BROC: On Wisconsin in Ireland
Broc is the Irish word for badger, a fitting name for this special journey to Ireland. Bring your Badger spirit and join fellow Wisconsin fans in Dublin for a week filled with Irish history, coastal scenery, sporting spirit, and camaraderie before Wisconsin takes on the University of Pittsburgh at Aviva Stadium.
Make Dublin your home as you explore the capital’s historic streets, visit the Guinness Storehouse and Kilmainham Gaol, and hear Irish history, humor, and folklore come to life at Nancy Hands Irish Pub. Then venture beyond the city to ancient Glendalough in County Wicklow, enjoy a tasting at Wicklow Farmhouse Cheese, and spend time along the coast in Howth with a guided harbor walk and boat tour around Ireland’s Eye.
You’ll also discover the passion behind Ireland’s Gaelic games as you step onto the pitch to try Gaelic football and tour Croke Park Stadium. An evening of traditional music and dancing at Celtic Nights adds another memorable taste of Irish culture.
Throughout the tour, you’ll have time to enjoy Dublin at your own pace while sharing the experience with fellow Wisconsin fans. Then comes the moment Badger Nation has been waiting for: game day at Aviva Stadium. Soak up the excitement and get ready to cheer on the Badgers in Dublin. U-rah-rah!
Highlights of BROC: On Wisconsin in Ireland
- Cheer on the Wisconsin Badgers in Dublin as they take on Pittsburgh at Aviva Stadium
- Step onto the pitch and try Gaelic football during a hands-on GAA Experience, then tour legendary Croke Park Stadium
- Explore ancient Glendalough and enjoy a tour and tasting at Wicklow Farmhouse Cheese
- Take in the seaside village of Howth with a guided harbor walk and boat tour around Ireland’s Eye
- Experience traditions firsthand with storytelling at Nancy Hands Irish Pub and an evening of music and dancing at Celtic Nights
DAYS 1-2: WELCOME TO DUBLIN
Céad míle fáilte, a hundred thousand welcomes! Arrive in Dublin, meet your Irish guide, and begin your introduction to Ireland’s lively capital. Head into the heart of Dublin and enjoy an included lunch in the Temple Bar district before exploring the city on a sightseeing tour featuring its historic streets, Georgian architecture, and celebrated landmarks. Later, settle into the Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane, your home in Dublin throughout the tour. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. L, D
DAY 3: DISCOVER DUBLIN
After a full Irish breakfast, visit the Guinness Storehouse, where the story of Ireland’s most famous stout comes to life. Continue to Nancy Hands Irish Pub for lunch and a storytelling experience celebrating Ireland’s history, humor, and folklore through the spoken word. This afternoon, step inside Kilmainham Gaol and uncover one of Dublin’s most significant historic sites. Return to the hotel, with the evening and dinner free to enjoy Dublin at your own pace. B, L
DAY 4: THE GARDEN OF IRELAND
Leave Dublin behind as you travel into County Wicklow, affectionately known as the “Garden of Ireland.” Visit Glendalough, an ancient monastic site surrounded by the scenic valleys and lakes of the Wicklow Mountains, followed by lunch at The Wicklow Heather. This afternoon, continue to Wicklow Farmhouse Cheese for a tour and tasting featuring locally produced Irish cheese. Return to Dublin, where the evening and dinner are yours to enjoy at leisure. B, L
DAY 5: IRISH SPORTS AND CULTURE
Discover the passion behind Ireland’s Gaelic games during a special Gaelic Athletic Association experience. Step onto the pitch and try your hand at Gaelic football before touring Croke Park Stadium, home of the GAA. Enjoy lunch on your own and a free afternoon in Dublin. Gather this evening for dinner and live entertainment at Celtic Nights, featuring Irish music and dancing. B, D
DAY 6: HOWTH AND IRELAND’S EYE
Travel to the fishing village of Howth, where colorful boats, coastal scenery, and village charm offer a change of pace from Dublin. Stroll through the harbor during a guided walk before taking to the water for a boat tour around Ireland’s Eye, the small island just offshore. Enjoy free time for lunch in Howth, perhaps sampling the fish and chips this seaside village is known for, before returning to Dublin. Spend the rest of the afternoon shopping, exploring, or revisiting a favorite part of the city. This evening, enjoy dinner together at the hotel. B, D
DAY 7: UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN BADGERS GAME DAY
Today is the day Badger fans have been waiting for! Get ready to bring the energy, show your Badger pride, and Jump Around in Dublin. After breakfast, join fellow Wisconsin fans for the centerpiece of your journey. Make your way to Aviva Stadium, where the University of Wisconsin-Madison Badgers take on the University of Pittsburgh. Feel the excitement and camaraderie as Wisconsin football takes center stage in Ireland. Lunch and dinner are on your own today, giving you flexibility to enjoy the game-day festivities. B
DAY 8: SLÁN ABHAILE, SAFE HOME
After a final Irish breakfast, bid farewell to Dublin and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Return with memories of Irish history, coastal landscapes, spirited traditions, and an unforgettable Badger game day in Dublin. As you head home, carry with you a little Irish spirit and perhaps a familiar tune: “Varsity.” B
QUALITY ACCOMODATIONS:
Nights 2-7: Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane, Dublin, Ireland
Dates:
Aug 22-29, 2027
Price Per Person:
Double: $4,997
Single: $6,175
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
Call for pricing
Depart/Return:
Chicago, IL
Optional round-trip motorcoach transportation will be available from Madison, WI, and Milwaukee, WI, to Chicago O’Hare International Airport for $100 per person.
Inclusions:
Round-trip airfare from the U.S.
Professional, English speaking Tour Director
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.
Departure Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
This tour departs from and returns to Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
Optional round-trip motorcoach transportation will be available from Madison, WI, and Milwaukee, WI, to Chicago O’Hare International Airport for $100 per person.
Our pre- and post-hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. Vehicle parking during the tour is not included. If you need parking, please contact us in advance, and we will be happy to discuss available options.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and European airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate and moveable walkways are not common throughout European Airports as they are in the United States.
Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
We are finding that larger European cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways). In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.
Average Temps
High of 66°F, low of 52°F
Currency
Euro (€)
Time Zone
GMT+1
Hotel Amenities
The Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane is located in Dublin’s Docklands, within walking distance of Dublin city center and Aviva Stadium.
Hotel amenities include complimentary access to the fitness club, featuring a 22-meter indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna, and steam room. The hotel also offers a restaurant, on-site bar and lounge, complimentary Wi-Fi, and 24-hour room service. Guest rooms are equipped with a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual.
Because Ireland’s weather can change throughout the day, consider packing comfortable walking shoes, layers, and rain protection.
Ireland uses three-pronged electrical outlets and a 230V/50Hz electricity supply. Bring an appropriate plug adapter and check the voltage requirements of your electronic devices before travel.
A valid U.S. passport is required for travel to and from the United States.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
