MCG Tour & Australian Sports Museum

If you’re a sports enthusiast or just someone eager to step inside one of Australia’s most famous landmarks, the MCG Tour & Australian Sports Museum offers a compelling way to experience Melbourne’s sporting heartbeat. With a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on over 200 reviews, this tour is highly recommended by nearly 93% of visitors. We’re here to break down what makes this experience worth your time—and what to keep in mind before booking.

What sets this tour apart? First, it offers an inside look at parts of the MCG that are normally off-limits, including walking on the legendary pitch and peeking into the changing rooms used by cricket icons. Second, your ticket includes entry to the Australian Sports Museum, filled with fascinating memorabilia and interactive displays. Lastly, the tour is flexible, with a range of time slots and an approachable price point—just over $30 per person.

However, a note of caution: if you’re hoping for a walk on the actual oval, be aware that this isn’t always guaranteed, especially on game days when the pitch might be out of bounds or being prepared for a match. This is a small consideration for those whose main focus is exploring the behind-the-scenes areas and soaking in sports history.

This tour is perfect for sports fans, families, and travelers seeking a unique glimpse into Australia’s sporting culture. Whether you’re visiting Melbourne for the first time or are a dedicated cricket or Aussie rules football fan, it provides a memorable, educational experience.

• Exclusive Access: Walk on the pitch and enter restricted areas usually hidden from visitors.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Bruce or Peter, add personal flair and detailed insights.
• Interactive Museum: The Australian Sports Museum provides a vibrant, engaging look at sporting history with plenty of memorabilia.
• Flexible Scheduling: Choose your preferred time slot for a personalized experience.
• Good Value: At just over $30, the combination of stadium tour and museum offers solid value.
• Small Group Feel: Tours are often in small groups, enhancing interaction and questions.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground isn’t just a stadium; it’s a symbol of Australian sporting pride. As you arrive at Gate 3, you’ll quickly sense the significance of this place. The tour begins with access to normally restricted areas that make any sports fan’s heart race. Many reviewers mention the guides’ knowledge—some like Bryan, Tom, and Antoinette—who make the stories come alive.

Walking on the pitch is a highlight, although some visitors note that on game days, the pitch might be inaccessible, especially if it’s being painted or prepared for a match. Still, the guides often find alternative ways to share insights about the field, like pointing out the different markings and talking about the ground’s storied history.

You’ll also step into the players’ changing rooms—a rare, behind-the-scenes peek. These spaces are surprisingly intimate, giving a real sense of the preparation and pressure athletes face. Many reviews praise the guides’ enthusiasm and detailed commentary, which helps bring these spaces to life. For instance, one reviewer mentioned that their guide, Greg, was very knowledgeable about the Olympic memorabilia, adding a broader context of Australia’s sporting achievements.

The tour duration averages around 2 hours, which strikes a good balance—enough time to see key areas without feeling rushed. The small group sizes, often just a handful of people, foster a more engaging and personal experience, allowing plenty of questions and interaction.

Once you’ve soaked in the atmosphere of the stadium, the Australian Sports Museum is a treat for sports history buffs. The museum, included in your ticket, offers a self-guided exploration with interactive displays and a comprehensive collection of memorabilia. Visitors have enjoyed the way the exhibits make Australian sport come alive, from Olympic medals to iconic jerseys.

Reviewers mention that the museum is well set out and engaging, especially for those interested in Olympic history and legendary Australian athletes. One visitor appreciated the “plethora of Olympic memorabilia,” which added depth to their understanding of Australia’s place in global sports. The interactive elements make the museum accessible for all ages—kids and adults alike can enjoy learning about Australian sports heroes.

With around two hours to explore, you can comfortably wander through the exhibits, reading stories behind the memorabilia and enjoying the multimedia displays. Many reviewers found that the museum exceeded expectations, especially given that it provides a thorough overview of Australian sporting achievements across multiple disciplines.

The tour’s price of roughly $32 offers good value, especially considering the access to exclusive areas and the museum entry. It’s a reasonably affordable way to see a world-renowned stadium without the cost of attending a match. The ticket is mobile, making check-in straightforward, and the tour is near public transportation—perfect for travelers staying in or near Melbourne’s city center.

Timing flexibility is another advantage; you can select a time slot that works for your schedule, making this experience adaptable for most itineraries. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families and sports fans, with most participants able to join comfortably.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, which provides flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

The itinerary begins with your entry at Gate 3, where you’ll meet your guide. As you move through, expect to see the main viewing areas and learn about the stadium’s architecture and its role in Australian sporting culture. Your guide will take you to off-limits areas such as player corridors and the dressing rooms, sharing insights and stories that aren’t available to regular visitors.

One of the most memorable parts is walking on the actual pitch, an experience many reviews highlight as a highlight, though it’s sometimes unavailable on game days. You’ll also get a chance to stand in the players’ seating areas and view the stadium from unique perspectives.

The guide’s storytelling adds richness, with some reviewers noting their guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. For example, one reviewer mentioned their guide, Spencer, displayed incredible passion, making the tour feel like a true insider’s experience. Another pointed out how their guide, Peter, was excellent and provided a comprehensive walk around the stadium’s most interesting zones.

After the stadium tour, you’ll transition to the Australian Sports Museum. Here, you can spend as much time as you like exploring exhibits—whether you’re a casual sports fan or a dedicated enthusiast. Many visitors have enjoyed the interactive displays, Olympic memorabilia, and historical stories about Australian sports icons.

This experience is ideal for sports lovers, especially those interested in cricket, Australian rules football, or Olympic history. Families with kids will appreciate the interactive museum and the chance to learn about Australian sporting legends. It’s also perfect for history buffs who want a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most iconic stadiums in the world.

The tour offers excellent value for money, given the access to restricted areas and the comprehensive museum experience. It’s a fantastic way to learn about Australia’s sporting achievements and feel connected to the nation’s rich sporting culture.

If you’re looking for a personalized, engaging tour guided by knowledgeable Aussies, this is a solid choice. Just remember, if your main goal is to walk on the oval itself, it’s worth checking the schedule or asking your guide if that’s possible on the day of your visit.

Can I walk on the pitch?
Not always. If you visit on a game day, the pitch might be closed for painting or preparation. Otherwise, your guide may find ways to show you the field.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers access to the usually restricted areas of the MCG and entry to the Australian Sports Museum. The museum is self-guided, but the stadium tour is led by a knowledgeable guide.

How long does the tour take?
The stadium tour lasts around 2 hours, with the museum allowing you to explore at your own pace for approximately the same amount of time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and kids usually enjoy the interactive museum exhibits and the chance to see behind-the-scenes areas of the stadium.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Many reviews praise the guides for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, with specific mentions of guides like Bryan, Greg, and Peter.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the booked time.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, indicating the accessibility features are accommodating.

Where do I meet my guide?
Entry to the MCG Tours and Australian Sports Museum is at Gate 3 of the stadium.

How much does it cost?
The tour generally costs around $32.54 per person, offering a good balance of value and experience for sports fans.

The MCG Tour & Australian Sports Museum delivers a genuine, behind-the-scenes look at one of Australia’s most revered sporting venues. It’s a great way to connect with the country’s rich sporting culture, especially if you’re a cricket buff or a history lover. The knowledgeable guides, exclusive access, and interactive museum combine to create an engaging experience that appeals to a broad range of travelers.

While it’s not always possible to walk on the oval during game days, the tour still offers plenty of memorable moments and insights. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate storytelling, history, and a personal touch—making it a standout activity in Melbourne.

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or planning a dedicated sports-themed day, this tour offers a wonderful blend of education, entertainment, and authentic Australian sports culture.