Dolphins Overview

Fast facts

League: NFL

Head Coach: Mike McDaniel

Team Mascot: T.D.

Year Opened: 1987

Capacity: 64767

City / State: Miami Gardens / Florida

Rivalries & Top Games to Attend

Dolphins vs Patriots

Rival Team: New England Patriots

These two AFC East rivals have been going at it since the Dolphins joined the AFL in 1966. Recently the Patriots have gotten the better of everyone in the AFC East having won every AFC East title since 2003 with the lone exception of 2008, which was won by the Dolphins. Come prepared for a hard fought matchup whenever the Patriots are in town, as the Fins-Pats games are among some of the most competitive in the NFL.

Dolphins vs Jets

Rival Team: New York Jets

The Jets and Dolphins have been divisional rivals since 1966 when the Dolphins entered the AFL. Throughout the history of this rivalry, the Jets and Dolphins had played many great games including the Monday Night Miracle when the Jets scored 30 points in the fourth quarter to force overtime and win on a John Hall field goal. The Jets hold a 53-46-1 all-time lead, but the Dolphins are nipping right at their heels.

Dolphins vs Bills

Rival Team: Buffalo Bills

The rivalry between the Bills and the Miami Dolphins is one of the biggest in the NFL. The rivalry between these two AFC East rivals was at its zenith in the 90s when the Bills and Dolphins traded off division titles and met in the playoffs four times in nine years. These games are great for fans as no matter where these two teams are in the standings there is always bragging rights on the line.

Dolphins Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

The warm and sunny weather in Miami makes it the perfect tailgating destination for visiting fans looking to escape the cold winters of the northern US. You can’t go wrong tailgating at a Dolphins game late in the season, as you’ll find some of the best weather in the country for tailgating here in Miami.

Tailgating kicks off four hours before the game at Hard Rock Stadium, so head on down to the stadium early to get in a full day of tailgating fun. Dolphins fans, or Dol-fans, like fans all throughout the NFL, are big on tailgating and setting up large tailgates that show off their dedication to the team. All around the lots, you’ll see plenty of aqua and orange as everyone prepares for an exciting day of Fins football.

The food at a Miami Dolphins tailgate has a uniquely Latin flair to it, with Cuban being especially prevalent. In fact, when tailgating before a Dolphins game one of the most common sights is someone grilling up a churrasco-style steak. Whether it’s a churrasco steak or a Cuban sandwich you’ll find plenty of delicious Cuban food outside Hard Rock Stadium to ensure you won’t head into the stadium hungry.

Traditions

Dan Marino Statue

Outside Hard Rock Stadium is a statue of arguably the greatest quarterback in NFL history, Dan Marino. The life-size bronze statue is a must see for any football fan attending a game in Miami, so stop by and snag a picture with this statue of one of the greatest to ever lace them up.

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Dolphins Walk of Fame

Located near Gate C, the Hall of Fame and Walk of Fame allow diehard Dolphins fans the chance to explore the team’s rich history. You’ll find many a tribute to Dolphins greats like Dan Marino and Don Shula here, so make sure to stop by and check it out.

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AT&T Grand Plaza

The AT&T Grand Plaza is home to the Dolphins official pre-game experience. Here you’ll be able to live music and take part in various games and activities. You may even be able to meet Dolphins Cheerleaders, TD, and former Dolphins players her as well.

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Don Shula Plaza

The Don Shula Plaza, located at Gate E, is the place to be for kids and families. At the Shula Plaza, you’ll find a wealth of football-related games and activities for kids. Come prepared to run the 40-yard dash or tackle the Under Armour obstacle course when heading to Don Shula Plaza.

Where to tailgate

Dolphins Stadium Guide

In Game

It should come to no surprise that Miami is a favorite destination of visiting fans particularly those from cold climates. The beautiful weather ensures you’ll always have a great time taking in a Dolphins game at Hard Rock Stadium. You’ll find plenty of support for the visiting team when attending a game in Miami, so don’t be afraid to come and show off your colors to try and flip the home field advantage in your team’s favor.

While there may be a lot of support for visiting teams making the trip to Miami that doesn’t mean you won’t find plenty of diehard Fins fans in the stands. The Deep End, located in the east end zone, in particular, get loud and proud in their support of the Dolphins. Throughout the stadium, you’ll find plenty of support for both the Dolphins and the visitors creating an electric atmosphere with lots of back and forth between fans.

Hard Rock Stadium is currently undergoing some renovations in an attempt to continue to provide fans with the best in-game experience possible. The renovations will add a shaded canopy over the fans to help keep you cool during the early months, and the seats in the lower bowl are being moved closer to the field.

A trip to Miami is always a can’t miss for NFL fans from colder climates, so don’t hesitate to come down to Miami and take in a Dolphins game.

Things to check out

Miami Dolphins Honor Roll

Around the second tier of the stadium you’ll see the Honor Roll, which honors all the greatest players, coaches, and front office personnel in Dolphins history. Take a moment to soak in the names of those who have been deemed worthy of being immortalized by one of the best franchises in NFL history to get the most out of your Dolphins game day experience.

T.D.

T.D., which stands for The Dolphin, is the official mascot of the Miami Dolphins. During Dolphins games T.D. entertains the crowd and keeps everyone on their feet and cheering the Dolphins to victory. Keep on the lookout for him during games as you’ll never know what kind of stunt he’ll pull off next.

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The Deep End

Seated in the east end zone of Hard Rock Stadium are some of the most diehard and passionate fans in all the NFL. The Deep End as they call themselves cheer loudly for the Dolphins throughout the game winner or lose. If you want to truly experience the atmosphere of Hard Rock Stadium, then make sure to secure tickets in The Deep End.

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Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders

The Dolphins cheerleaders have been showing their support for the team since its inception in 1966. Over the years the uniforms may have changed, but the squad’s support the Dolphins has remained eternal. Get up on your feet and cheer on the squad and the team when attending your next Dolphins game.

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Fight Songs

  1. Miami Dolphins Fight Song

    The Dolphins fight song was introduced before the 1972 season and has been a fan favorite ever since.

    Miami has the Dolphins
    The Greatest Football Team
    We take the ball from goal to goal
    Like no one’s ever seen
    We’re in the air, we’re on the ground
    We’re always in control
    And when you say Miami
    You’re talking Super Bowl

    ‘Cause we’re the…

    Miami Dolphins,
    Miami Dolphins,
    Miami Dolphins Number One.
    Yes we’re the…
    Miami Dolphins,
    Miami Dolphins,
    Miami Dolphins Number One

Dolphins Bars & Restaurants

  1. Golden Krust

    Golden Krust

    Celebrate the power of the patty!

    19664 NW 27th Ave, Miami Gardens, FL 33056, USA

    718-655-7878

    Bar website

    american - $$

  2. Sonic Beach

    Sonic Beach

    SONIC Beach will be the only SONIC restaurant where you can enjoy a beer (or glass of wine) with your tater-tots and burger.

    2660 NW 199th St, Miami Gardens, FL 33056, USA

    305-620-4003

    Bar website

    american - $

  3. Snappers Fish & Chicken

    Snappers Fish Chicken

    The best chicken wings and seafood in town at the most valuable price!

    17990 NW 27th Ave, Miami Gardens, FL 33056, USA

    305-621-8570

    Bar website

    american - $$

  4. The Licking

    Miami Finga Licking

    Great wings restaurant to experience with your loved ones

    12490 NW 7th Ave, North Miami, FL 33168, USA

    786-703-3087

    Bar website

    american - $$