Activities for the AFL Grand Final extended holiday weekend
Spend your long weekend from Friday, 26 September to Sunday, 28 September 2025, in Victoria, and discover a world beyond the AFL Grand Final. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your time.
Start your journey with a trip to the Dandenong Ranges. Hop aboard the Puffing Billy, a heritage steam train, for a 24km journey from Belgrave to Gembrook and back. The scenic route offers breathtaking views of the lush forests and valleys.
For those seeking cultural experiences, the RACV Goldfields Resort's ArtHouse presents contemporary art exhibitions. Meanwhile, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges offer world-class wineries, boutique distilleries, art galleries, antique shops, and stargazing opportunities.
If you're a sports enthusiast, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) offers behind-the-scenes tours, but they are not available on select match days, including AFL Grand Final day. The Australian Sports Museum, located within the MCG, is an interactive experience showcasing Australian sports and sporting heroes.
Melbourne has a thriving cultural arts scene with numerous theatre shows and musicals available for viewing. For a relaxing afternoon, picnic spots like the Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Fitzroy Gardens in East Melbourne offer tranquil settings to unwind.
For nature lovers, the Mount Dandenong Observatory offers picnic opportunities with views of the Dandenong Ranges and city skyline. The Healesville Country Club & Resort offers an 18-hole golf course with natural wildlife sightings.
The Great Ocean Road, a scenic drive that spans 243km, passes through towns like Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Warrnambool. Along the way, you'll encounter historic sites like the Split Point Lighthouse and the 12 Apostles.
In the Yarra Valley, the RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort is a resort offering restaurants, a luxury day spa, 18-hole golf course, and more. The RACV Cape Schanck also has a championship 18-hole golf course with ocean views, and its Cape restaurant is renowned for its fine dining and sunset views.
Day trip destinations from Melbourne include Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, and the Dandenong Ranges. These destinations offer a mix of theme parks, galleries, historic sites, and golf options within driving distance or short trips.
Phillip Island Nature Parks, Ballarat Wildlife Park, Gumbuya World, Luna Park, SEA Life Melbourne Aquarium, and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre are theme parks and wildlife parks in Victoria, providing fun-filled experiences for all ages.
Hardings Lounge at the RACV Torquay Resort offers high tea with ocean views on Saturdays and Sundays. RACV membership offers discounts on attractions and travel experiences, making it an attractive option for travellers.
The AFL Grand Final is scheduled to take place in Melbourne on Saturday, 27 September 2025. After the excitement of the game, spend your Sunday exploring the city's river cruises, showcasing landmarks, arts centres, and historic venues.
Whether you're a sports fan, nature lover, or culture enthusiast, Victoria offers a wealth of experiences within a short drive or trip from Melbourne. So, make the most of your long weekend and create unforgettable memories.
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