After more than three decades, the World Cup is making its return to the Boston area. While the city itself won't host matches, the nearby town of Foxborough—approximately 30 miles south of downtown Boston—will welcome the tournament for the first time since 1994. That year, the now-demolished Foxboro Stadium saw Italy defeat Spain 2-1 in a quarterfinal clash. Boston and Foxborough also hosted Women's World Cup matches in 1999 and 2003, the latter at Gillette Stadium, which opened in 2002 and is home to the NFL's New England Patriots.
Gillette Stadium, renamed Boston Stadium for the World Cup per FIFA regulations, has hosted some of soccer's biggest stars. Lionel Messi played here during the 2016 Copa America Centenario and in MLS matches for Inter Miami in 2024 and 2025. Other notable players include Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets.
Landmarks and Places to See
Massachusetts was one of the original 13 colonies, and Boston is steeped in American history. Top tourist attractions include American Revolution-themed sites such as the Boston Tea Party ships, the Old North Church, and Paul Revere's house. Sports venues like Fenway Park and TD Garden are also popular destinations.
Food Scene in Boston
Boston offers a diverse culinary scene. The North End is renowned for Italian cuisine, while seafood is a staple, with lobster rolls and clam chowder being must-tries, especially near the wharf and Boston Harbor. The city and surrounding areas like Cambridge also boast several Michelin-starred restaurants.
Fan Zones
Official FIFA Fan Festival events will take place from June 12 to 27 at Boston City Hall Plaza in the heart of downtown. High Street Place will transform into Boston's House of Soccer, featuring a giant outdoor screen for fans to watch World Cup action from June 11 to July 19. The city of Revere is also hosting free watch parties starting June 12 for the USA vs. Paraguay match, continuing on June 13, 19, 24, 27, and July 14, 15, and 19.
Transportation Options
The Metro Boston Transit Authority, known locally as the "T", has set train prices at $80 round trip from Boston to Foxborough for tournament games. An express bus option departing from various Boston-area locations will cost $95 round trip.
Stadium Tips
Tailgating will be permitted before matches, but space will be significantly reduced compared to typical NFL games. While there are about 20,000 parking spots available for Patriots games, only around 5,000 will be available for public use during the World Cup.
