Your nearest host is Kansas City — 9 hr drive west on I-70, or 90 min flight via CMH/CLE → MCI. Boston (Gillette) is a 12 hr drive east — a real choice between coasts.
The three host nations every fan wants to follow. Save the dates — these are the fixtures that anchor the group stage.
Group A — opens the tournament at Estadio Azteca
South Africa· Estadio Azteca
South Korea· Estadio Akron
Czech Republic· Estadio Azteca
Group B — split between Toronto and Vancouver
Bosnia-Herzegovina· BMO Field
Qatar· BC Place
Switzerland· BC Place
Group D — opens in Los Angeles, knockouts likely on the East Coast
Paraguay· SoFi Stadium
Australia· Lumen Field
Turkey· SoFi StadiumThe fixtures closest to Ohio. Knockout opponents fill in as standings resolve.
Everything between your front door in Ohio and your seat at Arrowhead Stadium.
No rail to Arrowhead. From MCI, $40 Uber (30 min). Stadium is in the Truman Sports Complex with Kauffman next door.
Vast lots ($60+). Tailgating is the local culture — embrace it.
Warm to hot, 25–32°C. Possible storms in afternoons.
9 hr drive west on I-70, or 90 min flight via CMH/CLE → MCI. Boston (Gillette) is a 12 hr drive east — a real choice between coasts.
Match-day hotel prices spike 3–5× in host cities. Book the neighborhood, not just the price.
Where to fuel up before kickoff — and where to keep the night going after.
Downtown entertainment district converted into a daily watch party with BBQ vendors and live entertainment.
Check the official FIFA app for daily programming and screen schedules at the Kansas City fan fest.
Sporting KC's home (Children's Mercy Park) is one stop in. Kansas City is a soccer city — Power & Light buzzes year-round.
Tailgate parking opens 5h before kickoff — locals show up for the parking lot alone.
Arrowhead's noise floor (142 dB record) — bring earplugs for the bigger matches.
BBQ has tribal loyalties — Joe's is the safe answer.
Not making the trip? These local pubs show the matches. Arrive early on USA, Mexico or Canada days.
Quarterfinal
