The World Cup is coming. That’s right, the biggest sporting event on planet earth will descend on American cities like San Francisco, Houston, New York City, and more, not to mention a host of wonderful Canadian and Mexican metropolises. And while we wish you a great time if you happen to have been lucky enough to get tickets, many of us will soak up the atmosphere in other ways.
Grander than the Olympics or the Super Bowl, the World Cup comes every four years to a different host nation (or nations). Last Cup, Leo Messi and Argentina won it all, under the mild evening air of Dubai. This summer, the tournament takes over Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.
The tournament has expanded to feature 48 national teams this year and the U.S., being a host nation, has automatically qualified. Top teams like Spain, France, Argentina, Brazil, Morocco, and more are in the mix too. But with tickets hard to come by and extremely expensive, we suggest taking in a game from a great bar, restaurant or watch party in one of the host cities, surrounding by singing fans.
Here’s how to soak up the World Cup 2026 atmosphere at host cities, without actually attending a game.
Atlanta
Mercedes-Benz Stadium in ATL will host a number of games, including a semi final. Perhaps the most exciting group stage games there involve Spain, a big time favorite and former World Cup winner. Near the stadium, check out Wild Leap Atlanta. Other great area options include The Brewhouse Cafe and Der Biergarten (especially if Germany advances). After a Spain victory, go celebrate on the patio at Barcelona Wine Bar.
Other major watch parties will take place at Centennial Olympic Park, places along the Atlanta Beltline, as well as Decatur Square.
Boston
Gillette Stadium outside of Boston hosts a number of intriguing games, including a banger of an opener in France against Norway (two of the best strikers on the planet in Haaland and Mbappe). But you can take it in nearby, in places like Scorpion Bar with its high energy and sprawling setting. In town, we suggest Cafe dello Sport (Italy did not qualify, sigh, but you’ll get the full Italian treatment here). Get powered up pregame at Cafe Sauvage, French style. Watch parties will take place at Boston City Hall Plaza, along with some neighboring towns.
Dallas
There are some great opening matches at AT&T Stadium including Japan vs. Netherlands and Croatia vs. England (not to mention a semi final game). Absorb the energy at venues like Black Sheep Sports Bar and Texas Live! with its 100-foot media wall. Away from Arlington and back in the city of Dallas, head over to Peticolas Brewing Co.
Other watch parties in the city will take place at British-themed Hardwood Arms, the sprawling open-aired Backyard Dallas, and dive bar Goodbye Horses.
Kansas City
Kansas City will play host to some big name teams, like reigning champions Argentina (and the GOAT Leo Messi) as well Netherlands. Check out Score Sports Bar near Arrowhead Stadium, where the games will go down. In the city, we’re fond of Strange Days Brewing, a venue that loves its footy. Go Argentinian at Buenos Aires, a lovely cafe with great empanadas and tapas.
There will even be a FIFA-approved fan festival big enough for 25,000 fans at the WW1 Museum and Memorial.
Los Angeles
The relatively new SoFi Stadium in L.A. plays host to a number of games, including USA vs. Paraguay and USA vs. Turkiye. Soak it up a mile away at Tom’s Watch Bar in Inglewood. Other great options include Joxer Daly’s and Three Weavers Brewing.
Other big viewing parties will happen in Venice Beach, The Original Farmers Market, and historic Union Station. go Turkish at SORA Craft Kitchen or feel that special British brand of love for the sport at Fox and Hound in Studio City. L.A. promises to be very alive.
New York City
When the biggest city in the nation hosts a World Cup, it’s going to be a party. New York City has tons of options and there will be watch parties in big public areas like Rockefeller Center. Near MetLife Stadium (actually in NJ), where nations like Brazil, England, and Morocco will dazzle fans, check out Bolero Snort Brewing. Back in the city, go over to Smithfield Hall in Chelsea or The Kent Ale House in Williamsburg. Brazilian bars like Beija Flor are sure to be jumping.
Seattle
The biggest game might just be a group stage game between Australia and the USA. Seattle has its share of great sports bars, but we suggest the George and Dragon Pub in Freemont or the Queen Anne Beer Hall. Belgium will be playing in the Emerald City, so find a seat at The Dock Sports Bar, set right on the water near famed Gas Works Park. If Egypt wins, go for a late night and celebratory bite at the Shawarma King near UW.
Other watch parties will take place at Seattle Center in lower Queen Anne.
