Empty baseball stadium with neatly manicured field, visible home plate, pitcher's mound, and surrounding stands. City skyline is visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
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50 Bucket List Sports Events for Every Sports Fan

As a sports fan, there are some events that you must experience in person at least once in your lifetime. Whether it’s the roar of the crowd, the thrill of the competition, or the chance to see the best players in the world perform at the highest level, these bucket list sports events will surely provide unforgettable experiences.

Table of Contents

My husband is a huge sports fan who has already crossed off some significant events. He’s been to the Masters, Super Bowl, and the MLB World Series, among others. Watching these iconic games live can make lifelong memories for you, too.

We have compiled this list of 50 major sporting events that should be on every sports fan’s bucket list.

Why Bucket List Sports Events Are a Must-Do

Picture this: Youโ€™re surrounded by thousands of fans, the air buzzing with excitement as your favorite team takes the field. Itโ€™s the big game youโ€™ve always dreamed of attending. Bucket list sports events offer so much more than just a seat in the standsโ€”they provide a unique fan experience and the chance to witness the hard work and dedication of the worldโ€™s best players.

About the Stadiums

From historic Wrigley Field to the grandeur of Madison Square Garden, each stadium has a rich history and unique charm. Touring iconic venues like Lambeau Field or Augusta National Golf Club is an adventure in itself, offering behind-the-scenes looks at places where sports legends are made.

When my kids were younger, we were trying to attend a baseball game at every Major League Baseball stadium. My son has carried this tradition into his adulthood. Last spring, my husband and son went to see a baseball game in Yankee Stadium.

Yankee Stadium entrance with illuminated sign, set against a vibrant sunset sky.

Getting Tickets

Scoring tickets to major sporting events like the Super Bowl or the World Cup Final requires some planning. Many events sell out months in advance, so check official websites and reputable ticket platforms for availability. For some events, like the Kentucky Derby or the Wimbledon Championships, early booking is essential to secure the best seats.

Tips for Attending

  • Check the Weather: Some events, like the Tour de France or the U.S. Open, are held outdoors. Dress appropriately for the weather and consider the venueโ€™s dress codeโ€”like the traditional white attire for Wimbledon or the stylish ensembles at the Monaco Grand Prix.
  • Know the Bag Policy: Many major sporting events have strict bag policies. Avoid the hassle by checking rules ahead of time.
  • Pre-Game Activities: Arrive early to soak up the pre-game buzz. Whether itโ€™s tailgating at college football games or exploring Churchill Downs before the โ€œmost exciting two minutesโ€ of the Kentucky Derby, thereโ€™s no better way to get in the spirit.

Where to Stay

Look for accommodations near the stadium or venue. If youโ€™re attending the Rose Bowl Parade on New Yearโ€™s Day, for example, staying nearby in Pasadena is a great way to ensure you donโ€™t miss the festivities. Use travel apps or your favorite booking sites to find options that fit your budget.

Getting to the Stadium

Navigating game-day traffic can be tricky. Plan your route in advance, and consider public transportation, shuttle services, or ride-sharing to make the trip smoother. Some venues, like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, offer parking options, but these often fill up quickly.

Where to Eat

Top-notch dining spots surround many venues. For example, if youโ€™re attending a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, check out nearby eateries for classic Chicago deep-dish pizza or gourmet hot dogs. Food is essential to the sports fan experience, so donโ€™t miss out!

Enjoy the Moment

Take a deep breath, cheer your heart out, and soak in the atmosphere. Whether you catch a foul ball at a baseball game, witness a home run at Fenway Park, or see your favorite sport played at its highest level, these are moments to treasure.

While nobody wants to think about accidents, illnesses, or other unforeseen events during their travels, being prepared is essential. That’s why getting travel insurance is crucial for any traveler. This can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Travelex is one of the best travel insurance companies that provides comprehensive coverage at reasonable rates.

The Ultimate Sports Bucket List

Ready to start planning? Here are some of the most prestigious events and unforgettable experiences to add to your wish list:

1. FIFA World Cup

Viewers: 5 Billion
Location: Different countries
The FIFA World Cup is the most popular sporting event in the world. Held every four years, this tournament brings together the best national soccer teams from around the globe. The atmosphere is electric, and the competition is fierce. Attending a World Cup match is a must if you’re a soccer fan.

