2026 FIFA World Cup Host Cities : Round Up

Jack Salter
Jack Salter
Head of Editorial
Jack Salter is an in-house travel writer for Outlook Travel Magazine, where he is responsible for crafting original travel features for the magazine, travel guides, and...
- Head of Editorial
12 Min Read

With the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup in full swing, 16 host cities across Canada, Mexico, and the US take centre stage for the 23rd edition of football’s showpiece – the most-watched sporting event globally.

REGION: Eastern – US and Canada 

WHERE: Atlanta, Georgia 

Lush green neighbourhoods blend with a fast-growing skyline in Atlanta, earning its nickname as the ‘City in the Forest’. 

The second semi-final is one of eight games being held at the spectacular Atlanta Stadium. This striking, state-of-the-art arena, lauded as the most sustainable stadium in the world, features a one-of-a-kind retractable roof and a 360-degree halo video display. 

Beyond the games, visitors can explore the Atlanta BeltLine, vibrant food halls, civil rights landmarks, and year-round festivals.   


WHERE: Boston, Massachusetts 

One of the most historic cities in the US, Boston was founded in 1630 and is known as the birthplace of the American Revolution in the 18th century.

This rich history is infused with a modern cultural sense, from the Freedom Trail to its waterfront neighbourhoods, dining spots, and summer events.

Boston Stadium is hosting seven matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including two knockout games in the latter stages, and underwent a major renovation project ahead of the tournament.


WHERE: Miami, Florida  

Miami is one of the world’s most international cities, where cultures from across Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, and more come together to create a vibrant, dynamic community.

With year-round sunshine, the ‘Magic City’ is known for its glamorous beaches, bold culinary adventures, dynamic arts, and electrifying sports scene.

Four group-stage and three knockout fixtures, including a quarter-final and the third-place play-off, will be played at the home of the Miami Dolphins.

Hard Rock Stadium in Miami – Home of the Miami Dolphins in Florida – aerial view – MIAMI, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 04, 2024

WHERE: New York/New Jersey 

The New York/New Jersey (NYNJ) region – a national and international centre for media, finance, commerce, culture, and retail – is older than the US itself, founded by Europeans nearly 400 years ago.

Highlights include the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Niagara Falls, and renowned cultural institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Liberty Science Center, and Brooklyn Museum.

NYNJ has hosted some of the biggest sporting and entertainment events and will stage the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final.


WHERE: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 

Philadelphia is the founding city of the US, where delegates from 13 American colonies declared to the world that they were separating from England and forming a new country.  

The Historic District is where the nation began, and millions of visitors each year walk in the footsteps of the Founding Fathers. From the Liberty Bell to charming cobblestone streets, this neighbourhood blends rich history with modern-day attractions, restaurants, and museums. 

Fittingly, the birthplace of American democracy hosts a Round of 16 showdown on 4th July – exactly 250 years since the Declaration of Independence in 1776. 


WHERE: Toronto, Ontario 

Canada’s largest city thrives on exploration, from soaring towers and vibrant markets to secret gardens and movie-set castles. No list of attractions is complete without the CN Tower, which holds the title of the world’s highest wine cellar.

With more than half of its population born overseas, Toronto is also one of the most multicultural and ethnically diverse cities on Earth.

Could there be a more appropriate host for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which expands the tournament to an unprecedented 48 countries? Canada’s hotly anticipated opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina took place at Toronto Stadium.


REGION: Central – US and Mexico 

WHERE: Dallas, Texas 

When you think of iconic landmarks that define the Dallas skyline, one stands out as the city’s de facto symbol – Reunion Tower.  

Standing an impressive 561 feet tall, the tower is a must-see destination, with the GeO-Deck offering a stunning 360-degree panoramic view that has to be seen to be believed. 

The city also takes sports seriously, with the NFL’s legendary Dallas Cowboys affectionately known as ‘America’s Team’. Dallas Stadium, home of the Cowboys, stages nine matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup – more than any other – including the first semi-final. This vast, jaw-dropping example of stadium architecture seats 94,000 people and provides a once-in-a-lifetime visitor experience for both sport and music events.   


WHERE: Guadalajara, Jalisco 

Guadalajara is the birthplace of the symbols that define Mexico around the world: the sound of mariachi, legacy of tequila, and tradition of charrería.  

The Jalisco capital joins a selection of cities to host the world’s biggest football celebration for a third time, having previously done so in 1970 and 1986. 

Estadio Guadalajara, however, takes centre stage as a FIFA World Cup venue for the very first time, connecting the city’s historic legacy with the modern energy of today’s game. Mexico face South Korea in Guadalajara in their second group-stage game. 


