Where To Watch The AFL Grand Final In Melbourne

Let’s cut straight to the chase, Melbourne. After a few years of chaotic fixture changes and interstate envy, the question on every footy fan's lips as we look to the future is: where are we watching the holy grail of Australian sport in 2025?

Well, pull up a bar stool, order that overpriced-but-necessary pint, and relax. We’ve done the digging so you don’t have to scroll through a million AFL CEO press releases. 

The Short Answer (For Those Just Scrolling)

The 2025 AFL Grand Final will be held at the MCG, and it's still the best place to watch the big dance. Shocker, we know. It’s almost like it belongs there or something.

Are you hosting a Grand Final party? Hit up Urban List and let us know, we'd love to feature your venue.

Ticketless For The GF? Here Are The Best Melbourne Venues Hosting A Grand Final Party In 2025

So, you struck out in the Great Grand Final Ticket Lottery. Join the club—about 99.9% of us. But let's be real: watching the big game from a heaving, energy-packed Melbourne venue, cold pint in hand, is a close second. Frankly, sometimes it's even better (the queue for the toilet is definitely shorter).

While the exact 2025 lineup is still TBA, the blueprint for a legendary Grand Final Saturday is set in stone. Based on years of iconic events, here’s where you need to plant yourself when the siren sounds in 2025.

The Iconic Pub Scenes (For The Pure, Unfiltered Vibe)

These are the institutions. The places where the beer flows as freely as the banter, and the crowd's roar might just rival the one at the 'G.

• Harvey’s Sports Bar & Grill, St Kilda: Melbourne’s prime live sports hub is all set for the AFL Grand Final, and with a 4m main screen plus 17 others, every goal hits hard and loud as outside seating keeps it relaxed when the weather’s right. Book the four-hour package from 2–6pm for free-flowing drinks and roaming canapés, then watch the vibes change around from 6pm with a live band, DJ and drink specials. Don’t give the grub a second thought, with wood-smoked BBQ brisket and pub classics like $26 porterhouse steak, $1.50 wings and a Parma & Pint for $30. Plan your day here.

• The Precinct Hotel, Cremorne: Basically a stone's throw from the MCG, this is ground zero for the pre-game buzz and the post-game... well, either euphoric celebrations or despair-soaked commiserations. Multiple screens, a huge beer garden, and a crowd that lives and breathes footy. Walk-ins only!

• Melbourne Public, South Wharf: A behemoth of Grand Final entertainment, this waterfront venue is armed with 13 screens and a lineup that runs from live music pre-bounce to DJs post-siren. Go all-in with a VIP bundle for bottomless beers and feasts from siren to siren, or secure a Private Super Booth with its own screen for your ultimate crew. This is a no-holds-barred, full-day footy paradise. Book now!

• The Rising Sun Hotel, Richmond: Another Richmond heavyweight. Expect a packed-to-the-rafters crowd, great pub grub to soak up the beers, and an atmosphere that’s electric from the first bounce to the final siren. This is for the purist who wants to be in the heart of the action. Head here for bookings.

• The London Tavern, Richmond: Sensing a theme? The Richmond strip is the undisputed MVP for Grand Final day. The London offers a classic pub experience with massive screens and a party atmosphere that rarely disappoints. Book your table here.

• The Great Northern Hotel, Carlton: Head north of the city for a stellar setup. The Northern is famous for its huge screen in the upstairs bandroom, turning the game into a proper cinematic event. A perfect mix of casual and epic. Book now.

• Prince Alfred, Richmond: Spend the evening with footy, beers and one of Melbourne’s best beer gardens. PA’s is bringing the Grand Final to life, live and loud. Once the final siren sounds, the party really begins with live acoustics from 6pm and a DJ spinning from 9pm ‘til late. No bookings here, just first in, best dressed. Plan your night here.

