In summer 2026, one of the world’s most celebrated sports will take center stage across cities throughout the United States.
For the first time in a generation, fans will have the opportunity to witness elite international soccer in some of the country’s most iconic venues, bringing together the energy of global competition with the diversity of American culture and food.
Here’s where to go, how to get there, and how to make the most of your 2026 soccer adventure.
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Where to Go: Top Game Destinations
With matches taking place across a wide range of U.S. cities in summer 2026, the tournament offers a rare chance to experience the thrill of world-class soccer and the diversity of American culture all in one epic trip.
Whether you’re following your team or just soaking in the atmosphere of one destination, choosing the right cities will shape your entire travel experience.
Here are five top soccer locations that promise unforgettable energy and a comfortable Sonesta stay.
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1. New York, New York
The 2026 soccer championship arrives in North America in June and July 2026, and nowhere will the global scale of the tournament be felt more strongly than in the New York–New Jersey metro area.
As one of the world’s most international cities, New York becomes a natural gathering point for fans, media, and teams from every corner of the globe, turning the championship into a true citywide event.
Match Venue
MetLife Stadium (Map It): MetLife Stadium is one of the centerpiece venues of the 2026 soccer championship and will host some of the tournament’s most important matches.
- Group–stage matches: Mid-June 2026
- Knockout–round matches: Late June to early July 2026
- Tournament Final: July 19, 2026
Located just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, the stadium is easily reached from New York City and surrounding areas, making the metro region an ideal base for fans attending early matches, late knockouts, or the final itself.
As the site of the championship final, MetLife Stadium becomes the focal point of the entire tournament, drawing global attention and fans from around the world. Matchdays here will carry heightened significance, particularly in the later stages, when everything builds toward the final weekend.
Why New York Is the Ultimate Championship Starting Point
- New York’s metro area is home to one of the largest and most diverse soccer fan bases in the world, representing nearly every nation competing.
- Match excitement extends far beyond the stadium, with official and unofficial fan gatherings spread across multiple boroughs and nearby cities.
- Excellent transit connections make it easy to combine matches with exploration, or to launch a multi-city championship journey from here.
What Soccer Fans Can Experience Across the City
- Times Square (Map It): A focal point for global celebrations, pop-up events, and international media during major tournaments.
- Queens and The Bronx: Neighborhoods known for multicultural watch parties and community-led fan events.
- Brooklyn and Manhattan: Home to iconic soccer pubs, international cafés, and late-night viewing spots.
- World-class museums, street food markets, and summer cultural festivals that make downtime between matches just as memorable.
Where to Stay
Sonesta offers a variety of hotels near MetLife Stadium and throughout New York City, giving fans flexibility to stay close to matchday action or base themselves in the city while traveling to and from the venue.
2. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is one of the key host cities for the 2026 soccer championship, staging both group-stage and knockout-round matches. With its central location, efficient public transit, and walkable downtown core, the city offers a smooth matchday experience while keeping dining, attractions, and accommodations close at hand.
Match Venue
- Mercedes–Benz Stadium (Map It): A state-of-the-art venue known for its retractable roof, massive halo video board, and high-energy atmosphere. The stadium will host group-stage matches, followed by knockout-round games including Round of 32, Round of 16, and a Quarterfinal, with matches taking place from mid to late June 2026. The venue is well connected to MARTA transit and surrounded by dining and entertainment districts.
What Soccer Fans Can Explore Nearby
- College Soccer Hall of Fame (Map It): An interactive celebration of the sport’s greatest players, coaches, and moments.
- The Battery Atlanta (Map It): A lively hub of restaurants, sports bars, and fan-friendly spaces for pre- and post-match gatherings.
- Downtown sports bars and neighborhood pubs where fans can catch live broadcasts and connect with supporters from around the world.
Where to Stay
Sonesta offers several well-located hotel options near Mercedes-Benz Stadium, making it easy to stay close to the action while enjoying space and comfort between matches.
Travelers planning longer stays or multi-city trips may also want to explore Sonesta’s broader Atlanta hotels collection for added flexibility.
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3. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston approaches major sporting events the way it approaches history: with intensity, tradition, and an unmistakable sense of pride.
During the 2026 soccer championship, that energy will be felt well beyond matchday, from packed pubs and neighborhood streets to the stadium itself. For fans who appreciate cities where sport is woven into daily life, Boston offers a more intimate, character-driven championship experience.
Match Venue
- Gillette Stadium (Map It): Set outside the city, Gillette Stadium will host five group–stage matches and one knockout–round match. Staying near the venue can simplify matchday logistics, particularly for fans attending multiple games.
What Soccer Fans Can Explore Between Matches
- North End (Map It): A compact, walkable neighborhood known for Italian bakeries, cafés, and old-world charm.
