You don’t have to love sports to love traveling for them. Trust me—I’ve never been athletic, nor have I cared much for stats or scores, but something shifts when you’re in a city—new or known—during a big game. The streets come alive, the energy is palpable, and for a moment, everyone’s on the same team. (Or united against a common enemy—which is always fun, too.)
This year, the calendar is stacked with global sporting events worth traveling for, whether you’re a diehard fan or just in it for the buzzy atmosphere. Think F-1 in Monaco, Wimbledon in London, the Ryder Cup in New York, and countless match days that turn cities into full-fledged, weekend-long celebrations. There’s something strangely moving about being surrounded by people from all over the world, all there for one reason: It’s about connection, spectacle, and experiencing these destinations through a new lens. I, for one, have screamed myself hoarse at a Manchester City match and spent an entire Knicks game admiring the apparel of those in courtside seats.
With the sports travel industry projected to hit $2.4 trillion by 2030, the trend just keeps climbing, with more and more of these experiences becoming bucket-list events for sports lovers and high-energy-junkies alike. Why not this be your year? Whether you’re going solo or with friends, it’s time to join the crowd—or at least plan around it. Here’s where to go, when to book, and what major sporting events to catch around the globe in 2025.
Major sporting events in 2025:
Miami Grand Prix
When is the Miami Grand Prix: May 2–4, 2025
Where is the Miami Grand Prix: Miami International Autodrome, Miami Gardens, FL
The Miami Grand Prix is back this year for its fourth lap around Hard Rock Stadium, and 2025 is shaping up to be its most electric yet. As the second US stop on the Formula 1 (F1) calendar, Miami’s race is the glam-sport collision fans can’t get enough of—speed, heat, and high-end spectacle await. The 5.42km circuit was designed for thrill, with 19 turns engineered to push both drivers and fans to the edge. Travel packages for this year sold fast, but a few luxe options remain—namely, the Miami Club package, which includes Mercedes-AMG Petronas team appearances, immersive fan zones, and prime trackside views at Turn 5. Expect a duplex-style suite with open air garden terraces, live cooking stations, and flowing cocktails. Prices start at $10,500 (with no hotel) or $13,995 with accommodations at the Fontainebleau. A tip for all Grand Prix spectators: If you wish for VIP and elevated access to the pulse of F1 royalty, the Paddock Club offers pit-lane walks, meet-and-greets, and an all-inclusive trackside culinary spread.
Where to stay: For Miami’s classic high-glamour pool party scene, book Fontainebleau Miami Beach (also included in many F1 packages). Otherwise, book at eco-luxe 1 Hotel South Beach for breezy refinement. Or, try The Elser Hotel, downtown’s event-friendly hub with a giant LED screen, specialty cocktails, and F1-themed programming for guests.
Kentucky Derby
When is the Kentucky Derby: May 2–4, 2025
Where is the Kentucky Derby: Churchill Downs, Louisville, KY
The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby is more than just a two-minute race—it’s an all-time American classic spectacle, rooted in legacy (and laced with bourbon). Friday brings the Kentucky Oaks and city-wide galas, while Saturday’s main race event unfolds around 6:30 p.m. beneath a flurry of fascinators and mint juleps. Ticketing varies: General admission to the raucous infield starts at $60 on race day, but for a more elevated experience, packages start at $705 and climb to more than $2,225 for premium boxes with spanning views, access to air conditioning, all-inclusive dining, and more. For 2025, keep an eye on the new Starting Gate Box seating—trackside and open-air, it’s arguably the best seat for horse-racing purists. There’s nothing quite like Derby weekend—no matter where you are viewing it. (Some cities, especially NYC, host Derby watching parties in restaurants, pubs, and more.)
