The World Soccer Matches 2026 are set to be a monumental event, marking the first time the tournament will be hosted by three countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With 16 host cities and venues spread across North America, this Cup promises not only thrilling soccer matches but also incredible opportunities to explore diverse cultures, landmarks, and attractions. Kansas City has a rich sports culture that is queued and ready to take on soccer fans for this event. Learn more about Arrowhead Stadium and the city below!

Venue Highlights

Arrowhead Stadium, home to the Kansas City Chiefs, is one of the most iconic stadiums in the NFL and a premier venue for international soccer. With a capacity of 76,416, it is famous for its electrifying atmosphere and passionate fans, who hold the Guinness World Record for the loudest outdoor sports venue. The stadium’s bowl-shaped design amplifies crowd noise, creating an unparalleled game-day experience that will make any FIFA World Soccer match unforgettable.

Arrowhead Stadium is part of the Truman Sports Complex, which also includes Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals (MLB). The stadium has undergone multiple renovations to improve fan experience, including enhanced seating, premium suites, and state-of-the-art video boards.

Things to Do Near the Stadium

Kansas City is a vibrant city with a rich history, world-famous barbecue, and a thriving arts and music scene. Whether you're in town for a match at Arrowhead Stadium or looking to explore, here are some top attractions:

Near Arrowhead Stadium

• Kansas City Zoo & Starlight Theatre – Located in Swope Park, this area offers a great combination of family fun and entertainment. The Kansas City Zoo features over 1,700 animals, while Starlight Theatre hosts Broadway-style performances and concerts.

• Kauffman Stadium – If you're a baseball fan, take a tour of Kauffman Stadium, home to the Kansas City Royals, or catch a game if the season is in full swing.

• Negro Leagues Baseball Museum – This museum pays tribute to the history of Black baseball players in America and is a must-visit for sports fans.

Things to Do in Kansas City (Short Drive from Arrowhead Stadium)

• National World War I Museum and Memorial – A stunning historical site that offers panoramic city views from the Liberty Memorial Tower. The museum itself is one of the most comprehensive WWI museums in the world, featuring artifacts, exhibits, and immersive experiences.

• Country Club Plaza – Kansas City’s premier shopping and dining district, known for its Spanish-inspired architecture, upscale boutiques, and great restaurants. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a night out.

• Union Station – A beautifully restored historic train station featuring interactive exhibits, restaurants, a planetarium, and the Science City museum for families.

• American Jazz Museum – Kansas City has a deep-rooted jazz history, and this museum showcases memorabilia from jazz legends like Charlie Parker and Count Basie.

• The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art – One of the top art museums in the U.S., famous for its extensive collection of Asian and European art and its iconic shuttlecock sculptures on the lawn.

• Boulevard Brewing Company – Kansas City is known for its craft beer scene, and Boulevard is the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest. Take a brewery tour and enjoy a tasting flight.

• Westport Entertainment District – One of the city's oldest and most lively neighborhoods, packed with bars, live music venues, and local restaurants.

How to Enjoy Kansas City Beyond the Stadium

Kansas City is known for its warm hospitality, delicious food, and vibrant entertainment scene. To make the most of your trip:

• Eat Kansas City BBQ – Kansas City is often called the “BBQ Capital of the World”, and no visit is complete without indulging in some smoked meats and burnt ends. Popular spots include:

• Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que – A legendary spot, originally inside a gas station, famous for its Z-Man Sandwich and ribs.

• Arthur Bryant’s – One of the oldest BBQ joints in the city, loved by locals and tourists alike.

• Q39 – A more modern take on Kansas City BBQ, known for its brisket and competition-style meats.

• Catch Live Music – Kansas City has a rich jazz and blues heritage, with live music venues throughout the city, including the Green Lady Lounge and The Blue Room.

• Visit the Kansas City River Market – This historic market area is home to the City Market Farmers' Market, international food vendors, and the Arabia Steamboat Museum, which houses artifacts from a 19th-century steamboat excavation.

• Experience Sporting Kansas City – Kansas City has a passionate soccer culture, and if the timing works, you can catch an MLS match at Children’s Mercy Park, home to Sporting Kansas City.

Road Travel & Tips for Navigating Kansas City

Kansas City is fairly easy to navigate, but here are some travel tips:

• Traffic is Light Compared to Other Major Cities – While there are some rush hour slowdowns (7:00–9:00 AM & 4:00–6:30 PM), Kansas City has less congestion than other metro areas.

• Public Transit is Limited – The Kansas City Streetcar is a great free option for getting around downtown, but rideshares (Uber/Lyft) or renting a car are the best ways to explore the city.

• Parking at Arrowhead Stadium – On event days, parking lots open 4.5 hours before kickoff. Pre-purchase parking through the Chiefs website to save time.

• RV-Friendly Parking & Camping –

• Basswood Resort – A family-friendly RV park with modern amenities, located about 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City.

• Walnut Grove RV Park – A smaller, conveniently located RV park near major attractions.

Why Kansas City is a Great City to Host a World Soccer Match

Kansas City’s passionate sports culture, central location, and modern infrastructure make it an ideal city for a FIFA World Soccer match at Arrowhead Stadium.

• Electric Atmosphere at Arrowhead Stadium – With the loudest fan base in the world, Kansas City guarantees an unmatched game-day experience.

• Soccer-Obsessed City – Kansas City has a deep love for soccer, with a strong Sporting Kansas City fan base, a thriving youth soccer community, and a history of hosting international matches.

• Central U.S. Location – As a Midwest hub, Kansas City is easily accessible for fans traveling from all parts of the country.

• Kansas City International Airport (MCI) – The recently renovated MCI airport provides a modern and efficient travel experience for international visitors.

• World-Class Hospitality – Kansas City is affordable, welcoming, and full of top-tier hotels, restaurants, and entertainment, making it an ideal host city.

• History of Hosting Major Sporting Events – Kansas City has successfully hosted events like the CONCACAF Gold Cup, the NFL Draft, and NCAA Final Four tournaments, proving it can handle international crowds.

Kansas City is ready to welcome fans from around the world for the World Soccer Event. Fans should be excited to take advantage of the proud sports culture, rich food scene and general hospitality that this city has to offer.