Best Footy Trips Destinations 2026
Looking for the best footy trips destinations in 2026 then Epic Holidays can help. AFL footy trips have become a rite of passage for teams looking to celebrate the season, build camaraderie, and enjoy a well-earned weekend away. Whether it’s a pre-season bonding trip or an end-of-season blowout, the focus is always the same — great nightlife, memorable group activities, and plenty of laughs. Across Australia, destinations like the Gold Coast, Cairns, Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide have become favourites for AFL groups chasing the perfect mix of party life and daytime activities
Footy Trips , Surfers Paradise
The Gold Coast is often the first choice for AFL teams wanting a high-energy weekend. Surfers Paradise delivers a concentrated strip of nightlife where clubs, rooftop bars, and beachfront venues make it easy for large groups to stay together. Bottle service packages are popular, giving teams their own VIP space to kick off the night before moving between venues. During the day, party boats along the Broadwater are a staple, with music, drinks, and sunshine setting the tone. Many groups also book lawn bowls sessions with drinks included, creating a relaxed afternoon before diving into an organised pub crawl through Surfers Paradise. The beach itself doubles as the perfect recovery spot the following morning, making the Gold Coast a seamless blend of party and relaxation.
Footy Trips , Melbourne
Melbourne, known as the heart of footy culture, naturally appeals to AFL teams. The city’s nightlife is diverse, ranging from hidden laneway bars to large nightclubs offering premium bottle service. Groups often start the evening with rooftop drinks before heading into late-night venues. During the day, lawn bowls paired with beers is a classic choice, offering a relaxed social setting. Horse racing is another popular activity, with teams dressing up and enjoying a full day trackside. Pub crawls through sports bars and brewery tours round out the options, allowing groups to soak up Melbourne’s famous food and drink scene. The mix of footy culture and nightlife makes Melbourne a well-rounded destination that suits both serious party groups and those wanting variety.
Footy Trips , Sydney
Sydney brings a scenic edge to the traditional footy trip. Harbour-side nightlife offers stunning views alongside high-end venues that cater to group bookings and VIP packages. Many teams split their time between the CBD and beachside areas, with Bondi providing a more relaxed party atmosphere. Harbour party boats are a highlight, combining sightseeing with music and drinks while cruising past iconic landmarks. Beachside pub crawls, lawn bowls with coastal views, and long recovery brunches the next day create a balanced itinerary. Sydney’s mix of glamour and party energy makes it ideal for teams wanting something memorable and slightly more upscale.
Footy Trips , Adelaide
Adelaide has quietly become a favourite for AFL groups seeking a fun but budget-friendly trip. The nightlife along Hindley Street is easy to navigate, with pubs and clubs close together and welcoming to large groups. Bottle service is often more affordable, making VIP experiences accessible. Daytime activities frequently include wine tours to nearby regions, where groups can enjoy tastings and bus transport. Lawn bowls, pub crawls, and race day packages also feature heavily in Adelaide itineraries.
Footy Trips , Cairns
Cairns offers a completely different but equally memorable footy trip experience. The tropical setting creates a laid-back vibe, yet the nightlife remains lively and compact, making it easy to hop between venues. Backpacker-style bars and late-night pubs create a fun, social atmosphere ideal for large groups. Daytime activities often revolve around the water, with reef party boats combining sightseeing, swimming, and drinks. Teams also enjoy pub crawls along the Esplanade, while the lagoon area becomes a popular daytime hangout for recovery sessions. For groups wanting something extra, adrenaline activities like rafting or skydiving add to the bonding experience, making Cairns feel like a true adventure as well as a party destination.
Free Quotes & Group Discounts
If you need help deciding the best footy trips destinations in 2026 then give us a shout. We offer group quotes, book now pay later, flexible bookings for name changes, group room configurations, group transport, group flights and party activities for footy trips. We arrange packages without any big fees as we get paid from our suppliers so your group saves more money while someone else does all the stressful work.
