World Cup 2026 Texas & Heartland Road Trip: Houston, Dallas & Kansas City
TL;DR: Experience the thrill of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on a classic American road trip through Texas and the Heartland. This itinerary connects Houston, Dallas, and Kansas City three host cities packed with matches, fan festivals, and regional culture. Over about four weeks, you’ll catch group stage clashes and high-stakes knockouts, enjoy iconic BBQ and Tex-Mex, and make unforgettable pit stops between stadiums.
Trip at a Glance
Texas & Heartland Road Trip Overview
- Duration: ~4 weeks (June–July 2026)
- Host Cities: Houston → Dallas → Kansas City
- Approximate Distance: ~800 miles total
- Best Airports:
- Start:Houston IAH or HOU
- End:Kansas City MCI
- Ideal Vehicle: Roomy SUV or Minivan for comfort, luggage space, and long-distance driving
Why This Route Works for World Cup 2026
This route aligns with the official World Cup 2026 schedule, allowing fans to follow games in three key cities without crisscrossing the continent. Houston hosts five group matches (June 14–26) plus a Round of 32 and a Round of 16, after which a manageable 3½-hour drive north takes you to Dallas. Dallas boasts another five group games and multiple knockouts including a semifinal on July 14 leveraging its central location and massive stadium capacity. From Dallas, an 8-hour trek brings you to Kansas City, which features four group matches, a Round of 32 on July 3, and a quarter-final on July 11. The cities form a logical loop through Texas and the Midwest, minimizing travel time while maximizing World Cup action. All three host venues are relatively close by American standards and lie along well-maintained interstates, making the driving feasible between match windows. Each city also offers a distinct fan experience: Houston’s diverse international culture (and indoor, climate-controlled stadium), Dallas’s state-of-the-art mega-venue drawing record crowds, and Kansas City’s renowned passion as the self-proclaimed “Soccer Capital of America”. In short, this route lets you witness both group-stage drama and knockout excitement in person, all with a hearty dose of Texan and Midwestern hospitality along the way.
Road Trip Itinerary: Day-by-Day Breakdown
Houston (Arrival, Game Day & Off-Day)
Arrival Day: Fly into Houston either George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) or smaller Hobby Airport (HOU) and pick up your rental wheels. Settle in and get a taste of H-Town’s famous hospitality. If you have an evening free, explore Houston’s vibrant culinary scene as a warm-up. Head to a classic Tex-Mex spot like Ninfa’s or El Tiempo for fajitas and margaritas, or sample Texas BBQ brisket at local favorites (Truth BBQ and Pinkerton’s in the Heights come to mind). With World Cup fever in town, you might also swing by the official Fan Festival in East Downtown (EaDo) a lively area of bars and street art to watch other matches on big screens and soak up the party atmosphere. Get a good night’s rest; tomorrow, the World Cup experience begins in earnest.
Game Day: On match day, plan for heat, crowds, and an early start. Houston Stadium (NRG Stadium, temporarily rebranded simply as “Houston Stadium” for FIFA) is located just south of downtown. It’s equipped with a retractable roof, meaning games will be comfortable even if it’s 95 °F outside. The first Houston match kicks off June 14 with Germany vs. Curaçao, with other headline group games featuring global powerhouses like Portugal and the Netherlands in the days following. If you’re staying downtown or in the Museum District, the easiest way to reach the stadium is via METRORail the Red Line drops you at NRG Park Station right by the entrance. This saves you from traffic on the I-610 Loop and steep parking fees (World Cup parking passes near U.S. stadiums are running about $75+ per match). Aim to arrive at least 2 hours before kickoff to enjoy the pre-game pageantry. Outside the stadium, you’ll find fan zones, food trucks, and plenty of international jersey-spotting. Inside, the energy is electric: Houston’s diverse population means every team has a cheering section, whether it’s Mexico (a local favorite historically) or a European side. After the final whistle, join celebrating fans for a post-game feast. Nearby neighborhoods like Midtown and Montrose offer great late-night dining and nightlife you can toast a victory with local craft beers in Midtown’s bar scene or grab post-match tacos from a food truck. If it’s a daytime game, consider unwinding in the evening with a stroll around Buffalo Bayou Park downtown, where you can admire the skyline and maybe catch a cooling breeze off the water.
