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When it comes to football, there aren’t many things die-hard fans won’t do to see their favorite NFL teams compete. If you're an NFL fan, the first thing you're thinking about when planning a trip for an away game is about the matchup. But the second thing should be the stadium — like which ones have the best game-day atmosphere and which cities are the most fun when you’re not at the game. For me, these destinations take the crown.
From someone who used to work in the NFL and has been to almost every NFL stadium, these are my picks for the best NFL cities to explore for away games.
Seattle
Image courtesy of Palihotel Seattle
When people ask me what my favorite stadium is for an away game, Lumen Field is usually my answer. When I was working in the NFL, the Seahawks were dominant in the NFC West, so I'm sure that contributed to the hype around visiting here. But the 12th Man effect is real here, and the city is perfect for a quick trip. You can do Pike Place Market, the OG Starbucks, and if you're feeling reallyadventurous, you can drive over to the Olympic Peninsula for some gorgeous nature and hiking.
Palihotel Seattle: Stay here not only for something affordable, but also for its charming design, cool bar and central location steps from Pike Place Market.
Fora Reserve perks include a welcome amenity, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Denver
Mile High Stadium is unique because of its challenging elevation, but Denver is also appealing for its breweries and mountain views. And take it from someone who lives in Colorado: rent a car and make time to get outside of Denver and into the mountains during your visit — that's where the real magic is. In October, the yellow aspens are a sight to behold, and if you plan for a game in December, you might be able to squeeze some skiing in on your trip as well.
The Ramble: Set in the hip and creative RiNo district, this boutique hotel offers a gorgeous bar and dining space, plus rooms with quaint bunk beds.
New York
You can't go wrong with a long weekend in New York City, so the Jets have earned a spot on my list. I know the stadium is in Jersey, but you're not staying in Jersey, you're staying in the city. You could do a Giants game, but the Jets are way more exciting this season with Aaron Rodgers.
The Ned NoMad: In addition to being in the thick of restaurants and shopping, this hotel is conveniently close to Penn Station, where you'll start your trek to MetLife.
Fora Reserve perks include a hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Detroit
Hear me out: a Lions game in Detroit should be on your list. I may be biased because I did work in this city for a long time, but it is underrated for a fun away game trip. The city is on the upswing. There is so much good food here, plus a lot of away fans are surprised by how electric Ford Field is during the game. Especially right now, with the fans riding high from last year's storybook season and big expectations this year. Stay at the Shinola Hotel, a chic haunt in the heart of the city (and walkable to the stadium).
Shinola Hotel: This downtown hotel is from the Detroit-based watch brand and shows off an understated design with clean lines and plenty of art.
Kansas City
Aside from a possible Taylor Swift sighting and witnessing arguably the greatest quarterback of this generation, Arrowhead is one of the more iconic stadiums in the league, and it gets VERY loud. Plus, you’ll have Kansas City BBQ to look forward to during meals out.
Images courtesy of Hotel Kansas City - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Hotel Kansas City - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt: A downtown hotel set in a 1920s historic building, this gem is near the Power and Light District’s bars and restaurants. Book a suite for gorgeous windows and city views.
Hyatt Privé perks include a hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Honorable Mentions
Because each stadium has its own vibe (and there are more opinions than just mine), here’s a list of some honorable mentions. Fora Advisor Anna Tretter — a sports travel specialist — chimed in with some of her clients’ favorite destinations for NFL games.
Las Vegas
Image courtesy of the Wynn and Encore Las Vegas
Home to the Raiders, Allegiant Stadium is one of the newest NFL venues. Seeing a weekend or Monday night game here pairs perfectly with an extended weekend in Vegas, where there is no limit to the entertainment options. And sporty travelers will be happy here too, with golfing and hiking nearby.
“I have some diehard Cleveland Browns fans who every year get three or four couples together and pick a city to make a weekend out of it,” said Anna. “And this year, they're going to Las Vegas because of the great new stadium — and it's also a fun excuse to see Vegas.”
Wynn and Encore Las Vegas: At the north end of the Strip, these adjacent resorts have a contemporary design and offer everything from nightlife and entertainment to spa services and numerous restaurants.
Fora Perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas: If you like a classic, upscale vibe close to the stadium but without a casino crowd, the Four Seasons is always a good idea.
When you book Four Seasons with a Fora Advisor, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
Los Angeles
Image courtesy of Palihouse West Hollywood
Another new venue, SoFi Stadium is home to both the Los Angeles Rams and the Chargers. The indoor / outdoor stadium is considered a technical marvel, with open sides and translucent paneled roof that features embedded LED lights.
Downtown LA Proper Hotel: This urban hotel is set in a 1930s building and has a stylish, retro feel with a rooftop pool and a gorgeous bar.
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Palihouse West Hollywood: Close to a ton of restaurants and excellent shopping (check out The Grove), this whimsical hotel has a cool design with a touch of retro and old-Hollywood, plus a rooftop pool.
Fora Reserve perks include a welcome amenity, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Atlanta
Image courtesy of Asher Moss for Hotel Clermont
For the fan that needs easy access to an airport, Atlanta is a great option, providing direct flights to plenty of cities across the country. And Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the Atlanta Falcons, has an impressive design with a retractable roof. There’s even a bicycle valet if you’re brave enough to cycle through Atlanta traffic.
“Some clients like to have a direct flight home on Sunday night,” Anna said. “If the game is done at around 4:30 pm, it’s nice to be able to take an 8 pm flight home, so a place like Dallas, Atlanta or Charlotte is great for that connectivity.”
Hotel Clermont: This small, hip hotel offers a mix of historic charm and modern style, plus it's located in a trendy part of town near Ponce City Market.
Fora Reserve perks include a welcome drink, discounted food and beverage, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Every fan thinks their home team's city is the best one, but if you want to venture to an away game, connect with a Fora Advisor for insider intel on the best hotels with VIP perks.
