Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium — plus everything to eat, drink, and do in Miami Gardens for a perfect sports weekend.
Hard Rock Stadium gives the Dolphins one of the most enviable settings in the NFL — 30 minutes from South Beach, 18 miles from Marlins Park and the Kaseya Center (Heat), and surrounded by one of the most vibrant food and nightlife cultures in America. A Miami Dolphins weekend is never just about the football.
Use GamePlan to find a Dolphins weekend that overlaps with the Marlins' September schedule or a Heat preseason game — then build a full South Florida experience around it.
Hard Rock Stadium underwent a $550 million renovation in 2016 that added a canopy roof, natural breezes through open sides, and a dramatically improved fan experience. The University of Miami Hurricanes also play here, creating potential for college-plus-pro weekends.
You cannot leave Miami Gardens without eating these.
The finest eco-luxury hotel in South Beach. Rooftop pool, direct ocean access, Michelin-starred restaurant.
Best for: Couples, luxury travelersA legendary spa hotel on the Miami Beach waterway. The hamam, the pool, and the restaurant make it exceptional value.
Best for: Couples, wellness-focused travelersThe finest hotel in the Brickell financial district. Walking distance to Kaseya Center (Heat) and excellent Brickell restaurants.
Best for: Urban travelers, groupsThe most fun bar in Miami. During the day it's a taco window; at night the secret door leads to an underground cocktail bar.
Must order: Al pastor taco, whatever is behind the doorA 1935 jazz club that has returned to its roots. Live Latin music, mojitos, and croquetas in Calle Ocho's most atmospheric setting.
Must order: Mojito, croqueta empanizadaJames Beard Award-winning cocktail bar. Miami's finest drinks program across a beautiful outdoor terrace.
Must order: Whatever is seasonal and rum-basedThe most famous Cuban restaurant in Miami. The best Cuban sandwich in the city, the best cafe con leche, and 50+ years of Miami history.
Order: Cuban sandwich, ropa vieja, cafe con lecheAsian-inspired wood-fired cooking that has become one of Miami's most beloved restaurants. The Korean BBQ cauliflower and pork jowl are legendary.
Order: Wood-roasted cauliflower, pork jowl, daily fishThe most exciting steakhouse in Miami — Korean-American BBQ in a Brickell high-rise with Michelin star quality.
Order: Butcher's Feast — the full experienceThe most famous beach in America is a short drive. A Saturday morning on Ocean Drive + Sunday Dolphins game is the standard Miami sports weekend.
September in Miami is hot and humid — 89°F and 85% humidity. Hard Rock's canopy provides shade but the heat is real. Hydrate constantly.
Miami's nightlife — South Beach, Wynwood, Brickell — is among the best in America. Build in at least one late night.
Miami is not a walkable city outside South Beach. Rent a car or budget for rideshare.
Generally accessible — Miami is a large market with many casual fans. Good availability on the secondary market.
If your trip is between October and May, stone crab claws at Joe's Stone Crab are the finest seafood experience in Florida. Book Joe's weeks ahead.
Use GamePlan to find the exact dates when your favorite teams all play in the same window — then book everything in one trip.
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