The Total Guide to the World Cup 2026 host cities
Words: Si Willmore, Kav Dadfar Photo: Houston First Corporation (Lance Childers)
The upcoming FIFA World Cup™ is the largest in history, featuring an expanded format of 48 teams and a record 104 matches. The 2026 tournament will be hosted by 14 cities across three countries, the United States, Canada and Mexico, with the showpiece kicking off on 11 June at Estadio Azteca with Mexico vs South Africa. A whopping 11 cities in America will host games across 39 days – here’s your guide to what to do, how to get around, where to visit and what to eat for each American city during the greatest sporting spectacle on Earth.
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Atlanta
Football, civil rights history, Southern culture and stadium engineering brilliance: welcome to ATL 2026. Atlanta is a place where sporting legacies, music, civil rights history and Southern cuisine all share the spotlight – often in the same afternoon.
The stadium
Atlanta Stadium, known year-round as Mercedes-Benz Stadium, sits in Downtown. Its location at 1 AMB Drive NW places it within steps of major attractions like Centennial Olympic Park, 13,000 hotel rooms and more than 300 dining options.
Public transportation in Atlanta is straightforward and efficient on match days. MARTA rail services deliver fans directly to two stations near the stadium, GWCC/CNN Center and Vine City, for just $2.50 (£1.85) each way.
Visitors are encouraged to download the Breeze Mobile 2.0 app to pre-purchase round-trip tickets and speed up entry to the system. If staying in Downtown hotels, you can walk along the Andrew Young pedestrian corridor straight to the entrance.
Where to stay
Midtown and the Eastside provide additional hotel options just a short rail or rideshare journey away. Both areas offer great dining, green spaces and nightlife, making them excellent alternatives for anyone wanting a slightly different atmosphere.
Meanwhile, Buckhead caters to those seeking a more upscale stay, with high-end hotels and shopping in one of Atlanta’s most polished districts.
Unmissable attractions
Centennial Olympic Park anchors Downtown Atlanta, a legacy of the 1996 Summer Olympics, and connects directly to the Georgia Aquarium, North America’s largest. Next door sits the World of Coca-Cola, a colourful tribute to Atlanta’s most famous beverage.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights offers powerful storytelling on both the US Civil Rights Movement, with new galleries on the Reconstruction Era. The Atlanta BeltLine has become one of the city’s defining features: a former rail corridor turned into multi-use trails lined with street art, breweries, markets and parks.
Ponce City Market, located beside the BeltLine, is a standout spot for dining, browsing and skyline views. Its rooftop park features carnival-style games, mini golf and open-air lounges with panoramic city vistas.
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park offers a moving journey through landmarks, monuments and exhibits honouring Dr. King’s legacy.
Eat like a local
The Varsity, a downtown institution since 1928, remains a favourite for burgers, chilli dogs and onion rings. It’s also the world’s largest drive-in restaurant, serving crowds of students, sports fans and locals with its trademark energy.
BBQ lovers should visit Fat Matt’s Rib Shack for ribs, chicken and live blues music. On the Eastside, Krog Street Market houses a range of independent food vendors; favourites include Fred’s Meat & Bread, Gu’s Dumplings and The Little Tart Bakeshop.
Where to watch
Centennial Olympic Park will host Atlanta’s official FIFA Fan Festival™. The celebration lasts 20 days, featuring match screenings, concerts, a cultural programme and food.
Beyond the festival, Atlanta offers countless bars and restaurants buzzing with a sport-mad atmosphere. You can expect packed patios, big screens and enthusiastic crowds across Downtown, Midtown, Eastside and well beyond.
Wild Leap Atlanta, located just outside the stadium in the developing Centennial Yards district, is ideal for pre- or post-match food and drinks. For elevated dining, The Sun Dial and Polaris deliver sky-high views with refined menus.
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boston
History, championship pedigree and New England charm converge in Boston. It’s the home of the American Revolution and world-class education and a legendary sports culture – all found in a city core that is famously walkable.
The stadium
Boston Stadium, known year-round as Gillette Stadium, is located in the town of Foxborough, approximately 30 miles south of Boston. The stadium is roughly a 30-minute drive from Boston, though fans should account for significantly more time on match days. Key landmarks around the stadium include the Patriot Place shopping and entertainment complex.