• Richmond Club Hotel, Richmond: Right in the thick of Swan Street, Richmond Club Hotel is opening early and going all out for Grand Final Day. The game will be live and loud on every screen, with DJs upstairs, acoustic sets downstairs and an atmosphere that’ll carry well past the final siren. Book your table here. 

• Hofbräuhaus Melbourne: Trade the traditional pub for a Bavarian beer hall just a short walk from the MCG. Experience a unique blend of footy fever and Oktoberfest revelry, with massive screens, long tables and steins of German beer paired with schnitzel and pork knuckle. It’s a loud and energetic alternative for big groups. Make your booking here. 

• Hickens Hotel, CBD: The new kid on the block is going all-in for its first Grand Final. Head to Level 2's Abe’s Athletic Hall for wall-to-wall screens and private viewing rooms, or secure a booth package for your crew. With live music pre-game and a DJ on the rooftop post-siren, this slick new venue is a premium play for seeing out the entire big day. Book your table here.

• Duke of Wellington, Melbourne: Smack in the heart of the city, The Duke is going big for Grand Final Day. Doors open from 9am with pre-game buzz, plenty of screens, tasty pub feeds and ice-cold drinks to keep you going through the siren. Not planning on heading to the ground? Stick around—there’s live music and DJs across the weekend to keep the long weekend vibes alive. Grab a table here.

• Harlow, Richmond: Start Grand Final Day right at Harlow with bacon and egg sangas or a full menu from 10am before settling in for the big game. With DJs spinning in the basement after the final siren, the celebrations will carry well into the night. Book a spot early—this one will fill fast. Plan your day here.

• The Swan Hotel, Richmond: Smack bang on Swan Street, The Swan Hotel is serving Grand Final Day live and loud. Stop in for a pre-game pint on your way to the match, or settle in for every bump, goal and hanger before kicking on with a post-match grooves. Energy guaranteed from first bounce to well after the whistle. Book now!

• The Victoria Hotel, Yarraville: Grand Final Day comes alive at The Vic with a MEGA screen in the Beer Garden and all the action inside the Sports Bar. Whether you’re after a riverside vibe or classic pub energy, soak in every moment of the game your way, and make sure to book early ‘cause these spots won’t last long. Book a table here.

• Beer Deluxe, Fed Square: Offering a classic Grand Final dilemma: Head upstairs with a siren-to-siren VIP package of bottomless beers, canapés and a halftime BBQ buffet for $115pp, or join the free, rowdy public scrum downstairs. Perfectly positioned in the heart of it all, it delivers a premium experience or a pure, unscripted fan frenzy. Book here.

• Wharf Hotel, Docklands: This is a solid Docklands option for a classic, all-inclusive footy session. Their package gets you bottomless beers and wine, a main meal and premium seating to watch the action live, from $105pp. For a high-value day where the drinks are sorted from the first bounce to the final goal, this is your reliable play. Grab your table here.

• Village Belle Hotel, St Kilda: Here is a classic Grand Final deal in the heart of St Kilda. For a flat $99, you get siren-to-siren flowing beers and wines plus a footy snacks platter for the table. It's reliable and value-packed for fans who want the drinks sorted and to just focus on the game. Book your visit here.

• Skinny Dog Hotel, Kew: The rooftop party is on at Skinny Dog, offering a seriously generous deal with bottomless drinks and seven rounds of canapés, only for $125pp. In search of a more casual vibe? The action is still pumping downstairs with screens everywhere and a full pub menu. Book your table here.

• The Hawthorn Hotel, Hawthorn: A classic suburban pub offering a quintessential footy experience. For a straightforward $99, their package covers bottomless beers, wine and all the classic footy snacks you need, from beginning to end. It’s a no-surprises event for fans who want to post up and focus purely on the game. Book here.

• College Lawn Hotel, Prahran: Footy’s biggest day deserves a proper party, and College Lawn Hotel is going all out. With two massive screens, 16 large TVs and that unbeatable Prahran atmosphere, you won’t miss a single bounce, tackle or goal. Doors swing open from 10am with live tunes from 11am to get the crowd buzzing, and once the final siren sounds, the celebrations kick on with a duo set followed by none other than Johnny Wonderpants. Book your night here.

