Football fans across Florida are ready for another unforgettable season of touchdowns, rivalries, and game-day traditions. From NFL Sundays featuring the Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Jacksonville Jaguars to college football Saturdays with the Florida Gators, Florida State Seminoles, Miami Hurricanes, and more, football season is one of the best times of year to visit the Sunshine State.

For fans looking to celebrate the start of the 2026 NFL season in a unique way, there is no better stop than Madame Tussauds Orlando at ICON Park.

Guests can meet one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history — Dan Marino — through his incredibly lifelike wax figure. The Miami Dolphins legend is featured wearing a classic Miami Dolphins uniform, bringing one of football’s most iconic eras to life.

Whether you grew up watching Marino break NFL records, cheer for the Dolphins every Sunday, or simply appreciate football history, this interactive experience gives fans the opportunity to stand beside a legend and create the ultimate football season photo.

Unlike a traditional sports museum, Madame Tussauds Orlando allows guests to get up close with famous athletes, pose for pictures, and become part of the story.

Grab your favorite jersey, bring your family and friends, and kick off the 2026 football season with a visit to one of Orlando’s most unique attractions.

Meet Dan Marino in His Classic Miami Dolphins Uniform

Few athletes are as closely connected to Florida sports history as Dan Marino.

Selected by the Miami Dolphins in the first round of the 1983 NFL Draft, Marino quickly became one of the most dominant quarterbacks of his generation. Known for his quick release, powerful arm, and ability to read defenses, he helped transform the passing game and became one of the most recognizable players in NFL history.

At Madame Tussauds Orlando, fans can celebrate Marino’s legendary career by meeting his wax figure dressed in a classic Miami Dolphins uniform, honoring the quarterback’s unforgettable time leading the franchise.

The figure captures the details that made Marino a football icon, allowing visitors to experience a one-of-a-kind sports moment.

Fans can:

• Pose beside Dan Marino like they are preparing for the next play

• Take a quarterback-style photo

• Celebrate a “game-winning touchdown”

• Wear their favorite Dolphins or NFL jersey for a memorable picture

• Share a football season kickoff photo with friends and family

For longtime Dolphins fans, the experience is a nostalgic celebration of one of the greatest players to ever wear the aqua and orange.

For younger football fans, it is an opportunity to learn about one of the NFL’s all-time great quarterbacks.

Why Dan Marino Is a Miami Dolphins Football Legend

Dan Marino’s impact on the NFL extends far beyond statistics.

During his Miami Dolphins career, Marino became known for redefining what a quarterback could accomplish in a passing-focused offense. His achievements include:

His legendary 1984 season remains one of the most memorable quarterback performances in NFL history. Marino threw for more than 5,000 yards and 48 touchdowns, setting records that stood for decades.

Today, he remains a beloved figure among Dolphins fans and football fans throughout Florida.

Celebrate the Start of the 2026 NFL Season in Florida

The return of football brings excitement across the entire state.

Florida is home to three NFL franchises:

• Miami Dolphins

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Jacksonville Jaguars

Each team brings a unique fan base, history, and football tradition.

For visitors traveling to Florida during football season, a trip to Madame Tussauds Orlando offers the perfect indoor experience before game day, after watching football, or during a Florida sports vacation.

2026 Florida NFL Season Opening Games

The 2026 NFL season begins with exciting matchups for all three Florida teams. Fans can follow their favorite franchises as the Dolphins, Jaguars, and Buccaneers begin their campaigns.

Miami Dolphins 2026 Season Opener

The Miami Dolphins begin the 2026 regular season on the road against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, September 13, 2026.

The matchup gives Dolphins fans the perfect reason to celebrate the start of the season by honoring the franchise’s legendary past with a visit to Dan Marino’s wax figure at Madame Tussauds Orlando.

Miami Dolphins Opening Game

Jacksonville Jaguars 2026 Season Opener

The Jacksonville Jaguars begin their 2026 season at home against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, September 13, 2026.

As one of Florida’s newest NFL franchises, the Jaguars continue building a passionate fan base throughout North Florida and beyond.

Jacksonville Jaguars Opening Game

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2026 Season Opener

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers open their 2026 campaign on the road against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, September 13, 2026.

With fans across the Tampa Bay region and Central Florida, Buccaneers supporters frequently travel throughout the state for football weekends.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Opening Game

Start Your Football Season at ICON Park Orlando

Located on International Drive, Madame Tussauds Orlando makes it easy to add a football experience to your Orlando vacation.

After meeting Dan Marino, guests can continue exploring ICON Park with:

• SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

• Restaurants and entertainment options

• Family-friendly attractions

• Unique photo opportunities throughout the destination

For football fans visiting Orlando, Madame Tussauds Orlando provides an experience that combines sports history, pop culture, and unforgettable memories.

