Houston World Cup 2026 Tickets

Houston: Space City Welcomes World Cup Football

The 2026 World Cup spans 3 countries, 16 cities, and 104 matches across North America this summer, with the USA, Canada, and Mexico all preparing for waves of international supporters. Houston stands among them – famously home to NASA, the iconic phrase “Houston, we have a problem,” and recognized as the Energy Capital of the World. Thanks to its world-class stadium, diverse population, and proven track record hosting major events, “Space City” is perfectly positioned for the upcoming tournament.

Securing Your Houston Match Tickets

With the World Cup happening just once every four years, ticket demand reaches extraordinary levels. Our support team regularly hears from supporters asking how they can possibly secure Houston seats. Here’s your complete step-by-step guide:

1. Choose your target fixture and click ‘Find Tickets’
2. Pick your preferred seating zone using the stadium diagram
3. Specify the number of tickets you’re purchasing
4. Hit the ‘Get now’ button
5. Complete the order form with your information
6. Double-check all details for accuracy
7. Click ‘Make Payment’
8. Done – tickets secured!

Remember that pricing shifts based on seating location and match significance. Knockout fixtures and games featuring popular teams disappear incredibly fast, so book early and stay alert for release announcements!

NRG Stadium – Houston’s World Cup Venue

The 2026 World Cup features 104 matches throughout the tournament, with 7 unfolding at Houston’s NRG Stadium. Situated next to the historic Astrodome in Houston, Texas, the stadium opened in 2002 and serves as home to the NFL’s Houston Texans. Throughout this summer’s tournament, the stadium will officially be known as “Houston Stadium” per World Cup sponsorship and branding regulations.

With capacity exceeding 72,000, NRG Stadium is supremely equipped for massive sporting events, having already hosted two Super Bowls, three NCAA Final Four championships, and numerous international football matches. Featuring a retractable roof for climate control, massive video boards, and versatile event spaces, the venue stands ready to welcome waves of international football supporters throughout the summer.

Stadium	Capacity	Matches Hosted	Tournament Phases
NRG Stadium	72,220	7	Group Stage, Round of 32, Round of 16

Houston World Cup Fan Festival

The official Houston World Cup Fan Festival will occupy East Downtown, more commonly known as EaDo. This lively district has built a growing reputation as a cultural and entertainment hub, celebrated for its arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and vibrant nightlife.

Nicknamed the “Art & Soul of the City,” EaDo will welcome international football supporters throughout the tournament with free Festival access. Set against Houston’s most creative neighborhood backdrop, what awaits you?

• Live match screenings on large screens
• Food vendors and culinary options
• Live music and performances
• Interactive games and activities

Whether you’re heading to a match or just soaking in the atmosphere – the Fan Festival promises lively experiences.

Where to Stay in Houston: All Budgets Covered

Whether your priority is experiencing World Cup atmosphere at the Houston Fan Festival or staying closer to the stadium for match days, plenty of accommodation options await. Here’s what’s available.

Hotels Near NRG Stadium (Houston, Texas)

Budget-Friendly (Under £130/night)

Hotel	Distance
Holiday Inn Houston S – NRG Area – Med Ctr	5-minute walk
Wyndham Houston near NRG Park / Medical Center	5-minute walk
Wingate Houston near NRG Park / Medical Center	5-minute walk
Comfort Suites Houston near Medical Center – NRG Stadium	5-minute walk
Quality Inn & Suites NRG Park – Medical Center	5-minute walk
Extended Stay America – Houston – Med. Ctr. – NRG Park – Kirby	5-minute walk

Mid-Range (£130-£230/night)

Hotel	Distance
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Houston S – Medical Ctr Area	5-minute drive
SpringHill Suites Houston Medical Center / NRG Park	5-minute drive

Luxury (Above £300/night)

Hotel	Distance
Hilton Americas – Houston	10-minute drive
Hotel Granduca Houston	15-minute drive
The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa	15-minute drive
The Westin Houston, Memorial City	15-minute drive

Hotels Near EaDo Fan Festival Site (East Downtown Houston)

Budget-Friendly (Under £130/night)

Hotel	Distance
Scott Inn & Suites – Downtown Houston	5-minute walk
Downtowner Inns – Houston Downtown & Convention Center	5-minute walk

Mid-Range (£130-£230/night)

Hotel	Distance
Wanderstay Boutique Hotel	5-minute walk
Le Méridien Houston Downtown	5-minute drive

Luxury (Above £300/night)

Hotel	Distance
Marriott Marquis Houston	5-minute drive
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Houston – Downtown Conv. Center	5-minute walk
Hampton Inn Houston Downtown	5-minute walk
Tru by Hilton Houston Downtown Convention Center	5-minute walk

Smart tip: Planning an extended stay or travelling with a group? Consider an Airbnb or short-term rental. Whatever you choose, book early – rates climb and availability vanishes as the tournament approaches.