- Freedom Trail (Map It): An easy way to explore the city on foot while connecting major historic landmarks.
- Fenway Park (Map It): A classic Boston sports district filled with bars and casual spots where fans often gather on game nights.
Where to Stay
Sonesta offers convenient hotels near Gillette Stadium as well as throughout the Boston metro area, giving travelers flexibility to prioritize either matchday access or time spent exploring the city itself.
4. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is one of the centerpiece destinations of the 2026 soccer championship, hosting some of the tournament’s most consequential matches in a city that already knows how to stage global events.
Match Venue
- SoFi Stadium (Map It): SoFi Stadium is scheduled to host multiple group–stage matches, followed by major knockout fixtures, including a semifinal. As one of the largest and most advanced venues in the championship, it’s designed for massive crowds, large-scale productions, and all-day match experiences.
What Soccer Fans Can Do Between Matches
- Boyle Heights (Map It): A historic hub of grassroots soccer culture, murals, and casual local eateries.
- Koreatown (Map It): Dense, energetic, and ideal for late-night dining and match watch parties with an international crowd.
- Venice Beach (Map It): A contrast to match intensity, offering ocean air, people-watching, and open space to reset.
- Niky’s Sports (Map It): A longtime favorite for jerseys, scarves, and supporter gear.
Where to Stay
Sonesta hotels near SoFi Stadium provide convenient access on matchdays, while additional Sonesta hotels across Los Angeles give fans flexibility to stay closer to beaches, dining districts, or nightlife and travel in for games.
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5. Miami, Florida
Few U.S. cities live and breathe soccer the way Miami does. During the 2026 soccer championship, the city’s deep Latin American roots, expressive fan culture, and outdoor lifestyle turn matchdays into all-day celebrations that ripple across neighborhoods, beaches, and nightlife districts.
Match Venue
- Hard Rock Stadium (Map It): An open-air stadium known for its scale and energy, Hard Rock Stadium will host multiple group–stage matches along with one knockout–round match. Expect large crowds, colorful supporter sections, and a match atmosphere that feels more like a festival than a single event.
What Soccer Fans Can Explore Between Matches
- Little Havana (Map It): Street life, Cuban cafés, and spontaneous celebrations that often spill into public squares.
- South Beach (Map It): A natural reset between matches, with beach walks, ocean views, and lively evenings.
- Wynwood (Map It): Murals, creative spaces, and soccer-themed cafés popular for watch parties and fan gatherings.
- Inter Miami CF facilities and surrounding areas (Map It): A point of interest for fans curious about the city’s modern football identity.
Where to Stay
Sonesta offers convenient hotel options near Hard Rock Stadium, ideal for matchdays, along with additional hotel locations throughout the greater Miami area for fans who want to balance stadium access with beach time, dining, and nightlife.
Other Cities to Consider
For fans planning to follow their team beyond a single host city, several U.S. destinations will play an important role during the 2026 soccer championship.
These cities offer a strong mix of major match venues, regional culture, and passionate local supporters, making them ideal stops for travelers building a multi-city itinerary.
Dallas / Arlington, Texas
Matches will be hosted at AT&T Stadium, one of the largest and most versatile venues in the tournament.
Types of matches to attend:
- Group-stage matches
- Round of 32
- Round of 16
- Quarterfinals
- Semifinal
Dallas is a smart choice for fans expecting their team to make a deep run, with more matches scheduled here than any other U.S. city.
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Houston, Texas
NRG Stadium will host a mix of group-stage and knockout matches in a climate-controlled setting.
Types of matches to attend:
- Group-stage matches
- Round of 32
- Round of 16
Houston’s central location and diverse soccer culture make it an easy addition to a multi-city travel plan.
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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Matches in Philadelphia will take place at Lincoln Financial Field, known for its intense sports atmosphere.
Types of matches to attend:
- Group-stage matches
- Round of 32
- Round of 16
Ideal for fans looking to experience early elimination rounds in a high-energy East Coast city.
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Seattle, Washington
Lumen Field brings the soccer championship to one of the most passionate supporter bases in North America.
Types of matches to attend:
- Group-stage matches
- Round of 32
- Round of 16
A great option for early-stage matches paired with a memorable stadium atmosphere.
Find Sonesta Hotels Near Lumen Field
For accommodations, Sonesta ES Suites and Sonesta Simply Suites are well suited to championship travel, offering full kitchens, spacious layouts, and comfortable setups for groups, longer stays, or road-tripping supporters moving between cities.
How to Travel: Smart Tips for Soccer Fans on the Move
Not everyone will crisscross the country chasing matches and you don’t have to.
With games happening in multiple regions, most fans will get the best experience by focusing on one region or visiting two to three cities max.
Whether you’re catching a single marquee matchup or building a long weekend around the action, a little strategy will go a long way in making your 2026 soccer trip stress-free and affordable.
