Although the MCG and Marvel Stadium might be bigger, AAMI Stadium in Melbourne is by no means a baby sibling.
Blessed with a convenient location to get to and fantastic facilities, this fabulous venue is one of the best places to watch live sports in Australia. Not least because you get uninterrupted views from every single seat.
Anyone who has been a game there will tell you – regardless of the code – that the atmosphere is always electric. The seats are also very comfortable too and the amenities are first-rate.
If you have been to AAMI Park for a match or a concert, you will already have an understanding of what the stadium is like. But there is a lot more to it than you might have seen.
So, in this article, as part of our review of all of Australia’s professional sports stadiums, we aim to tell you a bit more about it.
So, let’s begin!
About the Stadium
AAMI Park is a world-class, multi-purpose, all-seater stadium located in the heart of Melbourne in Victoria.
Opened in 2010 it didn’t take long for it to become established on the city’s sporting landscape against other sporting venues like the MCG and Marvel Stadium. Indeed in 2012, it was named the ‘most iconic and culturally significant stadium’ at the World Stadium Awards in Doha, Qatar.
A popular sports venue, renowned for its raucous atmosphere, the stadium holds just over 30,000 spectators. It is also home to five professional sports teams across three codes and features a stunning design that creates a visually impressive landmark in the city skyline.
Costing $267.5 million to build, the stadium is notably appeared in an episode of the TV show Build It Bigger in 2010.
What Sports Are Played at Marvel Stadium?
The main sports played at AAMI Park are rugby league, rugby union, and football (soccer).
At the club level, the Melbourne Storm, plays most of its NRL home games at the stadium, while in rugby union the Melbourne Rebels also play a few of its fixtures there.
In football (soccer), Melbourne City FC, Melbourne Victory men’s and women’s teams, and the relatively newly formed Western United play their A-League games there.
The venue has also hosted international matches for the Australian men’s team in football, rugby league
and rugby union. As well as tournament matches for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup and 2015 AFC Asian Cup.
Whilst they don’t play there themselves, the Melbourne Football Club (AFL) do have their indoor training and administrative facilities at the stadium.
Other Events
While primarily known as a sports venue, AAMI Park has also hosted several music concerts over the years. Some of the biggest names in the music industry have performed there, including Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney and the Foofighters.
Ed Sheeran performed two sold-out shows at AAMI Park in 2015 as part of his X World Tour, with almost 67,000 fans attending over two nights. Taylor Swift also performed three sold-out shows at the stadium in 2015 as part of her 1989 World Tour.
The Boss, Bruce Springsteen, has performed at the stadium over two separate tours and Robbie Williams is scheduled to appear there in November 2023.
Facilities
AAMI Park is a world-class stadium with a seating capacity of 30,050.
The stadium’s unique design incorporates a bioframe roof, which not only adds to its striking appearance but also allows for an unobstructed view of the pitch from every single seat. This includes 24 corporate hospitality suites that can each seat 18 people and premium seating options.
After a recent $25 million upgrade to prepare it to host some matches of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the stadium now has state-of-the-art facilities.
Most notably, this incorporates two curved screens on opposite corners of the pitch and light towers with LED sports light technology. It also encompasses broadcasting facilities, a plethora of food and drink options, LED advertising boards and a very good standard of public toilets.
Other facilities at the stadium include a 1000-capacity dining room and 14 bars, as well as an elite training centre, lap pool, gymnasium and office space.
How to get to the stadium
Getting to AAMI Park is easy due to its central location and convenient transportation options.
Situated in the sports and entertainment precinct, in the eastern side of the Melbourne Central Business District (CBD), the easiest way to get to the ground is by public transportation.
The stadium is serviced by multiple tram and train lines, making it easily accessible from all parts of Melbourne. The closest train station to AAMI Park is Richmond Station, which is just a short walk from the stadium. Additionally, Jolimont and Flinders Street stations are also within walking distance.
Several bus routes also pass by the stadium, and there are a number of public car parks available for those who prefer to drive. However, traffic and parking can be difficult and time-consuming on match days and at concerts, so you should bear this in mind.
For those who would rather not drive or take public transport, there are several taxis and Ubers available that will take you to and from the stadium.
Food in ground
AAMI Park offers a range of food options for visitors to enjoy during matches and events.
The stadium has plenty of food and beverage outlets located throughout the venue, catering to different tastes and dietary requirements.
For those looking for traditional stadium food options the likes of pies, sausage rolls, hot dogs, pizzas, burgers and hot chips are all readily available.
There are also lots of healthier options on offer too, such as fresh salads, sandwiches, and wraps. While at selected outlets, you can also get vegetarian and gluten-free options as well.
In addition to standard stadium fare, AAMI Park also offers a range of international cuisine, including Asian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. There are even coffee and dessert outlets for those looking for a sweet treat or a caffeine fix too.
Overall, visitors to AAMI Park are sure to find a food option to suit their taste buds and dietary requirements. The stadium also encourages spectators to use the ‘Responsible Cafes’ initiative, which promotes the use of reusable cups and reduces the amount of waste generated during events.
Accommodation near the ground
If you need a place to stay on matchday or want to make a weekend of your visit to Melbourne, there are countless accommodation options available to you in the city.
Some of the closest hotels include the Pullman Melbourne on the Park, the Mantra on Jolimont, and the Adara East Melbourne. All of these hotels are located within a 10-minute walk of the stadium and offer comfortable rooms and modern amenities including gyms, restaurants, bars and swimming pools.
For those looking for a more luxurious experience, the Crown Towers Melbourne is a marvellous option. Located just a 5-minute drive from AAMI Park, this hotel features spacious rooms, a spa, and multiple dining choices. So you can really treat yourself on your visit.
Alternatively, there are a number of budget-friendly options you might prefer, including the Ibis Budget Melbourne East and the Space Hotel Melbourne. Both of these hotels are located a short distance from AAMI Park and offer basic accommodations at affordable prices.
Additionally, there are many serviced apartments and Airbnb options available in the surrounding neighbourhoods, such as Southbank and Richmond. These options can be great for those looking for more space or a more home-like experience during their stay in Melbourne.
Good pubs to visit
For those who want to enjoy a drink and a meal as part of their match day experience, there are several pubs you can frequent near the stadium.
One of the most popular options is The Precinct Hotel, located just a few blocks away. This lively bar features a modern menu of pub favourites, a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails, and plenty of big screens to catch the latest sporting events.
Another terrific venue is the Imperial Hotel, which is just a short walk from AAMI Park. This classic Melbourne pub has been serving up cold beers and great food since the late 1800s and remains a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The menu features traditional pub fare, including burgers, steaks, and hearty salads, while the drinks list is extensive. Incorporating a range of beers and wines from all over the world, as well as inventive cocktails.
For something a little more upmarket you might want to head to Eureka 89. It is located on the top floor of the Eureka Tower and boasts stunning views of the city skyline. The elegant bar and restaurant also serves up a contemporary menu of Australian cuisine, paired with an extensive wine list and creative cocktails.
Other good alternatives near AAMI Park include The Shaw Davey Slum and The Smith. The former serves up craft beers and cocktails in a trendy, industrial-style space, while the latter is a sleek bar and restaurant that features a Mediterranean-inspired menu and a stylish, sophisticated vibe.
Quick Stats
Address: Olympic Blvd, Melbourne VIC 3000
Capacity: 30,050 (total); 29,500 (rugby)
Opened: 7th May 2010
Field size: 136 m × 85 m
Record attendance: 29,871 – Australia v England Rugby Union, 18 June 2016