EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE FIFA WORLD CUP IN SEATTLE

Seattle is one of 11 US Host Cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Seattle will host a total of 6 games, including 4 group-stage matches and 2 knockout-stage matches. One of the group-stage matches will feature the U.S. Men’s National Team.

Seattle will host the six FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches at Lumen Field (temporarily renamed Seattle Stadium) from June 15 through July 6, 2026, including the highly anticipated USA vs. Australia match on June 19. With an estimated 750,000 visitors expected in the region during this historic sporting event, planning your time between matches is essential to experiencing the best of the Pacific Northwest.

This comprehensive guide covers everything from match schedules and transportation logistics to neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdowns of Seattle’s top attractions, ensuring you maximize every moment of your World Cup experience.

Complete Seattle World Cup Match Schedule & Key Details

Seattle will host the following six World Cup matches:

• June 15, 2026 – Belgium vs. Egypt (12:00 PM PT)
• June 19, 2026 – USA vs. Australia (12:00 PM PT)
• June 24, 2026 – Qatar vs. TBD European Qualifier (12:00 PM PT)
• June 26, 2026 – Egypt vs. IR Iran (time TBD)
• July 1, 2026 – Round of 32 Match (1:00 PM PT)
• July 6, 2026 – Round of 16 Match (5:00 PM PT)

All matches take place at Lumen Field, located at 800 Occidental Avenue South in Seattle’s SoDo district. The stadium will be temporarily rebranded as “Seattle Stadium” for the duration of the tournament.

Getting to Lumen Field: Transportation & Parking Logistics

Light Rail from Sea-Tac Airport

The most efficient and cost-effective way to reach the stadium is via Sound Transit’s Link Light Rail. The light rail station is located at the northeast corner of Sea-Tac Airport and provides direct service to Stadium Station, just steps from Lumen Field.

Route Details:

• Journey time: Approximately 38 minutes from SeaTac/Airport Station to Stadium Station
• Frequency: Trains run every 8-15 minutes during peak hours
• Cost: One-way adult fares are $3 and an all-day pass is only $6 (significantly cheaper than parking or rideshares)
• Station name: Exit at “Stadium Station” (SODO)

The Stadium Station stop puts you within a 2-3 minute walk of the venue’s main gates. This route also connects you to downtown Seattle’s Westlake Station, making it easy to explore the city before or after matches.[7]

Parking Options & Costs

If you must drive, be prepared for premium pricing during World Cup matches. Recent Seahawks games saw parking rates exceed $110, and experts predict World Cup parking could reach $200 per match.

Official Lumen Field Parking:

– Lumen Field Parking Garage (connected to stadium)
– North Lot (accommodates oversized vehicles above 8’3″)
– Pre-purchase recommended through the official events calendar

Off-Site Parking Alternatives:

Private lots within 0.3-0.5 miles of the stadium range from $88-199 based on early booking data. Options include:
– 616 6th Ave S. Lot (0.3 mi) – $99-199
– 607 Maynard Ave S. Lot (0.3 mi) – $99-199
– 229 6th Ave S. Lot (0.4 mi) – $88-99

Book parking in advance through ParkWhiz or SpotHero to secure better rates.

Honestly, though, if you’re flying to Seattle, do yourself a favor and avoid renting a car in the first place.

Alternative Transportation

• Proposed Fast Ferry Service: Pierce County is pursuing a $4 million pilot program to launch electric fast ferry service between Tacoma and Seattle, specifically for World Cup visitors. The Artemis 29 vessels would offer eight daily round-trips, seating 29 passengers with luggage space, and take 45-60 minutes depending on the dock location. However, funding is not yet fully secured, so confirm availability closer to match dates.
• King County Metro: Multiple bus routes serve the Stadium District, including routes 83 and 84, which connect with light rail trips.
• Bainbridge Island and Bremerton Ferry Service: If you happen to be staying in Bremerton (which also has a World Cup fan zone) or Bainbridge Island, you can take one of the iconic Washington State Ferries on a scenic trip across the Puget Sound to Seattle’s waterfront (adjacent to Pioneer Square and walkable to Lumen Field).  If you’re not staying there, consider taking the ferry in the opposite direction for a lovely day-trip to Bainbridge Island.

Neighborhoods Guide: Where to Eat, Drink & Explore

Pioneer Square (Closest to Stadium – 0.5 miles)

Pioneer Square is Seattle’s oldest neighborhood and the epicenter of pre-match festivities. Fan marches begin at local bars and end at the stadium, open to anyone wanting to join the energy.

