Nov 20, 2025
·Emily Kho
With its legendary barbecue, vibrant music scene, and genuine Midwestern hospitality, Kansas City is ready to shine as one of the most welcoming host cities of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Matches will take place at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, one of the loudest stadiums on the planet, and a venue that knows how to create electric, unforgettable atmospheres.
Kansas City may surprise first-time visitors: it’s a city with artistic flair, a booming culinary reputation, and walkable neighborhoods full of fountains, jazz clubs, and local pride.
Whether you’re here for a single match or spending the week exploring the Heartland, this guide covers everything you need to know about where to stay, how to get around, and what to do during your World Cup stay in Kansas City.
We've consulted SeatGeek employees who live in the area to make sure you're getting top-notch recommendations from locals. One other note to keep in mind is that prices may surge during the 2026 World Cup compared to what's being referenced in this article.
Where to Stay
Kansas City offers a compact downtown, charming historic districts, and a variety of lodging options, many with quick access to Arrowhead Stadium.
1. Downtown Kansas City and Crossroads Arts District
If you want to stay in the center of the action, Downtown KC is the best choice. You’ll be close to the Power & Light District, T-Mobile Center, the River Market, and dozens of bars and restaurants.
The free KC Streetcar runs through downtown and now extends to the Plaza, making it easy to explore neighborhoods without a car.
Top hotels include the Loews Kansas City Hotel, Hotel Kansas City, 21c Museum Hotel, and the Crowne Plaza Downtown.
It’s a 10–15 minute drive to Arrowhead Stadium, and special World Cup shuttles are expected to run between downtown and the stadium complex.
2. Country Club Plaza
The Plaza is Kansas City’s premier shopping and dining district, known for Spanish-inspired architecture, tree-lined walkways, fountains, boutique shops, and trendy restaurants.
Hotels like the InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza, The Fontaine, and The Raphael Hotel offer stylish accommodations about 15–20 minutes from the stadium.
3. Overland Park & Kansas Suburbs
Located just across the state line in Kansas, Overland Park, Lenexa, and Leawood offer quieter stays with major shopping centers and easy freeway access. These areas are particularly convenient for families or travelers seeking more space.
Drive time to the stadium averages 20–25 minutes, depending on traffic.
4. The Legends (Kansas City, Kansas)
The Legends area is home to Sporting KC, a NASCAR stadium, outlet shopping, and a wide selection of restaurants. This option is slightly farther from Arrowhead Stadium (30–40 minutes by car) but provides great value and plenty of entertainment options.
Tip: Kansas City’s hotel inventory is smaller than that of other host cities, so book early, especially for group-stage weekends and knockout-round matches.
Getting to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium
Arrowhead Stadium sits in the Truman Sports Complex, about 8 miles east of downtown Kansas City.
By Shuttle (Expected During World Cup)
Kansas City plans to operate dedicated World Cup shuttle services between Downtown, the Plaza, and the stadium. These will be the easiest match-day option for most visitors.
By Car
KC is a driving city, and Arrowhead is easily accessible from Interstates I-70 and I-435. Parking at the stadium must be purchased in advance through verified partners such as SeatGeek.
Arrive early. Traffic will back up quickly heading into the Truman Sports Complex.
By Rideshare
Uber and Lyft will operate pickup and drop-off zones near designated stadium entrances. KC often expands rideshare capacity during major Chiefs games, so expect similar setups for the World Cup.
By Air
Kansas City International Airport (MCI) is about 25 miles north of downtown KC. The airport was recently rebuilt and offers an efficient passenger experience, plus easy rideshare and rental car access.
Match-Day Planning Tips
Arrowhead is famous for its high energy and crowd volume, and World Cup match days will be no different.
Arrive Early: Fan activations, food stalls, and live entertainment begin 90 minutes before kickoff.
Plan Your Transit: Stadium shuttles or rideshares help avoid match-day traffic jams.
Hydrate and Prepare for Sun: Midwest summers can be hot and humid. Bring sunscreen and water.
Dress Comfortably: Arrowhead is an open-air stadium; shade varies by section.
Explore the Concessions: Expect barbecue stands, beer gardens, and local favorites throughout the concourses.
Kansas City sports fans are legendary for their enthusiasm, so expect loud chants, a festive environment, and one of the most passionate crowds of any World Cup host city.
Things to Do Between Matches
Kansas City is a city full of character, history, and cultural gems. It’s perfect for exploring between games.
Museum and Cultural Highlights
National WWI Museum and Memorial: One of the top-rated museums in the United States, with panoramic skyline views from the Liberty Memorial Tower.
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Known for its iconic Shuttlecock sculptures and diverse global art collections.
