Greater Fort Lauderdale has become the home of the greatest soccer player of all time, Lionel Messi, and Inter Miami CF. The team's home games are played at Chase Stadium, where you can also find the official team store. If you plan to attend the games, Brightline offers a convenient train service for fans.

Greater Fort Lauderdale is also home to the only professional women's soccer club in South Florida, Fort Lauderdale United FC. The team will begin its inaugural season in August 2024, with home games played at Nova Southeastern University, located at 6880 Mary McCahill Dr, Davie, FL 33328.

Find everything you need to know at Visit Lauderdale.

Tournaments in South Florida

• Copa América 2024: Until July 14, the oldest national team tournament and the third most-watched in the world will be held at Hard Rock Stadium, 347 Don Shula Drive, Miami Gardens, Florida 33056.
• FIFA Club World Cup 2025: From June 15 to July 13, the international club competition will take place at Hard Rock Stadium.
• FIFA World Cup 2026: From June 11 to July 19, the World Cup will be held at Hard Rock Stadium.

Inter Miami has attracted much attention since the team was purchased by soccer legend David Beckham in 2014. With the arrival of Lionel Messi, who led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, the excitement is even greater. Although the team’s name is Inter Miami, they play in Fort Lauderdale at Chase Stadium. With Messi’s first season underway, here’s how to enjoy Messi fever in Greater Fort Lauderdale.

Where to Eat and Drink

At Funky Buddha Brewery, you can enjoy a pint of "Messi’s Maté IPA," inspired by Messi's favorite drink. The Hard Rock Café in Hollywood, Florida, offers the “Messi Burger,” and also a “Messi Chicken Sandwich” as an alternative. At the stadium, Rossano’s pizza truck serves the FugaMezzi, a white pizza with caramelized onions, green olives, and provolone.

For local Argentine cuisine, visit Argentino Las Olas, known for its empanadas and tapas, and Graziano’s in Weston, which offers grilled meat cuts.

Where to Celebrate

Sports bars like Mickey Byrnes Irish Pub & Restaurant in Hollywood, an official partner of Inter Miami, offer free beer to team fans when Messi scores a goal. The Palm Room on Las Olas Boulevard is another option, with a more upscale atmosphere but equally ideal for watching matches.

After a home game, head to Xtreme Action Park, located less than a mile from the stadium, for activities like go-karting, mini-golf, laser tag, roller skating, and more.

How to Get There

The Brightline train is an excellent option to get to Chase Stadium from neighboring cities in South Florida. The "GOOOL GETTER" service includes snacks and beverages for premium ticket holders. There are also rideshare options and parking available at the stadium.

Where to Stay

For those visiting Greater Fort Lauderdale to see Messi in action, there are a variety of hotels near Chase Stadium, including the Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale North/Cypress Creek and the Sheraton Suites Fort Lauderdale at Cypress Creek. There are also many lodging options along Fort Lauderdale Beach and downtown.