Off-Day in Houston: Use off days between matches to discover Space City’s attractions beyond the pitch. Start early to beat the heat Houston summers are hot and humid (daily highs around 90–95 °F / 32–35 °C in June). A popular excursion is the NASA Johnson Space Center, where you can tour Mission Control and see rockets a must for science and space buffs (plan on a half-day trip, as it’s about 30 minutes outside downtown). If you prefer to stay in town, the Museum District is world-class: the Houston Museum of Natural Science and Museum of Fine Arts are both top-notch and blissfully air-conditioned. For a more relaxed vibe, spend time in Hermann Park you can visit the Houston Zoo or paddle boat on the pond under big Texas skies. Come evening, catch your breath (and cool off) at Discovery Green downtown, which often hosts live music or World Cup watch parties on giant screens. And since Houston is “Bayou City,” you might even rent a kayak on Buffalo Bayou or explore the walking trails along Allen Parkway if the weather isn’t too brutal. However you spend it, an off-day here offers a perfect balance: enriching daytime activities followed by dinner in another of Houston’s foodie neighborhoods (maybe Vietnamese cuisine in Bellaire Chinatown or Cajun seafood along the Gulf). Rest up, because soon it’s time to hit the road for the next host city.
Drive: Houston to Dallas (I-45 North, ~240 miles)
Bid Houston farewell and set out north on I-45 for the drive to Dallas. It’s about 241 miles, roughly 4 hours of drive time a straight shot through the heart of Texas. This leg is very drivable, and while it doesn’t have dramatic mountains or coastlines, there are a handful of quirky and classic Texas stops to break up the trip:
- Huntsville’s Roadside Giants: About an hour outside Houston, pull off in Huntsville to see the Sam Houston Statue, a 67-foot tall tribute to Texas hero Sam Houston that looms over the highway. It’s a quick photo op with a slice of Texas history. While in Huntsville, you can also visit the offbeat Texas Prison Museum a surprisingly engaging little museum showcasing Texas penitentiary lore (yes, “Old Sparky” the electric chair is on display). It’s a quirky stop that many roadtrippers remember.
- Buc-ee’s in Madisonville: Road trip aficionados won’t want to miss a pit stop at Buc-ee’s, the legendary Texas-sized gas station. There’s one along I-45 in Madisonville. Fuel up, grab some Beaver Nuggets or brisket tacos, and marvel at the cleanest restrooms on the interstate Buc-ee’s is a cultural experience unto itself.
- Woody’s Smokehouse (Centerville): Roughly halfway, Centerville offers Woody’s Smokehouse, a famous roadside deli/gas station known for its jerky selection and BBQ sandwiches. It’s perfect for a quick lunch try the smoked brisket or turkey and stock up on snacks for the road.
- Corsicana’s Sweet Treat: If you don’t mind a short detour (or need a sugar rush), swing into Corsicana to visit Collin Street Bakery, home of the world-famous Deluxe Fruitcake and some decadent pecan pies. It’s a historic bakery (operating since 1896) and a nice spot to stretch your legs and satisfy a sweet tooth.
As you approach the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, traffic will thicken. Aim to arrive in the DFW area by late afternoon. You’ll be gearing up for Dallas’s own World Cup showcase next.
Dallas (Game Days & Area Activities)
Game Day in Dallas: Dallas’s World Cup venue is AT&T Stadium in Arlington (temporarily branded “Dallas Stadium” during the tournament) an enormous modern dome known for its gigantic HD screen and NFL glamour. Dallas is hosting a tournament-high nine matches, so there’s likely a game every few days while you’re here. Marquee group-stage showdowns include England vs. Croatia on June 17 and Argentina vs. Austria on June 22, plus Japan, the Netherlands and others making appearances. The local organizing committee is thrilled to host global stars like Lionel Messi in this stadium. If you’ve just come from Houston, try to catch one of Dallas’s later group matches (for example, Japan vs. the European playoff winner on June 25 or Jordan vs. Argentina on June 27) the timing works out to see those after Houston’s last group game on the 26th. Dallas will also host knockout matches: two Round of 32 games (June 30 and July 3), a Round of 16 on July 6, and a semifinal on July 14. Depending on your schedule, you could be in town for that high-stakes semifinal a once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere with a spot in the World Cup Final on the line.