• Ball Court Hotel, Sunbury: AFL Grand Final Day calls for cold beers, big screens and a proper feed—and Ball Court Hotel has you covered. Catch every second of the action from the Sports Bar or Beer Garden, with $29 footy platters keeping you fuelled all day long. Tables will book out quickly, so rally your crew and lock it in early here.

• Imperial Bourke Street, Melbourne: From brekkie to the final siren, Imperial Bourke Street is serving Grand Final Day across every corner of the venue. Start with breakfast from 8am, fuel up with the full menu from 11:30am, then catch the game live and loud on screens from the ground floor to the rooftop. Stick around for a post-match rooftop party with a live band from 5:30pm and a DJ from 8pm ‘til the night is over. Book now!

• The Victoria Hotel, Footscray: Grand Final Day is hitting The Vic from 12pm until late, with the entire venue taken over for AFL action across multiple screens and full sound from pre-game to the final siren. Fuel up on the full à la carte menu in the Main Bar and Courtyard, or book a front-row experience in the dining room with a $90 four-course set menu. Stick around after the game for live entertainment from 6pm—because whether your team wins or loses, the celebration continues. Book here!

• The Corner Hotel, Richmond (Family Matinee): Often, venues like The Corner will host an earlier, all-ages session for the game before the evening party kicks off. It’s worth checking their plans closer to the date for a family-friendly option in the thick of it. Book now!

The Rooftop Sessions (For Those Who Like Their Footy With A Side Of Skyline)

Prefer your dramatic moments accompanied by a view? These spots offer a more elevated experience (literally).

• The Rooftop at QT Melbourne: One of the CBD's best-kept secrets becomes a premium viewing party. Think sophisticated cocktails, gourmet bites, and stunning city views, all while watching the game on a big screen. Ideal for those who want to avoid the messy, rowdy pub scene (no judgement here). Secure your spot now.

• Quarterhouse, Docklands: Take your Grand Final viewing to the newest heights at this exclusive rooftop and Sky Park screening. With a massive 4m screen set against the city skyline, it's a premium vantage point. The ticket includes roaming canapés and bottomless drinks, offering a seriously elevated—and seriously good value—alternative to the ground-level frenzy. Grab your table now!

• Hotel Nacional, Melbourne CBD: This five-level, Mexican-inspired rooftop and bar in the heart of Hardware Lane is bringing bold flavours to your public holiday. Enjoy a recently updated 100% gluten-free menu without sacrificing taste, paired with drinks across multiple levels. Open from 11:30am until late, with a 15% public holiday surcharge so book early. Like, yesterday early.

• Loop Roof: A lush, green oasis above the city streets. They’ll undoubtedly host a ticketed event with a killer BBQ menu, refreshing spritzes, and a vibrant, sunny atmosphere perfect for a day game. Book your table here.

• Fleet Rooftop Bar, Melbourne CBD: Perched 22 floors above the city, Fleet serves up skyline views, a seasonally led menu and creative cocktails inspired by Melbourne’s flavours. Open from 3pm until late on the public holiday, it’s perfect for sunset spritzes, after-work drinks, or late-night indulgence. Bookings recommended to secure your spot.

The Big, Boozy Bash (For The Full-Blown Party Animal)

When you're there for the game, but you're also there for the all-day party.

• The Espy, St Kilda: The legendary Espy hosts a monster event across its multiple rooms and stages. Different bands, DJs, and screens everywhere you look. It’s less of a quiet viewing and more of a festival atmosphere where a footy match happens to be playing. Perfect for a long, legendary day by the beach. Book here!

• Riverland Bar: The ideal pre-game pints and post-game party spot on the Yarra. Just a 15-minute walk from the MCG, this iconic riverside beer garden boasts a huge screen, a buzzing atmosphere and a projected record-breaking number of poured pints. Book a spot to guarantee a view and celebrate with DJs, pub classics and signature cocktails long after the siren. Grab a spot here.