Top Bars for Match Viewing & Pre-Game:

• Good Bar – Artisanal cocktails, boiled peanuts, mortadella sandwiches, and casual-swank atmosphere
• Damn the Weather – Pioneer Square staple for lunch or late-night drinks with fresh salads and bolognese
• Dead Line – Elegant cocktail bar with upstairs bubbles bar and South American cuisine including fried chicken tacos
• The Pharmacy – Solid drinking spot in the neighborhood
• Firn – Upscale rooftop bar atop the Populus Hotel featuring gourmet shaved ice and slushies with panoramic downtown skyline views, open until 11 PM weekdays and midnight on weekends

Dining Highlights:

• Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar – Classic Seattle fresh seafood with local wines and beers – Taylor’s farms supply oysters to some of Seattle’s finest seafood restaurants, so come here to get them directly from the source.
• Nirmal’s  – Upscale Indian cuisine with excellent vegan options and chic ambiance
• Tat’s Delicatessen – Popular lunch spot with east coast style subs
• Moto Pizza (Opening 2026) – Fifth location of the popular Detroit-style pizza spot with Filipino-influenced flavors, opening in Smith Tower

Walking Time to Stadium: 6-8 minutes from central Pioneer Square

Capitol Hill (3 miles northeast)

Capitol Hill is Seattle’s most vibrant and diverse neighborhood, known for LGBTQ+ culture and thriving nightlife.  Some of the World Cup matches coincide with Seattle Pride Month (June), and this neighborhood will be the place to party.

What to Do:

• Cal Anderson Park – Green spaces, sports courts, and reflecting pool in the heart of the neighborhood
• Broadway Avenue – Main thoroughfare lined with unique shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants
• Elliott Bay Book Company – Independent bookstore with author readings and literary events
• Rainbow Crosswalks – Iconic photo opportunity celebrating inclusivity
• Nightlife – Capitol Hill offers the densest concentration of bars, clubs, and live music venues in Seattle.

Transportation: Light rail or 15-minute rideshare from downtown

Ballard (6 miles northwest)

Ballard has evolved into one of Seattle’s trendiest neighborhoods, blending Scandinavian heritage with modern craft culture.

Frankie Feetsplinters, the resident troll of the National Nordic Museum in Ballard

Seattle Brewery Scene:

Ballard is Seattle’s craft brewery capital. While specific brewery names like Reuben’s Brews are popular, the neighborhood features dozens of tasting rooms within walking distance of each other, making it ideal for afternoon brewery hopping between matches.

Other Attractions:

• Ballard Locks – Watch boats pass through and observe salmon migration – visit here as part of our Seattle Highlights City Tour
• National Nordic Museum – dedicated to the Nordic history, art, culture, and the heritage of the area’s Nordic immigrants
• Golden Gardens Beach – Popular beach with Olympic Mountain views
• Old Ballard – Brick streets, boutiques, wine bars, and artisan pubs

Transportation: 25-30 minutes from stadium via rideshare or bus

Official Fan Zones & Viewing Parties

Washington State will host nine official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Fan Zones across the region, offering free public viewing areas with large screens, entertainment, and food.

Fan Zone Locations:
1. Seattle Center (Main hub)
2. Everett
3. Tacoma
4. Spokane
5. Bellingham
6. Bremerton
7. Yakima
8. Tri-Cities
9. Thurston County

Seattle Center serves as the primary gathering point and will feature the most extensive programming. Check SeattleFWC26.org for specific activation schedules and special events.

Must-See Seattle Attractions Between Matches

Downtown & Seattle Center (2 – 3 miles from stadium)

Space Needle
Seattle’s most iconic landmark offers 360-degree views from 520 feet above the city. The observation deck provides panoramic vistas of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier, and the Cascade Range. Budget 1-3 hours, including wait times, and book your timed entry ticket online.

Glasshouse installation at the Chihuly Garden and Glass

Chihuly Garden and Glass
Located adjacent to the Space Needle, this museum showcases breathtaking glass art installations by Dale Chihuly. The exhibition hall, glasshouse, and garden combine for an immersive artistic experience. Allow 1.5-2 hours.  Consider a combo ticket with the Space Needle to save some money.