On a game day, plan your logistics because Arlington is about 20 miles west of Dallas proper (and similarly east of Fort Worth). Many fans stay in Dallas or Fort Worth and commute to the stadium. If you’re in downtown Dallas, consider taking a dedicated shuttle or rideshare to avoid parking lot chaos though if you do drive, pre-book parking. AT&T Stadium’s lots are massive but fill up, and prices start around $75 for group games and can approach $100 for knockout games. Aim to arrive early and perhaps enjoy Texas Live!, an entertainment complex adjacent to the stadium and Globe Life Field. Texas Live has eateries, big screens, and live music a great place to gather with fans before kickoff or celebrate after. Tailgating is also popular here; you’ll see plenty of grilling and jersey-clad fans in the parking lots hours before the match.
Inside AT&T Stadium, you’ll experience World Cup soccer in one of the world’s biggest indoor arenas capacity can exceed 90,000 with standing room. Despite the size, sightlines are excellent and the A/C will be pumping (a relief in July when outside temps routinely hit mid-90s °F/35 °C). Enjoy the spectacle of a packed house cheering on teams like Argentina or England under the retractable roof. After the match, be patient exiting traffic is intense. This is a good night to stay around Arlington or head to a midway point like the neighborhoods of Deep Ellum or Uptown Dallas for late-night bites. Deep Ellum, an artsy district, is famous for its BBQ (try Pecan Lodge for smoked meats) and live music venues you might catch an upbeat post-match vibe there. If you prefer a pint, the Uptown area along McKinney Avenue has many pubs and sports bars where international fans congregate after games.
Off-Day in Dallas: North Texas has plenty to keep you entertained between match days. For a taste of cowboy culture, spend a morning at the Fort Worth Stockyards (about 30-40 minutes from Dallas). You can witness a Longhorn cattle drive down the street, grab lunch at a honky-tonk, or even catch a rodeo if timing permits. History buffs might opt for Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas to visit the Sixth Floor Museum at the former Texas School Book Depository, learning about JFK’s legacy. Families could check out the Perot Museum of Nature and Science (fantastic interactive exhibits) or the Dallas World Aquarium. If you need a break from sports, Dallas’s Arts District offers the Dallas Museum of Art and Nasher Sculpture Center both excellent and near Klyde Warren Park, an urban green space perfect for a food truck lunch.
Given the World Cup spirit, soccer fans should not miss the National Soccer Hall of Fame up in Frisco (about a 30-minute drive north). It’s an interactive museum inside Toyota Stadium honoring U.S. soccer history a fitting pilgrimage during the tournament. Frisco is also home to the FC Dallas MLS team and various training facilities that might host team base camps. Back in Dallas, be sure to sample some local flavor: Tex-Mex and barbecue are religion here. Try Migas or breakfast tacos to start your day, and for dinner on an off-day, maybe seek out a hearty steak after all, you’re in cattle country. The Fort Worth Rodeo Goat and Dallas’ Bishop Arts District are foodie hotspots for burgers, tacos, and more. Wrap up an off-day by riding the vintage McKinney Avenue trolley in Uptown or catching a sunset view from Reunion Tower’s observation deck. With batteries recharged, you’re ready for the longest drive of the trip north to Kansas City for the tournament’s climactic stages.
