Your Guide to the 2025 Orange Bowl: College Football Playoff Semifinal at Hard Rock Stadium

Football fans, mark your calendars! The 2025 Orange Bowl, part of the College Football Playoff Semifinals, is set to take place on January 9, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. This year’s matchup promises to be a thrilling showdown between two powerhouse teams vying for a spot in the national championship.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for an unforgettable Miami experience, here’s everything you need to know about this iconic event, including game details, travel tips, and the best place to stay—The Elser Hotel & Residences.

What Is the Orange Bowl?

The Orange Bowl is one of college football’s most prestigious bowl games, steeped in history and tradition. As part of the College Football Playoff rotation, it plays a critical role in determining the national champion. This year, the Orange Bowl serves as one of two semifinal games leading up to the championship.

2025 Matchup Details:

The 2025 Orange Bowl will feature:

•  Notre Dame Fighting Irish (3) vs. Penn State Nittany Lions (5)

The victorious teams from these bowl games will meet in Miami for a chance to compete in the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Current Orange Bowl Betting Odds:

Notre Dame is currently favored to win 53% to 47%. 

• Pointspread: Notre Dame -1.5
• Total: 46.5
• Moneylines: Notre Dame -120, Penn State +100

When and Where

• Date: Thursday, January 9, 2025
• Kickoff Time: 7:30 PM EST 
• Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida

Hard Rock Stadium, home to the Miami Dolphins and University of Miami Hurricanes, is a state-of-the-art venue with a seating capacity of over 65,000. Known for its incredible atmosphere and world-class amenities, the stadium is the perfect setting for this high-stakes game.

Tips for Attending the Orange Bowl

1. Buy Tickets Early

Orange Bowl tickets are highly sought after and expected to sell out quickly. Secure your seats through official outlets like the Orange Bowl or College Football Playoff websites.

2. Arrive Early

Hard Rock Stadium offers tailgating opportunities, making it a great place to soak in the game-day energy. Arrive early to enjoy pre-game festivities, fan zones, and live entertainment.

3. Transportation and Parking

Hard Rock Stadium provides ample parking, but spots fill up fast on game day. Consider using rideshare services or public transportation for added convenience. If you’re staying at The Elser Hotel, the staff can assist with transportation arrangements.

4. Dress for Miami Weather

January in Miami is warm, with average temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F. Dress comfortably and bring sunscreen if you plan to tailgate or enjoy outdoor activities.

A Brief History of the Orange Bowl

The Orange Bowl is one of the oldest and most prestigious college football bowl games, with a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. It has been a cornerstone of college football and a significant cultural event in Miami, drawing fans and teams from across the country to celebrate the sport and the city.

How It All Began

The idea for the Orange Bowl emerged in 1932 as part of Miami’s efforts to promote tourism during the Great Depression. Inspired by the success of the Rose Bowl in California, city leaders sought to create a similar event to showcase Miami’s attractions. The inaugural game was played on January 1, 1935, and it featured the University of Miami Hurricanes facing Manhattan College. The Hurricanes lost that game, with a final score of Manhattan 7, Miami 0.

Notable Early Years

• The Orange Bowl quickly grew in popularity and became a New Year’s Day tradition.
• Over the years, it evolved from a small local event to one of college football’s premier bowl games, eventually becoming part of the College Football Playoff rotation.

The King Orange Jamboree and Parade

For decades, the Orange Bowl was more than just a football game—it was the centerpiece of a week-long celebration known as the King Orange Jamboree. This included events such as the Orange Bowl Parade, a vibrant spectacle that highlighted Miami’s cultural diversity and festive spirit.

Orange Bowl Parade Highlights:

• The parade, which began in 1936, featured elaborately decorated floats, marching bands, and performers from across the country.
• It was held annually on New Year’s Eve, leading up to the game and becoming a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors.
• Although the parade ended in 2002, its legacy remains a cherished part of the Orange Bowl’s history.