Pike Place Market
Founded in 1907, Pike Place Market is a Seattle institution featuring fresh seafood, produce, crafts, and the famous fish-throwing tradition at Pike Place Fish Market. The market is within walking distance of downtown hotels and light rail access. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) while vendors are setting up to avoid peak crowds, or late afternoon after match days. Budget 2-3 hours to explore fully.  Time at the market is included in our Ultimate Seattle Experience, which also provides some local expertise to guide your explorations.

Distance from Lumen Field: 2 miles (30-minute walk or 10-minute light rail to Westlake + 5-minute walk)

Waterfront & Seattle Aquarium

The renovated Seattle waterfront features pedestrian-friendly piers, restaurants, and the Seattle Aquarium. Since the Alaskan Way viaduct demolition and 20 acre Waterfront Park completion, the waterfront has become significantly more accessible and is full of great public art and amazing views.

• Seattle Aquarium highlights:
  – Pacific Northwest marine life including giant Pacific octopus
  – Harbor seal and sea otter pools with underwater viewing
  – Touch tanks for hands-on experiences
• Olympic Sculpture Park – at the north end of the waterfront, this amazing collection of outdoor sculptures curated by the Seattle Art Museum is a part of our Seattle Photo Safari
• Argosy Cruises – takes you from the waterfront on to the water for a different perspective on Seattle. During this 1-hour cruise around Elliott Bay, you’ll learn about Seattle’s historic waterfront and take in the view of the city’s skyline with a spectacular panoramic background of the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges.  This cruise is included in our Ultimate Seattle Experience

Local Favorites (Off the Tourist Path)

Kerry Park (Queen Anne Hill)

A small park offering the most iconic Seattle skyline photo opportunity, especially at sunset. The view captures the Space Needle with downtown skyscrapers and Mount Rainier in the background. 15-20 minutes from downtown.  We’ll take you here as part of our Seattle Highlights City Tour

Discovery Park (Magnolia)

Seattle’s largest park features 534 acres of rugged beaches, forest trails, and meadows. The West Point Lighthouse and beach provide stunning Puget Sound views. Allow 2-3 hours for hiking and beach exploration.

Gas Works Park (Fremont)

Former gasification plant turned public park on Lake Union’s north shore, offering unique industrial sculpture and kite-flying. Great for picnics with city views.  This photogenic park is part of our Seattle Photo Safari

Day Trip Options from Seattle

Mount Rainier National Park (2.5 hours southeast)

If you have a full day between matches (June 20-23 or June 27-30), Mount Rainier National Park offers spectacular alpine scenery with wildflower meadows and glaciers. The Paradise area features accessible trails and the historic Paradise Inn.

Logistics:
– Rent a car or book our Mount Rainier National Park Tour
– Depart by 7 AM to maximize daylight
– Return by 7-8 PM
– National Park Pass required (unless you’re on our tour – we handle all the driving and logistics)

Reflection Lakes and Mount Rainier

Snoqualmie Falls (45 minutes east)

If you don’t have a full day, this 268-foot waterfall with viewing platforms and a short trail provides a taste of Pacific Northwest nature without the time commitment.  We have a Snoqualmie Falls Tour to take you there directly.

Bainbridge Island Ferry (35-minute ferry ride)

The Washington State Ferry from Seattle’s Coleman Dock to Bainbridge Island provides scenic Puget Sound cruising with Olympic Mountain views. The island features charming downtown Winslow with boutiques, cafes, and waterfront parks.

Timing: Allow 3-4 hours roundtrip including island exploration

Sample Itineraries by Match Schedule

Two-Day Itinerary (Non-Match Day + Match Day)

Day 1: Classic Seattle

• Morning: Get yourself oriented and learn all about the city on our Seattle Highlights City Tour (9:30 AM – 12:30PM)
• Lunch: Seattle Center – we can drop you off here at the end of your tour – lots of great options in the Seattle Center and in the adjacent neighborhood of Queen Anne
• Afternoon: Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass (2PM – 6PM)
• Evening: Ballard brewery hopping and dinner (6 PM – 10 PM)

Day 2: Match Day

• Morning: Explore Pike Place Market  and waterfront (8 AM – 12 PM)
• Afternoon: Return to hotel, refresh, and head to stadium via light rail
• Match at Lumen Field (3 PM or 5 PM start)
• Post-match: Pioneer Square dining and celebration

Three-Day Itinerary (Includes Day Trip)

Day 1: Arrival & Neighborhoods

• Arrive Seattle, check into hotel
• Afternoon: Get yourself oriented and learn all about the city on our Seattle Highlights City Tour (1PM – 4PM)
• Evening: Seattle Center, Space Needle, and Queen Anne Neighborhood