Navigating to Foxborough is made simple via the MBTA Commuter Rail. A special World Cup train service will be offered for matches, transporting fans directly from Boston’s city centre to the stadium. Match-day transit tickets will only be available via the MBTA App.
Where to stay
Boston is a compact city and almost all neighbourhoods offer easy access to stadium transportation. Properties located along the Rose Kennedy Greenway will be closest to the action.
Downtown and Greenway are your best bet if you want to be in the middle of the Fan Zones and historical sites.
For budget-friendly stays, explore properties like the Midtown Hotel, The Revolution, or Studio Allston.
Unmissable attractions
Fenway Park, or ‘America’s Ballpark’ to locals, is the oldest in the country and a cathedral to the Red Sox and sport history.
With the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and the signing of the Declaration of Independence, coinciding with the World Cup, the Boston History and The Freedom Trail is a must-see. Visit the USS Constitution or learn about the city’s black patriots at the Museum of African American History.
Kayak along the Charles River with Paddle Boston for a unique vantage point of the Boston and Cambridge skylines. You can even navigate the route used for the famous Head of the Charles Regatta.
The Rose Kennedy Greenway features food trucks, beer gardens and public art. Families can visit the carousel and splash pads, or catch a ferry to the Harbor Islands from the docks.
Eat like a local
Located on the Freedom Trail, Union Oyster House is the oldest restaurant in the country. It offers an authentic historical atmosphere with New England classics like clam chowder and lobster rolls.
Sited in the North End (Boston’s authentic Little Italy), Michelin- recommended Carmelina’s serves Sicilian and Mediterranean comfort food in a cosy setting. Or Woods Hill Pier 4, located in the Seaport, offers an upscale farm-to-table twist on New England fare.
Where to watch
In the heart of downtown, City Hall Plaza, the city’s ‘civic front yard’, will serve as the official hub for the tournament. Expect a 23-day celebration with giant screens, live music and interactive games.
The Banshee in Dorchester is widely considered the premier sports bar in the city, with two floors and 16 screens.
Or Phoenix Landing in Cambridge’s Central Square, with a distinct UK vibe, is a long-time favourite for watching international tournaments.
For a late-night post-match option, head to McGonagle’s Pub & Restaurant in Dorchester. Enjoy craft cocktails, pints, and live music into the early hours.
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dallas
The Dallas Stadium (usually AT&T Stadium) is hosting nine matches so the city is preparing for a football takeover of unrivalled proportions, ranging from the neon-lit streets of Deep Ellum to Fair Park.
The stadium
World Cup matches will take place at the home of the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, west of the city. The stadium’s scale alone makes the journey worth it: yes, everything really is bigger in Texas.
The Trinity Railway Express (TRE) connects Dallas Union Station to CentrePort/DFW Airport Station, where matchday shuttles will run to the stadium. Keep in mind the TRE does not usually operate on Sundays.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft remain reliable, with designated pickup and drop-off zones clearly marked around the stadium. Travel times vary, but 25–35 minutes is typical from downtown Dallas outside peak congestion.
Where to stay
For affordable stays with strong transport links, neighbourhoods like Oak Cliff, Lake Highlands, Vickery Meadows, Northeast Dallas and Deep Ellum provide safe, well-connected bases with access to DART services.
Fans wanting to stay closer to the stadium can look to Arlington, where budget hotels including Motel 6 and Executive Inn offer convenience and shorter matchday travel times. Meanwhile, quieter suburbs such as Justin or Argyle offer excellent value for those happy to commute to the stadium.
Unmissable attractions
The 6th Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza offers a look at the life and legacy of John F. Kennedy. From there, head to Reunion Tower, whose observation deck delivers sweeping views across the metroplex. Culture vultures will appreciate the Dallas Museum of Art, which houses collections spanning thousands of years and numerous continents.
The McKinney Avenue Trolley, known affectionately as the M-LINE, is a charming way to explore Dallas. Its vintage streetcars travel through Uptown past landmarks, parks and eclectic public art.
For something serene, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden sits along White Rock Lake, featuring permanent gardens, seasonal events, children’s areas and the Tasteful Place edible garden.
Eat like a local
The Gallery Rooftop Lounge at Canvas Hotel offers a sixth-floor terrace overlooking the Downtown skyline. Order flatbreads or ceviche and enjoy one of the best vantage points in the city.