Drive: Dallas to Kansas City (I-35 & I-335 North, ~560 miles)
Gear up for a full day’s drive as you depart Dallas and aim for Kansas City, roughly 565 miles (about 8–9 hours) if you take the direct route through Oklahoma and Kansas. It’s a significant haul, but splitting it with stops turns the journey into part of the adventure. You’ll traverse three states on Interstate 35, passing through rolling plains, small towns, and a couple of major cities. Here are a few recommended stops along the way:
- WinStar World Casino (Thackerville, OK): About 1.5 hours north of Dallas on I-35, you’ll hit the Oklahoma border where the WinStar Casino beckons. Billed as one of the world’s largest casinos, WinStar is a sudden neon oasis amid ranch land. Even if gambling isn’t your thing, it’s a convenient rest stop (clean restrooms, food court, and gas) or try your luck at a slot machine for a quick break.
- Turner Falls Park (Davis, OK): Another hour up the road, consider a nature stop in the Arbuckle Mountains of southern Oklahoma. Turner Falls is a beautiful 77-foot waterfall and swimming hole just off I-35 near Davis. The park has picnic spots and short hiking trails perfect for a refreshing dip or picnic lunch under the shade if time allows. Even a quick photo of the falls’ scenic cascade is worth the detour. Nearby, you’ll also find Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies (in Davis), a charming bakery famous for fruit-filled hand pies a delicious road snack.
- Oklahoma City, OK: About 3 hours into the drive, you’ll reach Oklahoma City, the state capital. This is a great midpoint to refuel (both car and body) and do a bit of sightseeing if you can spare a couple hours. Stretch your legs by visiting the Oklahoma City National Memorial downtown a somber, beautifully designed tribute that is highly recommended. For a lighter stop, head to Bricktown, OKC’s revitalized warehouse district, where you can grab lunch on a canal-side patio or tour the American Banjo Museum for a quirky slice of Americana. Kids (and kids-at-heart) might enjoy Bricktown’s mini water taxi ride through the canal. As you leave OKC, make sure you’re ready for tolls from here north, much of I-35 in Kansas turns into the Kansas Turnpike (toll road).
- Wichita, KS (optional): Continuing north, you’ll drive through prairie landscapes into Kansas. If you need another stop after ~2½ hours from OKC, Wichita is an easy on-off. Check out the Keeper of the Plains, a 44-foot steel statue at the confluence of two rivers in the evenings (9pm in summer) it’s illuminated by fire drums, a striking sight. Wichita also has plenty of quick dining options. Otherwise, you can bypass the city via the turnpike.
- Flint Hills Scenic Overlook (Kansas Turnpike): Between Wichita and Emporia, the highway crosses the Flint Hills, a region of tallgrass prairie. At mile marker 111 on I-35 (Matfield Green service area), there’s a service plaza with an overlook where you can gaze out at the unspoiled rolling hills especially pretty around sunset. It’s a reminder of what the Great Plains looked like before development.
- Topeka or Emporia, KS (quick stops): If you need one last break, Topeka (the Kansas capital) is just west of the turnpike about 60 miles from KC. Topeka’s quirky highlight is Truckhenge an outdoor art installation of half-buried trucks sticking out of the ground, akin to Cadillac Ranch, which you can see if you venture a bit off I-70. Also in Topeka is the Evel Knievel Museum, a fun stop for fans of the daredevil motorcyclist. Emporia, a smaller town at the crossroads of I-335, is known for the original Braum’s Ice Cream and Burgers a regional fast-food joint to grab a milkshake.
By the time you reach the Kansas City metro area, you’ll have driven through nearly the entire height of the Great Plains. Plan to arrive in KC by the evening on the day before your targeted quarter-final match, so you have time to rest. Enjoy the change of scenery you’re now in the Midwest’s Heartland, with the grand finale of your World Cup journey coming up.
Kansas City (Match Days & Local Highlights)
Game Day in Kansas City: Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium (officially GEHA Field at Arrowhead) is famed for its loud crowd and tailgating culture. During the World Cup, it’s simply “Kansas City Stadium,” and it will host some pivotal games including a quarter-final on July 11. Group stage nights in KC were electric (Argentina’s June 16 opener here against Algeria was a sellout under the lights, and fans from seven different nations poured into the city during the group rounds). The quarter-final will be another level of excitement: a do-or-die match likely featuring elite teams. Kickoff is at 9 p.m. ET (8 p.m. local), so you have all day to soak up KC’s atmosphere.
