How to get to the Melbourne Cup.
August 12, 2015
With spring almost here and Xmas on the horizon there is always a fantastic vibe in the air. This period sees Melbourne and Sydney take centre stage as our nations 2 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 on the 12th September! But let’s be honest, the eye on the prize for most spring race goers 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 ‘key organiser’ of the group. So, to assist we thought we highlight the various options available.
Take the Train
For the ‘race days’ of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, Special trains run direct to and from Flemington Racecourse. These trains depart from the CBD’s Flinders Street and/or Southern Cross Stations. These are ‘express’ services to Flemington Racecourse (stopping only at North Melbourne). This is one of our 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
The 57 West Maribyrnong Tram takes you from Melbourne’s CBD and stops outside Flemington Racecourse (stop 30). The older style trams are used for this route, so if any commuters require a low-floor tram for mobility reasons it’s best not to consider this option.
Taxi
Taxis are only permitted to enter the Flemington racecourse from Smithfield Road at the Stables Drive entrance or drop off in Leonard Crescent via Langs Road. We would expect most taxi drivers to be aware of this but it pays to be informed.
Helicopter
Perhaps arrive in style via chopper and forget the crowds and traffic congestion all together. Helicopters depart from Melbourne and land at Flemington Racecourse’s helipad. We are able to arrange private helicopter transfers during the Melbourne Cup Carnival so please contact us for assistance.
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, complimentary glass of French Campaign included! Once you’ve arrived at Flemington, it’s only a short stroll into the racetrack. For booking enquiries, please contact us.
Limo
Private Limo has always been a popular mode of transport to Flemington. The traffic doesn’t seem to bother the punters when you’re travelling in style. It pays to book in advance due its popularity though. We can arrange Limousine to and from the racecourse, please contact us for assistance.
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