The 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to New England this summer, with Boston set to host seven matches over the course of four weeks.
The games will be held at Gillette Stadium in nearby Foxborough, Massachusetts, but Beantown will certainly be eclectic as travelers from across the globe arrive to partake in one of the world's biggest sporting events.
A pair of European powers, England and France, will both play here on June 23 and June 26, respectively, and fans are guaranteed another monumental clash when Gillette Stadium opens its doors for the tournament's first quarterfinal match on July 9.
But this region offers so much more than world-class soccer. Here's how to make the most of your trip to Eastern Massachusetts this summer.
Things to Do During the World Cup in Boston
If you don't have a ticket, Boston's City Hall Plaza will be the place to be during this summer's World Cup as it's the site of the host city's FIFA Fan Festival featuring live match broadcasts and cultural showcases highlighting local artists, musicians and performers over 16 days from June 12-27.
Gillette Stadium preparing for a soccer match. (Photo Credit: Adobe/Keith J Sfinx)
In Boston's Back Bay neighborhood, Prudential Center is a great jumping off point, where travelers can take the elevator up to View Boston, the city’s highest observation deck with sweeping 360-degree panoramic views. Here, they'll also have access to a wide range of restaurants, plus shopping convenient to hotels and public transportation.
Throughout the summer, the South Garden adds an outdoor element with free events like live performances from Berklee College of Music students on Thursdays at noon, as well as weekly outdoor workout classes including mat Pilates and yoga led by Lululemon ambassadors on Tuesday evenings.
Travelers stepping outside will immediately find themselves in Back Bay, within walking distance of a plethora of attractions, including the Charles River Esplanade, Newbury Street and several of Boston’s key cultural spots.
Boston's 2.5-mile-long Freedom Trail is another must-visit site for first-time visitors to the city. This important walking path guides visitors through more than a dozen historically significant sites dating back centuries.
The city's sprawling parks and green spaces, like Boston Common, also come to life this time of year. Additionally, summer is peak baseball season, so consider catching the hometown Red Sox in action at historic Fenway Park.
Foxborough is not only convenient to Boston but also to Providence, Rhode Island, where travelers can immerse themselves in all things World Cup at the PVD FanZone from June 11 to July 19.
The FIFA-designated, free-to-enter waterfront hub at Station Park will boast daily watch parties on big screens, a main stage with live music and performances, interactive fan experiences, and a rotating lineup of local food vendors complemented by a special beer, wine and spirits garden.
Providence, Rhode Island. (Photo Credit: Walker/Adobe)
From the park, visitors can explore more of Providence along its Riverwalk, including shopping and sticking around to experience the city's vibrant nightlife.
Where to Stay for the World Cup in Boston
Travelers heading to New England for the World Cup have plenty of options when it comes to where to stay, as they can opt for accommodations close to the stadium in Foxborough or set up camp in Boston to the northeast or bustling Providence about 30 minutes to the southwest.
In Boston, Omni Hotels & Resorts properties, including the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport and the Omni Parker House, are celebrating the tournament with up to 20 percent off qualifying stays this summer. Guests can also take advantage of "kids eat free" when they book at least two nights.
Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport. (Photo Credit: Omni Hotels & Resorts)
Staying across state lines in Rhode Island? Check out the transformed Hotel Viking or The Chanler at Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island.
Guests will be just steps from the city's gorgeous harbor, the Cliff Walk, and its famed Gilded Age mansions. The landmark Hotel Viking just reopened following a comprehensive renovation timed to its 100th anniversary and is guaranteed to wow guests with French Riviera-inspired seafood from its signature restaurant, Pescadou, and rum-forward cocktails paired with panoramic views at its rooftop bar, Cap Club.
The Chanler at Cliff Walk is a vintage Newport mansion turned luxury boutique hotel that's partnered with Wings Air Helicopters to offer helicopter charters to and from the matches in Foxborough. When they're not watching the games, guests can grab a delicious lobster roll and head to the beach or enjoy complimentary bicycle and e-bike access for calming cruises around town.
Guests may also shop 'til they drop on Thames Street, book rejuvenating in-room massages, and hit the water for a pulse-pounding boat ride.
What to Eat for the World Cup in Boston
Visiting New England in the summertime means enjoying some of the best seafood in the country, so be sure to get your hands on a delectable lobster roll and hearty bowl of clam chowder at some point in your trip.
James Hook & Co., along the Atlantic Avenue waterfront, is an easy choice for a fresh lobster lunch. Don't forget about oysters. Union Oyster House is Boston's oldest restaurant, combining unparalleled charm with classic New England dishes along the city's famous Freedom Trail just steps from Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
Legal Sea Foods Lobster Roll (Photo Credit: Noreen Kompanik)
For those who prefer their meat to come from land, The Salty Pig is a standout, sure to be a hit with pork lovers in search of comfort food that pairs great with beer.
The city is also renowned for its phenomenal Italian food. You can't go wrong stopping into spots like Mamma Maria and Carmelina's for creamy Risotto, mouthwatering pasta dishes and homemade gnocchi. Afterwards, grab a fresh cannoli from Mike's Pastry.
When it's time for dessert, secure yourself a heavenly treat with a Boston cream pie straight from the source. The aforementioned Omni Parker House is where this iconic dish originated back in the day, but local bakeries like Flour Bakery + Cafe and Bova's Bakery are also churning out otherworldly slices.
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