Special Feature: The World’s Greatest Sports Stadiums

Sports fans are a mad bunch, some spend hundreds of thousands a year following their team all over the world. From football teams on a tour to the Far East to American franchises flying from coast to coast, sport is a booming business across the globe.

As a result, we’ve put together a list of some the best sports stadiums in the world, be sure to experience the atmosphere of at least one of these incredible venues on your travels.

Yankee Stadium – The Bronx – New York

Steeped in history and with some of the most passionate fans in Baseball, the New York Yankees are icons of the sport and it’s only right they have a stadium to match.

The New Yankee stadium first opened in 2009, replacing its predecessor which had stood tall since 1923. With a capacity of over 52,000 and at a construction cost of $1.6bn, the stadium is testament to The New York Yankees’ standing as giants of the game.

To really make the most of your visit, stay in The Crowne Plaza, Times Square. Not only is it a short hop to the stadium but you’ll also be perfectly positioned in the heart of New York.

Soccer City – Johannesburg – South Africa

Having undergone a major redevelopment programme for the 2010 Soccer World Cup, Soccer City is an easy addition to our list.

Tasked with hosting both the opening ceremony and the first match of the World Cup, the stadium shone in the spotlight of one of the most successful Soccer tournaments of all time.

With a capacity of 95,000 the stadium cost $440 million and today hosts South African league soccer, rugby and music concerts.

A visit to Soccer City is not to be missed. Stay at the Holiday Inn Sandton and enjoy enviable views from the 9th floor Skye bar or simply relax in the cigar lounge with one of Cuba’s finest.

Madison Square Garden – New York

Home of Basketball, Ice Hockey, Tennis, and even WWE Wrestling, Madison Square Garden is a multi-purpose venue situated in midtown Manhattan.

A recent renovation costing $1.16 billion has ensured The Garden keeps its crown as one of the world’s most famous and frequently visited venues.

However with a maximum capacity of only 22,000 people, seats for events are scarce and frequently reach into the thousands of dollars for the most popular shows; a testament to the allure of this incredible venue.

Stay at The Marmara Manhattan and enjoy apartment facilities with the luxuries of a hotel suite.

Sports City – Dubai

Currently under construction, Dubai’s sports city is a behemoth, boasting four stadiums – the centre piece of which is a 60,000 seater multi purpose venue capable of hosting Soccer, Cricket, Rugby, Athletics and music festivals.

Costing an estimated $4 billion and covering a total of 4,600,000 square metres, Sports City promises to be at the heart of Dubai’s sporting future.

Once the venue opens, I recommend you stay at the Burj Al Arab. The grandest hotel in the world offers the ultimate in luxury including a private beach, chauffer-driven Rolls Royce and the very best in gourmet dining.

The Staples Centre – Los Angeles – California

Home to no less than four professional sports teams, The Staples Centre in downtown Los Angeles is a haven for fans of Hockey and Basketball alike, with the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers as well as WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks and the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings all calling the centre home.

With a maximum capacity of 21,000 and at a construction cost of $523 million, The Staples Centre is one of the most popular sports and music venues within the United States.

Stay at the Beverly Wilshire, a decadent Five Star hotel designed to make the most of your Los Angeles Holiday. Enjoy fine dining, a luxury spa or just relax in the comfort of your extravagant room.

Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex – Oman

Situated in the Ghala district of Oman, the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex makes the list due to its impressive list of facilities.

Renovated for the 2009 African Cup of Nations, the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex has a capacity of 39,000 and is equipped with a Football pitch, Athletics Facilities, an Olympic sized swimming pool, Tennis Courts and Gymnasium.

For your holiday in Oman, I recommend staying at Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort. This five star resort offers a private beach, infinity pool, luxury spa and lavishly appointed rooms.

About the Author:

Matt Coe is a sports travel enthusiast and head of marketing for Wanderforth, a tour operator specialising in luxury worldwide holidays.

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