Live AFL Grand Final in Melbourne: The Best Venue With Big Screens
There’s nothing quite like AFL Grand Final Day in Melbourne. The city turns electric. Streets hum with anticipation. Everyone’s either pulling on a scarf or planning where to soak in the action. It’s more than a game; it’s a state ritual.
Held at the iconic MCG, the AFL Grand Final is the biggest sporting event on Australia’s calendar, and Melbourne transforms into footy central. Even if you don’t score tickets to the final, the right venue can still deliver an unforgettable experience. Because let’s be real, where you watch the Grand Final makes all the difference.
What’s the AFL and What's Coming This Year?
Here’s the scoop on the 2025 Grand Final:
The 2025 AFL Grand Final is locked in for Saturday, 27 September 2025, at the MCG. It’ll kick off at 2:30 PM AEST, as confirmed by the AFL Commission.
It’ll be the grandest showdown of the 129th AFL season, wrapping up four weeks of finals action.
What's Fueling the Buzz Beyond the Game?
Grand Final Week in Melbourne is more than just a footy match, it’s an entire festival:
Brownlow Medal Night on Monday, 22 September
The Grand Final Friday public holiday on 26 September, complete with a parade
Ceremonial Grand Final Breakfast and pre-match festivities on game day
Why Does Your AFL Grand Final Venue Matter?
Watching the Grand Final at home? It’s fine. Watching it surrounded by hundreds of hyped-up fans, pints flowing, massive screens, and the city skyline as your backdrop? Now that’s footy fever.
The atmosphere is everything. You want a place that delivers:
Mega screens
Cold drinks (48 beers and cocktails on tap) without the 30-minute wait
Tasty footy-friendly feeds, crowd-pleasing classics, and vegan-friendly bites
A passionate crowd that knows when to scream
Easy access in and out when the city’s pumping
Transport Hotel nails every one of these.
Why is Transport Hotel the Best Venue for the AFL Grand Final?
1. Smack-Bang in the Heart of Melbourne CBD
You couldn’t be more central if you tried. Directly across from Flinders Street Station, perched on the edge of Federation Square and looking out over the Yarra, Transport Hotel is in the thick of it all.
You’re close enough to hear the roars from the MCG, but without the scramble. After the siren sounds, you’re already positioned to join CBD-wide celebrations.
Whether it’s along the river, in laneway bars, or right there at Transport with the DJ firing up.
2. Watch the Game Like You’re in the Stadium
This isn’t one of those pubs with one screen in the corner and tinny audio. Transport brings out the big guns for Grand Final Day:
They will be showing the game live and loud.
Top-tier sound systems tuned for match-day clarity
They have a really large TV on the rooftop, too, to watch live sports just for Grand Final Day.
No dodgy streams, full official coverage.
Whether you’re on the terrace catching rays or tucked inside with a pint, you’ll see every tackle, goal, and controversial ump call.
3. AFL Atmosphere You’ll Remember
The vibe at Transport on AFL Grand Final Day? Unreal. Doors open at 9 AM on the Final Weekend.
Every year, die-hard fans, curious tourists, and casual footy lovers pile in to cheer, heckle, laugh, and cry together. The energy’s infectious.
Over the years, Transport has built a reputation for its legendary Grand Final crowds. The kind that makes even neutral fans feel part of something epic.
4. Food, Drinks & Match-Day Specials That Hit the Spot
Let’s talk about fuel.
Transport Taxi Kitchen has chefs who get in the Grand Final spirit. If looking for something more elevated, taste the best of Melbourne’s Asian-inspired dining scene with panoramic floor-to-ceiling views. Located on Level 1, Transport Hotel at Fed Square.
5. What Happens After the Final Siren?
Win or lose, you’re not heading home yet.
As the post-match analysis begins, Transport keeps the party rolling. DJs hit the decks, the terrace fills with celebratory vibes, and the entire bar shifts into Melbourne’s best Grand Final afterparty.
No cabs, no queues, no hassle, you’re already where the action is.
Who’s This Perfect For?
If any of these sound like you, Transport’s your go-to:
Hardcore AFL fans who want to soak up every moment, without stadium chaos
Groups of mates looking to lock in a table, drink, and cheer together
Out-of-towners chasing a local footy vibe with a killer location
Couples or solo wanderers keen to join the crowd and feel the energy
FAQs About AFL Grand Final at Transport Hotel
Can I book for a big group?
Yep, absolutely! Just get in early and reach out for tailored group options.
Is there a dress code?
Smart casual works best. Jerseys and team scarves are always welcome. This is footy, after all.
What time should I arrive?
Doors open early, and pre-game vibes start well before the bounce. Aim to arrive earlier if you want to settle in and grab your first drink without the rush.