Where to Stay in Greater Fort Lauderdale for the National College Game at Hard Rock Stadium

If you want to feel the electricity from the moment you check in, book a room at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood. The iconic Guitar Hotel glows in neon color at night, and inside you can feel the pulse of fans moving between the casino, restaurants, and lounges. Expect sleek and comfortable rooms, oversized pools that sparkle under the South Florida sun, and dining that ranges from casual bites to award-winning concepts.

What makes the property stand out during championship week is the entertainment. Live music spills out from bars and venues, comedy shows bring out late night laughs, and big name performers regularly take the stage. You can warm up for the game with a concert, unwind with a DJ set, or grab a seat (and a cocktail) at the Oculus Bar.

Staying here also gives you one of the easiest routes to the game through the GEICO HRS Express. Lot 70 sits at the hotel, which means you can stroll outside, board a climate controlled shuttle, and ride directly to Hard Rock Stadium.

Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale

Chic and modern with floor to ceiling windows, the Hyatt Centric Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale feels airy and bright. One of its best surprises is Room Nine01, a hidden bar that transports guests to a bygone era where sultry lighting, vintage artwork, retro cocktails, and gourmet bites create an intimate, tucked away escape. Plus, with a rooftop pool looking out over the river, it’s a great place to unwind before you head to the game.

Riverside Hotel Fort Lauderdale

The Riverside Hotel is a Fort Lauderdale classic with Old Florida charm. You can feel the breeze from the New River as you walk along the brick-lined Riverwalk. Rooms are cozy and calm, and Las Olas Boulevard restaurants sit right outside your door.

The Dalmar

An urban resort reshaping the downtown skyline, The Dalmar has a stylish and relaxed vibe, with airy spaces, bold art, and a gleaming pool perfect for a quick dip before you head out. The rooftop is the star, offering breezy views and punchy cocktails that make sunset feel like its own event.

TRU by Hilton Fort Lauderdale Downtown/Flagler Village

Bright, playful, and budget friendly, Tru by Hilton offers a relaxed atmosphere where fans can gather before hopping on the Brightline.

If you want convenience without staying in the heart of downtown, these options put you just minutes from the stadium.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Miramar

A quiet and spacious base with modern suites and comfy seating areas. Mornings start with the smell of brewed coffee and complimentary breakfast, and evenings feel relaxed after a long day of cheering.

Hampton Inn and Suites Fort Lauderdale Miramar

Warm hospitality, clean rooms, and simple comfort. This hotel is ideal for fans who want an easy Uber ride to the stadium and a peaceful place to recharge after the game.

Getting to Hard Rock Stadium is stress free with several convenient transportation options for fans.

Hard Rock Stadium Connect

The Brightline Hard Rock Stadium Connect is one of the easiest ways to reach the game. Trains run to Brightline Aventura Station from Orlando, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. When you book through the app or website, look for the Hard Rock Stadium Connect icon.

How It Works:

• A complimentary shuttle leaves Brightline Aventura Station 10 minutes after each arrival.
• After the game, follow the signs for Brightline Shuttles at the south side of Hard Rock Stadium near the Gate 3 Pedestrian Bridge.
• Leave the stadium at least one hour before your departing train to stay on schedule.
   

The train ride itself is also part of the experience. Grab a snack, settle into a plush seat, and watch palm trees blur by the window as excitement builds.

GEICO HRS Express

The GEICO HRS Express is your VIP shortcut to game day. It’s complimentary, fast, and designed for fans who want a smooth arrival and departure.

How It Works:

• Arrive at Lot 70 at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel or Lot 95 at the Golden Glades Parking Garage.
  • Lots open three hours before kickoff.
• Shuttles begin running 30 minutes after the lots open.
• After the game, shuttles run for 75 minutes.

The buses are cool and comfortable, which feels especially good after cheering for four quarters. If you plan to use rideshare, take the GEICO HRS Express to Lots 70 or 95 first. You will find it easier to request a car without the postgame congestion near the stadium.

You may be here for the championship, but Greater Fort Lauderdale makes it easy to fill the rest of your trip with sun-soaked fun.

Explore Las Olas Boulevard

Walk past open air restaurants where you can hear clinking glasses and sizzling skillets. Browse boutiques, grab gelato, or unwind at a waterfront bar.

Hit the Beach

Fort Lauderdale Beach is a quick ride from downtown. The water is warm, clear, and calm. Spread out a towel, catch some rays, and breathe in the salty air.

Enjoy a Casino Night

If you stay at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood, you can feel the thrill of the tables, try your luck on slots and poker, and soak in the high energy of the casino floor before or after the big game.