Are you a soccer fan? You are probably looking forward to the 2026 World Cup. This event is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning your adventure in the United States.
This will be the first World Cup hosted in three countries—Canada, the United States, and Mexico. It promises to be an unforgettable and thrilling experience. Here is the ultimate travel guide to help you navigate this incredible journey!
When and Where
The World Cup will kick off in June 2026 and run through mid-July. The United States will host matches in 11 cities across the country:
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Boston, Massachusetts (Foxborough)
- Dallas, Texas (Arlington)
- Houston, Texas
- Kansas City, Missouri
- Los Angeles, California (Inglewood)
- Miami, Florida
- New York/New Jersey (East Rutherford)
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- San Francisco/Bay Area, California (Santa Clara)
- Seattle, Washington
Consistently check the match schedules. This way, you can plan your itinerary around the games you want to see!
Get Your Tickets
First things first: tickets! You’ll need to keep an eye on FIFA’s official website and the tournament’s social media channels for updates on ticket sales. There will be several phases of sales, so don’t miss out.
You can also check resale platforms like Ticketmaster and StubHub. Remember that getting your tickets early could help you save some money.
Choose Your Cities
With matches spread across so many amazing cities, you’ll want to prioritize which games to catch. Consider the following to make your decision:
Local Attractions
Every city has its unique charm. You can explore famous landmarks, cultural experiences, and local cuisine. Compare the attractions in various cities to determine which ones would be most interesting to you.
Travel Logistics
Think about your mode of travel between cities. Will you be driving, flying, or taking the train? Depending on the cities you want to visit, you’ll need to plan for your travel. Try to schedule your travel around match days to make the most of your time.
Accommodation
Finding accommodation can be a challenge, especially as the event approaches. Here are some tips to help you:
Book Early
Hotels in host cities will fill up fast. Start looking for accommodations now. Be flexible and consider options like Airbnbs, and hostels.
While there are plenty of affordable hotels, alternative accommodation options are usually cheaper.
Location Matters
Find accommodation in places close to stadiums or public transportation. This will make it easier to get to the games.
Consider Shared Lodging
If you’re traveling with a group, consider booking larger accommodations to save money and enjoy a fun atmosphere.
Explore the Nightlife and Activities
Don’t forget to explore the nightlife! Check out local sports bars to mingle with other fans and catch the atmosphere before and after games. Keep an eye on local event calendars, as major cities will likely have concerts and cultural events coinciding with the World Cup.
Consider guided tours or sightseeing excursions to learn more about the cities you’re visiting. Also, engage with locals at nightclubs, restaurants and sports arenas.
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Getting Around
Each host city has different transportation options. Here’s a quick rundown:
Public Transit
Most major cities have reliable public transit systems. Check out metro and bus options for convenient travel to and from the stadiums.
Ride-Sharing Services
Uber and Lyft are available in most cities. They make it easy to get around, especially after late-night games.
Walking
If you’re staying close to the stadiums, walking can be a great way to soak in the local vibe. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and stay safe.
Check Out the Local Culture
You can’t travel the United States without indulging in the local cuisine! Here’s what to try in each city:
- Atlanta- Southern barbecue and fried chicken
- Boston- Clam chowder and lobster rolls
- Dallas- Tex-Mex and barbecue
- Houston-Cajun cuisine and tacos
- Kansas City- Barbecue
- Los Angeles-Avocado toast and food trucks
- Miami-Cuban sandwiches and fresh seafood
- New York- Bagels and pizza
- Philadelphia- Cheesesteaks
- San Francisco-Sourdough bread
- Seattle-Coffee and fresh seafood
Embrace the Soccer Spirit
The World Cup is about more than just the matches; it’s a celebration of culture and camaraderie. Here are some tips to get into the spirit:
Wear Your Colors
Don your favorite team’s jersey or colors to show your support. They are great conversation starters and a way to show others where you stand.
Join Fan Zones
Many host cities will have designated fan zones where you can watch matches with fellow supporters. It is a great way to connect with people from around the world!
Learn the Chants
Familiarize yourself with common soccer chants and songs-getting involved adds to the experience!
Safety and Health Tips
Traveling may be an adventure, but your safety and health always come first. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Always carry hand sanitizers and masks if required. Check local health guidelines, especially as the event approaches. You should also know the local emergency numbers and have your accommodations’ contact information handy.
Stay Connected
Social media is a great way to share your World Cup adventure with friends and family. Use popular hashtags like #WorldCup2026 and your specific match tags to connect with other fans and join the global conversation.
It’s also a fun way to document your journey! Here are other ways to stay connected.
Local SIM Cards and Wi-Fi
If you’re traveling from abroad, consider getting a local SIM card for your phone to avoid high roaming charges. Alternatively, many cities have free public Wi-Fi in downtown areas and coffee shops. They can help you stay connected without breaking the bank.
Stay Updated
With so much happening during the World Cup, staying updated is crucial. Download relevant apps that provide match schedules, team news, and live updates. The FIFA app is a great choice, as it will give you all the latest information you need.
In conclusion, the 2026 World Cup is set to be an amazing celebration. The United States will likely welcome fans from all around the world. With a little planning and the right mindset, your World Cup adventure will be one for the books. Consider the above tips and enjoy your travel.