If you’re thinking about heading to North America to watch a FIFA World Cup game in 2026, there are plenty of host cities to consider, including Los Angeles, Seattle, Boston, Miami, and Atlanta. Dallas, Texas, is one of the bigger host cities, with nine different matches during the two months the World Cup is being held.
They say in Texas, they do everything bigger and better, and what better time to test that theory than during one of the biggest sporting events on the planet. So, if you’re trying to figure out how to get tickets, where to stay, how to get around, and what else there is to see and do in Dallas, you’re in the right place. This is your ultimate guide to the FIFA World Cup in Dallas. Let’s dive in.
Planning Your Trip To Dallas For The FIFA World Cup
If you plan on visiting Dallas for the FIFA World Cup, you need to figure out how to get your tickets, U.S. entry requirements, and how long to stay to get the best out of your trip to Texas’s third-largest city.
With this being a global tournament, expect the city to be busy, airports to be bustling, and ticket prices to spiral upwards. Here are all the World Cup travel tips you need to know when planning your trip to Dallas for the soccer.
FIFA World Cup Schedule: Dallas
|
Date |
Match Details |
Stage |
|
June 14, 2026 |
11 |
Group Stage |
|
June 17, 2026 |
22 |
Group Stage |
|
June 22, 2026 |
43 |
Group Stage |
|
June 25, 2026 |
57 |
Group Stage |
|
June 27, 2026 |
70 |
Group Stage |
|
June 30, 2026 |
78 |
Round of 32 |
|
July 3, 2026 |
88 |
Round of 32 |
|
July 6, 2026 |
93 |
Round of 16 |
|
July 14, 2026 |
101 |
Semi-Final |
How To Get FIFA World Cup Tickets And Packages
To get yourself official travel packages and FIFA World Cup tickets for 2026, you need to register on the FIFA website. Here, you’ll be put in a lottery for the phase of release, with the final release phase happening in December. Once you get access, it’s first-come, first-served, so be quick.
For the first time, FIFA is operating using dynamic pricing, which means the higher the demand, the higher the prices. This has already caused controversy. Tickets start at $60 but are expected to rise quickly. You can also buy World Cup tickets on the official resale portal. Purchases here have 15% fees for both buyers and sellers, but the prices may be cheaper once the ticket-selling window calms down and demand drops.
You can find hospitality packages on the FIFA website as well. These range from multiple games at one stadium to packages that follow your team around the continent. For packages that include international flights, check out the official travel partner for your country’s soccer government body. For example, for England fans, this would be the FA.
Each country will have its own travel package provider with sponsored flights and accommodations. Only go through official vendors, as there are likely to be plenty of scammers and touts online trying to rip off fans.
U.S. Entry Requirements And Visa Information
Before you buy your World Cup tickets, you need to check the U.S. entry rules for 2026 and any travel restrictions. Residents of many countries can apply for an ESTA, which allows stays in the U.S. for up to 90 days. ESTAs last for two years, cost just $21, and can be applied for online. They typically take 72 hours to get processed.
If you’re from a country that’s not eligible for an ESTA, you will need a B2 tourist visa. These can take a long time to come through, so start the application process now. Current processing times, post-consulate visit, are around 4–6 weeks. Getting an interview slot at your local embassy or consulate can also take a long time.
Of course, with the U.S.’s banned countries list, some fans will not be allowed into the country at all, even though some of the countries currently on the list have qualified for the World Cup. The teams are allowed in with special dispensation, but no fans holding a passport from those countries will be allowed in.
When To Arrive And How Long To Stay
When planning your World Cup travel itinerary, you need to consider the best time to visit Dallas. With nine games taking place in Dallas across June and July, you need to figure out how many games you want to attend and which stages you want to see. This will also help determine how long you need in the city. There are as few as two days between some games, so you can easily catch a few in a week.
Make sure you arrive a couple of days before your first game to recover from any jet lag and get your bearings in Dallas. You’ll also want at least a day or two afterward to explore the city and recover from the atmosphere of the match.
Getting To And Around Dallas During The 2026 FIFA World Cup
Once you’re in Dallas, it’s time to figure out the World Cup transportation. This includes managing the Dallas metro system and figuring out how to get to the World Cup stadium in the most efficient way.
