Houston is one of the biggest host cities of World Cup 2026, and it will welcome fans from around the world to NRG Stadium. Known as Space City, Houston is a sprawling, diverse metropolis with world-class food, a huge museum district and a passion for sport. But it is also one of the hottest and most humid host cities, and its size means you need a plan. This guide covers the stadium, where to stay, what to eat and how to enjoy Houston during the tournament.

NRG Stadium: a giant with a roof

NRG Stadium is home to the Houston Texans of the NFL and seats more than 72,000 fans for the World Cup. Its retractable roof is a blessing in the Texas summer: when it is closed, the stadium is air-conditioned and comfortable, whatever the weather outside. The stadium sits in the NRG Park complex, south of downtown, with large parking areas and space for fan zones. Getting there is straightforward on the METRORail Red Line, which stops right at the stadium, and rideshare services will have dedicated pick-up zones on match days.

Where to stay in Houston

Houston is enormous, so where you stay matters. Downtown is the best base for first-time visitors, with hotels, restaurants and the light rail close together. The Galleria area is good for shopping and dining, while the Museum District suits fans who want culture between matches. Staying near NRG Stadium itself is convenient on match day but quieter the rest of the time. Book early: hotels near the stadium and downtown sell out fast during the tournament, and prices rise sharply as the dates approach.

Eating in Houston: a food lover's city

Houston is one of the best food cities in America, and World Cup fans are in for a treat. The city is famous for Texas barbecue, with brisket and ribs smoked low and slow, and for Tex-Mex, a local blend of Mexican and American flavours. Houston also has one of the most diverse food scenes in the country, with outstanding Vietnamese, Indian, Nigerian and Mexican restaurants. Food trucks gather near fan zones on match days, and the city's food halls are a great way to sample many cuisines in one place.

The heat: how to handle it

Houston in June and July is hot and humid, with temperatures in the mid-30s Celsius and humidity that makes it feel hotter. Drink water constantly, even before you feel thirsty, and take advantage of shade and air-conditioning whenever you can. Wear light, loose clothing and a hat, and use sunscreen. The stadium's roof helps, but the walk from the train station or car park can be exhausting. Plan your day around the heat: sightsee in the morning, rest in the afternoon, and enjoy the fan zones in the cooler evening hours.

Beyond football: what to do in Houston

Between matches, Houston has plenty to offer. Space Center Houston, home of NASA's Johnson Space Center, is the city's most famous attraction and a must-visit for any fan with a spare day. The Museum District has 19 museums within walking distance of each other, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. The city's parks, including Buffalo Bayou Park, are great for an evening walk. And if you want nightlife, the bars and live music venues of Midtown and EaDo come alive after dark.

Match-day tips for NRG Stadium

Arrive at least two hours before kick-off, because security lines at NRG Stadium can be long and the Texas heat makes waiting uncomfortable. Use the METRORail if you can, since parking is expensive and traffic is heavy. Check the stadium bag policy before you leave your hotel, and bring only what you need. Inside the stadium, the food is better than at most American venues, with local barbecue and Tex-Mex on the concourses. After the match, stay in the fan zone for a while rather than rushing for the train: the crowds thin out quickly.