WHERE: Houston, Texas 

Houston is the historic base of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, which has served as the setting for some of humankind’s greatest achievements.  

The city is also known for its culinary diversity, which mirrors the global spirit of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, whilst the Houston Museum District is one of the most concentrated cultural areas in the world. 

Between the seven matches being held at Houston Stadium, relax in beautiful parks and outdoor spaces perfect for enjoying the Texas sunshine.   


WHERE: Kansas City, Missouri 

Kansas City Stadium achieved a Guinness World Record in 2014 for the loudest crowd roar at a sports stadium – an ear-splitting 142.2 decibels – when the Kansas City Chiefs took on the New England Patriots.

Fans are bringing the noise to four group-stage games, a Round of 32 clash, and a quarter-final at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Must-see attractions whilst in the smallest of the 11 US host cities include the striking National World War I Museum and Memorial and the acclaimed Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, whose encyclopaedic collection spans nearly every continent and culture.


WHERE: Mexico City 

Mexico City is one of the most historic FIFA World Cup host cities and has played an unforgettable role in global football history.

All eyes were on the capital for the curtain-raiser between Mexico and South Africa at Estadio Azteca – the first venue to host matches in three separate FIFA World Cups. With a capacity of over 87,000, it’s more than just a stadium – it’s a living symbol of the city’s passion, culture, and vibrant energy.

Mexico City offers endless discovery between games, with over 150 museums, the second-highest of any city globally.


WHERE: Monterrey, Nuevo León  

With a unique balance of majestic mountains and soaring skyscrapers, Monterrey is the industrial capital of Mexico, a busy working hub where sport is an important social activity that brings people together.

The Macroplaza, located in the heart of the city, is amongst the largest plazas in the world and houses the eye-catching Faro del Comercio, built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Monterrey Chamber of Commerce.

Estadio Monterrey stages three group-stage games and a Round of 32 contest at the tournament. 


REGION: Western – US and Canada 

WHERE: Los Angeles, California 

From legendary studios to thriving nightlife and renowned theatre productions, Los Angeles (LA) is truly the entertainment capital of the world.  

Hollywood in particular is synonymous with showbiz, a small but larger-than-life LA neighbourhood where actors and actresses have rocketed to stardom and some of the most celebrated films in cinematic history have been produced.  

The Hollywood Sign, a 1923 real estate advertisement, has become one of California’s most famous landmarks, whilst the internationally recognised Hollywood Walk of Fame features over 2,800 terrazzo-and-brass stars honouring luminaries in motion pictures, television, radio, live theatre, and recording.  

The US played Paraguay in their highly coveted opening game at Los Angeles Stadium, where they will also conclude their group-stage campaign against Türkiye. It is the newest venue chosen to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, having recently opened in September 2020. 


WHERE: San Francisco Bay Area, California 

The San Francisco Bay Area encompasses the metropolitan cities of San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose, and is the cultural and financial hub of Northern California. 

A must-see landmark is the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, which attracts more than 10 million visitors each year to take in its tremendous towers, sweeping main cables, signature International Orange colour, and Art Deco styling. 

In Santa Clara, at the heart of Silicon Valley, San Francisco Bay Area Stadium stages six games during the tournament, including a Round of 32 match that will feature the US if they top Group D.   


WHERE: Seattle, Washington 

Defined by the Salish Sea, the peaks of the Cascade Range, and its Coast Salish stewards, Seattle harmonises natural beauty and technological innovation.  

Beyond the iconic Space Needle and historic Pike Place Market, the ‘Emerald City’ thrives on its world-class coffee, legendary music scene, passionate football culture, and booming tech hub. 

The US take on Australia in their second group-stage clash at the stunning Seattle Stadium, which hosts a further three group-stage games, Round of 32 tie, and Round of 16 fixture. 


WHERE: Vancouver, British Columbia 

The beautiful game heads to an equally beautiful Canadian city nestled between the mountains and ocean, famed for its spectacular landscapes. 

Vancouver’s natural crown jewel is Stanley Park, a breathtaking mix of forest, beaches, trails, and outdoor experiences. More than a park, it’s a destination that inspires and awakens your spirit. 

Canada’s penultimate and final group-stage clashes against Qatar and Switzerland, respectively, take place at BC Place, an impressive piece of architecture on the banks of the False Creek inlet.  

TAGGED:
Head of Editorial
Follow:
Jack Salter is an in-house travel writer for Outlook Travel Magazine, where he is responsible for crafting original travel features for the magazine, travel guides, and the digital platform.