Witness Aussie Sports History at Melbourne Cricket Ground
If there’s a place in Melbourne that best symbolizes the city’s love for sports, it’s definitely the Melbourne Cricket Ground. This world-famous venue has hosted unforgettable moments in cricket, Australian Rules football, and even the Olympics!
While it’s impressive in photos and on TV, nothing compares to experiencing it up close. From exploring the National Sports Museum to watching the action unfold from the stands, there’s something about being at the MCG that leaves you in awe.
If you’re ready to make the most of your visit and turn an ordinary day into something extraordinary, stick with me because I’m about to give you the lowdown on how to make the most of your time at the MCG!
Where is Melbourne Cricket Ground?
The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is located in Yarra Park, East Melbourne, just a short walk from the city center. It’s positioned between Brunton Avenue and Jolimont Terrace, making it easily accessible by public and private transport.
How to Get to Melbourne Cricket Ground
Closest train station: The closest train station to the MCG is Jolimont Station, located on the Hurstbridge and Mernda Lines. From there, it’s a short 5-minute walk through Yarra Park to the stadium.
For those coming from Melbourne’s CBD, Richmond Station is also within walking distance and offers another convenient access point.
Alternatively, trams along Wellington Parade and Swan Street provide direct connections to the ground.
What to Do and See in Melbourne Cricket Ground
Walk where legends tread with an MGC tour
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Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 10 AM–3 PM
The tour starts at the players’ dressing rooms, where legends prepared for their greatest moments. Next, step into the prestigious Long Room, a space steeped in tradition and reserved for MCC members.
Moving on, the tour takes you through the media center. It offers a glimpse of where broadcasters bring matches to life for millions of fans.
Finally, the highlight—standing on the hallowed turf itself, where cricket icons and AFL stars have made history.
Attend a live game or event and cheer for your favorite team
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Pricing: $$
What better way to truly enjoy MCG than actually attending a live game and cheering for your favorite team? Picture the roar of the crowd as an AFL match kicks off, the atmosphere electric with team pride and anticipation.
Alternatively, you can attend your favorite singer’s concert and have the time of your life!
No matter the occasion, the “G” transforms into a stage where unforgettable memories are made.
Take home the spirit of the game with its merchandise
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Pricing: $$
The MCG Shop is packed with everything a sports fan could want. Official team merchandise like cricket jerseys and AFL scarves let fans show their pride.
The memorabilia collection includes signed cricket bats, match-day programs, and framed photos that celebrate legendary moments in sporting history. Accessories like caps, keychains, and mini cricket bats make for perfect souvenirs or gifts.
Time travel through Aussie sports history
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Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Tue-Sun: 10 AM–5 PM
The National Sports Museum at the MCG showcases some of Australia’s greatest sporting triumphs, making it a must-visit for sports fans.
Cricket fans can marvel at Don Bradman’s iconic bat and uniforms worn during the historic Ashes series. AFL enthusiasts will find exhibits showcasing premiership trophies and memorabilia from legendary grand finals.
Olympic history comes alive with medals, torches, and artifacts from Australian athletes’ record-breaking performances. The museum’s interactive zones, like the Game On exhibit, let visitors test their skills in cricket and other sports.
Where to Eat and Drink near Melbourne Cricket Ground
Richmond Oysters
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Address: 437-443 Church Street
Distance from Melbourne Cricket Ground: 6 mins
Phone: +61 3 9428 5121
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Offers fresh oysters, grilled prawns, and their famous seafood platter
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 12 PM–10 PM
Richmond Oysters is a seafood paradise where every dish showcases the freshest catch.
The oysters are the stars of the show. They’re served natural, Kilpatrick, or with a creamy Mornay topping that melts in your mouth.
The Richmond Seafood Platter is a feast for the senses. It overflows with scallops, prawns, and tender calamari—all perfectly cooked to highlight their natural flavors. It even comes with a lobster!
For those craving something indulgent, the lobster mornay is rich and decadent, perfectly paired with buttery garlic bread.
