited items.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers heading to The Gabba, prioritizing free public transport is key. Utilize the free shuttle buses or train services to avoid parking fees and expensive ride-shares. Reddit+1 Bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended to significantly cut down on stadium expenses, as prices inside can be quite high. Reddit+1 Look for deals on parking at outer train stations or shopping centers if driving is unavoidable. Reddit Some Reddit users suggest that the food quality inside can be average, further justifying bringing your own provisions. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Game Day Transport to The Gabba

Getting to The Gabba on game day can be a challenge, with traffic and parking being major concerns for visitors. Many locals and experienced attendees strongly advise against driving directly to the stadium. Instead, the consensus points towards utilizing Brisbane's efficient public transport system. Free shuttle buses are a popular choice, often running from Central Station and various major shopping centers directly to Woolloongabba. Reddit+1 These shuttles are usually timed to coincide with event start and end times, making them a convenient option. Reddit+1

Alternatively, taking a train to South Bank station and enjoying a pleasant 15-20 minute walk to the stadium is another favored method. Reddit This allows you to soak in the city atmosphere and avoid the immediate game-day congestion around the venue. For those coming from further afield, consider driving to a park-and-ride facility at a train station or a major shopping center with shuttle services. Reddit Always check the Translink website or app for the most up-to-date information on event transport and route planning. Reddit

Key Takeaway: Prioritize public transport or shuttle services for a stress-free arrival at The Gabba. Driving is generally not recommended on event days. Reddit+1

Game Day Experience: Food, Comfort, and Atmosphere

The atmosphere at The Gabba during a major sporting event, particularly an AFL match with the Brisbane Lions or a BBL cricket game, is often described as electric and passionate. InstagramReddit The roar of the crowd, the shared excitement, and the vibrant energy create a memorable experience for attendees. However, it's worth noting that food and beverage prices inside the stadium can be quite high, with schooners of beer often costing between $9-$11. Reddit+1 Many visitors suggest bringing your own snacks and drinks to save money, though policies on what can be brought in can vary by event. Reddit

Comfort is also a consideration, especially during the cooler months or evening games. It's advisable to pack warm layers, as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, even during summer cricket matches. Reddit While seating arrangements are generally good, some higher seats might retain heat under the roof sails on hot days. Reddit For those looking to enhance their game day, consider arriving early to soak in the pre-game buzz, explore the stadium, and perhaps grab a bite at one of the nearby pubs in Woolloongabba before heading in. Reddit

Pro Tip: Check the specific event's conditions of entry regarding food, drink, and umbrella policies to ensure a smooth experience. Reddit

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