Boston and its surrounding area are preparing to host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing together a mix of local cuisine, American history, and iconic sports venues. The games will take place at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, about 30 miles south of Boston, marking the first time the region has hosted the men's tournament since 1994.
Gillette Stadium, renamed Boston Stadium for the tournament per FIFA rules, is no stranger to soccer legends. Lionel Messi played there during the 2016 Copa America Centenario and in MLS matches for Inter Miami in 2024 and 2025, alongside stars like Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets. The stadium also hosted Women's World Cup matches in 1999 and 2003.
Visitors to Boston can explore its rich American history, including sites from the American Revolution such as the Boston Tea Party ships, Old North Church, and Paul Revere's house. Sports fans can visit Fenway Park and TD Garden. The city's culinary scene offers Italian fare in the North End and seafood staples like lobster rolls and clam chowder near the wharf and Boston Harbor, with several Michelin Star restaurants in the area.
Official FIFA Fan Festival events will take place from June 12 to 27 at Boston City Hall Plaza. High Street Place will become Boston's House of Soccer, featuring a giant outdoor screen for matches from June 11 to July 19. The city of Revere will host free watch parties starting June 12 for the USA vs. Paraguay match and continuing on select dates through July 19.
Transportation options include the Metro Boston Transit Authority's 'T' trains at $80 round trip from Boston to Foxborough, and express buses at $95 round trip. Tailgating will be allowed but with reduced space; only about 5,000 parking spots will be available for public use, compared to 20,000 for NFL games.
