See the biggest names in college basketball start their championship runs in these five cities.
The NCAA men’s basketball tournament is an excellent reason to visit San Antonio this year to see the Final Four champion crowned. But we think the best part of the tournament is the opening rounds. 68
teams enter, sharing one crazy dream. The first week is full of drama— Cinderellas, buzzer beaters, and brackets getting busted.
If you want to get swept up in March Madness, we recommend traveling to these five cities to watch the games and see the sights afterward. Contact our flight coordinators to reserve your airframe today.
Lexington, Kentucky (March 20-22, 2025)
The home of the University of Kentucky is about as basketball-mad as any city in the country. The first- and second-round games played on campus at Rupp Arena will be the hottest ticket in town.
Lexington is also home to several bourbon distilleries, so plan time to carouse around the Distillery District. Stay at the Manchester, an adorable boutique hotel within walking distance of all the whiskey (and it’s also near the arena).
Denver, Colorado (March 20-22, 2025)
The Mile High City will host their opening round games at Ball Arena, home of the Denver Nuggets. The Crawford Hotel at Union Station is our pick for its vintage charm in a landmark setting. It’s conveniently located near the arena, plus the James Beard Award-winning Mercantile is on site.
Another of Denver’s hottest restaurants at the moment is Coperta. This Southern Italian trattoria is winning plaudits for its cavatelli ragu and eggplant parmigiana. Be sure to see the Molly Brown House Museum and learn about the incredible life of the famed Titanic survivor.
Seattle, Washington (March 21-23, 2025)
The games in Seattle take place at Climate Pledge Arena, just north of downtown in the Seattle Center entertainment complex. While you’re there, we highly recommend strolling in Chihuly Garden and Glass next door to the famous Space Needle. The museum houses indoor and outdoor works by the famous glass-blowing artist, Dale Chihuly. Also, check out the Museum of Pop Culture (MOPOP) to see modern cultural artifacts from famous instruments, film wardrobes, TV props, and much more.
Our favorite Seattle restaurant at the moment is Atoma. Go for their artfully inspired new American cuisine, with a wine list highlighting the best small producers in the Pacific Northwest.
Raleigh, North Carolina (March 21-23, 2025)
North Carolina is sure to have a few teams in the big dance. Will any of them get home-state advantage with a trip to Raleigh? The games will be played at the Lenovo Center and there’s plenty to do after the basketball games.
Stop by the North Carolina Museum of Art to see their impressive collection of statues by Auguste Rodin. The Videri Chocolate Factory has been rated as one of the finest chocolatiers in the country. Take a tour and see the entire bean-to-bar production process. End your day with a meal at Figulina. We love all their pastas and commitment to hyper-local sourcing.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin (March 21-23, 2025)
The teams playing in Milwaukee will hoop it up at Fiserv Forum, home of the Milwaukee Bucks. After the games, visit the Harley-Davidson Museum and get a fascinating look at a century of motorcycle evolution.
Milwaukee is one of the most underrated cocktail towns in the country. Choose your experience: the classic corner bar vibes at Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge, the theatrically garnished works of art at Agency, or the mid-century kitsch of At Random (get an ice cream cocktail for dessert).
March Madness 2025 Host Cities
If you visit a city to see a sports match, you don’t have time to waste. With a private jet charter, you can skip security lines and baggage claim, take off on your schedule, and arrive refreshed, relaxed, and ready to hit the town.
Contact our flight coordinators to schedule your March Madness getaway!