Orange Bowl Milestones

• First Sellout Game (1939): The game between Tennessee and Oklahoma ended in a 17–0 victory for Tennessee and marked the first sellout in Orange Bowl history.
• First Televised Orange Bowl (1953): A broadcast of the game between Alabama and Syracuse expanded its reach, solidifying its national reputation.
• Modern-Day Evolution: As part of the College Football Playoff system since 2014, the Orange Bowl now alternates as a semifinal game, attracting the nation’s top teams and talent.

2025 Matchup Details

The 2025 Orange Bowl continues this rich tradition as part of the College Football Playoff Semifinals. This year’s game will feature the winners of two marquee matchups:

• Fiesta Bowl (December 31, 2024): Penn State vs. Boise State
• Sugar Bowl (January 1, 2025): Notre Dame vs. Georgia
• UPDATE: Notre Dame will compete against Penn State

The victors from these games will meet on January 9, 2025, at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, bringing the drama and excitement of college football’s postseason to life.

With its storied history and thrilling future, the Orange Bowl remains one of the most iconic events in college football. Whether you're there for the game or simply soaking in Miami’s atmosphere, the Orange Bowl is an experience that transcends sports.

Stay Near the Action at The Elser Hotel & Residences

For a luxurious and convenient Orange Bowl experience, book your stay at The Elser Hotel & Residences in Downtown Miami. Just a short drive from Hard Rock Stadium, The Elser offers unmatched amenities and proximity to all the excitement.

Why Choose The Elser Hotel?

1. Prime Location: Close to Hard Rock Stadium and Miami’s best attractions, The Elser puts you at the center of the action.

2. Luxury Accommodations: Enjoy spacious suites with modern amenities, ideal for groups or families attending the game.

3. World-Class Amenities: From a rooftop pool with stunning city views to a fully equipped fitness center, The Elser ensures a memorable stay.

4. Seamless Travel: The hotel staff can assist with game-day transportation, dining reservations, and local recommendations.

Enhance Your Miami Experience

While the Orange Bowl is the highlight of your visit, Miami offers plenty of attractions to make your trip even more special:

• South Beach: Relax on the sandy shores or explore the vibrant nightlife.
• Pérez Art Museum Miami: Discover contemporary art exhibitions in a stunning waterfront setting.
• Bayside Marketplace: Enjoy shopping, dining, and live music with views of Biscayne Bay.
• Little Havana: Immerse yourself in Miami’s Cuban culture with authentic cuisine and live salsa music.

Why the Orange Bowl Is a Must-See Event

The 2025 Orange Bowl promises a night of unforgettable football action. Here’s why it’s a can’t-miss event:

• High Stakes: As a College Football Playoff Semifinal, the Orange Bowl determines who will compete for the national championship.
• Elite Teams: The winners of the Fiesta and Sugar Bowls bring their A-game, ensuring a thrilling matchup.
• Iconic Venue: Hard Rock Stadium offers a premier game-day experience with modern amenities and an electric atmosphere.

Plan Your 2025 Orange Bowl Weekend

Tickets are selling fast, and accommodations near Hard Rock Stadium are in high demand. Make the most of your Orange Bowl experience by staying at The Elser Hotel & Residences, where luxury, comfort, and convenience come together for an unforgettable Miami getaway.

For an unparalleled Orange Bowl weekend, let The Elser Hotel & Residences be your home base. From luxurious accommodations to seamless access to the game, your Miami adventure starts here. Book your stay today and prepare for a football experience like no other!

2025 Orange Bowl: College Football Playoff Semifinal Guide

The Orange Bowl is set to be an unforgettable showdown as part of the College Football Playoff Semifinals on January 9, 2025, at Miami’s iconic Hard Rock Stadium. Two of the nation’s top teams will battle it out for a chance to compete in the national championship. Let The Elser Hotel & Residences elevate your experience, providing luxury accommodations near all the excitement.

Explore Miami, experience the thrilling game, and book your stay today for an unbeatable Orange Bowl weekend.