Navigating March Madness
March Madness is a sacred time for college basketball fans, and in 2025, we've designed the perfect travel itinerary to experience the most thrilling matchups—all within a three-hour flight from Cincinnati. Our journey will take us through the best first-round games in Lexington, then on to Newark and Atlanta for the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight rounds. With the right planning, fans can maximize their basketball experience while enjoying great food, comfortable accommodations, and unique local attractions.
The first stop on our tour is Lexington, Kentucky, for the First and Second Rounds at Rupp Arena from March 20-22, 2025. Arriving on Thursday, March 20, we will witness an exciting slate of games, including Baylor vs. Mississippi State, Mount St. Mary’s vs. Duke, Vanderbilt vs. Saint Mary’s, and Robert Morris vs. Alabama. The second-round matchups on March 22 will be determined based on the First Round results, adding another layer of anticipation. For accommodations, the Hilton Lexington/Downtown is an excellent choice, conveniently located near the arena with modern amenities and an on-site restaurant. For dining, Tony’s of Lexington offers premium steakhouse fare, while Dudley’s on Short serves up contemporary Southern cuisine. Between games, visitors can explore Kentucky Horse Park, a must-see for horse lovers, or check out Lexington’s Distillery District, known for its vibrant craft breweries and distilleries.
Next, we head to Newark, New Jersey, for the East Regional at Prudential Center, taking place from March 27-29, 2025. Arriving on Wednesday, March 26, fans can enjoy the Sweet 16 on March 27 and the Elite Eight matchup on March 29, which determines a Final Four participant. Staying at the Courtyard by Marriott Newark Downtown ensures a convenient and comfortable experience, being within walking distance of the arena. Dining options include Forno’s of Spain, renowned for its authentic Spanish dishes, and Marcus B&P, an innovative eatery by Chef Marcus Samuelsson. For leisure, visitors can take in the Newark Museum of Art or enjoy a scenic stroll through Branch Brook Park, famous for its cherry blossoms.
Our final stop brings us to Atlanta, Georgia, for the South Regional at State Farm Arena from March 28-30, 2025. Arriving on Thursday, March 27, we will experience Sweet 16 games on March 28 and the Elite Eight showdown on March 30. A stay at the Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center offers direct access to the arena for maximum convenience. Dining in Atlanta is a treat, with The Optimist offering some of the best seafood in the city, and Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q serving up legendary barbecue. Between games, fans can visit the World of Coca-Cola or explore the Atlanta BeltLine, a scenic walking and biking trail filled with street art and entertainment.
By focusing on Lexington, Newark, and Atlanta, we've crafted a strategy that keeps travel times minimal while maximizing exposure to top-tier matchups. The first-round games in Lexington showcase powerhouse programs and Cinderella hopefuls, while the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight in Newark and Atlanta promise elite competition with a Final Four berth on the line. This itinerary balances high-stakes basketball with top-notch dining and sightseeing, ensuring that March Madness is more than just a tournament—it’s a full-fledged experience. See you on the road to the Final Four!