How to get to the Melbourne Cup

 

With spring almost on the horizon, there is always a fantastic vibe in the air. This period sees Melbourne and Sydney take centre stage as our nation’s two main domestic footy competitions come to an end. Soon after the Grand Final victors have lifted their code’s respective silverware, our nation’s horse racing calendar comes squarely into focus as many start their Melbourne Cup Carnival preparations.

The reality is, the Melbourne Cup Carnival will have already officially kicked off in September! But let’s be honest, the eye on the prize for most spring racegoers is the last period of the racing program starting with Derby Day and finishing with Stakes Day. No disrespect intended for those race days outside the ‘Big 4’!

With daily crowd numbers hovering around the eighty thousand mark for Australia’s biggest racing week, and in particular on our country’s biggest race day, it pays to be prepared on how to get to the Melbourne Cup. Choosing the right option can be as hard as picking a winner during the Carnival! In our experience, we know this part of the preparation will most likely be a last minute thought. Alternatively, it will rest in the hands of the ‘key organiser’ of the group. So, to assist we thought we would highlight the various options available for you.

Take the Train

For the ‘race days’ of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, special trains run directly to and from Flemington Racecourse. Trains depart from either the CBD’s Flinders Street or Southern Cross Stations. These are ‘express’ services to Flemington Racecourse (stopping only at North Melbourne).

This is one of our top recommendations as it is very quick and puts you pretty much inside the racecourse. Expect it to be crowded but it does help you avoid a long walk down Flemington Drive!

Tram It

Taking the tram is another great option as it requires little money and is incredibly easy. Simply take the 57 West Maribyrnong Tram from Elizabeth and Flinders. It will stop right outside Flemington Racecourse, or stop 30.

Be aware that the older style trams are used for this route. So if you or anyone you are travelling with requires a low-floor tram for mobility reasons it’s best not to consider this option.

Drive Yourself

Of course, you can choose to drive yourself as well. Might be a good option if you are planning to bring the whole family and don’t want to go through the trouble of rallying everyone to the train station.

Just remember that with an average of 80,000 others also attending the Carnival, it might become a logistical nightmare to find parking. Of course, there is parking available, but it is limited, so you’ll want to arrive nice and early. For this reason, we wouldn’t highly recommend driving yourself unless you truly do love being an early bird to the racecourse.

Taxi

Taking a taxi can be more convenient than a train or tram, but of course, will be a bit more expensive. One important thing to note is that taxis are only permitted to enter the Flemington racecourse from Smithfield Road at the Stables Drive entrance. Or they can drop you off in Leonard Crescent via Langs Road.

We would expect most taxi drivers to be aware of this, but it pays to be informed. Wouldn’t want to pay extra just to have your taxi looping around in circles looking for a place to stop.

Limousine

Taking a private limo has always been a popular mode of transport to Flemington. The traffic doesn’t seem to bother the punters when you are travelling in style. In fact, the more traffic the better. You can really enjoy your luxurious ride, feeling like a movie star when you step out of your limousine at the racecourse, making those who opted for a taxi extremely jealous.   

This option is surprisingly popular though, so be sure to book in advance. We can arrange limousines to and from the racecourse, please contact us for assistance.

Helicopter

If you have the money why not arrive in style via chopper? Forget the crowds and traffic congestion all together with this insanely cool option. Helicopters depart from Melbourne and land at Flemington Racecourse’s helipad. Yes, they have their own helipad.

We are able to arrange private helicopter transfers during the Melbourne Cup Carnival so please contact us for assistance. Even if you are just curious about pricing, be sure to send us a message!

Private Boat

Private boat transfers are available from Melbourne VIP Boat Charters during the Melbourne Cup Carnival providing a relaxed and stylish way to the get to Flemington. Pick-ups can be done at several points along the Yarra River, CBD or Docklands.

This is another one of our preferred options, a complimentary glass of French champagne included! Once you’ve arrived at Flemington, it’s only a short stroll into the racetrack. For booking enquiries, please contact us.

Melbourne Cup Carnival

We know that transportation is often an afterthought. That’s why this year you might choose to take the train or a taxi. But imagine next year taking some time and planning ahead. You could actually take that helicopter and make the Melbourne Cup Carnival one your friends or family will never forget!

Now that you have had the chance to figure out how you want to get to the Carnival you can finally sit back, relax, and look forward to the Carnival! Have a great time and be sure to enjoy all of the races, the food and great company.

Mates’ Escapes