Interest in U.S. soccer shows no signs of slowing down following the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Major League Soccer returned Feb. 25 and National Women’s Soccer League begins March 25, meaning many major U.S. cities welcome fans and travelers alike to explore these great soccer stadiums and the surrounding areas.
Whether visiting to watch a match or explore a city, these soccer stadiums offer the best of both worlds.
© Courtesy of SoFi Stadium
Located in Inglewood, the U.S. Men’s National Team calls this stadium home. In 2022, SoFi kicked off its soccer debut by hosting the Leagues Cup, with plans to host this summer’s 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup, starting July 16. The stadium will also host matches for the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympic Games. Fans can take part in a tour with Go City to receive behind-the-scenes access of the stadium.
While in the area, don’t forget to explore California Science Center. The region also features Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook and invites visitors to go on a Sony Pictures Studio tour. For accommodations, stay at AC Hotel by Marriott Los Angeles South Bay, Hilton Los Angeles or Sonder Lüm. Enjoy meals at nearby restaurants like Tortuga Brewing Company, Martin’s Cocina y Cantina and Sunday Gravy.
© Courtesy of Visit Austin
In Austin, Texas, Q2 Stadium opened in 2021 ahead of Austin’s FC first season. This soccer-specific stadium features a canopy structure for shade cover of all seats and a natural grass playing surface. Within the stadium lies more than 24 vendors serving various bites from some of the city’s top restaurants, including Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ, Easy Tiger and Bao’d Up. The stadium is connected to downtown Austin by the Rail.
Dignity Health Sports Park, California
Home to Los Angeles Galaxy FC, this Carson-based stadium seats up to 27,000 fans. The stadium also features stylish Modelo Cabanas for guests to enjoy a private setting with great views, exclusive food and beverage offerings and personal wait service. Schedule a trip to watch the first and only FC to win five MLS cups at their home stadium.
While in Carson, stop by Torrance for some fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls at the brand’s only restaurant in the country. Choose from various breweries in the area, from Absolution Brewing Co. to The Brews Hall.
© Courtesy of Visit KC
Children’s Mercy Park, Missouri
Kansas City, nicknamed soccer capital of America, is home to two professional soccer teams: Sporting KC and KC Current. The city, slated to host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, boasts Children’s Mercy Park, a state-of-the-art stadium located near shopping and entertainment spots. In addition to this facility, Kansas City will soon debut a new stadium at Berkley Riverfront Park in spring 2024, making it the first-ever soccer stadium built specifically for a professional women’s sport.
Visitors of Kansas City can enjoy visits to the stadium, as well as time exploring popular neighborhoods like Power & Light District and Crossroads Art District. Stay at boutique hotels like Hotel Kansas City and Crossroads Hotel while exploring the National WWI Museum and Memorial and Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. For food, there’s no shortage of world-renowned barbecue eateries.
© Courtesy of Houston First Corporation
In downtown Houston lies Shell Energy Stadium (formerly PNC Stadium). Home to Houston Dynamo FC, this stadium is conveniently located near many popular Houston attractions, hotels and restaurants. Before a match, grab an early dinner at Xochi, where James Beard Award-winning chef Hugo Ortega wows guests with Mexican cuisine. Other restaurants in the area include Osso & Kristalla and the nearby Truck Yard.
© Courtesy of BMO Stadium
Also in Los Angeles, see Angel City FC, the defending MLS champions, and NWSL’s Angel City FC, play at BMO Stadium. The first open-air stadium built in Los Angeles, this stadium lies in Exposition Park, framed by views of downtown Los Angeles. With 22,000 seats, each within 135 feet of the pitch, this stadium is a must-visit for soccer fans.
When in Los Angeles, stay at nearby Portofino Hotel & Marina and enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant BALEENkitchen.
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