From NFL legends to today’s biggest stars, every visit brings fans closer to the celebrities and athletes they admire.

2026 Florida College Football Season Kickoff Guide

Football in Florida does not stop when the NFL season begins. Every fall, Saturdays belong to some of the most passionate college football fan bases in the country.

From the Florida Gators and Florida State Seminoles to the Miami Hurricanes, UCF Knights, USF Bulls, and FAU Owls, college football traditions run deep throughout the Sunshine State.

For fans visiting Orlando during college football season, a trip to Madame Tussauds Orlando is a fun way to celebrate the sport’s biggest legends before heading to a game, watching a rivalry matchup, or enjoying a football weekend getaway.

Along with meeting Dan Marino in his classic Miami Dolphins uniform, guests can experience an interactive attraction filled with famous athletes, entertainers, and cultural icons.

Here are some of the biggest Florida college football season openers to know for 2026.

Florida Gators 2026 Season Opener

The University of Florida Gators begin the 2026 college football season with an in-state matchup against the Florida Atlantic Owls on Saturday, September 5, 2026.

The matchup brings together two Florida programs and gives fans an early-season look at two teams representing different regions of the state.

The Gators continue one of college football’s most recognizable traditions, with generations of fans traveling to Gainesville every fall to experience the atmosphere inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, also known as “The Swamp.”

Florida Gators Opening Game

Florida State Seminoles 2026 Season Opener

The Florida State Seminoles kick off the 2026 season on Saturday, August 29, 2026, against New Mexico State.

The early-season matchup gives Seminoles fans a chance to start their football year at one of college football’s most historic venues — Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee.

Florida State’s championship history and passionate fan base make the Seminoles one of the most recognizable college football programs in the country.

Florida State Seminoles Opening Game

Miami Hurricanes 2026 Season Opener

The University of Miami Hurricanes begin the 2026 season against the Stanford Cardinal on Friday, September 4, 2026.

Known for producing legendary players and unforgettable teams, Miami football remains one of the most iconic brands in college football.

The Hurricanes’ history connects directly with South Florida football culture, making them a natural team for fans visiting Orlando and exploring Florida sports history.

Miami Hurricanes Opening Game

UCF Knights 2026 Season Opener

The UCF Knights represent Orlando’s hometown college football team and bring Saturday football excitement directly to Central Florida.

The Knights begin the 2026 season on Saturday, September 12, 2026, against the Pittsburgh Panthers.

With UCF’s campus located just minutes from Orlando’s major attractions, including ICON Park, football fans visiting Central Florida can easily combine a Knights game with an Orlando vacation.

UCF Knights Opening Game

USF Bulls 2026 Season Opener

The University of South Florida Bulls begin the 2026 season against Florida A&M on Saturday, September 5, 2026.

Located in Tampa, USF adds another exciting chapter to Florida’s growing college football scene.

The Bulls continue attracting passionate fans throughout Central Florida and the Tampa Bay region.

USF Bulls Opening Game

Florida Atlantic Owls 2026 Season Opener

The Florida Atlantic Owls open the 2026 season with a major in-state matchup against the Florida Gators on Saturday, September 5, 2026.

The game highlights the depth of Florida football, with multiple programs competing across the state.

FAU Owls Opening Game

Biggest Florida College Football Rivalry Games in 2026

Florida college football is built around rivalries.

These annual matchups bring together historic programs, passionate fan bases, and generations of traditions. For football fans planning a Florida trip, rivalry weekends are some of the best times to experience the energy of the sport.

Florida State Seminoles vs. Miami Hurricanes

Saturday, October 17, 2026

Hard Rock Stadium – Miami Gardens, Florida

The Florida State vs. Miami rivalry is one of the most famous rivalries in college football history.

Known for decades of dramatic finishes, championship implications, and legendary players, the matchup represents one of the biggest battles for Florida football bragging rights.

Fans from both sides travel across the state for this annual showdown, making it one of the most anticipated weekends of the season.

Florida State vs. Miami 2026 Rivalry Game

Florida Gators vs. Florida State Seminoles

Friday, November 27, 2026

Doak Campbell Stadium – Tallahassee, Florida

The Florida vs. Florida State rivalry is one of the biggest annual football traditions in the state.

Known as the Sunshine Showdown, this matchup brings together two of Florida’s most successful programs and closes the regular season with statewide bragging rights on the line.

Florida vs. Florida State 2026 Rivalry Game

Florida Gators vs. Florida Atlantic Owls

Saturday, September 5, 2026

Gainesville, Florida

The season-opening matchup between Florida and FAU creates an early Florida football showdown.

The game highlights the strength of college football across the state, where established programs and rising teams compete for attention every fall.

Florida vs. FAU 2026 Rivalry Game

UCF and Orlando’s Growing Football Culture

As Orlando’s hometown college football program, UCF has helped transform Central Florida into an important football destination.