• The Posty, Cremorne: For a true laneway party vibe, head to The Posty where Swan Street's only megascreen will be broadcasting the game live and loud. The energy here is electric, with the party set to continue long after the final siren with pumping music and drinks flowing all night. It's the spot for fans who want to be in the middle of the action. Secure the spot here. 

• Terminus Hotel, Abbotsford: Home of the annual Grand Final Block Party that takes over the street. This is Abbotsford's biggest footy party, offering a mega outdoor screen, a premium bevvy package, roaming canapes and a live, electric atmosphere. For a ticket to the all-inclusive, high-energy main event, this is your play. Book here.

• Public House, Melbourne: A prime spot to ride the wave of Grand Final excitement from first the first bell. Their rooftop and balcony offer a 3-hour bottomless package of beers, wines and canapés for the game's duration. Once the siren sounds, DJs take over, transforming the space into a dedicated celebration zone. The perfect pivot from focused viewing to full-throttle festivity. Grab a spot here.

The Left-Field & Luxe Experience (For Something Completely Different)

• Moonlight Cinema (or other outdoor cinemas): While it's a bit early for the full summer schedule, some outdoor cinemas might do special early-season screenings of the game. Imagine watching the Grand Final under the stars with a picnic blanket and a hamper. Keep an eye on venues like Rooftop Cinema for potential special events.

• Ministry of Crab, Melbourne CBD: Get your bibs ready this Grand Final Day at Ministry of Crab. Open for lunch (12–3pm) and dinner (5:30–11pm), dig into baked crab, pot prawn curry, avocado crab salad and the special Oyster Sixers (oyster shots paired with house-made hot sauce) while supporting your team. Book your table here.

• The Westin Melbourne: Take a break from the footy mania and treat yourself to a festive twist on high tea with High Cheese at The Westin. From 5pm–9:30pm, enjoy an indulgent spread of cheeses, crackers, berries and vino—perfect for post-game celebrations or a pre-match nibble. Book your time with the tower here.

• Luxsmith, Seddon: With the AFL Grand Final around the corner, Luxsmith is serving up the definitive finals day experience. Settle in for the game with a $49 Feed Me Menu, paired with bottomless drinks from siren to siren. Pick your package to include undistilled beverages for $50pp, or $75pp to include spirits. Doors open from 12pm with full sound and live coverage, so you won’t miss a single kick. Spots are limited, so book early to lock in your Grand Final Day feast.

• Beverly, South Yarra: For those who'd rather go around the football frenzy entirely. This sophisticated spot is sidestepping the screens to host a Grand Final Ladies Lunch, offering an elegant afternoon of chef's menus with tuna crudo, sparkling drinks packages and its signature Yarra-side views. It's the perfect setting for anyone looking to mark the day on their own terms. Plan your visit here.

• Re’em, Yarra Valley: Take your Grand Final Day celebrations out of the city and into the Yarra Valley at Re’em. Pop in for lunch from 12–3pm or dinner from 5:30pm and soak up the game-day energy with seasonal dishes like Hiramasa kingfish, crispy eggplant and a cheese plate to share. Perfect for those who want to watch the footy while enjoying a long, indulgent day of food, wine and views. Book here.

• Ms Parker, Richmond: Kick off your Grand Final Day at Ms Parker with breakfast and lunch from 8am–2:30pm, or stick around for an early supper from 3pm–8:30pm while catching the game. Perfect for a relaxed start to the day with friends, with plenty of food and drinks to fuel your AFL celebrations. Book your table here.

• Studio Amaro, Windsor: Watch the Grand Final at Studio Amaro, accompanied by Italian classics. Open from 5pm until late, indulge in fresh seafood, and expertly crafted martinis while taking in the game-day vibes. A 20% public holiday surcharge applies. Plan your evening here. 

