Your Ultimate NFL Game Day Itinerary for Dublin: Steelers vs Vikings at Croke Park
Dublin is making history as the Pittsburgh Steelers host the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, September 28 in the NFL Dublin game at historic Croke Park. This inaugural NFL game in Ireland promises to be an unforgettable experience, and we’ve crafted the perfect game day itinerary to help you make the most of this momentous occasion.
Pre-Game Saturday: Get in the Spirit (September 27th)
Afternoon: Fuel Up at The Bistro at The Green Hotel
Begin your NFL Saturday with a refined lunch at The Bistro at The Green Hotel, located right beside St. Stephen’s Green. This newly refurbished restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere with authentic European seasonal cuisine, the perfect sophisticated start to your NFL weekend adventure.
The Bistro highlights:
- Newly refurbished design-led dining space
- Authentic European seasonal menu featuring the finest local ingredients
- Intimate atmosphere perfect for pre-game conversations
- Prime location just steps from St. Stephen’s Green
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: NFL Merchandise Shopping
After lunch, take a leisurely 5-minute walk to the NFL Shop presented by VISA at St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre. Browse official merchandise from all 32 NFL teams, including exclusive 2025 NFL Dublin game gear that you won’t find anywhere else.
Shopping highlights:
- Official NFL merchandise from all 32 teams
- Exclusive 2025 NFL Dublin game memorabilia
- Player signings and customization experiences
- Perfect timing to beat the weekend crowds
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: NFL Experience Dublin
Head to the iconic NFL Experience Dublin presented by EA Sports Madden NFL at Dublin Castle Upper Courtyard. Test your skills with field goal kick challenges, try flag football, and enter to win incredible prizes including Super Bowl LX tickets.
NFL Experience features:
- Field goal kick challenges
- Flag football activities
- Interactive EA Sports Madden NFL experiences
- Chance to win Super Bowl LX tickets
- Historic Dublin Castle setting
Evening: The Sin Bin Bar – Your Game Day Headquarters
After the official NFL festivities, make your way to The Sin Bin Bar at The Mont for the perfect end to your NFL Saturday. Located beside Merrion Square (tomorrow’s Steelers tailgate location), this traditional Irish sports bar provides the ultimate fan atmosphere.
Saturday Evening at The Sin Bin Bar:
7:00 PM onwards: Join fellow fans from the NFL Experience
8:00 PM: Watch pre-game analysis and team highlights on four big screens
9:00 PM: Sample our premium whiskey selection and specialty cocktails
10:00 PM: Connect with fans from around the world in authentic Dublin sports atmosphere
Game Day Sunday: September 28th
Early Morning: Start Your Historic Day Right
Begin your historic NFL game day with a proper Irish breakfast at any of our O’Callaghan Collection hotels. Choose from our fully array of hot and cold dishes, including traditional Irish favorites alongside international options to fuel your big day.
Breakfast highlights:
- Full traditional Irish breakfast with black pudding, white pudding, and soda bread
- Continental options including fresh pastries, fruits, and cereals
- Premium coffee and tea selection
- Perfect fuel for your game day adventure
Mid-Morning: Journey to Croke Park & Steelers Tailgate
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Steelers Tailgate at Merrion Square
Before heading to Croke Park, stop by the official Steelers Fan Tailgate at Merrion Square (just steps from The Sin Bin Bar). This free event features entertainment, NFL legends appearances, fan activities, and Steelers merchandise. Registration is free but fans must RSVP in advance.
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Travel to Croke Park
Transportation Tips
- Train: Take the train from Connolly Station to Drumcondra Station, then walk about 10 minutes.
- Bus: Several routes serve the stadium directly, including the 1, 7, 13, and 16.
- Walking: Enjoy a 25-minute scenic walk from the city centre through Dublin’s historic streets.
- Taxi/Ride Share: Book early as demand will be high.
Pro Tip: With Easytrip, you can park safely and securely at locations either within walking distance of Croke Park or a short hop away by Luas, DART or bus.
Stadium Experience: The Main Event
11:30am – Hospitality Gates Open
12:00pm – GA Gates Open
1:30pm – Player Warm-Ups on Field
2:10pm – Teams Conclude Warm-Ups & Leave Field
2:21pm – Team Introductions
2:30pm – National Anthems
2:34pm – Coin Toss
2:35pm – Kick-Off
~4:05pm – Halftime
~5:30pm – Game Ends
6:30pm – Food Service Closes
7:00pm – Stadium Closes (90 mins post-final whistle)
Play-by-play announcer Joe Davis, analyst Greg Olsen, and sideline reporters Pam Oliver and Jamie Erdahl will be on the call for this historic broadcast. The game will be shown live on NFL Network.
Additional Game Week Activities
Guinness Storehouse Experience
No Dublin itinerary is complete without visiting Ireland’s most famous attraction. The Guinness Storehouse offers the perfect complement to your NFL weekend, showcasing Ireland’s brewing heritage just as the NFL showcases American sporting culture.
Guinness Storehouse highlights:
- Learn the art of the perfect pint
- Panoramic views of Dublin from the Gravity Bar
- Interactive exhibits about Ireland’s most famous export
- Perfect photo opportunities with your perfectly poured Guinness
- Easy to combine with other city center NFL activities
Pro Tip: Book your Guinness Storehouse visit for Friday, September 26th, before the NFL festivities kick into high gear over the weekend.
Final Tips for NFL Sunday in Dublin
- Dress for Weather: September in Dublin can be unpredictable, bring layers and waterproof clothing
- Arrive Early: Fans are advised to be inside the stadium before 2pm for the full experience
- Download Apps: NFL OnePass for events, Dublin Bus app for transport
- Book Ahead: Restaurant reservations, especially for post-game dining
- Embrace the Historic Moment: This is the first NFL game ever played in Ireland!
This September 28th marks more than just a game, it’s a historic cultural exchange bringing America’s most popular sport to Ireland’s most iconic sporting venue. Whether you’re a longtime NFL fan or new to American football, this comprehensive itinerary ensures you’ll experience every moment of this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Ready to experience NFL history in Dublin? Book your stay with O’Callaghan Collection and make The Sin Bin Bar your game day headquarters for an unforgettable American football adventure in the heart of Ireland.
