Jump to Stadium
- Estadio Azteca – Mexico City
- Estadio Akron – Guadalajara
- Estadio BBVA – Monterrey
- MetLife Stadium – New York / New Jersey
- Gillette Stadium – Boston Area
- Lincoln Financial Field – Philadelphia
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium – Atlanta
- Hard Rock Stadium – Miami
- Arrowhead Stadium – Kansas City
- AT&T Stadium – Dallas / Arlington
- NRG Stadium – Houston
- SoFi Stadium – Los Angeles
- Levi’s Stadium – San Francisco Bay Area
- Lumen Field – Seattle
- BMO Field – Toronto
- BC Place – Vancouver
In 2026, football — yes, football — is coming home to three homes at once. For the first time in history, the FIFA World Cup will be shared by three nations: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. It’s a continental takeover of the world’s favorite sport — 48 teams, 16 cities, and more than a million fans crossing borders to witness history.
This is more than a tournament. It’s a logistical masterpiece, a cultural mashup, and a stadium showcase unlike anything FIFA’s ever attempted. From Mexico’s storied cathedrals to the United States’ billion-dollar arenas and Canada’s scenic venues, these World Cup 2026 stadiums will redefine what it means to host the global game.
Mexico: Where World Cup Legends Were Born
Mexico isn’t new to this. It hosted the World Cup in 1970 and 1986, delivering moments that became football folklore — Pelé’s final triumph and Maradona’s “Goal of the Century.” Now it’s back for a third act, bringing its legendary fan energy and vibrant culture to the world once again.
Expect mariachi in the streets, tacos on every corner, and a national obsession with football that borders on religion. Mexico’s matches will feel raw, emotional, and full of life — the kind of experience you can’t replicate anywhere else.
Estadio Akron (Guadalajara Stadium)
Guadalajara brings a more modern energy to Mexico’s World Cup story. Estadio Akron, with its smooth curves and futuristic hill-shaped exterior, looks like a volcano rising from the earth. The 48,000-seat venue offers great sightlines and a cozy atmosphere compared with Mexico City’s giant bowl.
What visitors should know: The area around the stadium is suburban and safe, but traffic can be heavy after matches — rideshares or shuttle buses are the best bet. Downtown Guadalajara has incredible nightlife, mariachi music, and local dishes like birria tacos.
Interesting fact: The stadium roof was designed to collect rainwater and reuse it to maintain the grass pitch — a sustainability feature way ahead of its time.
Average High: 84°F (29°C)
Climate: Warm Semi-Arid
Guadalajara is sunny, warm, and deceptively high-altitude, which intensifies UV exposure. Estadio Akron’s white roof reflects some of the heat, but match days can still feel intense. Nights cool down fast, creating some of the best evening atmospheres in the tournament.
The stadium offers formal lots around the complex, but exits get congested after full-capacity events. Some residents nearby rent out private driveways or small lots for a few pesos less — always verify security before parking. Rideshare pickup zones will be clearly marked but slow-moving after matches.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Guadalajara
Take a day trip to Tequila, birthplace of the drink.
Walk the Historic Center: Cathedral & Teatro Degollado.
Explore artisan shops in Tlaquepaque.
Enjoy mariachi music in Plaza de los Mariachis.
Relax or picnic in Bosque Colomos.
Estadio Azteca (Mexico City Stadium)
If football had a holy ground, this would be it. Estadio Azteca is where Pelé and Maradona each lifted the World Cup, and in 2026 it will become the first stadium in history to host three World Cups. The venue is being upgraded with improved seating, accessibility, and lighting, while keeping its famous bowl-like design. Expect capacity around 87,000 fans — and a sound that feels like thunder when the crowd roars.
What visitors should know: Mexico City sits over 7,000 feet above sea level, so take it easy your first day and hydrate. The stadium is about 30–40 minutes from downtown (depending on traffic), and public transit is often the faster option.
Fun fact: The Azteca was built specifically for the 1970 World Cup and remains one of the only stadiums in the world that’s seen both Pelé and Maradona score in World Cup finals.
Average High: 82°F (28°C)
Climate: Highland Temperate
Mexico City’s elevation means cooler air but stronger sunlight. Estadio Azteca will host matches in weather that feels comfortable at first — until you realize you’re sunburned after an hour. The UV index here can exceed that of desert cities, so sunscreen is critical.
Parking is limited and often chaotic — official lots around the stadium fill up quickly, and street parking isn’t recommended. FIFA will expand controlled lots and shuttle systems for 2026, but the smartest option will be Metro Line 2 or rideshare. Local neighborhoods enforce strict residential restrictions, especially on matchdays.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Mexico City
Explore the ancient Pyramids of Teotihuacán.
