Summer Sale What to Do in Dublin for the AerLingus College Football Classic
Aer Lingus College Football Classic 2026
Where to Stay & What to Do in Dublin City
The Aer Lingus College Football Classic is fast approaching, and we have curated the perfect guide to your time in Dublin City!
American Football is rapidly gaining popularity in Ireland, and this transatlantic take over is proof of Dublin’s excitement around the sport. This event has welcomed tens of thousands of American fans to Ireland, this year to watch the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs take on the University of North Carolina Tar Heels in August 2026!
Staying within close proximity to the AVIVA stadium while immersing yourself in the infamous Dublin City culture is the number one decision that will most impact your experience in the Fair City. The Arlington Hotel is based on Bachelor’s Walk, a stone’s throw from the historic O’Connell Bridge, the “craic agus ceoil” in Temple Bar and a short journey by public transport or taxi to the AVIVA Stadium- the perfect choice to make the most of this exciting weekend.
See directions to the AVIVA Stadium here.
What to Do in Dublin City During the American College Football Takeover:
Soak up the atmosphere in one of Dublin’s legendary pubs
There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere in Dublin City before a match- from Temple Bar to Dun Laoghaire, pubs will be decked out in decorations, serving the creamiest pints of Guinness and boasting the best “craic” this side of the ocean! Our top picks for an authentic Dublin experience are:
John Kehoe’s Pub– See directions from the Arlington here
The Stag’s Head Pub– See directions from the Arlington here
Bruxelles Pub– See directions from the Arlington here
The Knightsbridge Bar in the Arlington Hotel– Located on the ground floor of the hotel, the Knightsbridge Bar just so happens to be one of the best sports bars in Dublin. From Six Nations Rugby, to the World Cup, to the College Football Classic, the Knightsbridge Bar ticks all of the boxes- an unbeatable fanzone atmosphere, gourmet food specials and multiple enormous screens.
Immerse yourself in some Irish culture
While you’re in the capital, why not experience a true Irish night out?
Celtic Nights Dinner and Dance Show has been running for 31 seasons. Voted Dublin’s Favourite Attraction in 2025, Celtic Nights amalgamates traditional Irish dancing and music, performed live on stage by some of the world’s most renowned Irish dancers and musicians, and a three-course traditional Irish meal prepared in house by Dublin’s finest chefs. Be mesmerised by the skill of the dancers, sing along to classic Irish favourites, and taste your way around Ireland- all from one place! Tickets sell out fast, so be sure to book well in advance- Tickets can be found here.
Experience the ever-growing Dublin food scene
Tasty Irish food goes hand in hand with our beloved pub culture. Curl up in the Stag’s Head snug and get involved with some true Irish pub grub- sip fresh Seafood Chowder, sample a traditional summer lamb stew, or delve into contemporary Dublin with the local favourite- a spice bag with curry sauce!
Head to the Knightsbridge Bar for the a LIVE recording of the Irish NFL Show Podcast!
Join the lads from Ireland’s premiere NFL podcast, The Irish NFL Show for a LIVE pre- College Football match podcast recording in the Knightsbridge Bar. Expect match predictions, game analysis and NFL banter ahead of the match, streamed live from the AVIVA!
Click here for more details!
