Accommodation near McDonald Jones Stadium: your base for Newcastle's big concerts
Stadium shows, Foreshore festivals, one five-star base in the heart of Newcastle.
Image credit: https://www.mcdonaldjonesstadium.com/
Check Dates
Newcastle's 2026-2027 concert and festival season
Newcastle is gearing up for a big season of live music, with international stadium acts and country music festivals bringing the city to life. If you've secured tickets, booking your accommodation early is a smart move, particularly for major concert weekends when demand can rise.
Here's what's on the calendar.
Strummingbird Newcastle
Saturday 17 October 2026 | Newcastle Foreshore, Foreshore Park | Around a 20-minute walk from the hotel.
Country music meets the waterfront for a full day of live performances and festival atmosphere. The 2026 line-up includes Tyler Childers and Bailey Zimmerman, making this a date for country music fans to circle. Stay at Crystalbrook Kingsley and enjoy the convenience of walking to and from the Foreshore.
Foo Fighters
Thursday 12 November 2026 | McDonald Jones Stadium | Approximately 4 km from the hotel.
Foo Fighters bring their Take Cover Tour to Newcastle, with special guests The Buoys and C.O.F.F.I.N. joining them. For fans with tickets, Crystalbrook Kingsley offers a stylish CBD base for the big night. Plan your transport to the stadium in advance, then return to the comfort of your room after the show.
Robbie Williams
Tuesday 17 November 2026 | McDonald Jones Stadium | Approximately 4 km from the hotel.
Robbie Williams brings his BRITPOP World Tour to Newcastle, joined by G Flip and Lottery Winners. Make an occasion of the evening with pre-show dining at Roundhouse before heading to the stadium. Check event-night transport options before departure and allow extra time for traffic.
Guns N' Roses
February 2027 | Newcastle Foreshore, Foreshore Park | Around a 20-minute walk from the hotel.
Rock legends Guns N' Roses bring their 2026 World Tour to Newcastle, with Australian rock favourites Airbourne as special guests. Secure your accommodation early for this major stadium show, and ask the hotel about late check-out if you'd like a more relaxed morning after the concert.
Howlin' Rock N Rodeo
February 2027 | Newcastle Foreshore, Foreshore Park | Around a 20-minute walk from the hotel.
Country music returns to Newcastle Foreshore with Howlin' Rock N Rodeo. The 2027 event details and line-up should be checked closer to the festival. In the meantime, make a weekend of your visit with a stay at Crystalbrook Kingsley, within walking distance of the waterfront and Newcastle's CBD attractions.
Event dates, venues and line-ups can change. Check the official event websites for the latest announcements.
Getting to McDonald Jones Stadium from Crystalbrook Kingsley
Crystalbrook Kingsley is located at 282 King Street in Newcastle CBD, approximately 4 km from McDonald Jones Stadium.
By car or rideshare
Allow extra time for traffic before and after major events. Stadium roads and pick-up areas can become busy, so check the event's transport advice and designated rideshare zones before leaving the hotel. Stadium parking is limited and arrangements may vary by event. If you're driving to Newcastle, check the stadium's official parking information before departure. Crystalbrook Kingsley's parking information can help you plan parking for your hotel stay.
By event shuttle
Free event shuttles have operated from selected Newcastle CBD stops for some stadium events. Stops and services vary, so check Transport for NSW and the relevant event information before travelling.
By train
Broadmeadow Station is approximately 1.5 km from the stadium, followed by a walk of around 15–20 minutes. Check current train services, trackwork and event-specific travel advice before setting off.
Walking to the Foreshore festivals
For festivals at Newcastle Foreshore and Foreshore Park, Crystalbrook Kingsley is around a 20-minute walk away. It's a convenient option for festival-goers who'd rather explore the city on foot than worry about parking.
Drop your bags at the hotel, head down towards the waterfront and enjoy the festival atmosphere. When the day's performances are over, stroll back to your room and leave the crowds behind.