Klyde Warren Park provides a more casual experience, with rotating food trucks serving everything from burgers to tacos to artisanal ice cream, typically available weekdays from 11am to 2:30pm and weekends from 11am to 7:30pm.
Where to watch
The Dallas Fan Festival™ will take place at Fair Park: a 277-acre complex known for its Art Deco architecture and as the home of the State Fair of Texas. Expect enormous screens, food stalls, performances and a festive atmosphere filled with fans from all over the world.
Across Dallas, sports bars, brewery taprooms and neighbourhood pubs will broadcast matches throughout the tournament. Uptown, Deep Ellum, Bishop Arts and Lower Greenville are all reliable hubs for strong crowds and lively energy.
Late-night cravings are easily solved at Plomo Quesadillas in East Dallas. Open until 4am Thursday to Saturday, it specialises in creative quesadillas that somehow stay under $10. For a uniquely Dallas excursion, follow the Margarita Mile – your self-guided tour of the city’s most beloved margarita spots.
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HOUSTON
Houston is where space travel, smoky BBQ and irresistible Southern hospitality collide with the beautiful game. As such, the Bayou City is enormous, energetic and proudly Texan.
The stadium
NRG Stadium, home to the Houston Texans and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, sits at 1 NRG Parkway. It’s about 20 minutes by car from downtown on a good day, or up to 45 minutes if traffic decides to offer a classic Houston greeting. Landmarks nearby include the massive NRG Park complex and the surrounding medical district, one of the largest in the world. While it’s not a stadium you wander past on an afternoon walk, its scale, accessibility and state-of-the-art facilities make it a natural hub for football fans.
From downtown, the METRORail’s Line 700 runs directly toward the NRG Stadium area, delivering fans close enough for a comfortable walk. Buses, such as Line 011, also offer straightforward access, though they require an extra 20-minute walk at the end.
Where to stay
Hotel Saint Augustine offers a stylish stay near downtown attractions, while the Marriott Marquis Houston tempts guests with its Texas- shaped rooftop lazy river. The Post Oak Hotel offers Southern luxury with polished service.
Proximity to public transport isn’t crucial, as Houston’s rideshare network is efficient. The city’s size means different neighbourhoods offer different atmospheres, but all provide reliable access to the stadium, especially for those who don’t mind a short rail or car ride.
Unmissable attractions
Space Center Houston will give you the chance to explore NASA’s history and get up close to spacecraft and moon-landing artefacts. The Museum District brings together 19 institutions covering art, science, culture and history.
Hermann Park offers green space, lakeside strolls and the popular Houston Zoo. Then there’s POST Houston and Art Club – HTX, a contemporary creative hub. The ‘Tour de Brewery Houston’ allows you to pedal between craft breweries.
One of the city’s most memorable experiences lies below street level: the Buffalo Bayou Cistern, a vast underground chamber that once held drinking water and now hosts guided tours and immersive art installations.
Eat like a local
Houston’s enormous Chinatown stretches more than 10 miles and is home to Viet-Cajun crawfish at Crawfish and Noodles.
Classic Tex-Mex fans will gravitate toward The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation or the Michelin-recognised Candente.
For West African flavours, ChopNBlok’s Montrose location serves bold, satisfying plates.
Of course, no Houston trip is complete without barbecue: Truth BBQ, Gatlin’s, Khoi, Corkscrew and Tejas Chocolates & BBQ are just a few of the city’s standouts.
Where to watch
Located in the walkable East Downtown neighbourhood, FIFA Fan Festival™ at EaDo is the official HQ for fans without match tickets. For a climate-controlled experience to avoid the heat and humidity, look into the ‘Legends Loft’ hospitality packages.
Located a block from Shell Energy Stadium, Pitch 25 Beer Park is arguably Houston’s most iconic football bar. Co-owned by Houston Dynamo legend Brian Ching, this warehouse complex features an indoor football pitch and over 100 beers on tap.
And for something more meaningful, ISHTIA teaches the traditional preparations of Indigenous Choctaw cuisine.
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kansas city
Kansas City has always been one of America’s great storytellers. The ‘City of Fountains’ – boasting over 200, second only to Rome – is home to jazz clubs, barbecue trails and a war museum unique to the country.