Visit Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul in Coyoacán.
Dine and stroll through Polanco or Roma Norte.
Tour the National Museum of Anthropology.
Experience Lucha Libre at Arena México.
Estadio BBVA (Monterrey Stadium)
Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA might just be the most picturesque stadium of the entire tournament. Built in 2015, its open north end perfectly frames the Sierra Madre mountains, making it a photographer’s dream. With capacity for just over 51,000 fans, it blends cutting-edge design with local passion.
What visitors should know: Monterrey is an industrial hub but also one of Mexico’s safest and most developed cities, with excellent hotels and nightlife. It can get hot in summer, but the stadium’s airflow design keeps things comfortable.
Fun fact: The venue’s nickname, “El Gigante de Acero” (The Steel Giant), comes from Monterrey’s long history as Mexico’s steel capital.
BBVA has modern on-site parking, but demand will outstrip supply. Expect tiered pricing by proximity. Rideshares and taxis queue at a dedicated exit gate, and police manage traffic flow well. A handful of nearby commercial centers also offer paid overflow parking with security guards present.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Monterrey
Hike Chipinque National Park.
Boat or walk along the Santa Lucía Riverwalk.
Visit Macroplaza, one of the world’s largest squares.
Explore Fundidora Park.
Enjoy authentic northern Mexican carne asada.
United States: Bigger, Louder, and Absolutely Engineered for Spectacle
The U.S. is the main host and will stage 60 of the tournament’s 104 matches, including all knockout rounds from the quarterfinals onward. Everything here runs on scale — massive stadiums, multi-lane highways, and diverse cities that each bring something completely different to the table.
For international visitors, the U.S. experience is more than just the game — it’s discovering how football is growing in a country that used to call it soccer. From coastal cities to Midwest powerhouses, this is where logistics meet spectacle.
MetLife Stadium (New York / New Jersey Stadium)
The biggest stage for the biggest moment — MetLife is expected to host the 2026 World Cup Final. With 82,500 seats, it’s North America’s largest venue and built for mega-events. Located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, it’s just 25 minutes from Manhattan when traffic cooperates.
What visitors should know: Public transportation is your friend here — the Meadowlands Rail Line connects to Manhattan. Hotels in Jersey City or Midtown are ideal.
Fun fact: During the 2026 tournament, the stadium will be temporarily rebranded without the “MetLife” name — FIFA rules prohibit corporate naming during events.
MetLife has enormous official parking — 28,000+ spots — but access is tightly controlled. You must pre-purchase passes; no drive-up parking during major events. Trains via the Meadowlands Line are faster than traffic. Avoid parking in residential areas around East Rutherford; they tow aggressively.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in New York / New Jersey
Visit Central Park, Times Square, and Statue of Liberty.
Explore the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
Walk the High Line & Chelsea Market.
Tour the Met Museum or MoMA.
Take a ferry for skyline views from Hoboken/Jersey City.
AT&T Stadium (Dallas Stadium)
Everything’s bigger in Texas — especially this stadium. AT&T Stadium seats up to 90,000 and features one of the largest high-definition screens on the planet, stretching from one 20-yard line to the other. It’s expected to host key knockout matches or even a semifinal.
What visitors should know: The stadium is located between Dallas and Fort Worth, so plan transport in advance. The area is family-friendly, with nearby shopping, dining, and entertainment complexes.
Interesting fact: The video screen is so big that punters in American football have accidentally hit it during games.
Average High: 94°F (34°C)
Climate: Dry Continental
The air is drier than Houston’s but just as punishing under the Texas sun. AT&T Stadium’s roof helps control temperature, but surrounding tailgate areas and transit hubs bake in the mid-day heat. Light clothing, hats, and pre-match hydration are musts.
AT&T has some of the most organized parking in the country — dozens of official lots and digital permits. Still, they’re pricey and fill early. Overflow parking is available at nearby Six Flags and Rangers Ballpark. Arlington has limited public transit; rideshare queues can stretch 45–60 minutes post-match.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Dallas / Arlington
Visit the Sixth Floor Museum (JFK history).
Explore the Dallas Arts District.
Spend the day at Six Flags Over Texas.
Eat and shop in Deep Ellum.
Explore Arlington’s Entertainment District.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta Stadium)
Few stadiums in the world compare to this one. Its retractable roof opens like a camera shutter, revealing a massive circular “halo” screen that wraps around the entire field. Expect comfort, cool air, and a next-level fan experience.
