Calling all American Football Fans

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On September 28, 2025, the Minnesota Vikings will make history at Croke Park when they kick off against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first-ever regular-season National Football League (NFL) game in Dublin, Ireland. To make things even more interesting, both teams have Irish connections, including the surnames of Vikings head coach, Kevin O’Connell, and quarterback, J.J. McCarthy. On the Steelers’ side, that history runs deep with the Rooney family ownership and its 1840s emigration ties with Ireland.

With approximately 650,000 Irish fans vying for the 76,00 seats in Croke Park, “the luck of the Irish” may not compute for everyone.

Here’s the good news: If you cannot attend the Vikings game in September, you have options. Air Lingus and Delta Airlines (seasonally) offer non-stop flights from Dublin (DUB) to Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP), where you can experience an NFL game—Minnesota style—on the Vikings’ home turf. U.S. Bank Stadium, home field for the Vikings, is a short ride from MSP, including on the light rail, so getting there is easy.

Start with this guide to attending a Vikings game. Enhance the Minnesota Vikings experience by adding a tour of U.S. Bank Stadium or visit the Vikings Museum at the practice facility in nearby Eagan.

While in the Twin Cities, be sure to experience what makes the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area vibrant and unique. Start with Things to Do in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Or, check out the Twin Cities in 48 Hours itinerary booklet.

Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, offers plenty of cultural dining options to offset the brats and burgers at the stadium. From eight establishments that identify themselves as “Irish Pubs” in St. Paul to Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) cuisine and the James Beard-award-winning Owamni by the Sioux Chef in Minneapolis, it’s a point of pride that visitors to Minnesota do not leave hungry.

Before heading home, save time for Mall of America in Bloomington, just minutes from MSP. With no tax on shoes or clothing, more than 500 stores, 60 dining options and dozens of fun attractions, one day might not be enough time.

Explore Minnesota’s Market Development team is happy to help. Start here for an inspirational video, sample itineraries, photos and other planning resources.