Two soccer players, one in yellow and one in green, jump to head the ball during a match. A crowd is visible in the background.

2. Tour de France

Viewers: 3.5 Billion
Location: France
The Tour de France is the pinnacle of professional cycling. This grueling race covers over 2,000 miles, winding through the picturesque French countryside. For cycling enthusiasts, witnessing a stage of the Tour de France is an unforgettable experience.

3. Cricket World Cup

Viewers: 2.6 Billion
Location: Different countries
Cricket fans from around the world flock to the Cricket World Cup, held every four years. This championship game features the best teams from cricket-playing nations, and the matches are filled with excitement and drama.

4. Womenโ€™s World Cup

Viewers: 2 Billion
Location: Different countries
The Womenโ€™s World Cup has grown in popularity, showcasing the best female soccer players in the world. The tournament is held every four years and offers a fantastic fan experience for soccer enthusiasts.

5. Summer Olympic Games

Viewers: 2 Billion
Location: Different countries
The Summer Olympics celebrate athletic excellence, featuring a wide range of sports from gymnastics to track and field. Held every four years, the Summer Games are a great way to see the best athletes from around the world compete on the biggest stage.

6. Winter Olympic Games

Viewers: 2 Billion
Location: Different countries
The Winter Olympics offer a unique blend of sports, from skiing to ice hockey. Held every four years, the Winter Games provide an opportunity to see athletes excel in winter sports, making it a must-see for any sports fan.

7. UEFA Champions League Final

Viewers: 450 Million
Location: Different countries
The UEFA Champions League Final is one of the most prestigious events in club soccer. The best teams from Europe compete for the coveted trophy, and the final match is always thrilling.

8. Super Bowl

Viewers: 115.1 Million
Location: United States
The Super Bowl is the most significant event in American sports. This championship game determines the NFL champion and is watched by millions around the world. The halftime show and commercials add to the excitement, making it a must-attend event for any sports fan.

9. Wimbledon

Viewers: 25.6 Million
Location: England
Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament in the world and one of the four Grand Slam tournaments. The tournament is known for its rich history, white dress code, and the iconic Centre Court. Tennis fans should add Wimbledon to their bucket list.

A tennis player in a white outfit serves the ball during a match on a grass court.

10. NBA Finals

Viewers: 17.8 Million
Location: United States
The NBA Finals feature the best teams from the Eastern and Western Conferences battling for the championship. With stars like LeBron James and other top players, the NBA Finals showcase basketball excellence.

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11. World Cup of Rugby

Viewers: 17 Million
Location: Different countries
The Rugby World Cup is the premier event in international rugby. Held every four years, the tournament features the best teams from around the world, providing a thrilling fan experience.

12. Kentucky Derby

Viewers: 16.6 Million
Location: United States
The Kentucky Derby, held at Churchill Downs, is known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.” This horse racing event is steeped in tradition and must-see for any sports fan.

A large crowd of people in formal attire watches a horse race at a stadium, with the track and stands visible in the background.

13. Belmont Stakes

Location: United States
The Belmont Stakes is the final leg of the Triple Crown of horse racing. Held in New York, this race is known for its rich history and thrilling finishes.

14. The Masters

Viewers: 15 Million
Location: United States
The Masters, held at Augusta National Golf Club, is one of the most prestigious events in golf. The tournament is known for its beautiful setting and iconic moments, making it a must-attend for golf fans.

AT&T Park scoreboard displaying "World Series" graphics surrounded by various advertisements. Fans are seated below under a cloudy sky.

15. World Series

Viewers: 14.73 Million
Location: United States
The World Series is the championship of Major League Baseball. This best-of-seven series determines the MLB champion and is a highlight of the baseball season.

16. NCAA Final Four

Viewers: 14.7 Million
Location: United States
The NCAA Final Four is the culmination of March Madness, the college basketball tournament. The atmosphere is electric, and the games are filled with excitement and drama.

17. Monaco Grand Prix

Location: Monaco
The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious events in Formula 1 racing. The race takes place on the streets of Monaco, providing a unique and thrilling experience for racing fans.

A Formula 1 car on a city circuit, with a driver visible, surrounded by barriers. The car displays prominent logos and sponsors.

