Marvel Stadium Sports Fan Tips
Marvel Stadium is the home of multiple Melbourne-based AFL teams, as well as being used for BBL, A-League and assorted other sports events. It is an oval arena with a retractable roof and a seating capacity of over 55,000 people. Located in Docklands, about 2km from the Melbourne CBD. In 2019, a mural featuring Australian basketball legends was added near gate 7 to celebrate the exhibition games played between the Australian Boomers and Team USA.
Best Insider tip at Marvel Stadium?
It's been mentioned a couple of times, but to really get a feel for the stadium and build-up to your event, get to Marvel Stadium early and grab a drink at the EJ Whitten Bar to soak up some atmosphere.
Marvel Stadium parking?
There is plenty of paid parking underneath the stadium, which is great and convenient for those who might not want, or be able to, walk very far. Prices around $25 for events. In terms of street parking around, there isn't a great deal unfortunately. Cheapest option is to park close to the Melbourne Wheel/Costco. From there, about a 5-10 minute walk to the stadium. Good access to the freeways too.
What to expect from the Marvel Stadium crowd?
Marvel Stadium plays host to pretty much any sports, and being in the centre of Melbourne, that's a lot of different sports. One of the more unique chants or supporter experience is during Melbourne Victory games when the active supporters get the whole crowd involved as they do their "We're Northern, We're Northern, We're Northern over here” chant which, as you guess, moves to each of the four points of the compass. It's something else when the whole crowd gets involved.
Stores to hit up at Marvel Stadium?
There is an AFL store inside Gate 1 of the stadium for you to stock up on all of your AFL merchandise. For other sports, merchandise tents/pop-up stores are found both inside and outside the stadium on the concourse.
Directions to Marvel Stadium?
Southern Cross Station is Melbourne's rail hub, with metro and regional rail services operating to destinations right across Victoria. Take the elevated walkway right to the doorstep of the stadium. Tram services also operate all through the Melbourne CBD. Tram 96 (St Kilda Beach) has the closest stop at Southern Cross. The free 'City Circle' tram will also drop you right outside the stadium, also offering commentary on Melbourne's Landmarks en-route.
Marvel Stadium seating?
Spoilt for choice really. The best seats are on Level 2, around Aisles 8-13. If the roof is open, then the sun won't be in your eyes. Obviously with the better seats come the more expensive prices. For best value, heading up a level to Level 3 around those same Aisles (8-13), you can still get great seats, all the amenities of the ground, and great atmosphere.
Best Bars near Marvel Stadium?
Located just across the road from the stadium on Bourke Street, Platform 28 is a great meeting place for pre-match/event drinks and food. Split over two levels, it has some excellent outdoor areas on both levels, with great selection of tap and bottled beers, wine etc. Alternatively, if you get to the stadium early, there are a couple of great bars inside the stadium that are well priced. From the EJ Whitten Bar, you grab a drink and watch the match build up through floor to ceiling glass before wandering around to wherever you are sitting.
Safety at Marvel Stadium?
Private security firms man each entry gate and are a visible presence in and around the stadium. Police also regularly patrol the major events. Overall, security is very good. Normal personal safety precautions apply.
Best restaurants near Marvel Stadium?
Tough one….Being on the doorstep of the CBD of Melbourne, there's plenty to choose from. There are a lot of different options in and around the Docklands precinct too. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, 7 days a week, Cargo Restaurant is a relaxed, family friendly restaurant with great food and drinks. Boasting waterfront views, and only a hop-skip-and-jump to Etihad Stadium, you can't go wrong at Cargo. The Stone Baked Pizzas are some of the best going around.
Best Food and Drink at Marvel Stadium?
As previously mentioned, the EJ Whitten Bar is a great place to eat/drink inside the venue. There are a heap of other bars inside the venue too – The Locker Room is fantastic, and the Victory Walk has some great views of the Docklands Harbour. Prices are very reasonable, and if you're after a sit-down meal, you can pre-book at the Arena View Restaurant which offers a full menu and table service. Insider tip – go for the Wagyu Burger!
Things to check out around Marvel Stadium?
Crown Casino and the Southbank precinct are a great place to wander post event. Street performers attract crowds on the wide pavements right in front of the restaurants and bars right along the Yarra. The casino, still the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, is an interesting place to walk through at all times of the day and night. Eureka Tower, also located in the Southbank precinct, offers 360 degree views of Melbourne from the Sky Deck on the 88th Floor.