As an NFL team hits the road for away games, their travel accommodations are meticulously planned to optimize rest, nutrition, and performance. When it comes to lodging, NFL franchises carefully select hotel partners that can provide privacy, security, amenities, and convenience for players and staff.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: NFL teams typically stay in high-end hotels like Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, and luxury Hilton and Marriott properties. The hotels must meet strict criteria for things like room size, dining options, meeting spaces, and more.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover all the details around NFL team hotels. We’ll look at the hotel chains and properties used by NFL teams in different cities, the specific demands teams have for lodging, how hotels are vetted and approved, who makes hotel selections, and more insider info.
Whether you’re an avid football fan or just curious where pro athletes rest their heads on game weekends, this extensive article will give you a deep look into where NFL teams stay and how they choose hotels.
High-End Chains Used by NFL Teams
When it comes to accommodations for NFL players, teams often choose high-end hotel chains that provide the comfort and amenities needed for their stay. These hotels not only offer luxurious accommodations but also cater to the unique needs and preferences of professional athletes.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the high-end chains favored by NFL teams.
Luxury Brands Like Ritz-Carlton
One of the top luxury hotel brands favored by NFL teams is the Ritz-Carlton. Known for their impeccable service and elegant accommodations, Ritz-Carlton hotels are a popular choice among players and teams.
These hotels offer spacious rooms, state-of-the-art fitness centers, gourmet dining options, and other amenities that cater to the needs of athletes. With locations in major cities across the country, Ritz-Carlton hotels provide NFL players with a comfortable and luxurious experience during their travels.
Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt Properties
In addition to Ritz-Carlton, NFL teams often choose hotels from other well-known chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt. These hotel brands have a wide range of properties that cater to different budgets and preferences.
From upscale Marriott properties like JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton to Hilton’s luxury brand Waldorf Astoria and Hyatt’s high-end properties like Park Hyatt, NFL players have a variety of options to choose from. These hotels offer top-notch amenities, spacious rooms, and excellent service, ensuring a comfortable stay for the players.
Some Independent Hotels in Certain Cities
While high-end chains are often the go-to choice for NFL teams, there are instances where independent hotels in certain cities are preferred. These independent hotels may offer unique experiences, personalized service, and a local touch that appeals to players.
These boutique hotels often provide a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere, allowing players to relax and unwind during their stay. In cities like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles, where there are numerous luxury independent hotels, NFL teams have the option to choose from a variety of upscale accommodations.
Team Criteria for Selecting Hotels
When it comes to selecting hotels for NFL players, teams have a set of criteria they consider to ensure the comfort, convenience, and safety of their players. These criteria are carefully evaluated to provide the best possible accommodations for the team.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the factors teams take into account when choosing hotels for their players.
Proximity to Stadium
One of the most important factors in selecting a hotel is its proximity to the stadium. NFL teams prefer hotels that are located within a reasonable distance from the stadium to minimize travel time and allow players to focus on their game preparation.
Being close to the stadium also ensures that players can easily commute to and from the game without any hassle.
Room Size and Amenities
The size of the rooms and the amenities available play a crucial role in the selection process. NFL players require spacious rooms to relax and unwind before and after games.
Additionally, teams look for hotels that offer amenities such as well-equipped fitness centers, swimming pools, and spas to provide players with the necessary facilities to maintain their physical fitness and recover from rigorous training sessions or games.
Dining and Meeting Spaces
Teams also consider the dining options available at the hotel. It is essential for players to have access to nutritious and tailored meals to fuel their performance. NFL teams often prefer hotels with on-site restaurants that can accommodate their dietary requirements.
Additionally, spacious meeting rooms are vital for team meetings and strategy sessions, so hotels with suitable meeting spaces are highly favored.
Security and Privacy
Security and privacy are of utmost importance to NFL teams. Players need a safe and secure environment where they can relax and focus on their games without any distractions.
Teams look for hotels with excellent security measures, including 24/7 surveillance, secure entrances, and room access control. Privacy is also a key consideration, as players need a quiet and private space to rest and recover.
How Hotels Are Scouted and Approved
When it comes to accommodating NFL players, ensuring their comfort and convenience is of utmost importance. The process of selecting hotels for NFL players involves careful consideration and evaluation.
Here are some key factors that go into scouting and approving hotels for these high-profile athletes.
Advance Team Visits
Prior to an NFL team’s arrival, an advance team is sent to potential hotel options to assess their suitability. This team typically consists of representatives from the team’s operations department, including travel coordinators and security personnel.
They inspect the facilities, amenities, and overall atmosphere to ensure they meet the specific requirements of the players and coaching staff.
The advance team evaluates factors such as the availability of spacious rooms, comfortable bedding, reliable Wi-Fi, and any additional services that might be necessary for the players’ well-being. They also consider the hotel’s proximity to the stadium, as minimizing travel time is crucial for the players’ preparation and rest.
