🇺🇸 World Cup 2026 in Dallas / Fort Worth

Introduction

Dallas/Fort Worth will make history by hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 Opening Match at AT&T Stadium. Known as 'Jerry World' after Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, this .3 billion venue features the world's largest column-free interior and a retractable roof that will shield fans from Texas heat. The metroplex combines Dallas's modern sophistication with Fort Worth's authentic Western heritage, offering visitors two distinct Texas experiences.

AT&T Stadium

Capacity 80,000 · 9 World Cup 2026 matches · Arlington, Texas, between Dallas and Fort Worth, approximately 20 miles from each downtown

AT&T Stadium opened in 2009, replacing Texas Stadium. It has hosted Super Bowl XLV, College Football Playoff games, WrestleMania, NBA All-Star Games, and major concerts. The stadium set attendance records for soccer friendlies.

• World's largest column-free interior
• Retractable roof spans 660,000 square feet
• Center-hung video board is 160 feet wide
• Home to Dallas Cowboys (NFL)
• 80,000 capacity expandable to 100,000
• Cost .3 billion when opened in 2009

Getting Around

DART light rail serves Dallas. TRE commuter rail connects Dallas and Fort Worth. Arlington (stadium location) has limited transit.

Driving or rideshare are primary options. Parking costs $40-75. Some hotels offer shuttle service.

Where to Stay

• Arlington (Stadium Area): Home to AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field. Entertainment district with hotels and restaurants. (Fans prioritizing stadium access). Walking distance to 10 minutes
• Downtown Dallas: Arts District, Deep Ellum nightlife, Reunion Tower. Modern urban core. (Urban explorers, nightlife seekers). 25-35 minutes by car
• Fort Worth Stockyards: Authentic Western experience with daily cattle drives, honky-tonks, and rodeos. (Those seeking Texas culture). 25-35 minutes by car
• Uptown Dallas: Trendy neighborhood with restaurants, bars, and Katy Trail. (Young professionals, foodies). 30-40 minutes by car
• Grapevine: Historic downtown near DFW Airport. Wine tasting and Main Street charm. (Families, wine enthusiasts). 20-30 minutes by car

Top Attractions

• Fort Worth Stockyards — Daily cattle drives at 11:30 AM and 4 PM. Honky-tonks, Western shops, rodeos.
• Reunion Tower — Dallas landmark with observation deck and revolving restaurant. 360-degree views.
• The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza — JFK assassination site. Comprehensive exhibit on November 22, 1963.
• AT&T Discovery District — Downtown Dallas entertainment complex with media wall and restaurants.

Food & Culture

• Texas BBQ (Brisket) — Smoked 12+ hours over oak. Pecan Lodge and Terry Black's are essential.
• Tex-Mex — Cheese enchiladas, fajitas, frozen margaritas. Mi Cocina and Joe T. Garcia's.
• Chicken Fried Steak — Breaded, fried beef cutlet with cream gravy. Texas comfort food.
• Kolaches — Czech pastries popular in Texas. Meat or fruit filled.
• Whataburger — Texas fast-food institution. Try the Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit.

Deep Ellum has live music and bars. Uptown Dallas has upscale lounges. Fort Worth's Stockyards have honky-tonks with live country music. Billy Bob's Texas is the world's largest honky-tonk.

Weather

Dallas has a humid subtropical climate. June and July are hot with occasional thunderstorms. AT&T Stadium's retractable roof provides climate control. Temperature: 28-38°C (82-100°F) day, 22-26°C (72-79°F) night. Afternoon thunderstorms possible. The stadium roof will likely be closed for matches.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many World Cup matches will be played in Dallas?

AT&T Stadium will host 9 matches—the most of any venue—including the Opening Match.

Which stadium hosts the games?

AT&T Stadium in Arlington, home of the Dallas Cowboys.

Is Dallas expensive during the World Cup?

Moderate by US standards. Budget 20-280 per night. Arlington hotels are convenient.

How far is AT&T Stadium from Dallas?

20 miles (32 km) from Downtown Dallas. 25-35 minutes by car depending on traffic.

Is public transport available to the stadium?

Limited. TRE train to Arlington requires shuttle. Most fans drive or use rideshare.