Dallas Airports, Train Stations, And Other Points Of Entry
The main entry point into Dallas is the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. This is one of the biggest airports in the country, and it has flights from all around the world. Dallas also has an Amtrak station, the Eddie Bernice Johnson Union Station, that serves as a base for the Texas Eagle route. This route goes from Chicago to Los Angeles via St. Louis, Dallas, and San Antonio.
For more budget, sustainable transport options, FlixBus has routes to all 16 host cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. It’s super affordable and comfortable, so if you’re looking to save money on your World Cup trip, this is a great way to do so.
Getting Around Dallas
In the city center of Dallas, you can use the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) to get around. The Dallas transport app is the GoPass app, and it’s available on Google Play and the App Store. Also on this app, you can see real-time public transport updates, use the route planner, and purchase tickets. It’s worth mentioning that GoPass isn’t exclusive to Dallas, and also works for metros across the country, including Tulsa Transit and CitiBus.
You can also get a Dallas Metro Card, which is a physical DART GoPass. You can purchase and reload your tap card at vendors across the city, and there’s a map of vendors here. This works across the DART network, including getting out to AT&T Stadium.
To access your apps and data when you land, you can purchase a SIM card from the airport or convenience stores, or you can opt for an eSIM from providers like Airalo, so that you’re connected from the minute you land in the U.S. It’s a convenient way to access mobile data and means you’re not reliant on spotty public Wi-Fi zones.
Getting To The Stadium
The stadium in Dallas hosting the FIFA World Cup games is the AT&T Stadium (renamed as the Dallas Stadium for the event), home of the Dallas Cowboys. As such, there are established match transportation routes between downtown Dallas and the stadium.
As the stadium is actually in Arlington, not Dallas, it can be a bit complex to get there. The best way seems to be to get the TRE (Trinity Railway Express) to CentrePort Station, just outside DFW Airport. You can buy tickets through GoPass for this line.
From here, you can use Arlington’s VIA network, which is a cross between Uber and public transportation. It’s available on demand through the app, and there are set fees depending on distance. Trips between CentrePort and anywhere in the Arlington Area are capped at $3.
It’s expected that there will be dedicated shuttles from Dallas to Arlington for the World Cup, but the details haven’t been announced yet. If you want to drive, you need to reserve parking on the official stadium website, and expect a ton of traffic on game days.
Where To Stay In Dallas During The 2026 FIFA World Cup
Trying to work out where to stay in Dallas for the World Cup in 2026? Whether you’re seeking out the best hotels near the AT&T Stadium or budget accommodation in the city, this section has you covered.
The Best Neighborhoods In Dallas For FIFA World Cup Fans
The best areas to stay in Dallas depend on what’s important to you. You might prefer safe areas near the World Cup stadium, or you might want easy access to Dallas’s incredible nightlife districts.
If you want to be close to the stadium, you need to stay in Arlington, not Dallas. Here, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars for entertainment, and it’s a walkable place to base yourself. You also don’t need to worry about game day transport if you’re already here, and you can get to the airport easily using the local VIA network to CentrePort.
For all the cultural venues, public transport links, and high-end hotels, opt for Downtown Dallas. This is the heart of the city, and where most people choose to stay. Alternatively, if you want to be closer to the Fan Zone in Fair Park, choose Deep Ellum to the east of Downtown, with its breweries, cool dining spots, and street art.
Oak Lawn, in the north of the city, is an LGBT+ friendly spot, with great nightlife and dining, while still being within easy reach of Downtown and Fair Park. The Bishop Arts District is a small but trendy neighborhood to the southwest of Downtown, with art galleries, independent stores, and a walkable vibe.
The Best Hotels In Dallas For FIFA World Cup Fans
When it comes to World Cup hotels and fan accommodation, there are a range of options and price points, depending on what you need. If you want to be near the stadium, the 4-star Live! by Loews – Arlington, Texas, is about as close to the stadium as you can get and features luxury hotel rooms and a stunning pool. For a budget option that’s directly opposite the stadium, check out the Motel 6 Arlington, TX – Entertainment District.
For luxury 5-star options in Dallas, consider The Joule in the Downtown area, complete with a spa in a historic, artsy building from 1927. Up in Oak Lawn, check out the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, with its Mediterranean-style architecture and high-end amenities.
Mid-range options include the Omni Dallas Hotel in Downtown, with a sleek rooftop pool and central location. In the Deep Ellum neighborhood, consider The Kimpton Pittman Hotel, a historic building located between the Fair Park fan zone and Downtown.