The stadium
Kansas City Stadium, better known as GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, sits inside the Truman Sports Complex, home turf for the Kansas City Chiefs. From downtown, it’s around a 20-minute drive, depending on traffic and how many barbecue joints you pass on the way.
The area is a tribute to sporting heritage and Missouri history. Once you arrive, the sense of scale, crowd energy and the arrowhead shape make it instantly recognisable as one of the most atmospheric arenas in the United States.
KC2026 has leased 200 charter buses to operate a dedicated park-and-ride network. Limited on-site parking and plentiful rideshare options mean you can pick whichever method feels least stressful.
Where to stay
Downtown KC has direct access to the free KC Streetcar and a wealth of accommodation options.
The Country Club Plaza, known simply as ‘the Plaza’ is another popular area. With its Spanish-inspired architecture, walkable layout and excellent dining, it’s a comfortable base for those who enjoy exploring between matches.
Overland Park, on the Kansas side, is 20 minutes from downtown and well-suited to families, offering easy dining, entertainment and spacious accommodation options.
Unmissable attractions
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is home to everything from Monet and Degas; the giant shuttlecock sculptures on the lawn have become an unofficial symbol of Kansas City.
The American Jazz Museum celebrates Kansas City’s deep musical roots, with exhibits, performances and nearby live jazz venues like Green Lady Lounge and Black Dolphin.
The National WWI Museum and Memorial is the only American museum devoted solely to the Great War. Its panoramic views of the skyline are remarkable.
The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, in the historic 18th & Vine district, celebrates Black baseball players and the cultural shift they inspired.
Eat like a local
For late-night cravings, Town Topic – open since 1937 – sits at the top of the list. Its tiny white diner still serves burgers, malts, pies and breakfasts exactly the way it did decades ago and locals wouldn’t have it any other way.
Kansas City’s barbecue offerings are near mythical: burnt ends from Gates Bar-B-Q, pulled pork from Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, brisket from Arthur Bryant’s, turkey from Q39 and cheesy corn from Jack Stack Barbecue. 1587 Prime, owned by Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, brings a slick new steakhouse experience.
Where to watch
The heart of the FIFA Fan Festival™ will be at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, transforming the grounds into a city-wide celebration filled with music, culture and food.
Anyone looking for roaring atmospheres should head to KC Live! in the Power & Light District, already hugely famous for watch parties during other major sporting events.
The Peanut, the city’s oldest bar and grill, started as a speakeasy and now enjoys legendary status. Rye pays tribute to Midwest classics like pork chops, fried chicken and seasonal pies.
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LOS ANGELES
Los Angeles may be famous for red carpets, studio sets and endless sunshine, but in 2026 it will be adding World Cup fever to its list of starring roles with a stadium that already looks like it belongs in a sci-fi blockbuster.
The stadium
Home of the NFL team the LA Rams, SoFi Stadium rises out of Inglewood like a futuristic film set, just 15 minutes from LAX airport and around 45 minutes from Hollywood or Downtown depending on traffic.
Opened in 2021, the stadium sits at the centre of Hollywood Park, a rapidly expanding entertainment hub. Nearby, you will find the Intuit Dome (home to the LA Clippers), the YouTube Theatre and the Kia Forum.
Getting around LA can sometimes feel like strategising for an elaborate heist film, but the World Cup will include special bus services delivering fans directly to SoFi Stadium.
Where to stay
The hotels around LAX offer thousands of rooms at competitive prices and sit just 15 minutes from SoFi. Beach lovers should stay in Venice or Santa Monica; film buffs can base themselves in Hollywood and if you want something a little more local, head to Silver Lake.
Culver City is also a great option for the World Cup, being only 15 minutes from SoFi Stadium. There are restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques and even the Sony Pictures Studio Tour within walking distance.
Hotels such as The Shay, The Culver Hotel and the Palihotel Culver City all offer distinctive stays without sacrificing location.
Unmissable attractions
The Hollywood Sign draws travellers up into the hills by hiking trail, e-bike tour or horseback ride, while Universal Studios Hollywood and Warner Bros. Studio Tour will take you behind the scenes, into soundstages, onto backlots and occasionally past filming.
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is the newest heavyweight in LA’s cultural world. Created by the same team behind the Oscars, it houses extraordinary collections and film artefacts rarely seen outside the industry.