What visitors should know: The MARTA rail system stops directly outside the stadium — perfect for international visitors unfamiliar with U.S. driving. Atlanta’s food scene, especially in Midtown, is a must.
Fun fact: The stadium’s roof opens and closes in just eight minutes — faster than any large-scale retractable design in the world.
Average High: 91°F (33°C)
Climate: Humid Subtropical
Mercedes-Benz Stadium will keep fans cool inside, but step outside and you’ll feel the Southern heat immediately. The city’s combination of humidity and concrete keeps temperatures high even after sunset. Public transport (MARTA) is air-conditioned and reliable — use it.
Downtown Atlanta has numerous public garages, official lots, and pre-booking via the ParkMobile app. Everything within walking distance fills early, and prices surge near kickoff. MARTA trains drop you directly at the stadium entrance — far less stressful than driving through Atlanta traffic.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Atlanta
Visit the Georgia Aquarium.
Tour the World of Coca-Cola.
Explore Ponce City Market and the BeltLine.
Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site.
Experience nightlife in Midtown or Buckhead.
SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles Stadium)
This is the Hollywood of football. Sleek, shiny, and expensive, SoFi Stadium feels more like a spaceship than a sports arena. With its translucent canopy, sky-high ceilings, and giant double-sided video board, it’s the most expensive stadium ever built.
What visitors should know: Traffic in Los Angeles can test anyone’s patience. Plan to arrive early or use rideshare apps — parking is limited. The surrounding area, Inglewood, is quickly developing with entertainment and dining options.
Fun fact: Because of its proximity to LAX Airport, the stadium is built 100 feet below ground to comply with FAA height restrictions.
Average High: 85°F (29°C)
Climate: Mediterranean
The heat in Los Angeles is drier and easier to manage, but SoFi Stadium’s open-air design can trap warm air inside. Temperatures drop quickly in the evening, so layering works well. Traffic can double your exposure time in the sun, so plan your arrival early.
Parking in Inglewood is expensive and restricted. Official lots are digital-permit only; nearby residents enforce towing zones aggressively. FIFA plans shuttle services from off-site garages and metro hubs. Avoid driving if possible — rideshare or pre-booked shuttle from LAX or downtown is best.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Los Angeles
Walk Hollywood & the Walk of Fame.
Visit Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach.
Tour the Getty Center.
Hike to the Hollywood Sign.
Eat in Koreatown or DTLA.
Levi’s Stadium (Bay Area Stadium)
This eco-conscious stadium is the pride of Silicon Valley. It’s powered partly by solar energy and designed with technology everywhere — even the seats feel smarter. Capacity is around 68,500, and matches here promise perfect weather and postcard backdrops.
What visitors should know: The Caltrain and light rail make it easy to reach from San Francisco or San Jose. The Bay Area’s mix of innovation, culture, and scenery makes this one of the most enjoyable host cities for visitors.
Fun fact: Levi’s Stadium has a rooftop garden that helps cool the building naturally while growing local plants.
Official lots are plentiful but scattered across a business district. Traffic jams near Great America Parkway are notorious. The VTA light rail or Caltrain services drop fans within walking distance. Parking apps often resell nearby office-lot spaces at lower rates.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in the San Francisco Bay Area
Walk the Golden Gate Bridge.
Visit Fisherman’s Wharf and Alcatraz.
Tour Silicon Valley tech attractions.
Explore Golden Gate Park.
Eat in Japantown or Chinatown.
Lumen Field (Seattle Stadium)
Seattle’s Lumen Field is famous for its sound — the crowd noise regularly shakes the city skyline. It’s designed with twin roof canopies that trap sound, creating one of the loudest stadium experiences anywhere. Seating about 72,000, it’ll host both group and knockout games.
What visitors should know: Seattle’s weather can surprise you — bring a light jacket, even in summer. The city’s waterfront, Pike Place Market, and coffee culture make it an easy destination for international travelers.
Fun fact: When Seahawks fans cheer, the noise has been recorded at levels equivalent to a small earthquake.
Downtown location = limited on-site parking. Garages nearby offer daily rates, but public transit is far easier. The Link Light Rail and King Street Station both connect directly to the stadium area. Post-match, stay for a meal downtown before heading back to avoid gridlock.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden.
Explore Pike Place Market.
Take a ferry across Puget Sound.
Stroll the Olympic Sculpture Park.
Explore the museums around Seattle Center.
Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Stadium)
Welcome to the tropics. Hard Rock Stadium combines sleek architecture, palm trees, and a canopy roof that shades nearly every seat — essential in Miami’s blazing summer heat. It’s home turf for the Miami Dolphins, the Miami Open tennis tournament, and countless concerts, and in 2026 it’ll welcome fans from across Latin America.
