It’s a great time to be in Adelaide from anywhere in Australia - and with some planning, it doesn’t have to break the bank, even with current fuel prices. The good news? You don’t need to stay in the city or spend big to be right in the middle of the action. 

We’ve pulled together a handy guide to where to stay, how far you’ll be from the footy, and how to make the most of free public transport throughout the event.

First things first: getting to the games for less

If you’ve got a match ticket, you’re already off to a good start. 

During Gather Round, free public transport is available on Adelaide Metro services, including trains, trams and buses.  

There will also be dedicated shuttle buses running to Norwood Oval and Barossa Park. 

That means you can: 

• Stay outside the CBD 
• Skip parking costs 
• Avoid match-day traffic 
• Cut back on fuel spend

Budget-friendly places to stay near Gather Round 

Discovery Parks – Adelaide Beachfront

_{Discovery Parks – Adelaide Beachfront}

Drive to Adelaide Oval: around 20–25 minutes 

A quieter coastal option, ideal if you want somewhere a little more relaxed between games. 

Getting to the game: 

Take a bus into the city, then walk or connect via tram - free on match days. 

What to do nearby: 

• Explore Semaphore Beach and jetty 
• Enjoy easy walks and local cafés 

Why it works: 

Perfect for groups or longer stays - more space, less spend, and no need to drive every day.

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Discovery Parks – Hahndorf

_{Discovery Parks – Hahndorf}

Drive to Adelaide Oval: around 25–30 minutes 

Drive to Norwood Oval: around 20 minutes 

Set in the Adelaide Hills, this park gives you a slower pace during Gather Round - think leafy surrounds and a cosy village feel between games. 

Getting to the game: 

• Drive part-way and use public transport into the city  
• Head straight to Norwood Oval for one of the easiest match-day drives  

What to do nearby: 

• Wander through Hahndorf - a charming, German-style village known for its main street lined with bakeries, pubs and boutiques
• Grab a pretzel, schnitzel or local beer and soak up the atmosphere
• Explore nearby walking trails and Hills lookouts  

Why it works: 

You get a two-in-one trip - footy in the city, and a cosy Hills escape that feels like a little European stopover, without adding extra travel or fuel-heavy detours.

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Discovery Parks – Barossa Valley

_{Discovery Parks – Barossa Valley} 

Drive to Barossa Park: around 20 minutes 

Heading to matches in the Barossa? This is one of the most convenient places to stay. 

Getting to the game: 

• Use event shuttle buses  
• Keep it simple with a short drive and local parking 

What to do nearby: 

• Walk into Tanunda 
• Explore local wineries and pubs 
• Stock up locally and self-cater to save 
• On other match days, catch the AFL live on the big screen within the park 

Why it works: 

Stay regional, avoid city prices, and keep travel distances short for Barossa match days. 

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Discovery Parks – West Beach Parks

_{Discovery Parks – West Beach Parks}

Drive to Adelaide Oval: around 15 minutes 

If you want to stay close to the action without paying city prices, this is a great base. Right by the beach and within easy reach of Adelaide, it gives you the best of both worlds. 

Getting to the game: 

Catch a bus or tram into the city, then walk to Adelaide Oval - free with your ticket. 

What to do nearby: 

• Enjoy a sunset beach walk 
• Hire an e-bike from the park and enjoy a casual meal or some shopping in Glenelg 
• Visit the AFL Max stadium - its packed with trampolines, rock climbing walls, inflatables etc. 
• Make the most of the park facilities  

Why it works: 

You’re close enough to keep travel simple, while helping keep accommodation costs down.

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Conclusion  

Gather Round is the perfect excuse to take a break, cheer on your team and see more of South Australia along the way. And with Discovery Parks, you don’t need to stay in the city or spend big to make it happen. 

From coastal stays to regional escapes, you’ll find a great base for every kind of footy trip - with free public transport, shorter drives and more money left over to spend on the things that matter most. 

So, pack your scarf, plan your route and make this Gather Round one to remember.