Venice Beach offers another quintessential LA moment: evening surfers riding the last waves of the day while palm trees sway in the background.
Watching a live match at Cosm is a revelation. The wrap-around immersive screen creates the illusion of being on the pitch, minus the travel, jet lag or the opposition fans.
Eat like a local
LA’s taco trucks are legendary, offering impossibly good food from brightly coloured vans parked everywhere from neighbourhood corners to outside music venues.
Gjelina in Venice brings California flavour through seasonal dishes; Pizzeria Mozza, from celebrity chef Nancy Silverton, has earned a loyal following including locals and off-duty actors.
Where to watch
The LA FIFA Fan Festival™ will be held at the Memorial Coliseum, which has hosted three Presidents and two Super Bowls.
Given LA’s love for sports bars, rooftops and giant screens, expect a mix of open-air viewing parties, themed celebrations and pumping neighbourhood gatherings that reflect the city’s diversity.
And for a post-match fix, Pink’s Hot Dogs reigns supreme. Open until 2am on weekends, it has every topping known to humankind and more than enough LA character to keep fans entertained well after the final whistle.
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miami
Football fever, Caribbean flavours, global street art, skyline views and 22 miles of beach: Miami knows how to host a party.
The stadium
Miami Stadium, normally named Hard Rock Stadium, sits in Miami Gardens. Generally it’s 20 minutes from Downtown Miami or 30 minutes from South Beach. It’s surrounded by everything from Calder Casino and Top Golf to the Sunshine State Arch and the New World African and Caribbean Market.
Transport plans for the tournament are being expanded: expect private buses shuttling supporters from designated points around the city directly to the stadium.
Brightline remains the standout travel option: passengers can ride the eco-friendly train to Aventura Station, then hop onto the Brightline event shuttle that goes straight to the stadium. You can book the journey through the Brightline website or app and even add a Brightline + Uber ride.
Where to stay
Anyone wanting easy access to the stadium can choose options close to Miami Gardens: Stadium Hotel, North Miami Beach Gardens Inn & Suites.
Sunny Isles Beach offers oceanfront lodgings such as Marenas Beach Resort; Aventura adds upscale choices like the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa or Hilton Miami Aventura, with dining and green spaces within walking distance.
Hollywood and Hallandale Beach provide a quieter alternative to the South Beach energy. The Circ (powered by Sonder) gives apartment-style stays while keeping guests close to major highways and Brightline stations.
Unmissable attractions
More than 120 artists from over 25 countries have contributed murals to Wynwood Walls, turning it into a living canvas. The Messi mural has become one of the most photographed artworks in the area.
Miami Beach’s Art Deco District is home to nearly 800 registered historic structures. Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), designed by the award-winning Herzog & de Meuron, is filled with galleries showcasing contemporary art. A guided tour of Calle Ocho will help you experience Little Havana, the cultural soul of Miami, including cigars, bakeries, fruit stalls and Cuban cafés.
Biscayne National Park is a vast marine sanctuary filled with sea turtles, mangroves, coral reefs and shipwrecks, plus boat tours to Boca Chita Key. Or Thriller Miami Speedboat Adventures will take you across the bay aboard a 55-foot power catamaran, past Star Island and Monument Island at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.
Eat like a local
Stadium Diner offers chicken wings, salads and comfort classics.
Chef Tally World Famous Jerk in West Park draws crowds for Caribbean jerk chicken and ribs, a flavour- packed reminder of Miami’s island connections.
Bahama Breeze serves cocktails and island- inspired dishes. It’s an easy-going option for big groups or casual diners.
Awash Ethiopian Restaurant combines spiced stews, injera and family recipes.
Where to watch
Bayfront Park will be the heart of Miami’s FIFA Fan Festival™, transforming into a sprawling waterfront village for over 23 days filled with match broadcasts, cultural shows, concerts, food and interactive experiences.
Other viewing spots include Bayshore Club with its sweeping bay views, Fritz & Franz Bierhaus for German- style matchdays, Biscayne Bay Brewing for a beer- centric experience, Grails with its 70+ televisions and Wynwood Marketplace for a pulsating festival energy.
A few miles away, L.C. Roti Shop offers some of Miami’s best Trinidadian roti in a humble setting that keeps regulars coming back.
