The Bay Area has a well-documented love for hosting major sporting events, and the upcoming 16-month period will be a testament to that passion. With the NBA All-Star Game, the Super Bowl, and the FIFA World Cup all taking place in Northern California, the region is set to be a non-stop hub of athletic excitement.
Historic First for Levi's Stadium
Levi's Stadium, home to the NFL's San Francisco 49ers, will achieve a historic milestone by hosting both the Super Bowl and the World Cup in the same year — a feat never before accomplished. Santa Clara's venue is scheduled to host six World Cup matches, including five group-stage games and one knockout-round clash. The tournament kicks off on June 13 with a match between Qatar and Switzerland.
Five Things to Know for Visitors
Landmarks and Places to See
Northern California offers a wealth of attractions for all interests. Highlights include the renowned wine regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma, a tour of the historic Alcatraz prison, the towering redwoods of Muir Woods, and the breathtaking Pacific Coast views along Highway 1.
Food Scene in the Bay Area
The Bay Area's culinary scene is world-class. From Tony's Pizza Napoletana in North Beach to the famous burritos of the Mission District, and from Sam's Chowder House in Half Moon Bay to Mustards Grill in Napa Valley, there are exceptional dining options everywhere. For a sweet treat, Fentons Creamery in Oakland offers an old-fashioned ice cream parlor experience with both sit-down and take-out service, and sampling flavors is encouraged.
Fan Zones
Beginning June 11, fans can watch matches for free at over 30 locations and participating sports bars throughout the Bay Area. Notable venues include the Golden State Warriors and Valkyries' Thrive City big screen at Chase Center, China Basin at Mission Rock near the San Francisco Giants' ballpark, and PIER 39, which will provide a scenic backdrop for games. In the East Bay, the independent Oakland Ballers will host games at Raimondi Park, and the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is another prime spot.
Zailen Janmohamed, President and CEO of the Bay Area Host Committee, stated, "The FIFA World Cup 2026 is about bringing communities together and celebrating the beautiful game in every corner of our region. We're harnessing the breadth, diversity, and natural beauty of the entire Bay Area to ensure that no matter where you live or visit, you'll have access to fun, community celebrations. This regional approach reflects our commitment to inclusivity and gives every county and community the opportunity to activate and be part of this historic moment."
Transportation Options
To avoid heavy traffic and high parking fees, stadium officials recommend public transportation, including the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) light rail and bus lines, as well as ACE and Capitol Corridor heavy rail, which connects to Caltrain for direct access to San Francisco.
Stadium Tips
Traffic and parking around Levi's Stadium can take hours to navigate, so careful planning is essential. The logistical challenges of entering the venue could significantly detract from the overall experience if not managed properly.
