Heading to Melbourne for the NFL? Make the most of your trip and discover more of Victoria beyond game day.

On Friday 11 September 2026, the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams will face off at the MCG in the first-ever NFL regular season game in Australia. With fans travelling from across Australia and around the world, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience more of what Victoria has to offer.

Just over an hour from Melbourne, Geelong and The Bellarine offers a refreshing change of pace, think sunlit coastlines, charming seaside towns, rolling vineyards, great food and plenty of space to slow down. So, if you have some free time, hit the road and discover it for yourself.

Eat, Drink & Explore

The region is a destination for food and drink lovers, with everything from laid-back coastal cafés and craft breweries to local wineries and cellar doors.

Sample fresh regional produce or make dining part of the adventure with unique experiences like The Q Train and Portarlington Mussel Tours. Take in breathtaking bay views while sipping local wine at Jack Rabbit Vineyard, or go behind the scenes at Little Creatures Brewery and learn how your favourite beers are made.

See & Do

The region is packed with things to explore, from spectacular natural landscapes and coastal adventures to the vibrant arts and culture scene, and some of Australia’s best golf courses.

Why not Swim with dolphins with Sea All Dolphin Swims or, take to the skies in a Liberty Balloon flight. With so much to discover, you’ll be wishing you had more time.

Stay

If you’ve got a little extra time - or you’re more of a last-minute planner - why not make it a night and stay a little longer in Geelong and The Bellarine?

How to get here

Getting here is easy, and closer to Melbourne than you might think. Jump on a train, with regular V/Line services connecting Melbourne and Geelong, or cross Port Phillip Bay by ferry from Melbourne Docklands to Portarlington with Port Phillip Ferries.

Exploring the Mornington Peninsula too? Searoad Ferries connects Sorrento with Queenscliff, making it easy to explore both sides of the bay. Prefer to leave the driving to someone else? There are also plenty of tour options departing from Melbourne, making it easy to discover Geelong and The Bellarine as part of your trip.