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ny & NJ
New York City is a city that runs on ambition, improvisation and an unshakeable belief that it can handle absolutely anything thrown at it – including the biggest sporting occasion in the world.
The stadium
The matches take place across the Hudson River at MetLife Stadium, in East Rutherford which is actually in New Jersey. This state-of-the-art stadium will host eight matches during the tournament, including the final.
From Midtown Manhattan, travel time is typically 30–50 minutes. Fans can take NJ Transit trains from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer directly to stadium-bound services.
Coach services and park-and-ride options will supplement rail travel, while rideshare drop-off zones operate with strict controls to keep traffic moving.
Where to stay in New York
At the top end, Midtown welcomes the Faena New York overlooking the High Line and the revamped W New York (Union Square). These sit close to major subway hubs, making Penn Station and NJ Transit connections to MetLife Stadium straightforward.
Fans prioritising value should try Queens and Upper Manhattan. The Westin Flushing LaGuardia Airport is close to subway lines, Long Island Rail Road services and the Queens Fan Zone at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
Harlem is home to The George at Columbia (Tapestry Collection by Hilton) offering a quieter base well connected to Midtown via the subway.
Unmissable NYC attractions
From 3 to 9 July, the city will host Sail4th, for the 250th anniversary of America’s Independence, when the largest international flotilla of vessels ever assembled will sail into New York Harbor.
Edge at Hudson Yards offers something far more involved than a standard observation deck. City Climb takes you more than 1,200 feet above street level before leaning out from a platform at the summit.
At the Rockefeller Center, The Beam recreates the famous 1932 “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper” image, allowing you to sit on a moving steel beam suspended high above the city. The Sky Lift goes even higher on an open-air platform above the main observation deck.
Eat like a local
The Arthur Avenue Retail Market in the Bronx brings together produce stalls, specialist food shops and casual places to eat.
Mike’s Deli remains a popular stop for generously filled sandwiches, while The Bronx Beer Hall offers a relaxed place to pause with a drink.
Time Out Market New York near Union Square gathers seven kitchens and a full-service bar with well-known names and rising talent.
Where to watch
The NYNJ World Cup 26 Fan Zone is at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center; Rockefeller Center will become home to the Fan Village. At both, expect match viewings, an interactive pitch, music and appearances by former players.
Liberty State Park in Jersey City will host the FIFA Fan Festival™ NYNJ, serving as the region’s largest fan destination outside the stadium, set against views of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
Jackson Heights in Queens delivers one of the city’s most wide- ranging food scenes, shaped by communities from South Asia, Latin America and beyond.
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Philadelphia
Independence, cheesesteaks, murals and more: Philadelphia has hosted popes, parades, presidents and championship celebrations.
The stadium
World Cup matches will take place at Philadelphia Stadium, usually called Lincoln Financial Field – simply known as ‘The Linc’ – which is located at 1020 Pattison Avenue in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex.
The Linc is roughly a 10–20 minute drive from Center City depending on traffic, although in true Philadelphia fashion, someone will probably insist their shortcut is faster.
You can reach Lincoln Financial Field using Philadelphia’s SEPTA transit system. The Broad Street Line runs directly south to Pattison Avenue, the closest stop to the stadium.
Where to stay
Center City is the most practical base, with a wide range of hotels close to restaurants, bars and shops, plus direct access to Lincoln Financial Field via the SEPTA Broad Street Line. It also connects easily to 30th Street Station for Amtrak services. Old City, just east of Center City, will suit anyone keen to explore Penn’s Landing.
South Philadelphia offers two options for proximity to the action: Live! Casino & Hotel and Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia South at The Navy Yard, both within walking distance of the stadium.
While nightlife is quieter here, the trade-off is easy matchday access and proximity to FDR Park, the largest green space in South Philly.
Unmissable attractions
Start your history immersion at 5th and Arch Street, Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was debated and signed. Nearby, Carpenters’ Hall reveals where the First Continental Congress first met, while The President’s House Site marks where Washington and Adams lived before the White House existed.
Philadelphia’s pop-culture fame takes centre stage at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, reachable via the iconic ‘Rocky Steps’. With 2026 marking the 50th anniversary of the film, expect even more fans sprinting up its 72 steps while humming the theme tune. Inside, the museum houses a world-class collection spanning 2,000 years.
