Unrivaled: My 24-Hour Solo Trip to Miami Was Worth Every Mile

Have you ever taken a quick getaway for something you love? That's exactly what I did on my 24-hour solo trip to Miami for two games at Unrivaled Basketball League - and it was worth every second! From the electric atmosphere to unexpected courtside moments, this trip reminded me why sports travel is one of the best ways to experience a destination.

Here’s a recap of my whirlwind trip and why I’m already thinking about the next one.

Landing in Miami, I had one thing on my mind—basketball and vibes. With only 24 hours in the city, I wasted no time getting to the arena, where the energy was off the charts.

Unrivaled isn’t just about basketball; it’s about entertainment, culture, and bringing a fresh energy to the game. The crowd was hyped, the plays were fast-paced, and every second kept us on edge.

And just when I thought the night couldn’t get any better, I got invited to join a trivia contest ON the court. Standing under the bright lights, surrounded by fans, was a moment I’ll never forget (and yes, my team won! Day 1 Rosebud).

If you’ve never traveled for a sporting event, you’re missing out on one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the energy of a city.

After the game, if you know me at all, you know I couldn't leave Miami without grabbing a great meal, so I stopped at Mangrove for a quick drink, good music, and delicious food (try the shrimp). It was a perfect way to end the night before a quick nap & heading back to Chicago.

This trip reminded me why traveling for sports is more than just the game. Even with just 24 hours, I got to:

✔ Experience Miami in a whole new way – Every destination has its own sports culture, and being part of it makes the trip even more exciting.

✔ Meet new people – Whether it’s fellow fans, locals, or even players, these moments create the best travel memories.

✔ Enjoy the thrill of the unexpected – From a last-minute trivia contest to exploring the city’s nightlife, sports trips always bring surprises.

If you’ve ever thought about planning a trip around a game, do it. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, or a once-in-a-lifetime event, there’s nothing like the energy of a live game in a new city—even if it’s just for 24 hours.

This trip was a reminder that travel isn’t just about the destination...it’s about the experience. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just want to soak in the energy of a big game, I can help you plan the perfect getaway.

Let's plan your next sports getaway