• Yūgen Dining, South Yarra: Take your Grand Final celebrations up a notch at Yūgen Dining, open from 5:30pm until late. Savour frilled king prawns alongside smooth whisky, perfect for toasting every goal and enjoying the game in style. Book your table here.

• Omnia Bistro, South Yarra: Celebrate Grand Final Day in style at Omnia Bistro, open from 5:30pm until late. Indulge in dishes like sher wagyu sirloin, baby octopus with confit potatoes and sea urchin or olive-stuffed trout cigars—all beautifully paired with plenty of wine to keep the celebrations flowing. Plan your night here.

• Tokyo Tina, Windsor: Spend your Grand Final Day at Tokyo Tina, open 12–3:30pm and 5–10pm. Swig refreshing cocktails in a cosy, relaxed vibe while digging into noodles, sashimi and gyozas— encouragement for cheering on your team! Grab a table now.

• Lexy Melbourne, Melbourne CBD: Melbourne’s newest Asian fusion hotspot is turning heads with a modern restaurant and bar that blends high-glamour design with traditional and contemporary Asian flavours. Open from 11:30am until late on the public holiday. Book here.

• Officina Gastronomica Italiana, Prahran: Begin your Grand Final Day at Officina Gastronomica Italiana from 8am–2pm and fuel up on their new menu, featuring saucy pastas, parmigiana and crispy sandwiches. Ideal for a morning kick-off before heading out to catch the game or settling in for a relaxed, footy brunch. Note that a 20% public holiday surcharge applies. Grab your table here.

• BistroX Pop-Up, Fitzroy: Celebrate Grand Final Day at BistroX Pop-Up with a menu made for sharing and indulging. From 12–3pm and 5–10pm, enjoy buttery seafood and melt-off-the-bone meat while catching the game vibes with the buds. Secure your spot here. 

• New Quarter, Richmond: Take your Grand Final Day celebrations up a notch at New Quarter, open 12–11pm. Sip rimmed margaritas, dig into beef tartare, caviar, and other fine bites while deciding whether you’re ready for another drink yet. Plan your day here. 

• Firebird, Windsor: Enjoy this Grand Final Day at Firebird, open from 5:30–10pm. Here, you feast on aromatic rice, crunchy greens and meat-forward dishes like fire-roasted duck while savouring the game-day buzz. Book now.

• Hanoi Hannah Vol. II, Elsternwick: Spice up your Grand Final Day at Hanoi Hannah Vol. II, open 12–9pm. Clear your sinuses with fiery Asian dishes, thick noodles and rice-paper-wrapped bites—perfect compliment for all the cold bevs and cheering you’ll be doing. Bookings are recommended. Grab your table here. 

• Mr. Miyagi, Windsor: Melbourne’s beloved modern Japanese spot is open on the public holiday from 11:30am until late. Enjoy the flavours that keep locals coming back, with full à la carte offerings and drinks to match. A 15% public holiday surcharge applies, and bookings are recommended to secure your spot. 

• Firebird, Windsor: Enjoy this Grand Final Day at Firebird, open from 5:30–10pm. Here, you feast on aromatic rice, crunchy greens and meat-forward dishes like fire-roasted duck while engaging in the sport spirit. Plan your night out here.

• Ciao Cielo, Port Melbourne: Catch every kick this Grand Final Day at Ciao Cielo, open from 12–10pm. Fuel your footy celebrations with steak frites and wedges, fresh pizzas and crisp salads—perfect for sharing while partaking in the game-day zest with your pals. Secure the spot here.

• Hanoi Hannah Express Lane, Windsor: Charge up for the Grand Final Day at Hanoi Hannah Express Lane, open 12–9pm. Grab quick bites like spring rolls, fried chicken or a wholesome bowl of tummy-warmers—perfect for keeping the energy up while cheering on every kick. Just remember that a 20% public holiday surcharge applies. Book now.

Image credit: AFL (supplied)