Top 5 Footy Trip Destinations for the Season
This season set a new benchmark for Mad Monday, with record numbers of Footy and Netball Trips heading away across Australia. From coast to coast, the energy was unreal, and the stories coming back from the teams have been nothing short of legendary. Here are the five destinations that made the biggest impact this year.
1. Cairns
Cairns has held firm at the top spot for Footy Trips. It’s easy to see why with sun, pubs, and the perfect setup for a weekend that mixes celebration with relaxation. More groups than ever are locking in full packages that include pub crawls, reserved seating for the AFL and NRL finals, and even the Spring Carnival and Mad Monday events. Staying in the city square keeps everything within easy walking distance, and the local venues welcome teams with open arms, keeping the vibe easygoing and full of fun.
2. Brisbane
Brisbane has surged up the list this year and for good reason. With the city buzzing in the lead-up to the Olympics, there’s more to see and do than ever. Mad Monday groups have been loving the exclusive events, prime pub access, and a nightlife scene that covers everything from Fortitude Valley to Caxton Street and South Bank. The variety of precincts keeps the weekend exciting and unpredictable, and there’s no shortage of quality pubs to explore.
3. Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is back in full swing and proving once again why it’s one of Australia’s most iconic party destinations. New clubs and rooftop bars in Surfers Paradise have revived the nightlife, and groups are upping the ante by booking proper apartment-style accommodation right in the heart of the action. Most groups also add the Party Boat option to their package, with drinks flowing and music pumping. Many teams combine the trip with a day at the races, Topgolf, or a classic party bus pub crawl. Sunday sessions in Burleigh Heads are also back in force, giving teams the perfect local vibe to wind down their trip.
4. Adelaide
Adelaide continues to attract a strong crowd, especially for teams travelling from Victoria thanks to the cheap Melbourne to Adelaide flights. The city’s pub scene is thriving, with many groups basing themselves around Hindley Street for the entire weekend. The Sunday trips out to Glenelg are a standout, giving groups a beachside finish to their weekend of celebrations. Adelaide is now also our most popular destination for Netball Trips, with netty teams loving the mix of nightlife, affordability, and easy access to everything the city has to offer.
5. Melbourne
Melbourne remains a classic for good reason. The Spring Carnival pulls huge numbers every year, and teams are going all out, upgrading accommodation, hiring hummers or party buses, and doing the races in style. Once you know the right pubs and clubs, Melbourne delivers an unbeatable mix of sophistication and chaos, making every Footy Trip one to remember.
Mad Monday is proud to have been part of another record-breaking season. Whether your crew is chasing a tropical escape, a city blowout, or a classy racing weekend, the 2026 season is shaping up even bigger.