Minamishima
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Address: 4 Lord Street
Distance from Melbourne Cricket Ground: 15 mins
Phone: +61 3 9429 5180
Pricing: $$$$
Good to know: High-end Japanese restaurant specializing in omakase dining
Operating Hours: Tue-Sat: 6 PM–10 PM
Minamishima is a masterclass in Japanese omakase dining, where every dish is an art form. The sushi features the freshest seafood that’s flown in daily and is delicately balanced with perfectly seasoned rice.
Signature pieces like the melt-in-your-mouth toro (fatty tuna) and the subtly sweet scallop are unforgettable highlights.
The menu evolves with the seasons. It showcases specialties like Hokkaido uni (sea urchin) and Tasmanian salmon, each presented with precision and elegance.
The sashimi platter is a standout, with its vibrant and jewel-like slices that practically sparkle on the plate. The experience is elevated with thoughtfully paired sake or Japanese whisky, enhancing the delicate flavors of the food.
Baby Pizza
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Address: 631-633 Church Street
Distance from Melbourne Cricket Ground: 5 mins
Phone: +61 3 9421 4599
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Great Italian wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and tiramisu
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 12 PM– 12 AM
Baby Pizza is a vibrant Italian eatery in Richmond, celebrated for its authentic wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta dishes.
The menu features a variety of traditional and specialty pizzas. Among the favorites is the Margherita with San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil.
Pasta enthusiasts can enjoy options like the Rigatoni al Ragu, which features braised beef. There’s also the Gnocchi di Patate alla Zucca that’s with pumpkin and sage.
Frederic
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Address: 9-11 Cremorne Street
Distance from Melbourne Cricket Ground: 16 mins
Phone: +61 3 9089 7224
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Great steak frites and elegant desserts like the tarte tatin
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Fri: 12 PM–3 PM, 5 PM–10 PM
- Sat: 5 PM–10 PM
Frederic delivers a refined yet approachable take on modern European cuisine. The menu is a celebration of French and Mediterranean flavors, crafted with precision and seasonal ingredients.
The slow-cooked lamb shoulder, tender and aromatic, is a standout. Meanwhile, the duck leg confit offers rich, indulgent flavors balanced with vibrant accompaniments.
For dessert, the tarte tatin is a masterpiece. It features caramelized apples and a flaky, buttery crust, the perfect finish to a memorable meal.
The Blacksmith Bar
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Address: 88 Swan Street
Distance from Melbourne Cricket Ground: 20 mins
Phone: +61 3 9429 8880
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Good rib-eye steak and house-made sauces
Operating Hours:
- Tue-Thu: 4 PM–10 PM
- Fri-Sat: 12 PM– 12 AM
- Sun: 12 PM–10 PM
The Blacksmith Bar & Grill serves up hearty, flame-grilled dishes that showcase bold flavors and quality ingredients.
The menu is all about comfort and indulgence. The highlights include a rib-eye steak that’s charred to perfection and paired with a smoky house-made jus.
Another favorite is the flame-grilled chicken seasoned with a blend of spices. It offers juicy, tender meat and perfectly crisp skin.
For sides, the truffle mash and smoky grilled corn complement the mains beautifully. Finish the meal with a decadent sticky date pudding, served with a rich butterscotch sauce.
Where to Shop near Melbourne Cricket Ground
Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre
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Address: 620 Victoria Street
Distance from Melbourne Cricket Ground: 25 mins
Phone: +61 3 8420 1400
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Wed: 9 AM–5:30 PM
- Thu-Fri: 9 AM–9 PM
- Sat: 9 AM–6 PM
- Sun: 10 AM–5 PM
Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre is a well-rounded shopping and dining destination that caters to a variety of needs. The center’s standout feature is its IKEA, which draws in design enthusiasts with its extensive selection of home furnishings and decor.
Grocery shopping is a breeze with Coles and Aldi offering a wide range of fresh produce and essentials, while smaller specialty shops like The Source Bulk Foods provide organic and eco-friendly options.
Fashion and beauty lovers will appreciate stores like Cotton On, Dotti, and Mecca, offering everything from casual wear to premium skincare.
