I've been fortunate to cover AFL at pretty much every major stadium in Australia.
So what are the best footy grounds in the land as a spectator and media guy?
With footy moving to Adelaide for Gather Round this week, and some different venues about to go on show, I've ranked my best from 10 to one.
1ADELAIDE OVAL (Adelaide)
ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 13: A general view during the 2025 AFL Round 05 match between the Port Adelaide Power and the Hawthorn Hawks at Adelaide Oval on April 13, 2025 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
Cricket's No.1 ground, and footy's too ... just. Yes, AO is that good.
It is the mix of old and new that makes it work ... new stands, an old scoreboard, a giant fig tree and even a hill to stand on.
The stadium is not boutique, but not too big. Just right at the 45-50,000 crowd range. Throw in the advantage of an on-site hotel and the fact you can stroll across to the river from the city and this is No.1 in Australia.