Regional Planning
The U.S. is big, and even domestic flights can get expensive quickly. Instead of trying to see it all, narrow your trip to a specific region and pick cities that are easy to connect by car, train, or short flights.
Some smart city combos include:
- East Coast: New York City + Boston + Philadelphia
- South: Miami + Atlanta + Houston
- West: Los Angeles + San Francisco + Seattle
Start with the city where your top–choice match is happening, then build 1–2 nearby destinations around it. You’ll save on travel time and costs while still enjoying a variety of soccer vibes and local culture.
Getting Around
With most fans sticking to regional travel, there are a few smart ways to move between cities without breaking the budget:
- Short–Haul Flights: If you’re connecting two major hubs, like Miami to Atlanta or LA to San Francisco, book early for the best fares. Use fare trackers and try midweek departures to save.
- Amtrak Trains: Ideal for East Coast travelers. The Northeast Corridor (Boston–NYC–Philly–DC) is fast, frequent, and avoids the airport’s hassle entirely.
- Driving: Renting a car can make sense for groups or Southern/Western routes where cities are spread out. Consider hybrid or fuel-efficient models and split the cost with friends.
Not every fan will want to rent a car, so it’s helpful to look for hotels near public transportation or shuttle routes when booking.
Local Transportation
Getting around once you’re in town is just as important as getting there, especially on matchdays.
- Public Transit: In cities like New York, Boston, and Philly, subways and commuter trains are reliable, cheap, and often the fastest way to the stadium.
- Ride–Shares: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, but prices may surge on game days, especially right after final whistle.
- Shuttles & Park–and–Ride Options: Some cities plan to offer shuttle services or designated fan transport from downtown areas or event hubs.
Booking Tips
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, planning ahead can save you hundreds of dollars and a lot of unnecessary stress.
- Book early: As match tickets go on sale and summer travel heats up, hotels and flights in game cities will sell out quickly.
- Use points or rewards: If you’re staying with Sonesta, enrolling in Sonesta Travel Pass lets you earn points on every stay, which can be redeemed for free nights, upgrades, and exclusive member rates during your soccer journey and beyond.
- Protect your plans: Consider basic travel insurance to cover cancellations or delays, especially if you’re booking multiple cities in advance.
With a few smart choices, you can see incredible matches, explore great cities, and stay within budget, all while following the energy of the game.
Next up: what to do between matchdays to make the most of every stop.
Off the Pitch: Make the Most of Every City
A trip built around world-class soccer is already a win, but what makes it unforgettable is everything that happens between matchdays.
With games spread across some of the most exciting cities in the U.S., you’ll have the chance to dive into local culture, food scenes, and community energy in ways that go far beyond the stadium.
Relax or Recharge
Even the most die-hard fans need time to kick back. A little downtime is what will make your trip feel like a vacation.
- Add a rest day between games to catch your breath, do laundry, and explore your surroundings at a slower pace.
- Book with Sonesta to enjoy amenities like pools, fitness centers, and spas, ideal for unwinding between matches, especially if you’re staying a few nights in one place.
- If you’re staying longer, Sonesta ES Suites and Sonesta Simply Suites offer spacious accommodations with kitchenettes, ideal for families, groups, or anyone looking to save by eating in and enjoying the comforts of home.
Connect with Fellow Fans
The real magic of a soccer championship is in the community that forms around it. Even if you’re not attending every match in person, there are countless ways to stay part of the energy.
- Look for local fan events, like watching parties at pubs, rooftop bars, or community squares. Many cities will organize outdoor screenings and live entertainment.
- Join online fan groups or apps to find meetups or pre-game hangouts, especially if you’re traveling solo and want to connect with other soccer lovers.
- If your hotel has a lounge or common area, don’t be surprised if it turns into a mini fan zone during matches. It’s a great way to meet people from across the country who share your passion.
Wrap-Up: Make It a Trip to Remember
The 2026 soccer championship is bringing high-stakes matches, international energy, and packed stadiums to cities across the United States. It’s a rare opportunity to combine your love of the game with the excitement of exploring new places, whether you’re watching a single match or following your team across the country.
Planning ahead will help you get the most from your trip: better hotel choices, smoother travel, and more time to enjoy each city. Sonesta offers a range of stays to match your style and budget, from upscale, full-service hotels and spacious suites designed for longer visits, to budget friendly options near major highways.
Enrolling in Sonesta Travel Pass adds even more value to your trip. Members earn points on every stay and enjoy perks like free nights, room upgrades, and exclusive offers, a great advantage for soccer fans visiting multiple cities or extending their stay.
Book early, stay flexible, and make every moment count. From kick-off to cool-down, Sonesta is your home away from home in every soccer-loving city.
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.
