Soccer fever is taking over Los Angeles this summer.
The city will host eight soccer championship matches, including five group-stage games, two Round of 32 matches and one quarterfinal between June 12 and July 10.
Teams hitting the pitch in LA include USA, Paraguay, Iran, New Zealand, Switzerland, and Belgium, along with top playoff qualifiers.
Fans from around the world will experience a dynamic mix of culture, coastal energy, food, and creativity, all within easy reach of SoFi Stadium and Sonesta’s welcoming Los Angeles hotels.
Here’s how to make the most of your time between matches, plus local tips straight from Sonesta staff who know the city best.
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Hotspots Near SoFi Stadium
Some of the best things to do in Los Angeles are within walking distance of SoFi Stadium, located in Inglewood, a vibrant LA neighborhood, that mixes cutting-edge tech experiences with rich local culture.
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Must-See Stops Between Matches:
- Cosm Los Angeles (Map It): A 65-foot immersive dome built for next-level viewing. Watch live matches in a 360-degree “shared reality” that feels like you’re on the pitch. Yes, your brain might need a second to catch up.
- YouTube Theater (Map It): From official championship activations to fan-favorite concerts, this state-of-the-art venue brings music and international flair together in a stadium-adjacent setting. Don’t be surprised if your favorite artist is performing the same night as a match.
- Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area (Map It): Just a 10-minute drive from the stadium, this hilltop park offers peaceful trails and panoramic city views. Arrive early for a morning hike or find a quiet overlook to decompress between high-energy matches.
Sonesta Staff Recommendation – Hilltop Urban Market (Map It):
“Stop by this lively market near the stadium. It’s packed with local vendors, amazing food, and live DJ sets that feel like a neighborhood block party.”
— Recommended by the Front Desk Team at Sonesta Los Angeles Airport LAX
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Fuel Up Between Matches Like a Local
Between the buzz of the matches and the energy of SoFi Stadium, there’s another way to experience Los Angeles: through its food. Inglewood’s dining scene is bold, soulful, and rooted in global influence, much like the community itself.
From iconic soul food joints and fresh coastal Mexican spots to donuts that light up your feed, these local favorites bring the flavor and the fan energy:
- Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen (Map It): A local institution serving generous portions of comfort classics like smothered chicken, oxtails, mac ‘n’ cheese, and candied yams. This is the definition of “pre-game fuel”.
- Coni’Seafood (Map It): A hidden gem for fans craving Nayarit-style seafood. Think marinated shrimp tostadas, whole-fried snapper, and fresh ceviche, ideal for LA’s coastal-loving fútbol crowd.
- Randy’s Donuts (Map It): No trip to LA is complete without snapping a photo in front of the giant rooftop donut. Open until late and famous for good reason, it’s a fast, sweet pick-me-up before or after a match.
- Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen (Map It): This stylish, community-rooted café is known for high-end coffee, matcha lattes, and breakfast bowls. Great for early arrivals or a chill place to regroup with friends before the stadium gates open.
Sonesta Staff Recommendation – Fiesta Martin (Map It):
“If you want true local energy, hit Fiesta Martin. The vibe is electric during match weekends, and the carne asada tacos and margaritas never miss.”
— Recommended by the restaurant chef at Sonesta Select Los Angeles LAX El Segundo
Dive into the LA’s energy pulsing through its cultural neighborhoods during the soccer championship 2026.
The “Fan Zone” & Cultural Hubs
One of the most memorable ways to experience Los Angeles during championship season is to dive into the energy pulsing through its cultural neighborhoods, where the celebration spills into the streets, and every corner feels part of the global game.
This is where the city’s incredible diversity truly shines, when diaspora communities and locals come together to cheer.
- Tournament Fan Fest – Exposition Park (Map It): The official championship watch party zone next to the LA Memorial Coliseum. Expect jumbotrons, food trucks, live performances, and a family-friendly atmosphere filled with jerseys from every corner of the globe.
- Tehrangeles – Westwood Blvd (Map It): As the heart of the Iranian American community in Los Angeles, this neighborhood will come alive on the days Team Melli takes the field. Expect flags waving from car windows, honking, and cafés serving Persian ice cream, kebabs, and hot tea. It’s a must-visit for Iran supporters and culture-seekers during the tournament.
- Olvera Street (Map It): One of the city’s oldest streets and a celebration of Latin American heritage, known for vibrant decorations, historic buildings, and authentic bites.
Sonesta Staff Recommendation – Leimert Park Village (Map It):
“Leimert Park is the soul of South LA. Stop by between matches to catch live jazz, African drumming, and some of the best street art in the city.”
— Recommended by the Front Desk Team at Americas Best Value Inn Hollywood Los Angeles
Coastal Vibes: Beaches & International Pubs
Looking to swap stadium noise for ocean breeze? Los Angeles’ west side delivers the perfect escape with miles of coastline, world-class beaches, and that effortless California cool. Beachgoers and soccer supporters alike will find plenty of ways to celebrate here or simply take in the city’s iconic coastal energy.
From classic piers to globally loved pubs, these stops are perfect between match days or as a scenic reset before the next big game.
- Santa Monica Pier & Pacific Park (Map It): Classic California vibes for fans traveling with family or first-time visitors. Ride the Ferris wheel, walk the historic boardwalk, or just people-watch as the sun sets behind the Pacific.
