Allianz Stadium: All You Need To Know

The Sydney Football Stadium (SFS), known commercially as Allianz Stadium, is a premier sporting stadium located near the heart of the Sydney CBD in Moore Park. It’s the home of the Sydney Roosters, The Waratahs and Sydney FC and often hosts major music events such as Elton John, Kiss and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

Whether you’re heading in for a Friday night footy, the iconic ANZAC Day clash or Sunday afternoon in the sun, Allianz promises atmosphere and a world class fan experience. 

A Historical Ground in Australian Sport

The Sydney Football Stadium has long held a special place in Australia’s sporting landscape with a story inseparable from that of the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) next door. Together, the two venues form one of the most significant sporting precincts in the country, with a shared history spanning more than a century.

Since the late 19th century, the SCG has been a cornerstone of Australian sport, playing host to a myriad of iconic moments across cricket, rugby league, rugby union and Australian rules football and has shaped the Harbour City’s sporting identity.   

The Sydney Football Stadium, commercially known as Allianz Stadium, opened in 1988 and was designed to complement the SCG by providing a purpose-built rectangular sporting ground more suitable for football codes and easing scheduling pressure on the SCG. In 2022, a new era was ushered in for the SFS. Following a complete demolition of the old site, the new stadium boasts one of the best crowd experiences in Australia thanks to steeply tiered seats and upgraded food and beverage options and has since hosted a number of fixtures in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup as well Elton John’s farewell tour. 

Today, with the redevelopment of Allianz Stadium, the SCG and Sydney Football Stadium continue to operate in tandem - one representing tradition and heritage, the other modern performance and fan-focused design - cementing the precinct’s status as one of Australia’s most important sporting destinations.

Best places for a pre-game drink

The Nelson Hotel

A classic Aussie pub that really comes to life on game day. Expect a mix of locals and fans, a beautiful front bar, pub classics on the menu and a short walk to the ground.

The Light Brigade

An adored Paddington Pub that serves as a perfect pre-match meeting point. Multiple bars and a sun-filled rooftop make this a great spot for groups chasing a lively atmosphere before the game.

The Clock Hotel

A Surry Hills institution known for its great food, central location and relaxed vibe. Wth over 100 international varieties to tase in the upstairs Whisky room, the Clock doubles as a great destination for a night cap, or two...

EQ Precinct (Moore Park)

If convenience is key, there are a number of bars and restaurants around the Entertainment Quarter right next to the stadium offering quick eats and a outdoor drinks.

Getting There 

Train
Central Station is the main hub, about a 15-minute walk from the stadium with plenty of spots to stop for a drink on the way. 

Light Rail
The L2 and L3 lines stop at Moore Park and are usually the quickest option on event days. Extra services run when big crowds are expected.

Taxi & Rideshare
Dedicated drop-off and pick-up zones operate on Driver Avenue and Lang Road. Traffic can bottleneck around kickoff and full-time, so leave some extra time to avoid the stress. 

Driving
Parking is available around the ground, but spots go quickly. If you’re not arriving early, public transport is the smarter play.

Game Day 

Food & Drinks

Since its renovation, Food & Beverage operations at Sydney Football Stadium have been led by Merivale, bringing an uplift in quality, variety and overall experience compared to traditional stadium offerings. Fans can expect a curated mix of elevated casual dining and premium hospitality concepts, with menus designed by Merivale’s chefs and influenced by its well-known Sydney venues.

Options range from high-quality burgers, gourmet sandwiches and loaded hot chips to globally inspired dishes, fresh salads and lighter fare. The focus is on better ingredients, faster service and food that feels closer to restaurant quality than standard stadium classics.

Bars and beverage outlets across the stadium offer a strong selection of local and international beers, premium wines, cocktails and non-alcoholic options. In premium lounges and corporate areas, guests can access more refined dining experiences, including plated meals, bespoke cocktails and curated wine lists.  

Merchandise

Merchandise at Sydney Football Stadium is focused on its major sporting tenants, including the Sydney Roosters, Sydney FC and the NSW Waratahs as well as the Sydney Swans and Sydney Sixers who are based at the SCG. Fans can purchase official, licensed apparel and supporter gear both online and at the ‘Stadium Store’ - located on Driver ave, Moore Park, NSW. Opening hours are Tuesday–Saturday: 10am to 4pm (plus gamedays)

Accessibility

The stadium is fully accessible, with ramps, lifts, and seating areas for fans with limited mobility. Event staff are on hand to assist as needed.

Payment

Allianz Stadium is a cashless stadium. 

Post Match 

Paddington & Surry Hills

After the siren, most fans drift here. Paddington has a range of pubs and unique bars while Surry Hills offers busier bars and late night eats. Both are within walking distance and perfect for a beer and post match debrief. 

Oxford Street / Darlinghurst Bars

A short ride away, this strip is ideal if you’re chasing a livelier post-match scene. Plenty of pubs, cocktail bars and casual dining options- a good spot to keep the night rolling.

Crown Street 

For the morning after the night before, Crown Street and its surrounds are a buzz with great cafés, bakeries and brunch spots to get a coffee and a hearty meal.