Before you leave, check the event organiser's official website for the latest entry conditions, permitted bags, re-entry rules and accessibility information.
Before and after the show
The best concert nights are about more than the headline act. At Crystalbrook Kingsley, the evening can start with dinner high above the city at Roundhouse, where rooftop dining sets the scene for a special night out.
Prefer a drink before the doors open? Head to Romberg's rooftop bar to settle in and take in the view. Or visit Ms Mary, the hotel's lobby bar and café, for a more relaxed start to the evening or a final drink after the show.
When the night winds down, retreat to your room for some well-earned downtime. The following morning, take your time getting ready before heading to Roundhouse for their daily buffet breakfast.
Why stay in Newcastle CBD
A major concert is an excellent reason to visit Newcastle, but it's hardly the only one. With Crystalbrook Kingsley as your base, you can pair a night of live music with a wander along the harbour, a visit to the beach or a meal at one of the city's restaurants.
Spend the afternoon exploring the waterfront, browse the city's boutiques or settle in for a relaxed meal before the evening's main event. Newcastle has a character all its own: coastal, creative and refreshingly laid-back.
Staying in the CBD gives you the freedom to experience more of it, whether you're visiting for one night or stretching the trip into a long weekend. For more inspiration, explore our Newcastle destination guide and plan a stay that goes beyond the stage.
Other big nights in Newcastle
McDonald Jones Stadium and the Foreshore aren't the only places to catch a great show. If you're planning another night out, keep these venues and events on your radar.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Crystalbrook Kingsley from McDonald Jones Stadium?
Crystalbrook Kingsley is approximately 4 km from McDonald Jones Stadium. Located in Newcastle CBD, the hotel is a convenient base for concert-goers who want to enjoy the city's restaurants and bars before and after a show.
How do I get from Newcastle CBD to McDonald Jones Stadium on concert nights?
You can travel by car, rideshare or public transport, with event-specific shuttle buses operating for some major events. Services and pick-up points can vary, so check Transport for NSW and the stadium's official event information before travelling. Allow extra time for traffic and crowds, particularly before the show and when leaving afterwards.
Is there parking at McDonald Jones Stadium?
Parking arrangements and availability vary by event, and spaces can be limited on major concert nights. Check the stadium's official event information before driving. Crystalbrook Kingsley also provides hotel parking information to help guests plan their stay.
Which concerts are on at McDonald Jones Stadium in 2026?
The concerts listed in this guide are Foo Fighters on Thursday 12 November, Robbie Williams on Tuesday 17 November and Guns N' Roses on Tuesday 8 December 2026. Event schedules can change, and other sporting and entertainment events are also held at the stadium. Check the official stadium calendar for the latest listings.
When and where is Strummingbird Newcastle 2026?
Strummingbird Newcastle is scheduled for Saturday 17 October 2026 at Foreshore Park on Newcastle Foreshore. The festival features a country music line-up, visit the official Strummingbird website for the latest artist announcements, ticket information and entry requirements.
When is Howlin' in 2027?
Howlin' Rock N Rodeo is listed for February 2027 at Newcastle Foreshore. Check the official event website for confirmed dates, line-up announcements, ticketing and transport information as the festival approaches.
Can I walk from the hotel to the Newcastle Foreshore festivals?
Yes. Newcastle Foreshore and Foreshore Park are around a 20-minute walk from Crystalbrook Kingsley.
Can I have dinner at the hotel before the show?
Yes. Roundhouse, Crystalbrook Kingsley's rooftop restaurant, is an option for pre-show dining. Check current opening hours and availability, and book ahead if you have a specific concert start time to work around.
Can I get a late check-out after a concert?
Late check-out may be available on request, subject to availability and the hotel's conditions. Contact Crystalbrook Kingsley directly when booking or before arrival to ask about options for your stay.
How early should I book accommodation for a concert weekend?
For major concerts and festivals, booking as early as possible is recommended. Popular events can increase demand for Newcastle accommodation, particularly when several large shows fall within the same season.