Australian Sports Museum

At the heart of Australia's sporting life, inside the legendary MCG stadium in Richmond, lies the Australian Sports Museum. This unique space brings to life the history of over 95 sports—from classic cricket and Australian Rules football to the Olympic Games and tennis.

Australian Sports Museum. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The museum is rightfully considered a national treasure, combining a vast collection of artifacts dating back to the 19th century with state-of-the-art technology. Here, you can see more than just the trophies and uniforms of great champions; you can also explore interactive installations, immersive galleries, and even holograms of sports stars.

It is not just a place for storing exhibits, but a vibrant cultural hub home to the Sport Australia Hall of Fame and specialized exhibitions dedicated to the nation's key triumphs. Following a major renovation in 2020, the museum has become a must-see for every tourist wishing to understand why sport holds such a central place in the hearts of Australians.

For more details before your visit, you can use the museum's official contact information.

The main draw for visitors is the Game On! interactive zone. Here, everyone can test their skills: try to kick a goal in AFL, participate in virtual races, or check your bowling accuracy in cricket. A special electronic wristband allows you to save your results and compete with friends.

Be sure to stop by the Olympic Glory section to see an authentic 1956 torch and watch the impressive hologram of legendary cricketer Shane Warne. History buffs will appreciate the Ashes collection and the displays dedicated to AFL Grand Finals, featuring rare medals and cups from over the years.

If you want a look "behind the scenes," you can book the exclusive MCG Keepers' Collection tour. Accompanied by experts, you will head into the archives where thousands of items—from vintage bats to commemorative jerseys usually hidden from public view—are stored. It is an ideal spot for a family outing, combining the thrill of competition with a deep dive into history.

The museum is located inside the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Entry is through Gate 3. The easiest way to get here is by public transport: trams No. 48, 70, 75, or 78 stop in the immediate vicinity of the stadium (Jolly Miller or MCG stops).

If you prefer the train, get off at Jolimont or Richmond stations—it's only a 5–10 minute leisurely walk to the museum. A taxi ride from the city center will take about 10–15 minutes, traveling along Brunton Avenue.

For those who enjoy walking, the route from the Central Business District (CBD) through Fitzroy Gardens or along the Yarra River takes about 20–30 minutes. Please note that on major match days, parking around the stadium is usually very limited, making public transport the most convenient option.

The history of the museum is inextricably linked to the MCG itself, which was founded in 1853. It began as a modest collection of the Melbourne Cricket Club, gathered since 1954. Over time, it grew beyond the scope of a single club, evolving into the National Sports Museum and later into a modern multimedia center.

A major milestone was the extensive $17 million renovation in 2019–2020. After the update, the museum reopened under its current name—the Australian Sports Museum. Cutting-edge interactive technologies were introduced, making the exhibition one of the most advanced in the world.

A special place in the museum's history is held by the 1956 Olympic Games, for which the MCG served as the main arena. The galleries house unique artifacts from that era, including Olympic torches and medals, highlighting Australia's status as a great sporting nation.

To explore all the themed zones without rushing, read the stories of legendary athletes, and test yourself on the interactive simulators, it is recommended to allow 2 to 3 hours for your visit.

If you plan to combine the museum visit with a guided tour of the MCG stadium itself, it is best to set aside half a day. Visitors often note that time in the Game On! interactive zone flies by, especially if you are visiting with children.

Typically, the museum doors are open to visitors daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This allows you to plan your visit on both weekdays and weekends.

Important note: Operating hours may change on match days or during major events at the MCG. To avoid disappointment, we strongly recommend checking the information on the official website before your trip.

A visit to the sports museum in Richmond can be complemented by exploring other interesting nearby locations. The area around the stadium is rich in architectural monuments and green spaces that help you better experience the city's atmosphere.