Inspiring more than 4,000 public artworks, the city’s Mural Arts programme began as an anti-graffiti initiative and grew into the largest public art organisation in the US.
Eat like a local
The cheesesteak, served on a soft roll with chopped beef, onions and a choice of cheeses (Cheez Whiz, American, or Provolone), is a rite of passage for visitors. Pat’s and Geno’s remain the legendary rivals, while Campo’s in Old City offers a beloved alternative.
Soft pretzels are another local favourite, sold in markets, bakeries and street carts across the city. Reading Terminal Market is a reliable source, with vendors like Miller’s Twist shaping fresh pretzels daily.
Rittenhouse Square provides upscale dining options including Parc, Harp & Crown, Oyster House and Friday Saturday Sunday.
For steak lovers, Barclay Prime delivers polished dining with plenty of character.
Where to watch
Philadelphia’s FIFA Fan Festival™ will match the city’s famously devoted fan culture with large-scale celebrations at the heart of downtown.
The festival will feature concerts, global cuisine, entertainment and live broadcasts, all framed by the city’s historic legacy as the birthplace of the United States.
Elsewhere, neighbourhood bars across Center City, South Philly, Fishtown and Northern Liberties will broadcast matches.
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SAN FRANCISCO
San Francisco has only just hosted the Super Bowl; now the region offers its culture of tech innovation, dramatic natural landscapes and world-class culinary options to football fans, too.
The stadium
As the home of the NFL’s 49ers, Levi’s Stadium – renamed the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium for the tournament – is no stranger to spectacles, including Super Bowl LX just a few months ago. Unique for a stadium of this size (71,000 seats), nearly two-thirds of the seats are in the lower bowl. The stadium is located in Silicon Valley, 40 miles south of San Francisco.
The Caltrain is the most efficient link from San Francisco. Take the train from the 4th and King Street Station to the Mountain View station, where you can transfer to the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority.
Where to stay
Stay near the Embarcadero for the San Francisco Waterfront experience. You’ll have access to the historic Ferry Building and views of the Bay Bridge.
Palo Alto and Mountain View are ideal for the Silicon Valley vibe. They are closer to the stadium and offer leafy streets, high-end dining, and proximity to the Stanford University campus.
San Jose is in fact the closest major city to the stadium. It features a booming downtown area and the Santana Row district, which offers upscale shopping and outdoor dining.
Unmissable attractions
Rent a bike and cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito. If the famous fog (known to locals as ‘Karl’) rolls in, head to Battery Spencer for a view of the towers peeking through the clouds.
Alcatraz Island, once home to notorious criminals like Al Capone, is now one of the city’s most popular national parks. Tickets for June and July sell out months in advance, so book your ferry to ‘The Rock’ from Pier 33 as soon as possible.
For a change of pace, walk among ancient redwoods in Muir Woods National Monument. Some of these towering giants are over 1,000 years old. It’s a serene, cathedral-like forest that feels worlds away from the roar of the stadium.
Eat like a local
The Mission Burrito offers a foil-wrapped behemoth packed with rice, beans, and meat. And be sure to try the ‘Orange Sauce of San Jose’ at Victoria Taqueria, a cult- favourite condiment: creamy, spicy, and vegan and a South Bay rite of passage.
Grab a bowl of clam chowder at Boudin or head to Anchor Oyster Bar in the Castro for a bowl of cioppino, a spicy, tomato-based seafood stew invented by the city’s Italian fishermen.
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in North America. Join the morning crowds at Yank Sing for traditional cart service, or grab a cheap and delicious box of pork buns to go from Good Mong Kok Bakery.
Where to watch
The Embarcadero and Justin Herman Plaza in San Francisco will serve as the primary gathering points for the FIFA Fan Festival™. Expect massive screens, interactive football tech exhibits and local food trucks.
Head to San Pedro Square Market for a courtyard with multiple bars or, in San Francisco, Kezar Pub near Golden Gate Park is a legendary institution with a dedicated atmosphere.
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SEATTLE
The Emerald City is a place where tech workers fuel up on artisanal coffee before their morning hike, and where sports fandom reaches levels that could politely be described as ‘committed’.
The stadium
Lumen Field, named Seattle Stadium for the tournament, sits in the SoDo / Pioneer Square neighbourhood, south of downtown. It shares the spotlight with T-Mobile Park next door, forming an entertainment corridor hugged by Pioneer Square, the International District and the Industrial District.
