Much like it did three decades ago for the 1996 Olympic Games, the sporting world’s eyes will descend on Atlanta, Georgia, this summer, as it plays host to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Atlanta’s state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium—opened less than a decade ago—will host a total of eight World Cup matches, including the second of two semifinal clashes on July 15.
The month-long celebration will showcase the city’s blossoming football culture as well as many other facets that make it a Southern standout.
Things to Do During the World Cup in Atlanta
For visitors to Atlanta during this summer’s World Cup, the FIFA Fan Festival at Centennial Olympic Park will be a must.
Soccer fans can choose from 18 different days to attend between June 11 and July 15 to enjoy the action on the pitch “watch party style” alongside live music, games and special guest appearances.
Beyond the World Cup-themed entertainment, visitors will be just steps from a handful of Atlanta’s most coveted attractions, including the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, the 20-story SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel and the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, among other sites.
World of Coca-Cola (Photo via Lauren Bowman)
The Atlanta Beltline promises to be another major destination for fan energy and community celebration this summer. June’s Atlanta Beltline Fest is a two-day, free trail-wide festival spanning nearly 17 miles of paved paths from Eastside to Southside to Westside.
Visitors can look forward to live music and performances, pop-up markets, local art, cultural showcases and more watch parties.
During the tournament, Pittsburgh Yards will host a Beltline Marketplace hub at its Container Courtyard, offering food stalls, local vendors, cultural pop-ups and engagement stations.
Aerial view of Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo Credit: SeanPavonePhoto/Adobe)
For those hoping to get outdoors, Red Top Mountain State Park is just 40 minutes from Atlanta and ideal for a wide range of nature activities like kayaking, biking and scenic lakeside hiking.
Other notable draws for nature and history lovers include Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site, Tallulah Gorge State Park, Amicalola Falls State Park, Vogel State Park, Stephen C Foster State Park, Providence Canyon State Park and Indian Springs State Park.
Where to Stay for the World Cup in Atlanta
World Cup travelers to Atlanta will want to secure accommodations downtown close to Mercedes-Benz Stadium and nearby Centennial Olympic Park.
While there undoubtedly will be tremendous demand for hotel rooms and vacation rentals, visitors will have options. Groups may opt for Airbnb listings while solo travelers, couples and smaller friend groups might consider booking a stay with a trusted hotel brand such as Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott or Omni.
The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta and The Westin Peachtree Plaza are two renowned properties that’ll certainly be a tough ticket come World Cup time, but well worth the trouble nonetheless.
Suite Studio King at JW Marriott Atlanta Downtown. (Photo Credit: Marriott International)
There’s also the newly-opened JW Marriott Atlanta Downtown, boasting elevated accommodations, four new dining concepts, and an expansive Executive Lounge. Just minutes from the stadium, JW Marriott Atlanta Downtown places guests steps from the city’s top experiences.
Atlanta is a sprawling city; however, travelers have the option to venture out to Midtown and other nearby neighborhoods like the Old Fourth Ward to expand their options and stretch their budget further without missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Sports fans should also consider staying near The Battery, about 10 miles northwest of downtown, where they can catch an Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park while enjoying easy access to dining, shopping, concerts and other entertainment.
Where to Eat for the World Cup in Atlanta
Few cities do BBQ and comfort food like Atlanta, so World Cup fans will want to bring their appetite to the ATL this summer.
Korean Pork sandwich at Heirloom Market. (Photo via Heirloom Market BBQ)
Some can’t-miss experiences include the renowned Fox Bros’ rib-sticking BBQ, the fried chicken at Busy Bee Cafe, grilled bread dipped in a farm-fresh egg baked in celery cream at Miller Union and a spicy Korean pork sandwich from Heirloom Market BBQ. And don’t forget to try the lemon pepper wet frog legs at Avize.
Travelers can also choose from a handful of Michelin-starred restaurants, including some exceptional Japanese spots in Mujō, O by Brush and Omakase Table.
Visitors can also grab some out-of-this-world bites and sips at hip spots like Victory Sandwich Bar, where you can pair a creative sandwich straight from your dreams with a Whiskey Coke Slushie.
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