18. Rose Bowl and Rose Bowl Parade

Location: United States
The Rose Bowl, held on New Year’s Day, is among the oldest and most prestigious college football games. The Rose Bowl Parade adds to the festivities, making it a must-see event.

19. Ryder Cup

Location: Different countries
The Ryder Cup is a biennial golf tournament between United States and European teams. The competition is intense, and the atmosphere is electric, making it a must-attend event for golf fans.

20. US Open (Golf)

Location: United States
The US Open is one of the four major championships in golf. Held at different courses across the United States, the tournament is known for its challenging conditions and thrilling finishes.

21. Stanley Cup Finals

Location: United States and Canada
The Stanley Cup Finals determine the champion of the NHL. The series is known for its physical play and intense competition, making it a must-see for hockey fans.

22. NCAA Football National Championship Game

Location: United States
The NCAA Football National Championship Game determines the champion of college football. The game is filled with excitement and drama, making it a must-attend event for college football fans.

23. Indy 500

Location: United States
The Indy 500, held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, is one of the most prestigious events in auto racing. The race is known for its high speeds and thrilling finishes.

24. Army-Navy Game

Location: United States
The Army-Navy Game is one of college football’s oldest and most storied rivalries. The game is filled with tradition and pageantry, making it a must-see event.

25. Red Sox vs. Yankees at Yankee Stadium

Location: United States
The rivalry between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees is one of the most intense in sports. Attending a game at Yankee Stadium is a must for any baseball fan.

26. Cubs Game at Wrigley Field

Location: United States
Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, is one of the most iconic ballparks in Major League Baseball. Attending a game at Wrigley Field is a must for any baseball fan.

27. Michigan vs. Ohio State at The Big House

Location: United States
The rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State is among the most intense in college football. Attending a game at The Big House is a must for any college football fan.

28. Notre Dame Football Game

Location: United States
Notre Dame football games are known for their rich history and tradition. Attending a game at Notre Dame Stadium is necessary for any college football fan.

29. MLB All-Star Game

Location: United States
The MLB All-Star Game features the best players from the American and National Leagues. The game showcases baseball talent and is a must-see for any baseball fan.

30. Texas Football Friday Night Lights in Odessa

Location: United States
High school football in Texas is a way of life, and the Friday Night Lights in Odessa are legendary. Attending a high school football game in Texas is a unique and thrilling experience.

31. Ironman World Championship

Location: United States
The Ironman World Championship, held in Kona, Hawaii, is the pinnacle of triathlon competition. The race is known for its grueling course and the incredible determination of its participants.

32. Golden Gloves at Madison Square Garden

Location: United States
The Golden Gloves boxing tournament is a showcase of amateur boxing talent. Held at Madison Square Garden, the event is a must-see for boxing fans.

33. Baseball Game at Fenway Park

Location: United States
Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, is one of the most iconic ballparks in Major League Baseball. Attending a game at Fenway Park is a must for any baseball fan.

Empty baseball stadium with neatly manicured field, visible home plate, pitcher's mound, and surrounding stands. City skyline is visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

34. U.S. Open Tennis Tournament

Location: United States
The U.S. Open is one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments. Held in New York, the tournament features the best tennis players in the world and provides a thrilling fan experience.

35. Preakness

Location: United States
The Preakness is the second leg of the Triple Crown of horse racing. Held at Pimlico Race Course, the race is known for its exciting finishes and festive atmosphere.

36. National Rodeo Championship

Location: United States
The National Rodeo Championship, held in Las Vegas, is the pinnacle of rodeo competition. The event features the best rodeo athletes in the world and provides a unique and thrilling fan experience.

Rodeo cowboy riding a bucking horse in an arena, wearing a cowboy hat and holding onto the reins. Spectators are visible in the background.

37. NFL Draft

Location: United States
The NFL Draft is one of the most anticipated events in the NFL offseason. Held in different cities each year, the draft provides a unique opportunity to see the future stars of the NFL.

38. Iditarod

Location: United States
The Iditarod is a grueling dog sled race held in Alaska. The race covers over 1,000 miles of rugged terrain, making it an actual test of endurance and determination.

A team of sled dogs runs through snowy terrain, wearing harnesses and booties, with snow covering their fur.

