As the NFL has officially kicked off its season, football fans from across the country are locking in their travel plans to watch their favorite teams.
While many automatically book in the main host cities, savvy travelers are increasingly looking to nearby destinations that offer easier access, better value, and plenty to do before and after the game. From beach towns to vibrant neighborhoods just minutes from the stadiums, these alternative stays let fans skip the crowds without missing a moment of the action.
From Miami to Los Angeles, below is your ultimate destination guide for the 2025-2026 NFL season.
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1. If You’re a Miami Dolphins Fan, Stay in Greater Fort Lauderdale for Hard Rock Stadium
Football season in South Florida doesn’t have to mean braving Miami’s crowds. Just 15 to 20 minutes from Hard Rock Stadium, Greater Fort Lauderdale’s Hollywood and Hallandale Beach offer a convenient, laid-back base for game day. In Hollywood, fans can choose from more than 70 places to stay, from beachfront resorts to boutique hotels, and explore the city’s lively Broadwalk, a 2.2-mile stretch lined with outdoor cafes, family-friendly attractions and unique shops. Nearby Hallandale Beach combines a relaxed vibe with energetic nightlife, including The Big Easy Casino’s 500-plus Vegas-style slot machines. Together, these two communities give fans the chance to soak up golden sand beaches and take in everything the area has to offer, turning game weekends into mini-vacations.
2. If You’re an Atlanta Falcons Fan, Stay in the ATL Airport District
Easily accessible to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the world’s busiest airport, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a stay in the ATL Airport District provides visitors with a conveniently located stay – but that’s not all – a stay within the District provides Falcons fans with an average 30% cost savings. Simply take the MARTA from your home base in College Park, Hapeville, or Union City, directly to Atlanta’s downtown to the stadium for the game. Before or after the game, explore the District’s unique attractions like the Delta Flight Museum and the Porsche Experience Center. Enjoy plane spotting while sitting on any of the District’s minority-owned restaurant patios, as you sip, savor and enjoy this cultural hub on Atlanta’s Southside.
3. If You’re a Los Angeles Rams Fan, Elevate Your Gameday in a Luxury Villa with Rental Escapes
For Rams fans heading to LA, a Rental Escapes villa transforms game weekend into a full-on experience. With spacious living areas, outdoor kitchens, and private pools, fans can kick off the weekend with their own pre-game tailgate by the pool, host a watch party on big screens, or celebrate a win with a private chef-prepared feast — all without the crowds of a hotel. Fans can choose from hillside retreats like Sunset Vale with lush gardens and a saltwater pool or stylish stays like Bella Villa in West Hollywood near nightlife. No matter the vibe, every villa comes with concierge services and plenty of space to celebrate — giving Rams fans the ultimate home-field advantage in LA.
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