Getting to Houston

Flying from the UK

Most UK travellers fly from London Heathrow to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston. Direct flights are available and typically take around 10 hours, though some flights include stops in cities like New York, Atlanta, or Dallas, depending on airline and schedule.

Once you land, reaching the city is straightforward. The airport sits about 30-40 minutes from downtown Houston, with taxis, airport shuttles, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft widely available. For shorter trips or exploring neighborhoods like EaDo or Midtown, bike-share stations and e-scooter rentals are scattered throughout central Houston.

Navigating Houston

Driving is certainly an option, though traffic and parking near major venues like NRG Stadium or the Fan Festival site in EaDo can get challenging on match days. Public transport, including METRORail, often proves the smarter choice for moving around quickly and avoiding congestion.

Travelling Between Central Region Host Cities

Houston anchors the Central Region alongside Dallas, Kansas City, Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara. Flying between these host cities is hands-down the quickest and most convenient option, with frequent, affordable flights especially through carriers like Aeroméxico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus.

Travelling between American host cities – Houston, Dallas, and Kansas City – is straightforward via Amtrak, America’s primary rail network. Train journeys require patience, but Amtrak provides comfortable seating and often scenic routes. Mexico’s rail infrastructure is limited, so there’s no service between the USA and Mexico, and travelling within Mexico by train is challenging. Locals typically prefer flying or driving between Mexican cities.

Long-distance buses offer a popular and budget-friendly alternative with comfortable seating, onboard entertainment, and scenic views, though they take considerably longer than flying or trains.

Road trips remain an option, though they consume substantial time, as shown below:

Route	Distance	Driving Time
Houston → Dallas	240 miles (385 km)	3.5-4.5 hours
Houston → Kansas City	740 miles (1,190 km)	11-12 hours
Houston → Monterrey	510 miles (820 km)	8-9 hours
Houston → Guadalajara	980 miles (1,575 km)	16-18 hours
Houston → Mexico City	890 miles (1,430 km)	15-17 hours

Houston’s Football Journey

Football arrived in Houston during the 1900s through European immigrants, particularly from England, Germany, and Eastern Europe, who brought the game as they settled along the Gulf Coast. Informal matches and organized leagues began emerging in working-class neighborhoods, though the sport truly boomed following World War II, when returning servicemen and fresh waves of immigrants helped boost local interest.

Houston’s first professional club, the Houston Stars, formed in 1967, competing in the United Soccer Association before joining the North American Soccer League (NASL) in 1968. The Stars folded after just two seasons, but not before laying groundwork for Houston football’s future.

Throughout the 1970s and 80s, Houston’s football faithful witnessed a revolving door of teams – Houston Hurricane, Houston Summit, and Houston Dynamos – all attempting to continue where the Houston Stars left off. Despite their efforts, none lasted beyond seven seasons, leaving supporters longing for lasting success.

That wait finally concluded in 2005 when Houston Dynamo FC were founded. The team began MLS play in 2006 and captured back-to-back MLS Cups in 2006 and 2007, quickly establishing themselves as a league powerhouse.

Having relocated in 2012, Houston Dynamo FC now compete at Shell Energy Stadium, situated in the heart of EaDo, regularly filling their 22,000-strong capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many World Cup fixtures will Houston host?

Houston will host 7 World Cup matches, including five group-stage games, one Round of 32 encounter, and one quarterfinal, establishing it as a key venue in the southern United States.

When can I buy World Cup tickets for Houston?

World Cup tickets are currently available through the Fanatix website. Your best strategy is purchasing after the official draw when team matchups are confirmed. Specific fixture tickets will go on sale shortly following the draw.