There aren’t many hostels in Dallas, but the SOVA Micro-Room & Social Hotel offers budget accommodation in the Downtown area and is within walking distance to key sights and social events throughout the year. As with all World Cup accommodation, you need to book sooner rather than later, as prices are increasing and hotels are getting booked up already.
What To Do In Dallas When You’re Not At The FIFA Games
There are plenty of things to do in Dallas when the World Cup matches aren’t on. Dallas attractions are some of the best in Texas, with a range of cultural establishments and fun excursions. If you have more time to stay, you can also check out a plethora of day trips from Dallas.
Top Attractions And Landmarks
Some of the must-see places in Dallas include:
Dallas sightseeing is an integral part of visiting this vibrant city; however, if you’re into more local experiences, you can get off the beaten path. Enjoy a walking tour of Deep Ellum’s street art and murals, or opt to grab dinner from the incredible food trucks in Klyde Warren Park. If you’re in Arlington looking for a niche museum, visit the International Bowling Hall of Fame.
Cultural Highlights And Local Food
Cultural experiences for World Cup fans in Dallas revolve around the city’s incredible museum and arts scene. There are so many cultural institutions to check out that you could easily hop from one to another and do nothing else on your whole trip. The Dallas Museum of Art is also completely free to visit, so if you’re on a budget, add it to your list!
When it comes to a Dallas food guide or local dishes for Dallas, we look at three key categories: barbecue, Tex-Mex, and steaks. If you love meat, you’re going to eat well here. While there are two Michelin-starred restaurants in Dallas and plenty of upscale eateries, there’s also a huge food truck culture here, especially in Klyde Warren Park.
Day Trips Worth Taking
Day trips from Dallas can involve anything from foodie escapes to historic spots, and outdoor adventure. A popular nearby destination to Dallas is the small town of Grapevine. As the name suggests, there’s a great urban Wine Trail here that’s nestled along the historic Main Street and the iconic vintage railroad. It’s a direct DART train from Dallas that takes just 28 minutes.
You can also step back in time in Fort Worth with a visit to the famous Stockyards National Historic District. It boasts live music, rodeos, and a twice-daily cattle drive. If you want your fill of cowboy culture and western vibes, this is the spot. It takes just under an hour on the TRE rail route from Dallas.
If you’re craving the great outdoors, head to Cedar Hill State Park. With plenty of hiking and biking trails on the edge of Joe Pool Lake, it’s a perfect respite from the bustling city. If you want to turn it into a weekend escape, there are also a range of campgrounds to check out.
FIFA World Cup Venues And Events In Dallas
The Dallas World Cup venue for 2026 is the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Here are some key AT&T Stadium facts that’ll help prepare you for experiencing the FIFA World Cup at this iconic Texan venue.
- Capacity: 80,000
- Address: 1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011, United States
- Home Team: Dallas Cowboys (NFL)
- Opening Date: May 27, 2009
- Parking Capacity: Approximately 12,000 spaces.
Overview Of All World Cup Venues
So, if everything is bigger in Texas, how does the AT&T Stadium stack up with the other 15 host venues? Well, as you might expect, it’s one of the largest stadiums on the list. Considering that the MetLife Stadium is hosting the final and the Estadio Azteca is the only venue in the world to have hosted two World Cup finals, the Dallas Stadium is in good company.
|
Stadium Name |
City |
Capacity |
|
Estadio Azteca |
Mexico City |
87,523 |
|
MetLife Stadium |
New York/New Jersey |
82,500 |
|
AT&T Stadium |
Dallas |
80,000 |
|
Arrowhead Stadium |
Kansas City |
76,416 |
|
NRG Stadium |
Houston |
72,220 |
|
Mercedes-Benz Stadium |
Atlanta |
71,000 |
|
SoFi Stadium |
Los Angeles |
70,240 |
|
Lincoln Financial Field |
Philadelphia |
69,796 |
|
Lumen Field |
Seattle |
69,000 |
|
Levi’s Stadium |
San Francisco/Bay Area |
68,500 |
|
Gillette Stadium |
Boston |
65,878 |
|
Hard Rock Stadium |
Miami |
65,326 |
|
BC Place |
Vancouver |
54,500 |
|
Estadio BBVA |
Monterrey |
53,500 |
|
Estadio Akron |
Guadalajara |
49,850 |
|
BMO Field |
Toronto |
45,736 (Expanded from 30,000 for tournament) |
It’s worth noting that FIFA World Cup guidelines state that stadiums need a minimum capacity of 40,000 seats and have to have at least 60,000 to host a semi-final or final.