The dining precinct is diverse, with options like Roll’d for fresh Vietnamese street food and Grill’d for gourmet burgers. The Hoyts Cinema on-site is an added bonus, perfect for catching a movie after a day of shopping.
Richmond Traders
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Address: 261 Bridge Road, Richmond
Distance from Melbourne Cricket Ground: 30 mins
Phone: +61 3 9429 0133
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 9 AM–7 PM
Richmond Traders is a vibrant marketplace that brings together the best of fresh produce, gourmet foods, and specialty products in the heart of Richmond.
The fresh fruit and vegetable section is a highlight, showcasing vibrant, seasonal produce sourced from local growers.
Food lovers will enjoy browsing the artisanal cheese and charcuterie stalls, which offer a curated selection of premium products perfect for entertaining or indulging.
The bakery section is equally impressive, with crusty sourdough loaves, buttery croissants, and other fresh-baked goods filling the air with irresistible aromas.
Richmond Traders also features boutique stores selling handcrafted pantry staples like olive oils, jams, and condiments, ensuring there’s always something unique to discover.
House of Handmade
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Address: 73 Bridge Road
Distance from Melbourne Cricket Ground: 19 mins
Phone: +61 3 9427 7000
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Sat: 10 AM–5 PM
- Sun: 11 AM–4 PM
House of Handmade is a treasure trove of locally crafted goods that exudes creativity and charm. The boutique showcases a curated selection of handmade jewelry, from delicate silver rings to bold statement pieces, each crafted by Australian artisans.
The home decor range stands out with unique offerings like hand-painted ceramics, colorful woven throws, and eco-friendly candles in exquisite scents.
Gift seekers will love the variety of artisanal products, including hand-stitched leather wallets, bespoke stationery, and custom artwork that make for thoughtful presents.
Every item in the store reflects a story and a commitment to quality, making shopping here a personal and inspiring experience.
Where to Stay near Melbourne Cricket Ground
Quest East Melbourne
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Address: 48 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne
Distance from Melbourne Cricket Ground: 30 mins
Phone: +61 3 9413 0000
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Quest East Melbourne combines convenience with comfort, making it an excellent choice for visitors who want to stay close to the MCG without sacrificing modern amenities.
The serviced apartments are compact yet stylish. They feature comfortable beds, well-equipped kitchenettes, and plenty of natural light.
The rooftop terrace is the standout feature. It offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the MCG, perfect for a morning coffee or a relaxing evening under the stars.
Its location is unbeatable, with the stadium just a short walk away through the picturesque Yarra Park. Plus, local cafes and restaurants on Wellington Parade make dining out a breeze.
Mantra on Jolimont
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Address: 133 Jolimont Road, East Melbourne
Distance from Melbourne Cricket Ground: 30 mins
Phone: +61 3 9940 2100
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Mantra on Jolimont is a fantastic option for visitors who want proximity to the MCG and all the comforts of home. The rooms are clean and spacious and come with plush bedding that ensures a great night’s sleep.
For those who prefer a little more space, the one-bedroom apartments come with a kitchenette and a cozy living area, perfect for longer stays or preparing light meals.
The outdoor pool is a delightful bonus, offering a refreshing dip on warmer days. Meanwhile, the fitness center is ideal for keeping up with your routine.
The location is unbeatable—a short stroll through Yarra Park takes you directly to the MCG, and the surrounding area offers plenty of cafes and convenience stores.
Pullman Melbourne on the Park
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Address: 192 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne
Distance from Melbourne Cricket Ground: 30 mins
Phone: +61 3 9419 2000
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Pullman Melbourne on the Park sets the standard for luxury stays near the MCG. The rooms are elegantly appointed, featuring plush bedding, modern furnishings, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of Yarra Park and the iconic stadium.
The on-site restaurant, The Cliveden, serves an impressive menu of seasonal Australian dishes, perfect for a pre-event dinner or a relaxed evening.
Guests can unwind in the outdoor pool or rejuvenate at the fitness center after a day of exploring. The location is second to none, with the MCG just a short walk across the road, making it ideal for sports fans and event-goers.