Matches in Kansas City
Tue Jun 16, 9pm CT
Argentina vs Algeria
Group J
Sat Jun 20, 8pm CT
Ecuador vs Curacao
Group E
Thu Jun 25, 7pm CT
Tunisia vs Netherlands
Group F
Sat Jun 27, 10pm CT
Algeria vs Austria
Group J
Fri Jul 3, 9:30pm CT
Round of 32 — TBD
Round of 32
Sat Jul 11, 9pm CT
Quarter-Final — TBD
Quarter-Final
Argentina opens their 2026 campaign here
Defending world champions Argentina vs Algeria on June 16 is the highest-demand match in Kansas City's schedule. Arrowhead Stadium — already recognised as one of the loudest sports venues on earth — will be transformed into an Argentine atmosphere. Book hotels for June 15-17 immediately.
Where to stay
Downtown / Power and Light
Best overall base. Fan Festival at National WWI Museum is walking distance. Great nightlife, jazz bars and BBQ restaurants. ConnectKC26 Stadium Direct buses run from here to Arrowhead.
Best overall
Crossroads Arts District
Trendy arts and restaurant neighbourhood. KC Streetcar access to downtown. Great bar and food scene between matches. Popular with younger international fans.
Best atmosphere
Country Club Plaza
Upscale shopping and dining area. Good hotel options, safe neighbourhood. Rideshare or ConnectKC26 bus to stadium. More relaxed than downtown.
Best for families
North Kansas City / Northland
More affordable than downtown. ConnectKC26 Stadium Direct stops here for direct buses to Arrowhead on match days. 12-22 minutes to stadium.
Budget friendly
No rail to the stadium — plan transit carefully
Arrowhead Stadium has no rail connection. ConnectKC26 Stadium Direct buses are the only public transit option on match days. Book parking well in advance if driving as only 3,000-4,000 spots are available versus the normal 20,000.
Local tips for Kansas City
ConnectKC26 Stadium Direct bus is your only transit option
There is no rail to Arrowhead Stadium. ConnectKC26 Stadium Direct runs express buses from the FIFA Fan Festival at the National WWI Museum and four park-and-ride lots directly to the stadium on match days. This is the recommended option. Book your bus pass in advance at kansascityfwc26.com.
Free airport bus to downtown
ConnectKC26 Airport Direct offers complimentary round-trip buses from Kansas City International Airport (KCI) to the ConnectKC26 Bus Mall, just two blocks from the Fan Festival in downtown. A valid ConnectKC26 Airport Direct pass is required. Great way to arrive and head straight to the fan zone.
Kansas City BBQ is world famous for a reason
KC BBQ is arguably the best in the USA. Joe's Kansas City, Arthur Bryant's and Jack Stack Barbecue are institutions. Slow-smoked beef brisket, burnt ends and ribs are the must-orders. Budget time for at least one proper BBQ meal during your visit — you won't regret it.
Jazz capital of America
Kansas City is the birthplace of jazz. The 18th and Vine Historic Jazz District has live music every night. Green Lady Lounge and Mutual Musicians Foundation are legendary spots. A completely different side of the city worth exploring between matches.
Hot and humid in June and July
Kansas City summers are hot with high humidity, typically 30-35°C. Arrowhead is an open-air stadium. Bring sunscreen, water and light clothing for daytime matches. Evening matches are more comfortable but still warm at kickoff.
Fan Festival at National WWI Museum and Memorial
The official FIFA Fan Festival runs June 11 to July 13 at the National WWI Museum, one of Kansas City's most iconic landmarks. Free and upgraded ticket options available. This is also the main ConnectKC26 transit hub making it easy to reach both downtown and the stadium.
Plan your full Kansas City trip ⚽
Getting to Kansas City
Kansas City International Airport (KCI) has a modern new terminal opened in 2023. Good connections from major US hubs. ConnectKC26 Airport Direct offers free buses to downtown.
Getting to Arrowhead Stadium
ConnectKC26 Stadium Direct (recommended)
Express buses from the Fan Festival and park-and-ride lots directly to Arrowhead. Only option for ticket holders using public transit. Book pass in advance.
Drive and park — book well in advance
Only 3,000-4,000 parking spots available vs the normal 20,000. Book via Arrowhead's official site immediately. Off-site lots on I-70 and I-435 also offer shuttle service.
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft available with designated drop-off zones. Significant surge pricing expected after matches. Book return before final whistle.
Stay connected in Kansas City
US roaming charges can be very expensive. Get a US eSIM before you board your flight.
Get US eSIM on Airalo
From $5 for 1GB, activate before landing
→
Travel insurance
Medical costs in the USA are extremely high. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Get a quote on World Nomads
Covers medical, cancellation and baggage
→
Official merchandise
Shop official World Cup 2026 jerseys and gear before you travel.
Shop on Fanatics
Official licensed World Cup gear
→
Visa reminder for USA
Most international visitors need either ESTA or a B1/B2 visa to enter the USA. Check requirements before booking.
View full Visa Guide →
View full Visa Guide →