Visiting Dublin for the College Classic or NFL in Summer 2025

In 2025, Dublin is set to become a vibrant hub for American football fans from around the world, hosting two landmark events showcasing both College and professional levels of the sport.

On August 23rd, the Aviva Stadium in Dublin will host the Aer Lingus College Football Classic between Kansas State University Wildcats and Iowa State University Cyclones. The game will mark Iowa State’s first ever international game and is the first Big 12 Conference matchup to be played in Ireland. It will be the fourth consecutive year the Classic is held in Dublin and the 10th college football game overall to be played here.
Hot on the heels of the College Classic, Dublin will make history again by hosting its first ever regular season NFL game on September 28th at Croke Park. The game will feature the Pittsburgh Steelers as the home team against the Minnesota Vikings. This fixture forms part of the NFL’s broader international expansion and will bring significant economic and cultural benefits to the city.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have strong Irish connections via the Rooney family, the majority owners and operators of the franchise. After emigrating from Ireland in the 1840’s, they established their American roots in Pittsburgh in the 1880’s. The game itself is expected to attract thousands of US visitors, to add to the 22,000 expected to travel for the College Classic. Both games will be available to a global audience, and tickets for both events are sure to sell fast.

Visiting Dublin for the College Classic or NFL game – Where to Stay

Whether travelling from the US to watch Iowa State vs Kansas State, or the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. the Minnesota Vikings here at The Shelbourne we are looking forward to welcoming a host of new visitors. Whether looking for a luxury 5 star stay, a pre game lunch or a celebratory pint of the black stuff, The Shelbourne has everything for football fans visiting Dublin this summer.
Visitors can enjoy unrivalled dining options, from the timeless tradition of The Saddle Room, to the famous Afternoon Tea in The Lord Mayors Lounge. For some pre or post game refreshments, take your pick from the buzzing No.27, the discreet and storied Horseshoe Bar, or our cosy Terrace. The finest ingredients served by our experienced and friendly staff, soak up the best the city has to offer with a visit to The Shelbourne hotel this summer to complete any trip to Dublin for the College Classic or the NFL Dublin game.

Visiting Dublin for the College Classic or NFL game – Things to do in Dublin

There are a host of world class Dublin attractions within walking distance of The Shelbourne Hotel. Whether you are visiting Dublin on a quick trip to take in the College Classic or NFL action, or you have a longer stay in mind, you won’t be stuck for things to do.
Just around the corner, Trinity College boasts over four centuries of learning and history. Take in a show at the Burke Theatre or visit the world famous Book Of Kells, in between exploring the cobbled courtyards and extensive grounds.
For some retail therapy, get yourself kitted out for the big game with a stroll down Grafton Street, Ireland’s premier retail address. Learn more about what it means to be Irish at the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum, or explore the history closer to home at St. Patrick’s Cathedral or Dublin Castle.
We have compiled a full and handy list of things to see and do in Dublin here.

So whether you are a regular visitor, or travelling to Dublin for a historic summer of football action, our team will be waiting with our famous warm Irish welcome.