Everything to Know About the World Cup 2026 Cities and Venues: Boston

Events

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is 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 World Cup promises not only thrilling soccer matches but also incredible opportunities to explore diverse cultures, landmarks, and attractions.

Venue Highlights

Gillette Stadium, located in Foxborough, Massachusetts, is a premier sports venue known for hosting the New England Patriots (NFL) and New England Revolution (MLS). With a capacity of 65,878, the stadium offers an electric atmosphere, fueled by passionate New England sports fans. Currently undergoing major upgrades to enhance the fan experience for the FIFA World Cup, improvements include new video boards, expanded concourses, and a revamped north end zone with better sightlines.
While the stadium is located about 22 miles southwest of Boston, it is easily accessible by car and train, making it a great venue for hosting a World Cup match.

Things to Do Near the Stadium

Though Foxborough itself is a smaller town, there are plenty of things to do both near Gillette Stadium and in nearby Boston, which is rich in history, culture, and entertainment.

Near Gillette Stadium

Patriot Place – A large shopping, dining, and entertainment complex right next to Gillette Stadium, featuring restaurants, stores, and attractions like The Hall at Patriot Place, a museum dedicated to the New England Patriots.
Xfinity Center – A popular outdoor music venue located in Mansfield, just a short drive from the stadium, offering concerts throughout the summer.
Wrentham Village Premium Outlets – A short drive from Foxborough, this outlet mall features designer brands at discounted prices, making it a great spot for shopping.

Things to Do in Boston (Day Trip from Foxborough)

Boston, only about 40 minutes away, is a city packed with history, sports, and cultural experiences. Some of the top attractions include:

Freedom Trail – A 2.5-mile walking route through downtown Boston that passes by 16 historic sites, including Paul Revere’s House, Faneuil Hall, and the Old North Church. A must-do for history lovers.
Fenway Park – The oldest Major League Baseball stadium in the country and home to the Boston Red Sox. Even if there’s no game, guided tours are available.
Boston Common & Public Garden – The oldest public park in the U.S., perfect for a scenic stroll. Right next door is the beautiful Public Garden, home to the famous Swan Boats.
Boston Harbor & Whale Watching – Take a cruise along Boston Harbor or go on a whale-watching tour to spot humpback whales just off the coast.
New England Aquarium – A top-tier aquarium with an impressive four-story Giant Ocean Tank and a variety of marine life exhibits.
North End (Little Italy) – Boston’s Italian neighborhood is filled with authentic Italian restaurants, bakeries, and cafes. Stop by Mike’s Pastry or Modern Pastry for a famous cannoli.
Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum – A fun, interactive museum where visitors can re-enact the Boston Tea Party by throwing tea into the harbor.

How to Enjoy Boston Beyond the Stadium

To get the most out of your trip to Boston and Foxborough, consider these tips:

Enjoy the Food Scene – Boston is famous for seafood, especially clam chowder, lobster rolls, and oysters. Don’t miss trying a bowl of New England clam chowder at Legal Sea Foods or grabbing a lobster roll at Neptune Oyster.
Experience the Sports Culture – Boston is one of the most passionate sports cities in the U.S. Catch a Red Sox game at Fenway, a Celtics or Bruins game at TD Garden, or visit The Sports Museum at TD Garden to see memorabilia from Boston’s sports history.
Visit the Museums – From the Museum of Fine Arts to the Museum of Science, Boston has world-class museums for art, history, and science lovers.
Explore the Seaport District – This trendy waterfront area offers modern restaurants, breweries, and stunning views of the harbor.
Take a Duck Tour – Boston’s famous amphibious tour lets you see the city by both land and water in a single ride.

Road Travel & Tips for Navigating Boston & Foxborough

Traveling in Boston and Foxborough can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can make your experience smoother:

Avoid Driving in Downtown Boston – Boston’s streets are notoriously narrow and confusing, and parking is limited. Use public transportation instead.
Take the Commuter Rail to Gillette Stadium – On event days, the MBTA Commuter Rail runs special trains from Boston’s South Station to Gillette Stadium, making it a hassle-free way to get to the game.
Plan Parking in Advance – If you drive to Gillette Stadium, purchase parking ahead of time through Patriot Place or the official Gillette Stadium parking system.
Use the "T" (Boston’s Subway) – The MBTA subway system, known as the T, is the best way to get around Boston. Take the Red Line to Harvard Square, the Green Line to Fenway, or the Orange Line to the North End.
Consider RV-Friendly Parking – If you’re traveling by RV, options near Gillette Stadium are limited, but there are great campgrounds outside the city.

Why Boston is a Great City to Host a World Cup

Boston is a world-class sports city with a rich history, making it an excellent choice for hosting a FIFA World Cup match at Gillette Stadium.

Historic & Passionate Sports Culture – Boston is home to some of the most dedicated sports fans in the world, ensuring an energetic and lively atmosphere at World Soccer matches.
Top-Tier Infrastructure – With an international airport, robust public transportation, and plenty of hotels, Boston can easily accommodate international visitors.
Major Soccer Following – The New England Revolution have been a cornerstone of MLS, and the region has a strong youth soccer culture.
Historic Appeal for International Visitors – Boston offers a unique mix of history, culture, and modern attractions, making it a great city to explore before and after a match.
Strong Track Record of Hosting Major Events – From the Boston Marathon to the MLB, NBA, NHL, and NFL championships, the city knows how to handle large-scale sporting events with ease.

As Boston prepares to welcome the world for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Gillette Stadium stands as a premier venue ready to deliver an unparalleled soccer experience. With its rich sports legacy, passionate fan base, and historic charm, Boston offers visitors more than just world-class matches—it provides a gateway to an unforgettable cultural experience.