39. Cowboys Monday Night Football Game in Dallas

Location: United States
Attending a Dallas Cowboys Monday Night Football game at AT&T Stadium is a must for any NFL fan. The atmosphere is electric, and the game is always filled with excitement.

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40. NBA All-Star Game

Location: United States
The NBA All-Star Game features the best players in the league and showcases basketball talent. The game is filled with excitement and provides a unique fan experience.

41. Spring Training Baseball Game

Location: United States
Spring training is a great way to see your favorite baseball team up close and personal. The relaxed atmosphere and more minor stadiums provide a unique fan experience.

42. Harlem Globetrotters Performance

Location: Different countries
The Harlem Globetrotters are known for their entertaining basketball performances. Attending a Globetrotters game is a fun and unique experience for fans of all ages.

43. Westminster Dog Show

Location: United States
The Westminster Dog Show is one of the most prestigious dog shows in the world. Held in New York, the event features the best dogs from around the globe and provides a unique fan experience.

44. Little League World Series

Location: United States
The Little League World Series is a showcase of young baseball talent. Held in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, the event provides a unique and exciting fan experience.

45. Boston Marathon

Location: United States
The Boston Marathon is one of the most prestigious marathons in the world. The race is known for its challenging course and the incredible determination of its participants.

46. World Figure Skating Championships

Location: Different countries
The World Figure Skating Championships feature the best figure skaters worldwide. The event is filled with grace and athleticism, making it a must-see for any figure skating fan.

47. Basketball Game at Madison Square Garden

Location: United States
Madison Square Garden is known as “The World’s Most Famous Arena.” Attending a basketball game at MSG is a must for any sports fan.

48. ACC Basketball Tournament

Location: United States
The ACC Basketball Tournament features some of the best college basketball teams in the country. The tournament is filled with excitement and drama, making it a must-see for college basketball fans.

49. Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Weekend

Location: United States
The Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Weekend in Cooperstown, New York, celebrates the greatest players in baseball history. The event is a must-attend for any baseball fan.

50. Liverpool vs. Manchester United at Old Trafford

Location: England
The rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester United is one of the most intense in soccer. Attending a match at Old Trafford is a must for any soccer fan.

A group of baseball players in pinstriped uniforms celebrate on the field, raising their arms and smiling, with a blurred crowd in the background.

Final Thoughts about Bucket List Sports Events

From the excitement of March Madness to the glamour of the Monaco Grand Prix, thereโ€™s no better way to connect with your favorite sport than by attending a live event. Itโ€™s a chance to celebrate hard work, witness history, and create memories that last a lifetime.

So grab your calendar, pick a few events from this list, and start planning your sports bucket list adventure today!

Related Post to Bucket List Sports

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Bucket List Sports: FAQ

What are some must-see sporting events to add to my bucket list?

Consider experiencing the Olympic Games or the FIFA World Cup. The exhilaration and global spirit make these events truly special. Also, the Super Bowl offers an iconic American sports experience.

How can I experience the best of NFL for my sports bucket list?

Attending a game in person is a must. Some of the most popular venues include Lambeau Field and AT&T Stadium. These stadiums offer unique atmospheres to enjoy top NFL action.

Could you suggest some bucket list sports events to attend in the USA?

The Kentucky Derby provides a classic horse racing experience. You might also enjoy the NBA Finals for incredible basketball action and atmosphere. For tennis fans, the US Open is a must-see.

What global sporting events should I consider for an ultimate bucket list?

The Ryder Cup for golf enthusiasts is amazing for its competitiveness. Don’t miss Wimbledon for tennis. For motor racing fans, the Monaco Grand Prix offers excitement with a stunning backdrop.

Which famous historical sports events are worth including in my bucket list?

Consider the All England Lawn Tennis Championships at Wimbledon. Another monumental experience is attending the Tour de France, showcasing endurance and scenic views.

What achievable sporting activities can beginners add to a bucket list?

Try hiking a local trail, as itโ€™s perfect for beginners and offers a chance to enjoy nature. If youโ€™re into water, kayaking in a nearby lake or river provides a fun and easy start to water sports activities.

Grab Life & Don’t Forget To Wear Sunscreen! Happy Exploring!

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