'%20x='0'%20y='0'%20height='100%25'%20width='100%25'%20%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20xlink%3Ahref='data:image/jpg;base64,/9j/2wBDAAYEBQYFBAYGBQYHBwYIChAKCgkJChQODwwQFxQYGBcUFhYaHSUfGhsjHBYWICwgIyYnKSopGR8tMC0oMCUoKSj/2wBDAQcHBwoIChMKChMoGhYaKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCj/wgARCAAGAAoDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFgABAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQI/8QAFAEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAv/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAAAzlII/wD/xAAdEAABBAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACAQMEEgARIzGR/9oACAEBAAE/AGxjTmrmb22xqNgHrCSEhKnN4mf/xAAWEQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQL/2gAIAQIBAT8Aln//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAf/aAAgBAwEBPwCv/9k='%3E%3C/image%3E%3C/svg%3E)
The passion and energy that flow through footy stadiums from players to spectators and back are unmatched. Nothing beats a live game experience.
In this article, we rank five of the best footy stadiums based on history, capacity, atmosphere, and architecture, and just how awesome the majority of footy fans seem to find it.
Here's a look:
#5 The Gabba
Situated in Woolloongabba, Brisbane, from which it gets its name, the Gabba is home to the Brisbane Lions. Set up as a cricket ground in 1895, the Gabba has undergone developments and hosted quite a number of memorable sporting events, ranging from cricket to AFL.
Trending
The energy of the crowd contributes significantly to the stadium's lively atmosphere, making game days an exhilarating experience.
The Gabba's novelty is set to grow with Brisbane hosting the 2032 Olympics. The stadium is already undergoing redevelopments in preparation. By late 2025, the Lions might have to be displaced for the following four years to make room for the reconstruction.
It has been a staple for both footy and cricket, with a seating capacity of roughly 42,000. The Gabba hosted the AFL Grand Final in 2020, marking a historic first for the venue.
#4 Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)
Established in 1851 with a 48,000 seating capacity, the SCG is situated in Moore Park, Sydney, New South Wales. While its capacity is relatively modest, its design sees that spectators from all points across the stadium get a close perspective of the field action.
The SCG is home to the Sydney Swans, and has housed a number of memorable AFL games and milestones, including the Swans' 2005 and 2012 premiership victories. Its grounds host rugby, cricket, football, and major concerts.
#3 Optus Stadium
Previously known as Perth Stadium, Optus Stadium is one of the newest additions to AFL venues. It is located in Perth, Western Australia, and opened in 2018. With state-of-the-art facilities, the stadium boasts a seating capacity of 60,000, making it one of Australia's largest sporting arenas. Its innovative design allows unobstructed views throughout.
The multi-purpose venue hosts major national and international sporting events all year round. It not only hosts AFL games but also cricket matches, concerts, and other major events.
During night games, the atmosphere of the stadium is particularly exhilarating and the lighting is brilliant. Experiencing an Optus stadium game, preferably at night, should be on your bucketlist for sure.
#2 Adelaide Oval
Known for its picturesque setting, Adelaide Oval has been the home of South Australian football since it was redeveloped in 2014. It offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern facilities, making it a favorite among fans and players alike.
One of the most incredible venues in Australia, the Adelaide Oval makes for quite a viewing experience when it houses a capacity crowd of 53,500. It hosts the Adelaide Crows and Port Adelaide Power matches, and with its impeccable acoustics, those are beautifully deafening.
Even a game with a not-so-full attendance is glorious. The location and facilities are another bonus.
#1 Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
“The G," as it is fondly called, is the largest stadium in Australia with a seating capacity of approximately 100,000! Located in Yarra Park, Melbourne, MCG is the home of the AFL, hosting the annual Grand Finals. Having opened in 1853, it remains one of the country’s most prominent landmarks.
The G has housed numerous iconic moments, even beyond the game of footy, from cricket matches, to the 1956 Olympics and the Commonwealth Games in 2006.
During games, the roar of the crowd is thrilling, contributing to the sensational experience of witnessing a game at the MCG.
Regardless of the name Melbourne Cricket Ground, the stadium continues to be used more often to host Australian Rules Football, which is the most viewed sport in all of Australia, thus generating more income for the stadium than any other sport.