For the Dallas fan zone, you need to head to Fair Park, which is in South Dallas. It’s easily accessible from Downtown and Deep Ellum. There’s also a DART station for Fair Park, so if you’re coming from further afield, you can get here on public transport.
Insider Tips For Attending Matches
When it comes to what to bring to a World Cup game in Dallas, make sure to bring your team colors, plenty of light, breathable clothing, and a refillable water bottle. The heat in Dallas during the summer is intense, and the humidity can make it worse. Remember to stay hydrated and cool.
In terms of stadium entry tips, make sure to check any emails you get from FIFA or the stadium directly. These will include what you can and can’t bring into the stadium, the maximum baggage size, which end of the stadium you need to be in, and whether you need to bring ID to get in.
The emails will also share any fan experience tips and events around the stadium in the lead-up to kick-off. It’s expected that there will be stalls and entertainment around the stadium before the match. If you want to watch other matches while you’re in Dallas, but don’t have tickets, either head to the fan zone in Fair Park or check out soccer bars such as The Nodding Donkey or The Londoner.
Budgeting For Your 2026 FIFA World Cup Trip To Dallas
So, how much does it cost to attend the World Cup? Well, it’s not cheap. A World Cup trip cost can quickly increase. Although base group stage tickets start from $60, due to dynamic pricing, the average cost of a group stage ticket in Dallas is $250.25. That’s before you add on accommodation, transport, and food and drink.
In terms of World Cup budget tips, the main saving can come from accommodation. Budget-friendly accommodation is available across Dallas and Arlington, but you may have to stay further out from the main sights.
Look at the key public transport routes between the two and find a more wallet-friendly hotel somewhere along the line. You can also opt for public transit over Uber and check out local food markets and food trucks, instead of fine dining in Downtown.
Safety, Etiquette, And Local Customs
On the whole, Dallas is a relatively safe city. However, as with any major city, you need to be careful about keeping track of your belongings and where you’re going. To maintain travel safety in Dallas, it’s best to explore in a group, especially if you’re checking out the nightlife. If you’re coming alone, check out the fan zone, your hostel, or any fan forums for the region to make friends for the trip.
It’s also important to know exactly how you’re getting home from matches and from the bar. With matches being in a different city (Arlington), make sure you can definitely get back and don’t spend too much time there after the match — you don’t want to get stranded after the last train back to Dallas from CentrePort.
As it’s a major sporting event, expect petty theft and scams to rise in number. If someone offers cheap tickets, it’s probably a scam. Check the official resale portal for last-minute tickets, and consult official sources for public transport and entry criteria.
FAQs About Visiting Dallas During The FIFA World Cup
Let’s round off this Dallas guide with some World Cup travel FAQs. Here, you’ll find answers to all your Dallas World Cup questions and figure out what you need to know before the World Cup.
Where are the World Cup games being held in Dallas?
Dallas World Cup games are being played at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX, outside of Dallas. This is the home of the Dallas Cowboys.
How many World Cup games are being played in Dallas?
There are nine World Cup games being played in Dallas. This includes five group games, two rounds of 32 games, a round of 16 game, and one semi-final.
Is Dallas a good city for watching soccer?
Yes, Dallas is a good city for watching soccer. It has its own MLS team, FC Dallas, and there are soccer murals around the city, including in Deep Ellum, near the World Cup fan zone.
Do I need to drive in Dallas?
No, you don’t need to drive in Dallas if you’re sticking to the city center. Dallas is a car-friendly city, but there are also walkable areas, especially around Downtown and Deep Ellum. You can also use the DART public transport network. If you’re heading out of Dallas, you may need a car as public transport routes can be patchy and confusing.
Final Tips For Making The Most Of Your 2026 FIFA World Cup Trip To Dallas
When it comes to travel tips for the World Cup in 2026, remember to book early, stay hydrated in the Dallas heat, and consider that the matches aren’t actually in Dallas but nearby Arlington, and plan accordingly. Where possible, travel through Dallas sustainably, using rail or bus, as the city is going to be crowded and traffic will be at an all-time high.
You should pack your team colors, any banners you want to wave, and make sure you visit the fan zone for budget-friendly soccer vibes. You should always enjoy World Cup travel; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event for many, so plan now, so you can be present and absorb everything in the moment.
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