Novotel Melbourne Preston - Family & Business trip hotel - Ways to Enjoy the NFL Game in Melbourne

American football is coming to Melbourne in a big way.

On Friday 11 September 2026, the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers will face off at the Melbourne Cricket Ground for Australia’s first regular-season NFL game. Kick-off is scheduled for 10:35am, bringing one of the league’s biggest rivalries to one of the world’s most iconic sporting venues.

Whether you’re travelling from interstate, planning a group weekend or simply looking for an easy way to get to the game, Novotel Melbourne Preston offers comfortable accommodation near the MCG without the inner-city rush.

See the NFL Live at the MCG

The NFL Melbourne game gives Australian fans a rare chance to experience the speed, atmosphere and spectacle of a regular-season matchup live. The Rams and 49ers are long-time NFC West rivals, so this won’t feel like an exhibition… there’ll be plenty on the line when the teams run out onto the MCG. With a morning kick-off, staying overnight in Melbourne can make the whole day much easier. Arrive the evening before, settle in, enjoy dinner and get a good night’s sleep before heading to the stadium.

Take a Direct Train to Jolimont

Getting from Novotel Melbourne Preston to the MCG is straightforward. Bell Station is a breezy 700m walk from the hotel. From there, you can catch a Mernda Line train directly to Jolimont Station, the closest railway station to the MCG. There’s normally no need to change trains, and the journey takes up to 20 minutes in standard conditions. Once you arrive at Jolimont, it’s only a short walk to the stadium.

Your game-day journey

Novotel Melbourne Preston
↓ Up to a 10-minute walk (700m)
Bell Station
↓ Direct Mernda Line train
Jolimont Station
↓ Short walk
Melbourne Cricket Ground

Public transport services and event-day arrangements can change, so it’s worth checking the latest Metro Trains and Public Transport Victoria updates before you leave. Also, getting to the game is now even easier. Full-fare passengers can tap on and off at Bell and Jolimont stations using a Visa or Mastercard credit or debit card, smartphone or smartwatch, so there’s no need to buy a physical myki for this journey… just make sure you use the same card or device when tapping on and off!

(Concession passengers should continue travelling with the appropriate myki.)

Stay Outside the CBD, Close to the Action

Hotels near the MCG and Melbourne CBD are likely to be in high demand around the game. Novotel Melbourne Preston gives you another option, with competitive room rates and a direct public transport route to the stadium. You’ll also be well placed to explore more of Melbourne before or after the game. Trains from Bell Station continue into the city, while Preston’s cafés, restaurants and markets are close by.

It’s a practical base for supporters looking for:

• Direct train access to Jolimont and the MCG
• Accommodation within walking distance of Bell Station
• Modern rooms with space to relax before and after the game
• On-site dining, parking and fitness facilities
• Easy access to Melbourne’s northern suburbs and CBD
• Around 25 minutes by car from Melbourne Airport, making arrival easier for interstate fans

Make a Weekend of It

The final whistle doesn’t have to mean the end of your Melbourne trip.

Staying in Preston puts you close to plenty of places worth exploring, without needing to base your whole weekend in the Melbourne CBD. Start with Preston’s cafés, restaurants and famously diverse food scene, or head to Moon Dog World, a huge warehouse-style brewery and bar just a short drive from the hotel.

For something a little different, book a lane at The Keys, Preston’s retro-inspired bowling alley, bar and diner on Plenty Road. It’s an easy option for families, groups of friends or anyone keen to keep the friendly competition going after the game.

Prefer a slower pace? Spend the morning walking or cycling beside Merri Creek or Darebin Creek, or explore the riverside trails, bushland and open spaces around Yarra Bend Park. The area’s connected trail network offers a peaceful change of scene while keeping you surprisingly close to the city.

You can also take Route 86 towards Bundoora for shopping around University Hill, or travel in the other direction towards Melbourne’s inner north and CBD. As public transport routes and services can change, check the latest journey information before heading out.

Travelling with family or friends? Stay an extra night, discover a different side of Melbourne and enjoy the occasion without rushing straight home after the game.

Relax and recharge at Novotel Melbourne Preston

After the noise and energy of the MCG, come back to a modern room and a comfortable night’s sleep. Novotel Melbourne Preston features 383 rooms, along with The Stampton restaurant and bar, Stampton & Co café, a 24-hour gym, sauna and on-site indoor parking. Start game day with breakfast at the hotel, meet fellow supporters over coffee or wind down with dinner once you’re back from the stadium.

Your game. Your stay. Your way.