Hard Rock

Stadium

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Hard Rock Stadium

Capacity:
65 326
27,397 (Lower ring)
34,736 (Upper ring)
3,198 (in 193 skyboxes) (VIP seats)
10,209 (Business seats)
150 (Press seats)
300 (Disabled seats)
Country:
United States of America
City:
Miami
Clubs:
Miami Dolphins
Other names:
Joe Robbie Stadium (1987–96),
Pro Player Park (1996),
Pro Player Stadium (1996–2005),
Dolphins Stadium (2005-06),
Dolphin Stadium (2006–09),
Land Shark Stadium (2009–10),
Sun Life Stadium (2010–16)
Inauguration:
08/16/1987 (Miami Dolphins - Chicago Bears)
Renovations:
1993,
2006-2007,
2009-2010,
2015-2016
Cost:
$ 115 million (1987),
$550 million (2016)
Design:
Populous (1987),
HOK Architecture (2016)
Address:
2269 N.W. 199th St., Miami, Florida 33056
Our Reminder on Things to Do for the Best Experience
  1. Buy Tickets in Advance: Secure your tickets well in advance to get the best seats and avoid last-minute hassles. Check for additional Parking Passes. Check security requirements possibly no bags, or clear bags only?
  2. Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the stadium before the game starts. This will allow you to find parking, navigate the stadium, and soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
  3. Check the Schedule: Know the game schedule, as well as any pre-game events, tailgating parties, or fan experiences that might be happening on that day.
  4. Parking: Research parking options in advance, and consider using rideshare services or public transportation to avoid parking headaches.
  5. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you might be walking around a lot.
  6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  7. Bring ID and Tickets: Make sure to have your ID and tickets ready for security checks and entry into the stadium.
  8. Explore the Stadium: Take some time to explore the stadium, including its various levels and amenities.
  9. Try Local Food: Check out the food and beverage options within the stadium. Many stadiums offer local cuisine and unique food items.
  10. Capture Memories: Take photos to capture the memories. The stadium's design and the energetic crowd make for great photo opportunities.
  11. Respect Fan Etiquette: Respect the fans around you, regardless of which team they're supporting. Engaging in good sportsmanship enhances the overall experience.
  12. Follow Security Guidelines: Be aware of the stadium's security guidelines and cooperate with security personnel for a smooth entry process.
  13. Plan for Post-Game Traffic: Consider that traffic leaving the stadium can be heavy after the game ends. Have a plan for transportation after the event.
  14. Visit the Team Store: Check out the team store for merchandise and souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
  15. Download Apps: If the stadium has an official app, download it for real-time updates, interactive experiences, and information about the event.
  16. Respect Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations to ensure a trouble-free experience.
  17. Weather Preparedness: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly if the game is outdoors or has an outdoor component.
  18. Check for COVID-19 Guidelines: Stay updated on any COVID-19 related protocols or guidelines.
  19. Enjoy the Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the excitement of being at a live game, cheer with fellow fans, and create lasting memories.

Construction of a brand new football stadium in Miami was the initiative of NFL team Dolphins founder Joe Robbie, who later became the building’s first name-bearer. After 21 seasons at the now demolished Orange Bowl near downtown, Dolphins relocated north. There, surrounded by massive parking sites, the desired stadium was built in 1987.


With two rings of general admission seating and over 200 private boxes, the stadium offered 75,000 seats. Its signature feature? The 8 spiral ramps, two in each corner of the stadium. Since Robbie was hopeful of drawing an MLB franchise to Miami, the stadium was built with field size able to accommodate baseball. And, just as planned, MLB team Marlins moved in by 1993.


In its initial layout the Miami stadium hosted three Super Bowl games (1989, 1995, 1999), later followed by the 2007 and 2010 editions. Both of the latter came as the stadium was changing. Not in capacity terms, but infrastructural ones. In 2006-2007 two large pavilions were added to expand spectator/hospitality/office facilities on the sides. In 2009-2010 similar change came on the southern end, leaving only the north one with its 1987-façade.


However the largest changes came as Marlins left the stadium in 2011. Since there was no more need for the wide field, reconfiguration of lower stands was planned and carried out in 2015. At the same time, upper corner sections were reduced to just several rows to make way for newer, much larger screens. No longer two, this time four were delivered, each of a massive size (520 m2).


While many fans were moved closer to the field and all received new seats for the 2015 NFL season, much greater alterations came in 2016. In just 9 months one of the continent’s most spectacular roofs was built. Independent of the stadium construction, eight pillars were erected to support 17,000 tons of steel and cladding! With 58,000 m2 of surface, the vast canopy is topped by four spires, each at 109 meters tall.


While impressive in size and helpful in securing the stadium’s 6th Super Bowl, the privately-funded project came at quite a price. Initially expected to stay within $350 million, eventually it consumed some $550 million.