Kansas City has been tasked with representing the Midwest during the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer.
Missouri's largest city is somehow the smallest of the 16 host cities, but is no doubt poised to live up to its moniker of Soccer Capital of America when it rolls out the red carpet for the sport's biggest event, hosting six matches, starting with defending World Cup champion Argentina taking on Algeria on June 16.
The slate at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium will also include a pair of notable elimination games. The city received the very last Round of 32 showdown on July 3 and will host the tournament's final quarterfinal clash on July 11.
Aerial view of GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo Credit: Adobe/dima)
Regardless of who you're rooting for, follow this helpful guide to ensure you make the most of your Kansas City getaway this summer.
Things to Do During the World Cup in Kansas City
Travelers to KC can head to one of the city's premier attractions to take part in this summer's free FIFA Fan Festival.
The National WWI Museum and Memorial will host this multi-day event featuring live watch parties, a multitude of food and drink vendors and concerts from some of the biggest names in music, including The Chainsmokers and Flo Rida, among other superstars.
PHOTO: The World War I Museum in Kansas City, Missouri. (photo via Wikimedia Commons)
Beyond the National WWI Museum and Memorial, Kansas City boasts an impressive lineup of museums such as the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Arabia Steamboat Museum and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
Visitors can also see tens of thousands of different animals at the world-class Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium in Swope Park and navigate one of the largest farmers' markets in the Midwest at City Market in Kansas City's River Market neighborhood.
Travelers may also do some shopping at the Kansas City Power & Light District, which also offers sensational nightlife at hangouts like Mosaic, Shark Bar and PBR Big Sky.
Where to Stay for the World Cup in Kansas City
Travelers seeking a memorable stay for the World Cup in Kansas City should consider the Crossroads Hotel.
Just 15 minutes from Arrowhead Stadium, it offers easy access to match-day festivities, fan events, and the city’s vibrant entertainment districts. Guests can also look forward to spacious accommodations, multiple on-site dining options including the Percheron Rooftop and flexible gathering spaces.
Crossroads Hotel in Kansas City. (Photo Credit: Crossroads Hotel)
There's also plenty of charm and culture as the 131-room hotel used to be a Pabst Blue Ribbon distribution warehouse.
Hotel Phillips Kansas City, Curio Collection by Hilton is another great option that puts guests close to all of the city's top sites and attractions. A half-mile away, Loews Kansas City Hotel offers 800 spacious guestrooms, an inviting lobby bar, an on-site restaurant, a grab-and-go coffee shop and an indoor lap pool, among other amenities.
Across the river in Kansas City, Kansas, families can set up shop at Great Wolf Lodge near Kansas Speedway, where visitors can drive a real NASCAR race car or enjoy a high-speed ride along. Families and groups may also spread out at the highly rated The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center.
What to Eat for the World Cup in Kansas City
Kansas City is renowned for its otherworldly BBQ and World Cup fans will have plenty of choices when it comes to securing their favorite smoked meats and side dishes.
Juicy smoked brisket in Kansas City. (Photo Credit: Adobe/LJ)
Begin your tour of this barbecue mecca at Pigwich in the walkable River Market district, which is home to countless restaurants. A short distance down E 5th St, visitors will find Wolfpack BBQ & Burgers, a no-nonsense spot churning out slow-smoked meats on old-school offset smokers using Oak and Hickory wood.
You'll find worthwhile slabs of ribs, brisket, pulled pork piles and more delicious BBQ throughout the city at spots like Joe's KC BBQ, a former gas station that's become a must-visit for barbecue lovers visiting the Midwest.
El Pollo Rey is another beloved spot serving up some of the best wood-fired chicken in the world and Le Fou Frog is guaranteed to impress with an ever-changing menu of mouthwatering French dishes.
Visitors to Kansas City can pair their favorites with rejuvenating patio drinks in Westport or awesome craft beer from local breweries in the Crossroads Arts District.
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