Knights fans bring energy throughout the season, and visitors attending games often explore nearby attractions before or after kickoff.

A football weekend in Orlando can include:

• Watching the UCF Knights play

• Visiting Madame Tussauds Orlando

• Exploring ICON Park

• Enjoying Orlando restaurants and entertainment

• Experiencing Central Florida attractions

For college football fans, Orlando offers the perfect combination of sports and vacation experiences.

Florida NFL Rivalry Games to Watch in 2026

Football fans in Florida do not have to wait until Saturday for exciting matchups. The Sunshine State is home to three NFL franchises — the Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Jacksonville Jaguars — creating plenty of opportunities for professional football rivalries throughout the season.

While the teams do not play each other every year because of the NFL’s rotating schedule format, games between Florida’s NFL teams always bring additional excitement, regional pride, and passionate fan bases together.

For visitors planning a Florida football vacation, these matchups provide the perfect opportunity to combine game-day excitement with an unforgettable Orlando experience at Madame Tussauds Orlando.

Before kickoff, fans can meet Dan Marino’s wax figure wearing his classic Miami Dolphins uniform, celebrate one of football’s greatest quarterbacks, and capture a photo that blends NFL history with the excitement of the 2026 season.

Miami Dolphins vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Battle of Florida

One of Florida’s most exciting professional football matchups is the Miami Dolphins vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Although the teams play in different conferences, the matchup represents a battle between two of the state’s largest football markets — South Florida and the Tampa Bay area.

The Dolphins bring decades of history, including the legacy of Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino, while the Buccaneers represent one of the NFL’s most successful recent franchises.

For fans traveling across Florida, this matchup is the ultimate opportunity to celebrate the state’s football culture.

Miami Dolphins vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Miami Dolphins

AFC Florida Showdown

The Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Miami Dolphins matchup connects two of Florida’s most recognizable NFL franchises.

Representing opposite ends of the state, these teams bring together fans from North Florida and South Florida for a unique in-state football experience.

The rivalry also creates an opportunity for fans to celebrate different generations of Florida football — from Marino’s legendary Dolphins career to the Jaguars’ modern era.

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Miami Dolphins

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

Sunshine State NFL Matchup

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Jacksonville Jaguars matchup represents a showdown between Florida’s Gulf Coast and First Coast regions.

Both teams have developed passionate fan communities and continue adding exciting chapters to Florida’s professional football history.

For fans traveling throughout the state, Orlando provides a convenient destination to enjoy attractions, dining, and entertainment during football season.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

The Ultimate Florida Football Experience Starts in Orlando

Whether you are traveling for an NFL game, college football rivalry weekend, or simply looking for football-themed things to do in Orlando, Madame Tussauds Orlando offers a unique experience for sports fans.

Located at ICON Park on International Drive, the attraction combines sports, entertainment, and pop culture in one interactive destination.

Guests can:

• Meet Dan Marino in his classic Miami Dolphins uniform

• Take photos with one of the NFL’s greatest quarterbacks

• Experience realistic celebrity wax figures

• Discover famous athletes from around the world

• Enjoy an indoor attraction perfect for Florida weather

Football fans can celebrate the past, present, and future of the sport all in one visit.

Create the Perfect Orlando Football Weekend

Planning a football trip to Florida? Add Madame Tussauds Orlando to your itinerary for a memorable sports experience before or after game day.

Football Weekend Ideas in Orlando

Whether you are a Dolphins fan honoring Marino’s legacy, a Buccaneers supporter traveling from Tampa, a Jaguars fan visiting from North Florida, or a college football fan exploring Florida’s biggest programs, Orlando is the perfect place to celebrate football season.

Why Football Fans Should Visit Madame Tussauds Orlando in 2026

Football is about more than the final score. It is about traditions, memories, legends, and the moments fans share together.

Dan Marino’s wax figure at Madame Tussauds Orlando represents one of those unforgettable moments.

Dressed in his classic Miami Dolphins uniform, Marino celebrates a generation of football that inspired millions of fans and helped define NFL quarterback greatness.

During the 2026 football season, make your visit to Orlando even more memorable by stepping into the world of sports legends, celebrity icons, and unforgettable experiences.

From NFL opening weekend to college football rivalry games, Madame Tussauds Orlando is the perfect place to kick off your football adventure.

Plan Your 2026 Football Season Visit to Madame Tussauds Orlando

The 2026 football season brings together everything fans love about the sport — legendary players, exciting matchups, unforgettable rivalries, and shared experiences.

Celebrate the start of the season by meeting Dan Marino, wearing your favorite team gear, and creating your own football memory at Madame Tussauds Orlando.

Whether you are visiting for an NFL game, a college football rivalry, or a Florida vacation, make football history part of your Orlando adventure.