Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit is a venue in or near Melbourne that is most often used for Motor Racing
With the track being located around Albert Park Lake, there is next to no parking if you choose to drive to the track. Some paid public parking is available on the ovals near the intersection of Fitzroy Street and Lakeside Boulevard (Near the Junction Oval). Parking restrictions are strongly enforced in streets for a couple of kilometers from the track.
With the race track being so central to Melbourne, you can really head anywhere if you want a break from the track. St Kilda is a popular beach side suburb that has a lot of character and a quirky atmosphere. On Sunday mornings, there is a market along The Esplanade, which has a heap of different arts and crafts, along with good coffee and home-made snack food too. Just a little further along The Esplanade is Luna Park which may be a good option if you're visiting with kids.
One of St Kilda's institutions is Cicciolina located at 130 Acland Street. Opened in 1993, chef Virgina Redmond is still at the helm and has developed a menu full of seasonal produce and includes plenty of gluten free options. Prices are from $5.50 to $39.50. Be aware that Cicciolina's fills up very quickly most evenings but is well worth it if you get in. There is a back bar too if you're after a more casual atmosphere.
The F1's have a strong following in Melbourne and a lot of visitors from around Australia (and the world) descend on Melbourne for all of the festivities. The V8 Supercars also hold a prominent place on the race card and followers of the series display as much passion for those races as the F1's.
During the Grand Prix, the trams are very well signposted with guides to various entry gates depending on your ticket. If you're feeling energetic, the track is only a couple of kilometers from the CBD. Closest train station is probably Prahran or Windsor, but both are 10-15 minute walk to the track.
There is an entire merchandise hall within the track and is the perfect spot to pick-up all of your F1 merchandise. Some of the tourist stores in the Melbourne CBD get on board too and in some cases, can save you a few bucks too.
The Grand Prix has the normal bag checks and metal detectors that fans attending sporting events around the world have become accustomed to nowadays. There is also a presence from Victoria Police. Nothing too over the top or out of the ordinary though.
The Limerick Arms Hotel on Clarendon Street in South Melbourne is conveniently located about 800 metres from the track and is a great venue to enjoy some good food and drink during the Grand Prix weekend. There's a couple of pool tables, plenty of screens showing sport from around the world, and not to mention good, simple pub grub.
One of the best innovations in recent years at the Australian Grand Prix is the 'Melbourne Walk' where drivers and fans can get up close with one another and get autographs and photos with the stars. The drivers have really embraced the concept and take their time to meet the fans that make the sport as great as it is. The Melbourne Walk is located near the entrance to the Formula One Paddock.
There are a heap of different ticketing options depending on what your preference is. The Ground Pass allows you to take in the racing from different aspects right around the track and is probably a good ticket for first timers. Popular reserved seats are obviously on the main straight but it really depends on what you're after.