Start your game day with a hearty breakfast maybe some classic Midwestern fare like biscuits and gravy at a local diner. Then consider exploring downtown Kansas City, Missouri (the city spans the Missouri–Kansas state line, but the stadium is on the Missouri side). Pay a visit to the National World War I Museum and Memorial, an iconic monument and museum perched on a hill not only is it one of KC’s top cultural sites, it’s also slated to be a FIFA Fan Fest location during the tournament. You might find a lively crowd there during the day, with big screens and food trucks set up among the museum’s lawn and historic Union Station nearby. From the Memorial’s tower, you get a panoramic view of the city.
As kickoff approaches, head out to Arrowhead early it’s about a 15-minute drive from downtown, located in the Truman Sports Complex along with the Royals’ baseball stadium. Public transit is limited here, so driving or rideshare is the main option (expect surge pricing and longer waits after the match). If you drive, join the tailgate scene! Kansas City prides itself on tailgating; you’ll see soccer fans adapting the Chiefs-style pregame party with BBQ grills fired up in the parking lot. In true KC fashion, some might be smoking ribs or offering up “Burnt Ends” sandwiches in the lots don’t be shy about chatting with friendly fans; Midwestern hospitality is real. Parking at Arrowhead for World Cup will require advance passes as well (likely around $75 for group, higher for quarter-final), so secure that beforehand.
Inside the stadium, prepare for an intense wall of sound. Arrowhead is known as one of the loudest outdoor stadiums in the world (KC Chiefs fans hold decibel level records), and soccer fans will bring the noise too. By this stage of the World Cup, the fan contingents are huge and colors vibrant you might be in a sea of say, Argentine blue and white or Dutch orange, depending on which teams made it. Revel in the chants and pageantry one last time. If your schedule allows, Kansas City also has a Round of 32 game on July 3 (a late 9:30 p.m. kickoff), which could be another chance to see a knockout match in a slightly smaller setting before the quarter-final. Either way, the experience of a World Cup night under the lights in Kansas City will be unforgettable.
After the match, traffic will funnel slowly out of Arrowhead. You can either wait it out by hanging in the parking lot (celebrate responsibly if your team won!) or head to the Power & Light District downtown once you make it back this central nightlife area will be buzzing with international fans and locals alike. Many bars there stay open late and might host after-parties or live music. It’s the perfect spot to toast the end of a successful road trip and tournament journey.
Off-Day in Kansas City: Use any free days here to enjoy KC’s easygoing charm and famous food scene. This city is world-renowned for barbecue, so plan at least one BBQ pilgrimage. Options abound, but a few legendary joints include Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que (try the brisket and burnt ends at its original gas-station location), Arthur Bryant’s (a historic favorite of presidents and celebrities for its ribs and tangy sauce), or Gates Bar-B-Q (where you’ll be greeted loudly at the door it’s a KC tradition). Barbecue in KC is a way of life, and burnt ends those caramelized tips of the brisket are a local specialty everyone should experience. Expect a line at the most popular places, but it’s worth the wait (pro tip: go in mid-afternoon between lunch and dinner rush).
Beyond food, Kansas City has rich cultural offerings. If you didn’t already, tour the National WWI Museum and Memorial in depth it’s one of the best museums of its kind in the country. Also noteworthy is the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in the historic 18th & Vine Jazz District, which gives a moving account of African-American baseball history and, next door, the American Jazz Museum celebrates KC’s huge jazz legacy (this was home to legends like Charlie Parker). For art lovers, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a must-see, with a vast collection and whimsical shuttlecock sculptures on the lawn and like many KC museums, general admission is free. If you’re traveling with kids (or just love amusement parks), Worlds of Fun is an outdoor theme park with roller coasters, and Science City at Union Station offers interactive exhibits.
Kansas City also knows how to have a good time once the sun goes down. In Westport, an older neighborhood turned bar district, you’ll find a mix of pubs, breweries, and music venues in a walkable area a fun place to mingle with locals. The Crossroads Arts District, near downtown, hosts First Friday events (if timing aligns) with gallery open houses and food trucks. And if you happen to be in KC on a non-match evening, catch a Kansas City Royals baseball game or Sporting KC soccer match if they’re playing Kansas City sports fans are passionate year-round.
