Space City. World Cup 2026 definitive guide.
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Houston is America's fourth-largest city and arguably its most culturally diverse. It is a sprawling metropolis known for space exploration, world-class dining, and Southern hospitality. For the World Cup, the key is mastering the AC tunnels and the METRORail.
Downtown or Medical Center. Both connect directly to NRG Stadium via the Red Line.
METRORail Red Line is essential. It connects Downtown, Museum District, and NRG Stadium. Avoid driving.
More affordable than coastal hubs. Book early to secure rates near the rail line.
Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries can use ESTA for short stays. Others require a B-2 tourist visa. Check status as of Dec 2025 and apply early.
Check ESTA EligibilityBook flights and refundable hotels in Downtown/Medical Center. Set price alerts.
Confirm match tickets. Reserve airport transfers and key restaurants (BBQ spots fill up).
Lock in eSIMs, clear stadium bags, and Space Center tours. Re-price hotels weekly.
Houston is generally more affordable than coastal cities like New York or LA. Accommodation offers good value, especially if you book early.
Budget Hotel
$100-150
Mid-Range
$150-300
Luxury
$400+
Beer
$6-9
Meal
$15-25
Metro
$1.25
Coffee
$4-6
Sim Card
$30
NRG Stadium: The world's first retractable roof NFL stadium, equipped with massive AC capacity.
NRG Stadium is a marvel of engineering designed specifically to defeat the Texas heat. With a capacity of 72,220 and a fully retractable roof (which will likely stay closed for cooling), it guarantees a perfect 72°F match environment regardless of the sweltering conditions outside.
Getting There: The **METRORail Red Line** stops right at the stadium. It connects directly to Downtown and the Museum District. This is the only way to travel on match days.
Tickets will be sold exclusively through FIFA's official portal. Sign up for the lottery now to secure your chance.
Group Stage
Group Stage
Group Stage
Group Stage
Group Stage
Round of 32
Round of 16
The best areas to stay are Downtown, the Museum District, or the Medical Center. All are connected to the stadium by the Red Line.
20 min Rail to Stadium
10 min Rail to Stadium
The Red Line is your lifeline. It connects Downtown, the Museum District, and NRG Stadium. Cost: $1.25 per ride.
IAH (Bush) is the main international hub. Hobby (HOU) is closer to downtown. Rideshare or shuttle is recommended from both.
Houston has one of the best food scenes in the US. Do not leave without trying Viet-Cajun Crawfish, authentic Tex-Mex, and slow-smoked BBQ.
Spicy, garlic-buttery shellfish.
Brisket and ribs. Slow smoked.
Fajitas and margaritas.
Home of NASA Mission Control and Saturn V rocket.
19 museums in a beautiful walkable park setting.
Downtown has 6 miles of AC tunnels connecting buildings. Use them to escape the heat.
20% is standard in restaurants and bars.
Casual is fine almost everywhere. Shorts are acceptable due to heat.
Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, and the Medical Center are generally safe and well-patrolled.
Avoid walking alone late at night in unlit areas. Be aware of your surroundings near transit stations.
Houston is a melting pot. It's Southern, it's Texan, but it's also incredibly international. You'll hear dozens of languages spoken and find pockets of culture from all over the world.
Houston is the most diverse city in the United States, surpassing even New York and Los Angeles. This diversity is best experienced through its food and festivals.