- Dockweiler State Beach (Map It): Want something more low-key? This wide, open beach near LAX is famous for its sunset bonfires and relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for casual fan meetups and post-match chillouts.
- Ye Olde King’s Head – Santa Monica (Map It): A true British pub just blocks from the beach, this hotspot will be packed with UK fans and Euro supporters during match days. Expect full English breakfasts, plenty of pints, and a festive match-day atmosphere.
- Joxer Daly’s – Culver City (Map It): A beloved Irish pub with walls lined with jerseys and scarves, multiple big screens tuned to the beautiful game, and a lively, welcoming crowd every time a major match is on.
Sonesta Staff Recommendation – Venice Canals (Map It):
“Escape the match-day chaos with a peaceful walk through the Venice Canals. It’s quiet, beautiful, and feels like a secret hideaway in the heart of LA”
— Recommended by the Front Desk Team at Sonesta Redondo Beach & Marina
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Los Angeles “Gap Days” You Can Turn into Adventures
With a couple of free days between match days, soccer fans have the rare opportunity to slow down and experience another side of Los Angeles.
Championship gap days:
- June 16–17 (Between June 15 and 18 matches)
- June 19–20 (Between June 18 and 21 matches)
- June 22–23 (Between June 21 and 24 matches)
- June 25–26 (Between June 24 and 27 matches)
- July 2–6 (Between group stage and knockout rounds)
Here are two standout experiences to add to your off-day itinerary:
Griffith Observatory & Hollywood Sign Views
This is one of the most classic and photogenic things to do in Los Angeles. Set high above the city in Griffith Park, the Observatory offers a peaceful escape with unbeatable skyline views.
- Head up to Griffith Observatory, where the views are just as jaw-dropping as the space exhibits inside. You can explore the universe without leaving the ground: peek through public telescopes, and if you’ve got time, catch a planetarium show that’s honestly worth the ticket.
- Stick around for golden hour. As the sun starts to set, this hilltop becomes one of the most breathtaking spots in LA. Golden hour spills across the skyline, the city starts to glow, and suddenly you’re in one of those movie moments LA is known for.
- Want to stretch your legs? Take the Mt. Hollywood Trail or the shorter Griffith Observatory Trail for a moderate hike with maximum payoff. You’ll get open-sky views, some fresh air, and the kind of Hollywood Sign selfies that make your camera roll look legendary.
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Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
No city does cinema like Los Angeles, and no place honors it quite like the Academy Museum. This is where the glitz of Hollywood meets serious film history, where you’ll find iconic props and moments that’ll make any movie lover geek out (yes, the real shark from Jaws is here).
- Take your time wandering through the galleries. You’ll spot original Oscar statues, legendary costumes, handwritten scripts, and behind‑the‑scenes details that make you stop and say, “Wait, that’s real?”.
- Step outside onto the Dolby Family Terrace for a breather. The views over the Hollywood Hills are beautiful and surprisingly calm, a nice contrast to the buzz of the city below.
- Before you leave, peek at the screening schedule. Catching a film in one of the museum’s state‑of‑the‑art theaters is a great way to cool off, rest your feet, and experience LA cinema on the big screen.
Venice Beach Broadwalk, Los Angeles, CA
Shopping for Gear & Memorabilia
From official kits to vintage finds and street-inspired designs, LA offers standout shopping experiences that let you rep your team or take home a piece of local soccer culture.
- The Grove & Original Farmers Market (Map It): A premier outdoor shopping destination with designer retail, fan-favorite brands, and plenty of open-air dining. The adjacent Farmers Market adds a local flair with small vendors, souvenirs, and global snacks.
- Nicky’s Sports (Map It): An authentic LA staple, featuring everything from limited-edition cleats to iconic club kits. It’s the dream stop for “pure soccer” fans looking for expert championship gear.
- Adidas Flagship Store (Map It): Since Adidas is a primary sponsor for MLS and many of the world’s biggest clubs, their flagship on the Promenade is a mecca for soccer fans.
Sonesta Staff Recommendation – Melrose Trading Post (Map It):
“Spend your Sunday hunting for vintage jerseys, handmade art, and rare soccer collectibles at the Melrose Trading Post.”
— Recommended by the Front Desk Team at Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Los Angeles Downtown SW
Score Big with Sonesta Travel Pass
Between matches, the best of LA is right there if you’ve got the right home base.
Whether you’re staying near the stadium, the beach, or the city’s cultural hubs, Sonesta has you covered with top Los Angeles locations, locally inspired service, and convenient amenities.
Make the most of your stay and your next one by joining the Sonesta Travel Pass. Members enjoy exclusive perks, such as:
- Free nights with points that add up fast
- Member-only rates and offers
- Room upgrades and early check-in (when available)
- Redeemable stays at over 1,200 hotels worldwide
Join Sonesta Travel Pass today and turn your soccer championship trip into a passport to even more incredible stays.
Disclaimer: The suggested itinerary and points of interest are provided for informational and planning purposes only. Guests are encouraged to independently verify opening hours, availability, travel times, and any potential changes prior to visiting. The inclusion of any businesses, attractions, or destinations does not imply affiliation with or endorsement by Sonesta or its affiliates. Sonesta makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information provided and assumes no responsibility for any inconvenience or loss arising from the use of this information.