As your World Cup road trip winds down, take a moment to savor the journey: you’ve driven across a huge swath of America’s mid-section, cheered in three distinct host cities, and made memories at every stop. Whether you end your trip here in KC or turn around and head back, you’ll depart with a deeper appreciation for both the beautiful game and the open road.
Vehicle & Rental Logistics
For a trip of this length and mileage, choosing the right vehicle and rental plan is crucial. A spacious SUV or minivan is ideal you’ll want room for passengers, luggage, and any souvenirs (like that extra soccer jersey or case of Texas beer). An SUV or van also offers comfort for long highway stretches and has the power to handle full loads with the A/C cranked up in the summer heat. While a standard sedan could do the job, the extra space and higher seating position of an SUV/van make the journey more pleasant, especially when everyone’s tired after a match or a drive.
Rental strategy: Plan a one-way rental starting in Houston and ending in Kansas City. Major car rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, etc.) allow one-way drop-offs, though be prepared for a drop fee. Given the popularity of World Cup travel, book early and verify the one-way fee and any mileage limits. Pick up at Houston’s airport when you arrive both IAH and Hobby have on-site rental car centers for convenience. At the end, you can drop the vehicle at Kansas City International (MCI) before your flight home. Kansas City’s brand-new single-terminal airport is efficient, and the rental car return is straightforward. One tip: consider scheduling the car return for the day after the quarter-final, not the night of this gives you buffer time in case post-game celebrations run late or traffic delays your arrival back in the city.
Driving prep: Ensure your rental has a good GPS or bring your own (though your phone and Google Maps will suffice as long as you have a car charger). You might also request an toll pass device from the rental company this can be very handy, as you’ll encounter toll roads, especially the Kansas Turnpike on the way to KC. If they don’t provide one, carry cash or a credit card for tolls (Oklahoma and Kansas toll plazas usually accept cards). Before leaving the lot, double-check the spare tire and emergency kit in the vehicle, just in case. And given the summertime weather, it doesn’t hurt to have windshield sunshades (to keep the car cooler when parked) and a small cooler for drinks on long drives.
Lastly, think about parking at accommodations. Downtown hotels in Houston and Dallas often charge for parking (sometimes $20-30/night). If you’re staying in city centers, factor that in or look for hotels with free parking slightly outside the core. In Kansas City, many hotels, especially in the suburbs or near the airport, offer free parking. Balancing convenience vs. cost is key for example, you might opt to stay in an Uptown Dallas hotel with free parking and take a short rideshare to downtown attractions, rather than paying high overnight garage fees. With your vehicle sorted and strategy planned, you’ll be set to drive with confidence throughout your World Cup odyssey.
Travel Tips (Weather, Roads & Stadium Access)
- Summer Weather & Heat: Prepare for extreme heat and humidity, especially in Texas. Houston’s climate in June is hot and muggy (90°F+ with high humidity), and Dallas isn’t far behind (mid-90s °F on average in July). Kansas City in July is slightly milder but still around 90 °F (32 °C) most days. Stay hydrated keep a case of water in your vehicle. Dress in light, breathable clothing and don’t forget sunscreen. During mid-day hours, limit strenuous outdoor activities: it’s no coincidence many matches are scheduled for the evening to beat the midday heat. On non-game days, follow the locals’ lead and do indoor sightseeing or relax during the hottest part of the afternoon.
- Storms: Summer is also thunderstorm season. Pop-up storms or even severe weather (thunder, lightning, heavy rain) can occur, especially in the afternoons. Check the forecast each morning. If driving between cities, be mindful of rain slow down in downpours and be prepared for brief roadside stops if visibility gets bad. All three states you’ll drive through (Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas) can have strong summer storms. The good news is they usually pass quickly.