Day 2: Day Trip

• Full-day Mount Rainier National Park Tour

Day 3: Match Day

• Morning: Pike Place Market and waterfront
• Pre-match: Pioneer Square fan activities
• Match at Lumen Field
• Post-match: Capitol Hill nightlife

Practical Tips for World Cup Visitors

Accommodation Locations – Best Areas to Stay:

1. Downtown Seattle – Walking distance to Pike Place Market, easy light rail access to the stadium
2. Capitol Hill – Vibrant neighborhood feel, light rail connection
3. Belltown – Central location between downtown and Seattle Center
4. Pioneer Square – Closest to the stadium, pre-match atmosphere

Book accommodations early as Seattle hotel capacity will be strained during World Cup weeks.

SeaTac (around the airport) may have more (and less expensive) hotel options if Seattle options are fully booked – it’s on the Link Light Rail line, but it’s a fair distance from everything you’ll want to see and do, so not our top recommendation (more time on the train=less time exploring).

Weather in June/Early July

Seattle summer weather is generally mild and dry:

• Average temperatures:** 60-75°F (15-24°C)
• Rainfall:** Low probability but possible
• Recommendations:** Layers, light jacket for evening, sunscreen

Mobile Ticketing & WiFi

Lumen Field uses mobile ticketing exclusively. Ensure your phone is fully charged and download tickets in advance. Stadium WiFi is available but may be congested.

Cost-Saving Strategies

1. Take the light rail instead of parking – Save $100+ per match day
2. Pre-purchase parking if driving – Early booking saves 30-50%
3. Eat at Pike Place Market – More affordable than sit-down restaurants
4. Use official fan zones – Free viewing for non-match days

Language & Currency

While English is primary, expect international visitors from all competing nations. Major establishments accept credit cards, but keep small cash amounts for Pike Place Market vendors and tips.

Additional Resources

Official Websites:

• SeattleFWC26.org – Official Seattle World Cup hub
• VisitSeattle.org/sea26 – Tourism board resources and “Let’s Play SEA 26” campaign
• FIFA.com – Ticketing and official match information

Seattle’s World Cup 2026 experience extends far beyond the six matches at Lumen Field. From the rugged natural beauty of Mount Rainier to the urban energy of Capitol Hill and Pioneer Square’s historic charm, the city offers international visitors an authentic Pacific Northwest experience. With proper planning using this guide’s transportation logistics, neighborhood breakdowns, and sample itineraries, you’ll maximize every moment between matches while avoiding common pitfalls like expensive parking and overcrowded tourist traps.

Whether you’re catching the USA match on June 19, attending multiple group stage games, or following your team through the knockout rounds in July, Seattle welcomes World Cup fans with open arms and endless possibilities for exploration.

Commonly Asked Questions:

Q: What’s the best way to get to the stadium for the matches? 

A: This will depend on what part of the city you’re coming from. Consider using Link Light Rail or Seattle’s Metro Buses first. If those aren’t good options for you, look into SpotHero to prepay and reserve parking spaces nearby, or take an Uber/Lyft. If driving, be sure to plan for plenty of extra time. 

Q: What should I pack to bring to Seattle with me for the World Cup? 

A: June and July can vary between cooler and warmer temperatures. The best way to plan is to pack in layers. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a light jacket, and check Lumen Field’s bag policy here to make sure your bag is accepted into the stadium. 

Q: What is the best way to get tickets for the World Cup matches in Seattle?

A: All ticketing information can be found here on the FIFA website. 

Q: Where can I watch matches that I’m not going to see in person? 

A: Fan Zones all across Washington will be showing games for those without tickets. There are many sports bars in the stadium district that will host fans before, during, and after games as well. These include Slugger’s, King Street, Elysian, Press Box, and more. 

Q: Where should I stay in Seattle during the World Cup? 

A: If hotels in downtown Seattle are booked up or outside of your budget, you might consider staying outside of downtown Seattle. The best locations are those along Link Light Rail: Lynnwood, Northgate, U-District & Capitol Hill are located in Seattle and North of the city, but have Light Rail stops. Federal Way, SeaTac, Tukwila, Columbia City & Beacon Hill are all located in Seattle and South of the city, but have Light Rail stops. Other great neighborhoods to consider are West Seattle, Ballard, Fremont, Wallingford, Madison Park, and Magnolia. These neighborhoods are great for folks who plan to have a car during their trip, as there is no light rail access.