Player Feedback Considered
Player feedback plays a significant role in the hotel selection process. NFL teams understand that their players’ comfort and satisfaction are essential for optimal performance. Therefore, they often seek input from the players regarding their experience at different hotels.
Feedback from the players may include their thoughts on the quality of the rooms, the availability of amenities, the friendliness of the staff, and the overall experience during their stay. This feedback is taken into account when making decisions about which hotels to partner with in the future.
Multi-Year Deals Negotiated
Once a hotel has been scouted and approved, NFL teams often negotiate multi-year deals to secure accommodations for their players. These long-term agreements provide stability and ensure that the players have a consistent and reliable place to stay when on the road for games or training camps.
Negotiating multi-year deals also allows teams to establish relationships with hotels, enabling them to work closely together to address any specific needs or requests that may arise. This collaboration benefits both parties and contributes to a positive experience for the players.
Who Selects the Team Hotel
When it comes to selecting the team hotel for NFL players, several key individuals are involved in the decision-making process.
These individuals include the General Manager (GM) and the Football Operations department, as well as the team’s Travel Logistics staff. Additionally, input may also be provided by the coaches and owners of the team.
GM, Football Ops Involved
The General Manager, along with the Football Operations department, plays a crucial role in selecting the team hotel for NFL players. They are responsible for considering various factors such as location, amenities, and overall comfort to ensure that the players have an optimal stay.
The GM and Football Operations staff work closely together to identify hotels that meet the team’s specific requirements and budget.
Travel Logistics Staff
The team’s Travel Logistics staff is another key player in the hotel selection process. They are responsible for managing all aspects of the team’s travel arrangements, including booking accommodations.
This dedicated team works diligently to find hotels that offer convenient proximity to the stadium, as well as amenities that cater to the players’ needs. They also take into consideration factors such as security and privacy to ensure a comfortable and safe environment for the players.
Coaches and Owners Have Input
While the final decision ultimately rests with the GM and the Travel Logistics staff, coaches and owners of the team may also have input in the selection of the team hotel.
Coaches may have specific preferences or requirements based on their game strategy, such as proximity to practice facilities or access to meeting rooms. Owners may also provide input based on their personal preferences or to accommodate special requests from players.
Notable NFL Team Hotels in Key Cities
Boston, Philadelphia, New York
When NFL teams travel to Boston, Philadelphia, or New York, they often stay in some of the most luxurious hotels in these cities.
In Boston, the Four Seasons Hotel is a popular choice among NFL players. With its impeccable service and elegant accommodations, it offers a comfortable and upscale experience for the athletes.
In Philadelphia, the Ritz-Carlton is a preferred hotel for many teams. Its central location and top-notch amenities make it a convenient and enjoyable stay.
In New York, the players often opt for The Plaza Hotel, known for its iconic history and glamorous ambiance. The hotel’s spacious suites and high-end facilities provide the perfect setting for NFL players to rest and relax before game day.
Miami, New Orleans, Seattle
When NFL teams head to warmer climates like Miami, New Orleans, or Seattle, they have a variety of luxury hotels to choose from.
In Miami, the Fontainebleau Miami Beach is a popular choice for NFL players. With its stunning ocean views and lavish amenities, it offers an unforgettable experience.
In New Orleans, the Ritz-Carlton is again a preferred hotel among the teams. Its southern charm and luxurious accommodations provide a comfortable stay in the heart of the city.
In Seattle, the players often stay at The Edgewater Hotel, known for its breathtaking views of Elliott Bay and its close proximity to the stadium. The hotel’s rustic elegance and excellent service make it a favorite among NFL players.
Denver, Kansas City, Pittsburgh
When NFL teams travel to Denver, Kansas City, or Pittsburgh, they have a few notable hotels to choose from.
In Denver, the Ritz-Carlton is a popular option for teams. Its modern design and sophisticated atmosphere offer a luxurious retreat for the players.
In Kansas City, the Fontaine Hotel is a preferred choice. With its historic charm and convenient location, it provides a comfortable stay for the athletes.
In Pittsburgh, the players often stay at the Fairmont Pittsburgh, known for its elegant rooms and excellent service. The hotel’s prime location and upscale amenities make it a top choice for NFL teams visiting the city.
It’s important to note that NFL teams have different preferences when it comes to hotels, and these are just a few notable options.
Each team may have specific requirements and arrangements with hotels based on their preferences, proximity to the stadium, and other factors. Therefore, while these hotels are frequently chosen by NFL players, they may not be the exclusive choices for every team.
Conclusion
When NFL teams hit the road, their hotels are carefully chosen to help players perform at their peak. Top franchises partner with high-end chains like Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, and luxury Hilton and Marriott properties in each NFL city.
The hotels must check boxes for proximity, room size, security, dining and meeting space. Advance teams scout the options, while GMs and operations staff negotiate deals.
Player feedback is valued. In the end, NFL teams select hotels that allow players to rest, prepare, and execute at the highest level – like the pros they are.