- Driving Conditions: The interstates on this route are generally flat and well-maintained. Speed limits in Texas are high (70–75 mph on I-45). Once you hit Oklahoma and Kansas, expect limits around 75 mph. Texas has some toll roads in urban areas (Houston’s Sam Houston Tollway, some express lanes, etc.), but you can mostly avoid those if you stay on I-45. In Kansas, I-35 becomes the Kansas Turnpike (I-335) and charges tolls from the Oklahoma state line up to Kansas City. You’ll get a ticket or use your toll pass and pay upon exit it’s roughly $15 for the full length in a car. Keep some small bills or a credit card handy for toll booths if you don’t have an electronic pass.
- Traffic: In Houston and Dallas, traffic can be intense during rush hours (7–9am and 4–7pm). Plan your city driving to avoid peak times if possible. For example, if you’re driving to a Houston 1pm game, leave by 10:30am to miss noon traffic and give time to park. In Dallas, if you’re staying downtown but heading to an evening match in Arlington, consider leaving mid-afternoon and maybe stop at Texas Live or a restaurant near the stadium to wait out rush hour. Kansas City’s traffic is lighter by comparison, but around game time there will be congestion on I-70 and local roads to Arrowhead arriving early is wise.
- Stadium Access & Parking: Each stadium has its quirks. NRG Stadium (Houston) sits alongside the 610 Loop with multiple entrances. It’s well served by rideshares and the METRO rail, as noted. There’s abundant parking at NRG Park, but expect to pay a premium (possibly $50–$100) and encounter heavy traffic exiting public transit or shuttles can save time. AT&T Stadium (Dallas/Arlington) is surrounded by huge surface lots. It’s used to handling NFL crowds, but the sheer volume of World Cup fans will still push its limits. Coordinate with your group where your parking lot is, as the walk can be long. Arlington has limited public transit some private shuttles run from downtown Dallas or Fort Worth on game days (keep an eye on host city announcements for any special World Cup transit). Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City) has notoriously excellent tailgating but limited alternatives to driving. KC may introduce park-and-ride shuttles for World Cup, but details vary; many will simply drive. When parking at Arrowhead, remember which lot (they’re color-coded) you’re in after a night game, the lots can be a sea of cars and celebrations. Also note: all three stadiums have security protocols (clear bag policies, etc.), so check guidelines before you go to avoid bringing prohibited items.
- Rest Stops & Fuel: On the road portions, you’ll find rest areas and gas stations regularly along interstates. Between Houston and Dallas on I-45, there are plenty of stops (every 30–40 miles there’s at least a gas station). On I-35 through Oklahoma, services are a bit more spaced but still frequent. When you see a sign for gas and you’re below half a tank, it’s not a bad idea to top up, especially at night, as some rural stations might close early. In Kansas, service plazas on the Turnpike are convenient and have clean facilities, fuel, and fast food.
- Local Driving Etiquette: Texans can be speedy drivers, and it’s common to see pick-up trucks cruising fast. Stay in the right lane on open highways if you prefer a relaxed pace, and use the left lane for passing. In Kansas and Missouri, drivers are generally moderate. One quirk: in Kansas City, many streets are named after states or numbers and can exist in both Kansas and Missouri sides don’t get confused if a local gives directions. Rely on your GPS when navigating cities to avoid any wrong turns.
- Emergency Prep: In the unlikely event of a car breakdown, having that rental car roadside assistance number is key. Cell coverage is good along interstates, though there are a few rural patches in Oklahoma that might drop but not for long. Carry a basic first aid kit and a few spare snacks just in case. Summer heat can be unforgiving if you’re stuck waiting, so having water and maybe a sun hat is smart.
- Health & Safety: With large crowds at matches, basic precautions go a long way. Wear comfortable shoes you’ll be walking a lot from parking to stadium and around fan zones. Use a hat and sunscreen during daytime festivities (sunburn can sneak up on you even while tailgating). Also, consider earplugs for the games if you’re sensitive to noise; the decibel levels in a packed stadium can be very high, especially at enclosed AT&T Stadium and the famously loud Arrowhead. Finally, stay aware of your surroundings in crowded fan zones and keep your belongings secure (as you would in any big event). The atmosphere will be celebratory and friendly, but it never hurts to use common sense.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll navigate the Texas roads and Heartland highways like a pro and enjoy stress-free stadium days from start to finish.