Can I purchase multiple match tickets for Houston?

Yes, though you’ll complete separate transactions for each match. The system doesn’t feature a shopping cart, so each game requires its own order process.

Which airport serves Houston?

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is your closest major gateway, located roughly 20 miles north of downtown. It connects directly to cities throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

How do I reach downtown Houston from the airport?

Take a taxi, rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, or shuttle. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Public buses are available though may be less convenient with luggage.

What are the distances from Houston to other host cities?

Houston sits about 240 miles (385 km) from Dallas, 1,180 miles (1,900 km) from Atlanta, and 1,620 miles (2,610 km) from New York/New Jersey. These distances make air travel the most efficient option for visiting multiple host cities.

Can I travel by train from Houston to other host cities?

Train service is limited. Amtrak provides service to select destinations, though routes are slower and less frequent than flights. Most supporters will prefer flying between cities.

What’s the best way to move around Houston during the World Cup?

Use a combination of METRO public transit, walking, and rideshares. METRO’s light rail and bus network covers key zones including downtown, Midtown, the Museum District, and NRG Stadium. Bike and scooter rentals are also available throughout central neighborhoods.

Which Houston neighborhoods work best for World Cup visitors?

Downtown, Midtown, and the Museum District are excellent picks. Downtown keeps you closest to both the stadium and Fan Festival. Midtown delivers nightlife and dining. The Museum District offers quieter surroundings close to cultural attractions.

When should I book Houston accommodation for the World Cup?

Book immediately if possible. Rates will surge and rooms will disappear as the tournament nears. Many hotels provide flexible cancellation policies, letting you secure your spot now and adjust if plans change.

Where will Houston’s official Fan Festival take place?

The official Fan Festival will occupy Discovery Green, a central park in downtown Houston near major hotels and public transport.

Do I need tickets for the Houston Fan Festival?

No tickets necessary. The Fan Festival is free and open to everyone, making it perfect for supporters without match tickets.

What should I expect at Houston’s Fan Festival?

Giant screens broadcasting live matches, musical performances, food trucks, sponsor exhibits, interactive activities, and merchandise vendors. It’s designed to be family-friendly and welcoming to supporters of all ages.

What are Houston’s top attractions?

Must-see spots include Space Center Houston, Houston Museum of Natural Science, Museum of Fine Arts, Buffalo Bayou Park, and the Houston Zoo.

Where can I watch other World Cup matches in Houston without attending?

Catch games at the Fan Festival or local football bars including Pitch 25, Little Woodrow’s, and The Phoenix on Westheimer. Numerous hotels and restaurants will also broadcast matches.

What’s Houston’s weather like during the World Cup in June?

Expect hot and humid conditions, with typical highs around 91°F (33°C) and lows near 74°F (23°C). Afternoon thunderstorms are common.

What should I pack for a Houston World Cup trip?

Bring light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and a rain jacket or umbrella for afternoon storms.

Is downtown Houston safe at night?

Downtown Houston is generally safe, particularly in busy zones near major attractions and the Fan Festival. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas, and travel with others when feasible.

How long is the London to Houston flight?

Direct flights from London to Houston take approximately 10 hours. Multiple airlines provide direct service between Heathrow and George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

What’s Houston’s time zone?

Houston operates in the Central Time Zone (CT), which is UTC−6 during standard time and UTC−5 during daylight saving time. The city will be on daylight saving time in June.

How do I travel between NRG Stadium and the Houston Fan Festival?

NRG Stadium and the EaDo Fan Festival area are connected via METRO rail and bus services. You can also take rideshares or drive. Travel time typically runs 20-30 minutes depending on traffic and your chosen transport method.

Other World Cup 2026 Venues in the United States

City	Stadium	Key Matches
New York	MetLife Stadium	Final, Semi-final
Los Angeles	SoFi Stadium	Semi-final, Quarter-final
Dallas	AT&T Stadium	Quarter-final
Atlanta	Mercedes-Benz Stadium	Quarter-final
Kansas City	Arrowhead Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
Philadelphia	Lincoln Financial Field	Group Stage, Round of 16
Miami	Hard Rock Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
San Francisco	Levi’s Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
Seattle	Lumen Field	Group Stage, Round of 16
Boston	Gillette Stadium	Group Stage