With King Street Station steps away, fans arriving for the World Cup will find themselves within a 20-minute stroll of the city. That alone makes Lumen Field one of the most walkable major venues in the United States.
The Link Light Rail drops you at Stadium Station, four stops from the downtown core. Multiple bus routes stop within a few blocks; King Street Station – serving both Amtrak and commuter rail – is so close you can almost hear the trains.
Where to stay
Embassy Suites in Pioneer Square is three minutes from Lumen Field. citizenM offers cleverly designed rooms in one of the city’s most historic districts, while the Silver Cloud Hotel sits directly across from the stadium complex.
Boutique lovers will appreciate Hotel Ändra’s stylish approach and Palihotel brings a quirky charm inside a restored early-1900s building.
For streamlined travel, Visit Seattle has partnered with Crewfare to offer exclusive advance rates and curated hotel options near key venues.
Unmissable attractions
The Space Needle offers sweeping views along with a revolving glass floor. Pike Place Market sees salmon flying through the air, stalls stacked with local produce and the original Starbucks where queues form rain or shine.
The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is an ode to Nirvana, Hendrix and other legends while the Seattle Waterfront is home to the Great Wheel, harbour cruises and Ocean Pavilion. Argosy Cruises journey through the Ballard Locks and Lake Union, where you watch boats rise and fall like they’re in a maritime elevator.
Tasting tours with groups like Savour Seattle let you sample creamy Hellenika yoghurt to market-fresh chowder. Glassblowing classes near the Space Needle introduce the craft that Seattle is famous for – thanks to Dale Chihuly’s enormous artistic influence.
Eat like a local
Oriental Mart inside Pike Place Market serves Filipino favourites such as adobo, pancit and lumpia in a no-nonsense counter-service setting.
Dick’s Drive-In, a proud local institution, offers simple burgers and milkshakes that fuel countless late-night adventures.
Five Point Café, near the Space Needle, serves hearty meals and strong drinks. Across from Lumen Field, Hatback Bar + Grille is a fan magnet, perfect for pre-game energy or post-match analysis.
Duke’s Seafood delivers sustainably sourced dishes, soothing chowders, wild salmon and a burger that quietly competes with the city’s best.
Where to watch
At Seattle Center, up to 20,000 fans can gather for outdoor screenings, but Seattle offers something unique: statewide Fan Zones. Seattle FWC26 has partnered with nine cities across Washington to create community-wide viewing hubs, from Tacoma and Yakima to Spokane and Tri-Cities.
Sports bars like Rhein Haus, George & Dragon and Atlantic Crossing – particularly around Fremont and Capitol Hill – are also gearing up to be match- day favourites.
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SEATTLE
SF BAY AREA
LOS ANGELES
KANSAS CITY
DALLAS
HOUSTON
BOSTON
PHILADELPHIA NEW YORK/ NEW JERSEY
ATLANTA
MIAMI
RECOMMENDED
TOURS
Sportsworld
Follow 3 Ultimate
From £4,665 per person (without international flights) Follows England through all group-stage matches. Includes 12–14 nights of accommodation, internal domestic travel, transfers and three matchday ‘Big Bar’ pre-match hospitality experiences.
Follow 3 Game-Day
From £2,612 per person For fans wanting a match-day experience while arranging their own travel. Includes six nights of four-star accommodation, transfers, ‘Big Bar’ pre-match functions and 24/7 event support.
Final Package
From £1,975 per person For fans attending the tournament’s climax, this package covers four nights of accommodation for the final on 19 July 2026. Includes local transfers and access to Sportsworld representatives.
Dates
for the diary
The tournament begins with 12 groups of four teams each. Every team plays three matches, totalling 72 games, across all 14 host cities (in Canada and Mexico, too).
On 4 July, knockout matches will be held in Philadelphia and Houston, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
On 19 July, the 104th and final match of the tournament will take place at MetLife Stadium (New York/New Jersey) at 8pm UK time.
Group stage
11 June – 27 June
Round of 32
28 June – 3 July
Round of 16
4 July – 7 July
Quarter-finals
9 July – 11 July
Semi-finals
14 July – 15 July
Third-place playoff
18 July
Final
19 July