Who This Trip Is For
This road trip itinerary is designed for soccer fanatics and adventure seekers who want to merge their love of the beautiful game with the freedom of the open road. It’s perfect for a group of friends or family who managed to snag World Cup tickets and are up for a month-long journey together. If you’re the kind of fan who wants to chant with the crowds in multiple cities and also enjoys singing along to road trip playlists between matches, this is for you.
Friend Groups: Picture a van full of friends draped in flags, traveling city to city following your team (or just the biggest games). Between stadium stops you’ll bond over late-night drives and local diner breakfasts. This trip gives friend groups the ultimate story to tell “remember when we caravaned from Texas to Kansas City and saw Messi score in Dallas then watched a quarter-final in KC?” those memories will last a lifetime.
Families: For families with flexible schedules (perhaps taking the kids out of school for a once-in-a-lifetime World Cup experience), this route offers a mix of sports and educational stops. Parents and kids can enjoy matches together, then visit museums, NASA’s Space Center, and historical sites on off-days. The driving legs are reasonable lengths broken up by fun stops (giant statues, waterfalls, etc.), keeping even younger travelers engaged. A family can tailor the pace maybe spend a bit longer in one city to rest, then continue on. If your children are soccer players themselves, imagine their excitement at seeing World Cup games live and exploring the National Soccer Hall of Fame en route.
Time-Flexible Travelers: This itinerary spans about four weeks. It’s geared toward those who can take an extended trip whether you’re a remote worker seizing the chance to work-from-road (Wi-Fi in hotels and an occasional cafe stop), a sabbatical taker, or lucky enough to have ample vacation time in early summer. Retirees who love soccer could also be great candidates; you have the time to savor each locale and perhaps add detours (want to see the Alamo in San Antonio or the Ozarks in Arkansas? Go for it!). The trip is as much about the journey as the matches, so it rewards those who aren’t in a rush.
In essence, this trip is for anyone who read about the 2026 World Cup being spread across North America and thought, “Why just pick one city? Let’s hit the road and see them all.” It’s for the adventurous fan who values experiences singing the national anthem with a stadium full of fans, trading scarves with someone from the other side of the world, and then driving off into a Texas sunset towards the next match. If that sounds like your kind of World Cup, pack your bags (don’t forget your vuvuzela or fan jersey) and get ready for an epic road trip through Texas and the Heartland. Game on!
Check Out Our Ultimate World Cup 2026 Road Trips Guide – Built for the Ultimate Fan
Turn your World Cup tickets into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Chase the tournament across the U.S. with our curated road trip itineraries built around real match dates, host cities, and the best drives in between.Coast-to-Coast Tournament Road Trip (Follow the Entire World Cup)
Start on the West Coast and finish at the Final in New York/New Jersey, hitting multiple host cities and knockout rounds along the way. Perfect for fans who want the full World Cup 2026 experience in one epic journey. Read the full guide
West Coast Road Trip: Seattle → San Francisco Bay Area → Los Angeles
Blend bucket-list stadiums with Pacific Coast scenery. Catch group-stage action in three West Coast host cities while weaving in national parks, coastal drives, and iconic U.S. cities.
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Southeast Road Trip: Miami → Atlanta
Beach days, Latin nightlife, and Everglades exploration in Miami then up to Atlanta’s futuristic stadium and Southern hospitality for knockout-round drama. A short, high-impact route.
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Northeast Corridor Road Trip: Boston → NYC/NJ → Philadelphia
Three iconic cities, fast drives or quick Amtrak hops, and a dense cluster of group and knockout games. Experience Boston’s history, New York’s skyline, and Philly’s food scene between matches.
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Knockout Stage Chase: Quarterfinal → Semifinals → Final
The ultimate late-tournament sprint: a fully driveable route that follows a West Coast Quarterfinal, both Semifinals in Dallas and Atlanta, and ends at the World Cup Final in New York/New Jersey.
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