So, you’ve heard the hype about Magic Round and decided it’s finally time to see what all the fuss is about. Good call. Whether you're a hardcore NRL fan or just looking for an epic weekend with mates, Magic Round is the kind of event that blends high-energy sport with the vibe of a festival. All 17 teams. One city. One stadium. Three days of non-stop action.
But here's the thing—if you want to make the most of it, you can’t just wing it. Tickets sell fast, hotels fill up, and the best spots to eat or party get booked out. That’s why this guide’s got your back. We’re breaking down how to turn a standard weekend into the ultimate Magic Round experience—from getting legit tickets to finding the best post-game burgers. Let's get planning.
If there’s one secret to doing Magic Round right, it’s getting on top of your planning game early. Don’t be that person scrambling last minute for a hotel two train stops away and a ticket from a sketchy seller. You’ll thank yourself later for being ahead of the game.
Start by locking in your travel dates. Magic Round hits Brisbane in early May, with games on Friday night, Saturday, and Sunday. If you're not local, you’ll want to arrive by Thursday at the latest. Trust us—it’s worth having the extra day to settle in and soak up the build-up.
Next, let’s talk location. Suncorp Stadium is where all the magic happens. It's right in the middle of Brisbane, so you’ve got a few neighborhoods that make great home bases. If you can swing it, try staying in Milton, Paddington, or even the CBD—these spots keep you within walking distance or a quick Uber from the action.
Hotels and Airbnbs get booked quickly, so aim to reserve your stay a few months in advance. Look for properties offering free cancellations—plans change, and flexibility helps. If you're travelling with a crew, splitting a larger apartment can often be cheaper (and more fun) than booking separate hotel rooms.
Oh, and don’t forget about transport. Brisbane’s public transport is solid, but if you’re flying in, line up your airport transfers or check if your accommodation does pickups. The last thing you want is to miss kickoff because you’re stuck figuring out how to get to the stadium.
When getting into Magic Round, you have options—but not all are created equal. Tickets can be grabbed as single-day passes or full weekend bundles, and they typically go on sale well before the event. Early access usually opens to NRL members first, followed by general public sales. If you want first dibs on the best seats, it’s worth considering signing up.
Prices vary depending on where you want to sit—expect to pay more for premium sidelines or covered seating, and a bit less for behind-the-posts or general admission. That said, there's no such thing as a bad seat when the atmosphere is this good. Every corner of the stadium is buzzing with energy all weekend long.
Now, if you're hunting for Magic Round tickets at the best prices, your best bet is to compare across a few trusted platforms. Sites like Ticketek (the official vendor), Viagogo, or resale platforms might show different prices, especially closer to game day. Just be cautious—some resale sites can mark up prices significantly, and not all sellers are reliable.
The golden rule here is: stick to verified or well-reviewed sources. If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Some fans even opt for ticket packages that include accommodation—sometimes the bundle works out cheaper and removes the stress of finding both separately.
Finally, double-check the ticket terms. Is it a physical ticket, e-ticket, or app-based entry? Can you transfer it if plans change? Knowing these details ahead of time can save a lot of hassle later. After all, this weekend is about fun, not fuss.
Alright, you’ve got your tickets locked in and your weekend base sorted—now it’s time to talk game day. If you’ve never been to a Magic Round before, brace yourself. The atmosphere is electric. We’re talking packed stands, fans in jerseys from every club, team chants echoing through the stadium, and a full-on carnival vibe.
First tip: get there early. Even if your game doesn’t kick off until later, arriving ahead of time means less stress getting through security and more time to soak it all in. Plus, there’s always something outside Suncorp—live music, sponsor activations, food trucks, merch tents, and a sea of fans buzzing around.
If you catch multiple games in a day, pacing yourself is key. Stay hydrated, wear comfortable clothes (layers are your friend), and pack some essentials—think sunscreen, portable charger, and maybe even a little flag or sign if you're feeling spirited. The stadium has food and drinks, but lines can get long, especially during halftime, so having a few snacks on hand never hurts.
One of the most incredible things about Magic Round is that even if your team isn't playing, the crowd still brings the energy. You’ll see rival fans sharing a laugh, strangers high-fiving after a big play, and plenty of friendly banter. It’s sport at its most inclusive.
When planning your day, give yourself breathing room between games. You should wander out, bite, or chill in the fan zones. Keep an eye on your ticket details too—if you’re doing re-entry between games, make sure you know the rules for getting back in. The last thing you want is to get locked out after leaving for a meat pie.
Let’s be real, footy is only half the reason people love Magic Round. The other half? The food, the drinks, and the good times happen around the games.
Suncorp Stadium is lucky to be surrounded by some of Brisbane’s best pubs, cafes, and eats. Caxton Street is the place to be—it’s the unofficial fan HQ. Think classic pub feeds, craft beers, live music, and walls lined with jerseys. Whether chasing a quick bite or settling in for post-match beers, you'll find your people here.
The Caxton Hotel is legendary and worth a visit, but heaps of other gems are nearby. If you’re after something a little more low-key, try the local cafes in Paddington or grab a casual bite along Latrobe Terrace. Some venues even put on special game-day menus or themed drinks for the occasion, adding to the vibe.
Looking for something different between matches? South Bank is just a short drive away and offers a more relaxed atmosphere with riverside dining, bars, and even a man-made beach. It’s a great spot to recharge if you’ve been on your feet all day.
For groups, it’s smart to book ahead if you’ve got somewhere specific in mind. These places fill up fast during Magic Round weekend, and you don’t want to wander on an empty stomach. And if you're up for a more casual experience, plenty of food trucks and takeaway joints are dotted around the area where you can grab something quick and tasty.
The bottom line is that Brisbane brings its A-game during Magic Round, and the city’s hospitality scene feeds off the energy. You’ll eat well, drink better, and probably make a few new mates.
Sure, Magic Round is the main event—but why stop there? If you’re traveling to Brisbane anyway, you might as well turn the trip into a proper little getaway. And lucky for you, this city knows how to show visitors a good time, even outside the stadium.
Let’s start with the basics: Brisbane is ridiculously easy to explore. Grab a Go Card for public transport or hop on an e-scooter to cruise around the riverfront. If you’re into culture, swing by the Queensland Museum or catch an exhibition at the Gallery of Modern Art. These spots are just a few minutes from the CBD and can be a great way to fill a quiet morning or wind down after a big night.
If you're feeling more adventurous, consider a quick trip to the surrounding areas. The Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast are within reach if you have a free day and a set of wheels. Think beach strolls, fish and chips by the sea, or even a sneaky surf if you’re keen.
Closer to the city, walk through Roma Street Parkland or jump on a river cruise for a chill way to see the sights. And don’t sleep on the food scene—Brisbane’s got everything from rooftop cocktail spots to hole-in-the-wall ramen joints, so there’s always something new to try.
The best part? Spacing out your weekend with non-footy activities gives you room to recharge. It turns a sports trip into a proper city break, whether you’re here solo, with friends, or making it a couples' weekend. It’s all about balance, and Brisbane has plenty to offer between the big hits and try celebrations.
Planning the perfect weekend around Magic Round isn’t just about scoring a seat at the stadium. It’s about creating a whole experience that blends sport, social vibes, and a little adventure. With some planning, you can ensure your weekend goes off without a hitch—great food, smooth travel, and memories that stick long after the final whistle.
Whether you’re coming for the footy or just tagging along for the fun, Brisbane delivers big. So rally your crew, lock in the details, and get ready to make the most of one of the most unique weekends on the sporting calendar.