What visitors should know: Hard Rock Stadium Parking is tight and traffic can be brutal — reserve spots early through local options like Parking305. Bring sunscreen, drink water, and enjoy Miami’s energy before and after the match.
Fun fact: The stadium underwent a $500 million renovation in 2015, transforming it from a football-only venue into one of the most versatile event spaces in the world.
Official stadium lots will sell out weeks in advance. Surrounding residential neighborhoods often offer private driveways and small lots for cheaper, closer parking — services like Parking305 specialize in exactly this. Expect heavy traffic on NW 199th St and NW 27th Ave; arriving 2–3 hours early is smart.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Miami
Relax on South Beach and explore Ocean Drive.
Tour Wynwood Walls.
Walk Calle Ocho in Little Havana.
Visit Vizcaya Museum & Gardens.
Take a boat tour across Biscayne Bay.
Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City Stadium)
Get ready for noise. Arrowhead holds the world record for loudest outdoor stadium — 142 decibels — and locals wear that title like a badge of honor. It’s old-school, massive, and filled with character.
What visitors should know: The stadium sits in the Truman Sports Complex, a 15-minute drive from downtown Kansas City. This is barbecue country — don’t leave without trying burnt ends or pulled pork.
Fun fact: The design is nearly identical to the neighboring baseball park, giving Kansas City one of the most distinctive twin-stadium layouts in the U.S.
This venue sits in a vast sports complex with thousands of official spaces. Parking is prepaid and tailgate-heavy. There’s no reliable public transit link, so driving is unavoidable. Arrive early for smoother entry; after games, expect long exit lines.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Kansas City
Try legendary KC barbecue.
Visit the National WWI Museum & Memorial.
Explore the Crossroads Arts District.
See the Nelson-Atkins Museum.
Experience live jazz in 18th & Vine.
Gillette Stadium (Boston Stadium)
Home to New England’s football royalty, Gillette Stadium sits in Foxborough, about halfway between Boston and Providence. It’ll host multiple group-stage matches and perhaps knockout rounds.
What visitors should know: You can take the MBTA commuter rail from Boston straight to Foxborough for match days. Boston itself is historic and walkable — think cobblestone streets, pubs, and old-world charm.
Interesting fact: The area around the stadium, called Patriot Place, is filled with restaurants, sports bars, and open spaces perfect for fan gatherings.
Gillette sits in a suburban zone with dedicated official lots that handle most fans. Parking is organized and safe but expensive. The MBTA commuter rail offers special event trains directly to the stadium, a solid option for international visitors unfamiliar with local driving routes.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Boston
Walk the Freedom Trail.
Visit historic Fenway Park.
Explore Harvard and MIT in Cambridge.
Eat in the North End (Little Italy).
Take a scenic Boston Harbor cruise.
Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia Stadium)
“The Linc” blends modern design with classic East Coast attitude. Seating about 70,000, it’s known for great acoustics and strong local support.
What visitors should know: Philadelphia’s stadium complex also includes arenas for baseball and basketball, so it’s easy to spend the day exploring. Center City hotels are a quick 15–20 minute ride away.
Fun fact: The stadium powers part of its operations through on-site solar panels and wind turbines, making it one of the greenest venues in the U.S.
Average High: 86°F (30°C)
Climate: Humid Continental
“The Linc” in Philadelphia experiences typical East Coast summer heat — warm, sticky, and unpredictable. Rain showers or thunderstorms often cool things down, but humidity spikes afterward. Expect warm days, cooler evenings, and plenty of energy from fans who thrive on it.
Located in a large sports complex, “The Linc” has well-managed official parking lots — but tailgating culture dominates them. Public transit (SEPTA Broad Street Line) stops right outside, making it the best option for visitors. Avoid side streets; they’re reserved for local residents and permit holders.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Philadelphia
See Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
Climb the Rocky Steps at the Art Museum.
Eat your way through Reading Terminal Market.
Wander historic Old City.
Try multiple Philly cheesesteaks and judge your favorite.
NRG Stadium (Houston Stadium)
Houston’s NRG Stadium combines Texan hospitality with comfort. It has a retractable roof, a massive field, and cool air-conditioning — a blessing in the summer heat. Seating roughly 72,000, it’s one of the most accessible and centrally located venues for international fans.
What visitors should know: Houston is sprawling, so staying near downtown or the Museum District is smart. Expect incredible international food — the city’s diversity shows in its restaurants.
Fun fact: NRG was the first NFL stadium with a retractable roof, setting the trend for modern stadiums across the country.
