During the 2026 FIFA World Cup (June 11–July 19), four dozen international teams will play more than 100 matches in cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The host cities are preparing a variety of official activities and celebrations. But smart travelers will also take the opportunity to dive deeper into these great destinations, getting off the tourist trail to experience—and taste—all that the local scenes have to offer. No matter your style, or your willingness to spend all your savings on a ticket, we’re here to help you make the most of World Cup travel.
Tickets and Basic Info
From June 11 to July 19, 2026 four dozen international teams will play more than 100 matches in cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Here’s your guide to tickets, games, and travel.
Basing yourself near the actual soccer stadiums, not the marquee cities, will save time, lessen the crowds, and unlock local experiences.
Applications are open through the end of September. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique opportunity to be an integral part of the matches taking place across North America next year.
Are you a casual observer or a World Cup super fan? Here’s how to tackle the complexities and logistics of traveling to see the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches in North America next summer based on what your viewing goals are.
World Cup Host City: New York
Your ideal NYC itinerary includes renovated art museums, world-class shows, a French Japanese bakery, and a revolving restaurant.
A dose of luxury, at a gentler price—these are the 25 best four-star hotels in New York City.
These are the finest places to stay in the Big Apple.
Soup dumplings, dim sum, and hot pot—need we say more?
Don’t let the snow scare you off.
For 30 years, Marjorie Eliot has hosted jazz sessions in her Sugar Hill home. There’s no place in the city quite like it.
Few world events can conjure the kind of widespread kinetic energy that the FIFA World Cup does. It’s not just a soccer tournament; it’s a temporary, beautiful, and utterly chaotic multicultural phenomenon.
—Meredith Heil Bock, in “The 2026 FIFA World Cup Is Coming to North America: Here’s Your Guide to Tickets, Games, and Travel”
World Cup Host City: Miami
With the right itinerary—and a strong cafecito or two running through your veins—you can fit in a bit of it all in Miami.
Insider tips on how to make the most of your time, before or after your voyage.
A Miami resident shares go-to spots beyond South Beach, from Little River bistros to a botanical butterfly garden.
World Cup Host City: Philadelphia
Four Philadelphia tastemakers, across its restaurant, hospitality, and arts scenes, explain why the city is worth a visit today.
A quick guide for your next trip to Philly—including where to eat, shop, sleep, and explore.
On this episode of “View From AFAR,” Executive Director of Visit Philadelphia Angela Val on the birthplace of democracy and Philly as a city for everyone.
World Cup Host City: San Francisco Bay Area
These places to stay are as varied and wonderful as the city itself.
Get a peek at what’s new in San Francisco, from increasingly diverse restaurants to a slew of free entertainment.
Get away from the city with one of these close-by destinations throughout Northern and Central California.
World Cup Host City: Seattle
Both properties stand out for their design-forward approach to sustainability, making them an appealing choice for travelers who appreciate lower-impact luxury.
Three tastemakers—in fashion, farming, and at an aquarium—share how Seattle’s sustainability credentials are shaping it. Plus, how to explore the city as a local.
With its soothing design and sustainability-driven ethos, the new 1 Hotel Seattle offers a tranquil base in the South Lake Union neighborhood.
World Cup Host City: Los Angeles
In a city known for its luxury, these 19 hotels are standouts. Each offers a unique take on world-class hospitality and L.A. glamour.
Groceries at Nijiya. A bowl of ramen at Kouraku. Dinosaur eggs at Café Dulce. Here’s how to experience one of L.A.’s most popular neighborhoods according to Niki Nakayama and Carole Iida.
Soak up the sun, eat your heart out, and venture beyond Hollywood Boulevard in California’s cultural capital.
New highlights in Los Angeles include Michelin-starred omakase, a sleek stadium, and Chef’s Table star Evan Funke’s latest hit.
On this episode of “View From AFAR,” Adam Burke, President and CEO of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, talks about his dream of having 1 million people employed in the city’s tourism industry.
World Cup Host City: Kansas City
Barbecue is only the beginning in a city that also offers massive cinnamon rolls and authentic Mexican and Vietnamese cuisine.
World Cup Host City: Boston
Whether you want to stay in a historic neighborhood, on the water, or in the middle of Red Sox Nation, Boston’s hotel scene delivers.
Find the past and future in New England’s capital, with insider tips from locals.
On this episode of “View From Afar,” Martha Sheridan, president and CEO of Meet Boston, talks about how this most American of cities is celebrating in 2026.
World Cup Host City: Atlanta
A food writer’s essential itinerary for a long weekend in Georgia’s state capital.
World Cup Host City: Toronto
Canada’s first Nobu Hotel and the 50th anniversary of the Toronto International Film Festival are among the reasons why Toronto’s having a blockbuster year.
In Toronto’s burgeoning hotel scene, you’ll find Canada’s first Ace Hotel, a reimagined St. Regis, and an ultra-cool boutique stay in a private women’s club.
Toronto is a city on the rise. Here’s how you should explore it.
World Cup Host City: Vancouver
Whether you have three hours or three days, these insider recommendations will help you make the most of your time in this outdoorsy Pacific Northwest city.
World Cup Host City: Mexico City
Puerto Vallarta experienced an unprecedented display of violence on Sunday following the killing of the cartel leader “El Mencho.” Numerous travel advisories and flight cancellations followed. Here’s the latest news, including what travelers need to know.
The Museo Casa Kahlo, spearheaded by Kahlo’s descendants, focuses on her early years.
Six tastemakers reveal the best new exhibitions, the top tostadas, and the perfect place for a cocktail.
These intimate, design-forward retreats across Mexico City will have you feeling like a local in no time.
Tacos al pastor were only the beginning of the Middle Eastern influence on Mexico City’s cuisine. Today, a new wave of chefs is going back to those flavors and revitalizing the city’s dining scene in the process. Put these dishes on your must-try list.