Atlanta is poised to be one of the standout host cities of the 2026 World Cup. The city will stage eight matches — including the first semifinal on July 15.

Officials expect more than 300,000 visitors to pour into the city during the tournament, cementing Atlanta as one of the country’s major tourism hubs.

Fans making the trip will find a destination built for soccer lovers, where the energy stretches far beyond the stadium. The action will spill into the streets, public squares, and dedicated fan zones set up throughout the city.

A soccer experience that goes way beyond the stadium

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium sits in a walkable urban district packed with hotels, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues — meaning fans can soak up the atmosphere without long commutes.

Just steps away are some of Atlanta’s biggest attractions: the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca‑Cola, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, all anchored around Centennial Olympic Park.

One of Atlanta’s biggest advantages is how close everything is. The official Fan Fest will be held in Centennial Olympic Park, just a short walk from the stadium, creating a seamless experience from pre‑game hype to post‑match celebrations.

Traveling between host cities will also be easy. Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest airport in the world, offers direct flights to more than 90 international destinations and connections to every other World Cup host city in North America — making Atlanta an ideal home base for fans following multiple matches.

A Michelin‑recognized food scene

Atlanta welcomed 52 million visitors in 2025, and its culinary reputation keeps growing. The city now boasts more than 60 restaurants recognized by the Michelin Guide, blending its sports passion with a rich cultural identity.

Add to that a thriving arts scene — music, opera, ballet, symphony, and contemporary arts institutions — and Atlanta stands out as a fully rounded urban destination.

“Atlanta lives and breathes soccer”

“The World Cup is an opportunity to show the world the transformation Atlanta is undergoing. We want fans to feel that Atlanta isn’t just another host city — it’s a world‑class destination that lives and breathes soccer,” said Andrew Wilson, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau.

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