Average High: 95°F (35°C)
Climate: Humid Subtropical
Houston will likely be the hottest host city in the tournament. Expect heavy, sticky air, high UV, and sudden afternoon rain. NRG Stadium’s retractable roof will stay closed most matchdays, but getting to and from the venue will still feel like walking through a sauna. Plan to hydrate early and often, and avoid long walks before kickoff.
NRG Park has over 26,000 official parking spots spread across multiple zones. It’s well-marked but often slow to clear after matches. MetroRail’s Red Line stops directly at the stadium, which is the best alternative to sitting in traffic under 90-degree heat.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Houston
Visit NASA Johnson Space Center.
Explore the Museum District.
Walk or kayak Buffalo Bayou Park.
Dive into Houston’s global food scene.
Shop at The Galleria.
Canada: The Fresh Faces With Big Ambitions
For the first time, Canada joins the global stage as a World Cup host — and it’s more than ready. The country’s mix of urban sophistication and jaw-dropping landscapes makes it a dream for travelers. Friendly people, clean cities, and a passion for hockey that’s about to be shared with football — this is the calm counterbalance to the chaos of the U.S. and Mexico legs.
BMO Field (Toronto Stadium)
Toronto’s BMO Field sits on the shore of Lake Ontario and is being expanded from 30,000 to 45,000 seats for 2026. It’s compact, intimate, and easy to reach by public transport. Fans will love the downtown setting and walkable neighborhoods nearby.
What visitors should know: Toronto in summer is lively but mild — perfect football weather. The stadium is a 15-minute drive from the city core, where nightlife, restaurants, and views of the CN Tower await.
Fun fact: BMO Field hosted the 2015 Pan American Games final and regularly sells out for MLS and national team matches.
Located along the waterfront, BMO Field has small, controlled parking zones that fill hours before kickoff. Toronto’s street parking is strictly enforced. Fans typically use GO Transit, TTC streetcars, or park remotely and take the Lakeshore Line. Rideshares are regulated but busy post-match.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Toronto
Visit the CN Tower & EdgeWalk.
Explore the Distillery District.
Visit the Royal Ontario Museum.
Walk around Harbourfront Centre.
Take a ferry to Toronto Islands.
BC Place (Vancouver Stadium)
BC Place is where mountains meet football. The 54,000-seat stadium is famous for its white domed roof and sparkling LED lights that illuminate the Vancouver skyline. It’ll swap its turf for natural grass in time for 2026.
What visitors should know: The stadium is right downtown — you can walk from hotels, restaurants, or the SkyTrain in minutes. Vancouver’s mix of nature and urban style makes it a dream city for global fans.
Fun fact: BC Place hosted the 2015 Women’s World Cup Final, making it one of the few stadiums in history to host both men’s and women’s World Cup matches.
Downtown Vancouver makes driving a challenge. The stadium has limited underground parking and paid garages nearby. SkyTrain stops steps from the venue — by far the best option. If you do drive, park early and enjoy nearby bars or waterfront spots until game time.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Vancouver
Bike or walk Stanley Park.
Visit Granville Island.
Explore Capilano Suspension Bridge.
Wander Gastown.
Take a day trip to Whistler or Grouse Mountain.
Before You Book: Know About FIFA’s Dynamic Pricing
Parking isn’t the only thing changing fast for the 2026 World Cup. FIFA has introduced dynamic pricing across official tickets, hospitality, and parking passes — meaning prices can rise or drop in real time depending on demand, timing, and match popularity.
If you’re planning to drive, don’t wait until the last minute. Early reservations for parking, especially near major stadiums like Hard Rock (Miami Stadium), AT&T (Dallas Stadium), and MetLife (New York/New Jersey Stadium), could save you a significant amount.
For a deeper look at how this system works — including examples of what happened during early World Cup ticket sales and how to spot fair prices — check out our full post on FIFA Dynamic Pricing for 2026.
It breaks down how fans can avoid surge costs, when to buy, and what to expect once official parking portals open.
The Legacy: A North American Love Letter to Football
The FIFA World Cup stadiums 2026 will tell three stories at once: Mexico’s heritage, America’s ambition, and Canada’s emergence. Together, they’ll host the largest sporting event in human history — one where cultures blend, languages mix, and fans from every continent meet in parking lots, plazas, and beer lines to celebrate the same thing.
This World Cup isn’t just a game. It’s a snapshot of how football — or soccer, depending on where you’re reading this — connects the world.
So whether you’re booking flights, daydreaming about Miami’s group matches, or just planning to watch from home, remember this: the stadiums are the stars of the show.
