Miami Dolphins fans have an exciting opportunity to kick off the 2026 NFL season with a trip to Las Vegas. The team opens its regular season campaign on the road against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium, making it the perfect excuse for a football-themed getaway. This marks a significant moment for the franchise as it enters a new era under head coach Jeff Hafley and quarterback Malik Willis.
The Dolphins 2026 season won’t begin at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Instead, loyal fans will need to pack their bags if they want to witness the first two games in person. The preseason officially starts on Friday, August 14, but the real action begins when the team travels to Nevada for their Week 1 matchup against the Raiders.
A New Era in Dolphins Football Begins
The 2026 season represents a fresh start for the Miami Dolphins organization. With Jeff Hafley taking over as head coach and Malik Willis leading the offense at quarterback, fans will witness a transformed team on the field. This leadership change has generated considerable excitement throughout the Dolphins fanbase.
For Latino fans across the United States, this season opener presents a unique chance to combine their passion for football with a memorable trip to one of America’s most vibrant cities. Las Vegas offers entertainment options that extend far beyond the stadium, making it an ideal destination for families and groups traveling together.
The timing of the September game works in favor of travelers. By mid-September, the extreme Las Vegas summer heat begins to subside, creating more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities and stadium events. Additionally, visitors can escape the Florida rainy season while enjoying everything Sin City has to offer.
Week 1: Raiders vs. Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium
The Miami Dolphins face the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, September 13 at 4:25 p.m. ET. This prime afternoon time slot ensures maximum visibility for both teams as they launch their 2026 campaigns. Allegiant Stadium, one of the NFL‘s newest and most impressive venues, provides a spectacular setting for the contest.
Skyscanner, the official travel partner of the Miami Dolphins, has developed comprehensive game-day travel packages for every Dolphins game this season. These arrangements simplify the booking process for fans who want to follow their team on the road throughout the 2026 schedule.
The Week 2 matchup takes the Dolphins to San Francisco to face the 49ers on Sunday, September 20 at 4:25 p.m. ET. This means dedicated fans could potentially plan an extended West Coast trip, catching both road games before the team returns to Miami.
Complete Miami Dolphins 2026 NFL Schedule
The full 2026 regular season schedule for the Miami Dolphins features 17 games across 18 weeks. The team faces a competitive slate that includes matchups against several playoff contenders from the 2025 season. Here is the complete breakdown of games:
- Week 1: Miami Dolphins at Las Vegas Raiders – Sunday, September 13 at 4:25 p.m. ET
- Week 2: Miami Dolphins at San Francisco 49ers – Sunday, September 20 at 4:25 p.m. ET
- Week 3: Miami Dolphins vs. Kansas City Chiefs – Sunday, September 27 at 1 p.m. ET
- Week 4: Miami Dolphins at Minnesota Vikings – Sunday, October 4 at 4:05 p.m. ET
- Week 5: Miami Dolphins vs. Cincinnati Bengals – Sunday, October 11 at 1 p.m. ET
- Week 6: Bye Week
- Week 7: Miami Dolphins at New York Jets – Sunday, October 25 at 1 p.m. ET
- Week 8: Miami Dolphins vs. New England Patriots – Sunday, November 1 at 4:25 p.m. ET
The schedule continues with exciting matchups throughout the fall and into early January 2027. Notable home games include hosting the Kansas City Chiefs, Detroit Lions, and Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium.
- Week 9: Miami Dolphins vs. Detroit Lions – Sunday, November 8 at 1 p.m. ET
- Week 10: Miami Dolphins at Indianapolis Colts – Sunday, November 15 at 1 p.m. ET
- Week 11: Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills – Sunday, November 22 at 1 p.m. ET
- Week 12: Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets – Sunday, November 29 at 1 p.m. ET
- Week 13: Miami Dolphins at Denver Broncos – Sunday, December 6 at 4:05 p.m. ET
- Week 14: Miami Dolphins vs. Chicago Bears – Sunday, December 13 at 1 p.m. ET
- Week 15: Miami Dolphins at Green Bay Packers – Sunday, December 20 at 1 p.m. ET
- Week 16: Miami Dolphins vs. Los Angeles Chargers – Sunday, December 27 at 1 p.m. ET
- Week 17: Miami Dolphins vs. Buffalo Bills – Sunday, January 3 at 1 p.m. ET
- Week 18: Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots – TBD
Las Vegas Entertainment Beyond the Stadium
Las Vegas offers countless attractions for Dolphins fans traveling for the Week 1 game. The Sphere, the revolutionary entertainment venue, hosts top artists and immersive experiences throughout September. This cutting-edge attraction has become a must-visit destination for tourists from around the world.
The city’s famous Strip features world-class restaurants, shows, and nightlife options that cater to every taste and budget. Latino visitors will find numerous Mexican, Cuban, and South American culinary experiences throughout the city, making it easy to enjoy familiar flavors while exploring new surroundings.
For families traveling with children, Las Vegas has evolved significantly in recent years. Attractions like the High Roller observation wheel, various museum experiences, and family-friendly shows ensure that everyone in the group can enjoy the trip regardless of age.
Home Games at Hard Rock Stadium
The Miami Dolphins will host several exciting opponents at Hard Rock Stadium throughout the 2026 season. Fans who prefer to watch games locally will have plenty of opportunities to see top-tier NFL competition in South Florida.
The home schedule includes matchups against the Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lions, Kansas City Chiefs, and Los Angeles Chargers. These games feature some of the league’s most talented players and competitive franchises.
The AFC East divisional games against the Bills, Patriots, and Jets always generate intense atmosphere at Hard Rock Stadium. These rivalry matchups typically attract large crowds and create memorable game-day experiences for attendees.
“The Miami Dolphins will start their season on the road in Las Vegas. This marks a new era with head coach Jeff Hafley and quarterback Malik Willis.”
The Week 3 home opener against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, September 27 promises to be one of the most anticipated games of the season. The Chiefs remain one of the NFL’s premier franchises, and this early-season matchup will test the Dolphins against elite competition.
When do the Miami Dolphins play their first game of the 2026 season?
The Miami Dolphins open the 2026 regular season against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday, September 13 at 4:25 p.m. ET. The preseason begins on Friday, August 14.
Who is the new head coach of the Miami Dolphins in 2026?
Jeff Hafley is the new head coach of the Miami Dolphins for the 2026 season. He will lead the team alongside quarterback Malik Willis as the franchise enters a new era.
How can fans book travel to see the Dolphins play in Las Vegas?
Skyscanner, the official travel partner of the Miami Dolphins, offers comprehensive game-day travel packages for every Dolphins game throughout the 2026 season, including the Week 1 matchup in Las Vegas.
When is the Miami Dolphins bye week in 2026?
The Miami Dolphins have their bye week during Week 6 of the 2026 NFL season, giving the team a rest period between their Week 5 home game against the Cincinnati Bengals and their Week 7 road game at the New York Jets.
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