American Jazz Museum & Negro Leagues Baseball Museum: Located in the historic 18th & Vine district; essential KC cultural landmarks.
Outdoor and Family Activities
Loose Park: A beautiful urban green space with walking trails, gardens, and a scenic lake.
Union Station: A restored historic train station with exhibits, planetarium shows, and special events.
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium: Great for families wanting a relaxed day between matches.
Enjoy a Kansas City Royals game: Arrive a few days early to catch a Royals baseball game at Kauffman Stadium, right next to GEHA Field.
Day Trips and Regional Highlights
Weston, Missouri: Winery tours, breweries, and historic streets just 40 minutes north.
Lawrence, Kansas: A lively college town with shops, music venues, and local bar culture.
Lake of the Ozarks: A longer drive (2.5 hours), but perfect for boating, swimming, and relaxing.
Neighborhood Exploration
Kansas City’s neighborhoods each offer something special, from historic charm, global cuisine, live music, or artistic flair.
Crossroads Arts District: Murals, galleries, boutiques, and dozens of breweries. First Fridays art walks are legendary and will be a major highlight for fans visiting in June and July.
Westport: One of KC’s oldest neighborhoods, full of bars, patios, restaurants, and live-music venues, perfect for late-night celebrations.
18th & Vine: The historic heart of KC jazz. Enjoy blues bars, soul food, and cultural museums.
Power & Light District: Downtown’s entertainment hub with sports bars, outdoor stages, rooftop lounges, and restaurants, ideal for watching matches on off-days.
River Market: Large farmers market on Saturday mornings, coffee shops, and scenic KC Streetcar access.
West Bottoms: Antique shops, bars, and restaurants.
Brookside: South of the Plaza; excellent restaurants and a local vibe.
Each neighborhood offers a different slice of Kansas City life, making the city very explorable for fans looking to fill their days between matches.
Where to Eat and Drink
Kansas City is globally famous for barbecue, but its food scene goes far beyond smoked meats.
Barbecue (A Must!)
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que: The legendary gas-station location is a fan favorite that Paul Rudd has been known to visit.
Q39: Known for competition-style BBQ and modern sides.
Gates Bar-B-Q: A KC institution with its iconic “Hi, may I help you?” greeting.
Arthur Bryant’s: Historic, hearty, no-frills KC barbecue.
Fiorella’s Jack Stack: Great for groups and upscale BBQ dining.
Local Favorites & International Cuisine
1587: Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce’s new upscale steakhouse.
Lidia’s: A celebrated upscale spot for Italian dining.
Southwest Boulevard: Great Mexican food at Ponaks, El Patron, Margarita’s.
Prime Social: Seafood; known for celebrity parties, including Taylor Swift.
Parlor KC: Food hall with rotating local chefs.
Vietnam Café, Waldo Thai, Mesob Ethiopian: Showcasing KC’s diverse culinary talent.
Breweries & Bars
Boulevard Brewing Company: KC’s largest and most iconic brewery.
Casual Animal Brewing: Craft beers in the Crossroads district.
J. Rieger & Co.: Historic distillery with tours and excellent cocktails.
Green Lady Lounge: A fun jazz club where you can listen to incredible music.
Tom's Town Distilling Co.: Cocktails are made with the distillery's craft spirits.
Local tip: Kansas City portions are famously generous, so come hungry.
Travel Budget and Booking Advice
Kansas City is among the most affordable World Cup host cities, making it great for families and groups.
Hotels: $160–$280 downtown; $140–$220 in suburbs.
Dining: $15–$25 casual; $40–$60 upscale.
Transit: KC Streetcar is free, and Uber/Lyft rides are relatively inexpensive.
Parking: $30–$60 near Arrowhead Stadium.
Flights: MCI has direct flights from many major U.S. hubs. Book early for the best availability.
Practical Info for International Fans
Weather: Warm to hot (85–95 °F / 29–35 °C), with occasional humidity.
Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD), with mobile payments widely accepted.
Transit: KC Streetcar connects key downtown areas for free.
Safety: Downtown and Plaza areas are safe and active; use normal caution at night.
Language: English is primary; Spanish is widely spoken.
Why Fans Will Love Kansas City 2026
Between its fiery barbecue, passionate sports culture, and friendly Midwestern spirit, Kansas City offers a World Cup experience full of flavor, character, and community.
Whether you’re cheering at Arrowhead, exploring jazz clubs after a match, or discovering neighborhoods filled with local charm, Kansas City delivers a welcoming and memorable atmosphere every step of the way.
Find your FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets for Arrowhead Stadium on SeatGeek and get ready for an unforgettable tournament in the heart of America.