Houston at the World Cup.
Houston is one of eleven U.S. host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with seven matches scheduled at NRG Stadium between June 11 and July 19. If you're flying in for a match — or three — this is what we'd tell a friend before they came.
NRG Stadium
Air-conditioned, retractable roof. Capacity ~72,000. Home of the Houston Texans. Three miles south of downtown.
Hot & humid
Daily highs 90–95°F with high humidity. Bring breathable clothes, plan indoor activities midday, hydrate before matches.
IAH or HOU
Houston has two — George Bush Intercontinental (IAH, larger, international) and Hobby (HOU, smaller, mostly domestic). Both work.
Near NRG, or near everything else?
There are two valid strategies. Stay near NRG (Medical Center, NRG Park hotels) for short rides to matches but quieter evenings. Or stay downtown or in Montrose for better food, bars, and walkability — then ride out to NRG on match days. Light rail (METRORail) runs directly from downtown and Museum District to the stadium.
Hotels near NRG sell out months in advance for major events. Book as early as you can.
Full hotel guideIf you have a free day in Houston
Beat the heat
Museum District is fully air-conditioned and has nineteen options inside a walkable radius. The MFAH and Menil are the heavyweights.
See space
Space Center Houston is a half-day, easy to combine with Kemah Boardwalk for a south-of-town day.
Eat one big meal
Texas BBQ, original-recipe Tex-Mex, or Viet-Cajun crawfish. Houston earns its food reputation — don't miss your chance.