Football and travel go hand in hand – and no one knows that better than AAA and loyal fans! This season, Buffalo Bills fans can choose from several cool destinations as they support the team on the road. In fact, there are so many options, it may be hard to choose where to follow the team. As soon as the 2021–2022 schedule was released, phones began ringing at AAA Western and Central New York.

Here are our top picks, based on interest and bookings, for Bills fans who want to experience an away game in some of today’s hottest travel destinations. And if you’re not lucky enough to land tickets to a game, these cities are travel-worthy anytime.

New Orleans, Louisiana

The Bills take on the Saints at 8:20 p.m. Thanksgiving night, Nov. 25, in New Orleans. It could be the perfect way to enjoy the Big Easy while cheering on the team. Why not mix up the holiday with some Cajun turkey before kickoff. Highlights of the Big Easy include the action on Bourbon Street, the historic French Quarter (known for delectable, spicy cuisine), airboat rides, cemetery tours and more.

New Orleans is home to more than a dozen AAA Four Diamond hotels, so you can enjoy your stay in style. Harrah’s Casino New Orleans is full of action and within walking distance of the football game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. This luxury casino property is known for its southern hospitality and richly appointed rooms, which are among the best in the city. Spacious suites on the 26th floor even come with butler service. The hotel is connected to the casino by an underground walkway.

If your team wins and you want to celebrate in style, make a reservation at Commander's Palace, which opened its doors in 1880. Most locals will tell you not to miss the turtle soup or bread pudding soufflé. The 25-cent lunch martinis are another prized tradition, according to our AAA inspectors, who also recommended the Louisiana oysters and Cajun caviar.

Soak up some jazz too! No matter how you choose to spend your time, be sure to immerse yourself in NOLA’s rich history.

 Nashville, Tennessee

The Bills head to Nashville for a Monday night matchup against the Titans on Oct. 18. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy Music City for the weekend before the game even takes place.

Fans won’t want to miss the Country Music Hall of Fame – and AAA members with a love of classic cars may enjoy it as much as music enthusiasts since it’s home to Elvis’ Cadillac. Honky Tonk Highway on Lower Broadway is where you’ll find all the action at joints like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. Nissan Stadium is located across the Cumberland River, so be sure to snap a photo as football fans pour across the bridge, hopefully cheering Buffalo on!

The up-and-coming Gulch district is definitely worth exploring, but be prepared to wait in line for the local favorite, hot chicken, at Biscuit Love. If those lines aren’t for you, try Peg Leg Porker BBQ or Marsh House at the Thompson Nashville.

Less than a mile from the stadium, you’ll find the Hermitage Hotel, a AAA Four Diamond site. Meticulously restored to its former grandeur, the hotel’s 1910 architecture is stunning. AAA inspectors said, “Down-filled duvets and marble bathrooms with glass showers and soaking tubs provide ultimate relaxation. The gigantic rooms and baths make this the city’s finest hotel.”

If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, try dining at the rustic and casual Jack's Bar-B-Que – just look for a pink neon flying pig. It’s known for five award-winning sauces. Paper plates tell you this spot is the best kind of basic, while the flavors can’t be beaten.

Tampa, Florida

Bills fans can’t go wrong in Tampa, where there’s a built-in base of Buffalo boosters. The team takes on Brady, Gronk and the rest of the Buccaneers at 4:25 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 12. Why not make a long weekend out of it and enjoy a stay on Tampa’s vibrant Riverwalk? It winds from popular attractions like Armature Works to Sparkman Wharf. If the beaches are calling, St. Pete and Clearwater are just a short drive away. And Ybor City’s nightlife never disappoints.

You can’t go wrong with a waterfront AAA Four Diamond hotel that’s 13 minutes (by car) to the game. The Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay sits on 35 acres of lushly landscaped grounds overlooking Old Tampa Bay and next to an ecologically protected salt marsh. Get out on the water by renting a kayak or paddleboard. Then kick back with a spiked lemonade and fresh seafood from Oystercatchers, located right behind the hotel.

If you want to dine out at one of Tampa’s new hotspots, try Ulele, located in a revitalized area of Tampa Heights, right along the Hillsborough River. Not only is it trendy, but it’s also delicious! Make sure to save time to relax at Armature Works and walk along the Riverwalk as part of your outing. You might even make it to the Westin Tampa Waterside, home to both Jackson’s Bistro and American Social, two popular waterfront bars and restaurants.

Explore these destinations further at AAA.com/TravelGuides. AAA travel consultants are experts on these destinations and they’re ready to help you plan the perfect getaway.

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