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The 2024 Australian Open will swing into action at Melbourne Park from January 15 to January 28. From what to bring to how to how to get there, here’s how you can prepare for the country’s best tennis tournament.  

How do I get there?  

Travelling by car 

Public parking in Yarra Park is available for around $10. They won’t accept cash, so make sure you have a credit card on hand. Please check the MCG website for opening times and further information. 

Parking is also available in and around the Melbourne CBD. For location details please contact City of Melbourne on 9658 9658 or visit melbourne.vic.gov.au/parking. 

Travelling by tram  

Take the 70 and route 70a trams between stop D6-Flinders Street West and stop 7C MCG 4-7/John Cain Arena.   

Travelling by Train 

Take services to Richmond, Flinders Street or Jolimont Stations, all stations are within walking distance to Melbourne Park. Ahead of time, download the PTV app to keep up to date for any disruptions or changes. Be sure to have your topped up Myki at the ready – at least $12 should get you there and home.  

Taxi   

A taxi rank is located on Olympic Boulevard adjacent to the Grand Slam Oval. There are also designated ride-share pick-up locations around the arena. 

Accessibility parking 

All entrances are accessibility friendly. Accessibility parking is available at National Tennis Centre. Book through Ticketmaster 1300 308 999 or [email protected]. 

An accessibility pick-up and drop-off zone is also available on Olympic Boulevard outside the Grand Slam Oval entrance. 

Where can I buy Australian Open 2024 tickets and what do they include?  

Tickets are available to purchase online through ticketmaster.com.au and through Ticketmaster retailers. 

A Ground Pass will grant you entry to all areas of the AO precinct, including John Cain Arena, Court 1, Court 3 and other outdoor courts (entry is limited to daily availability). A Ground Pass won’t get you into ticketed arena venues or separately ticketed events or experiences.  

Reserved tickets will get you into either Rod Laver, Margaret Court or John Cain arena’s as well as access to the AO precinct and outdoor courts (as per a Ground Pass). Ticket prices for reserve seating in arenas depend on the round and the seats selected. Ground Pass prices also depend on the round and differ based on adult, concession or kids.  

What else is there to do? 

Every year, some of Melbourne’s best foodie culture is on offer for the tournament. Firm favourites will be returning including the popular Bar Atrium to serve up Melbourne’s favourite meal – brunch, signature cocktails and bar snacks. Also returning is Rockpool Bar and Grill, Penfolds’ Restaurant, Stokehouse, Nick and Nora’s and more.  

A new addition this year sees the AO Courtside Bar, where fans can embrace the thrill of tennis with open-air-front-row seats while enjoying bar bites and non-alcoholic cocktails served in sustainable re-useable cups. 

Alongside a fantastic menu of food and drinks is plenty of world-class entertainment and fun-filled activities. Families can discover waterparks, live entertainment, adventures and more at the AO Ball Park, while music lovers can see a range of international, Australian and local music acts from the likes of DMAs, The Jungle Giants and Rudimental.  

What should I bring?  

Hosted in the middle of summer, temperatures can soar above 30 degrees, so be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a water bottle. If you do forget, there’s plenty of water stations at the ready and sun-smart merch to purchase. The event is cashless. 

Where else can matches be watched? 

Matches can be watched on big screens in the precinct or, if you don’t have tickets, head to Federation Square where matches are usually screened daily. Otherwise, Melbourne is home to hundreds of pubs that get around the great tennis tournament. Whether you’re heading towards Richmond or wandering through the CBD, you’re bound to come across crowds of people tuning into the AO. 

Where should I stay?  

With eight hotels located in Melbourne’s CBD – just a short distance from Melbourne Park and the AO action – book your stay with TFE Hotels offering stylish and affordable hotel and serviced apartment accommodation in central locations. 

Melbourne is home to The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins Melbourne, Adina Apartment Hotels, Quincy Hotel Melbourne, Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne, Vibe Hotel Melbourne and Travelodge Hotel Melbourne Docklands.