This year will see Boston own the spotlight as one of the lead host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Seven Matches take place in the city (June 13 – July 09) including 2x Scotland games and 1x England game in the first round plus a quarter final game, all played at Boston Stadium in Foxborough.
The Official FIFA Fan FestivalTM transforms Boston City Hall Plaza into a 16-day football celebration It’s free, open to the public, and will showcase the culture, creativity and community of the region. Fans can expect live match broadcasts, FIFA legends, local artists and to experience all the energy of this sport-mad city.
The Tartan Army will lead the charge, marching into town for June 13 against Haiti and a second game against Morocco on June 19. A three-day festival is planned in Jamaica Plain including watch parties, whisky tasting (no ‘e’ obvs!) and the Tennant’s will be following at The Haven a local Scottish pub. Across the ‘watta’ in Charlestown ‘Scotland House’ will be established at The Anchor, sponsored by M&S Food and is the official home of the Scottish FA for the duration. Expect, food, drink, music, famous faces and live streaming of the games.
But beyond the matches and fanfare, Boston has so much more to offer fans flocking to ‘America’s Walking City’ with a rich blend of history and deep-rooted culture across 23 distinct neighborhoods.
Here is your essential guide to getting the best out of your Boston Summer ‘26 –
Getting There –
Boston Logan International Airport has nonstop international service from 56 destinations, including Edinburgh and London and is the closest US airport to United Kingdom. The airport is conveniently located just two miles from the city centre, with several public transportation options including the free Silver Line and even ferries across the harbour in the summer months.
Things To Do –
…Someone Say Sports?
Nicknamed the ‘City of Champions’, Boston is home to the Celtics – Basketball, the Bruins – Ice Hockey (see them practice for free at the Warrior Rink in Alton), The Patriots – American Football, The Revolution – Soccer and of course the Red Sox – Baseball (who will have games throughout the summer while the FIFA tournament is going on). Don’t miss out on a tour of legendary Fenway Park, the oldest major league baseball park and the heart of the funky Fenway neighbourhood; an ideal destination to catch a concert, grab a great bite or find one of a myriad Boston Sports Bars. Boston has bars for every sport from football (both kinds!) to Formula One. A good bite, great beer and a fun atmosphere is guaranteed while you cheer on your favourite team. Insider Tip: The Bleachers Bar (accessible from outside Fenway Stadium) has a large window directly onto the field so you can watch the ‘Sox’ for the price of a pint! – But get there early to beat the locals.
For a deep dive into the legacy of the Boston Bruins, the Sports Museum at TD Garden have treasures on display, with a terrific tour.
…What else?
One of the best ways to experience Boston is on foot, and its famous walking trails are a great starting point to get to know the city.
Begin with the Freedom Trail, it will show you around the city as you learn its revolutionary history in this 250th year – just follow the red line in the pavement. Also check out the Women’s Heritage Trail and the Black Heritage Trail which guide visitors through centuries of American history, culture, and heritage. The Innovation Trail is charting the future of Boston, exploring how this city of learning is leading the world in a new revolution; scientific discovery, as well as heralding its pioneering past.
Get out on the water. It is whale watching season in New England while the World Cup is on. Head down to Long Wharf for book. Kayaking the Charles River, is both scenic and an ideal way to find a little tranquility away from the football crowds. See how many species of wildfowl you can spot as you glide through the flowering lily pads of the Esplanade.
Boston is a city of culture. Take in the Boston Public Library, the Museum of Fine Art, the Institute of Contemporary Art, the extraordinary Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, or the slightly less reverent Museum of Bad Art!
Where to eat and drink –
As Boston’s culinary scene explodes with flavour and innovation, it’s vibrant Food Halls are taking the spotlight. Taste a variety of cuisines under the same roof, focusing on international flavour with a local flair.
Visitors can take a stroll through the Boston Public Market where 35 local artisanal vendors and food producers offer a mix of fast-casual meals, fresh produce and specialty food items. Located within the historic Haymarket, this bustling marketplace also hosts a range of food-centric events every season.
Purported to be America’s oldest continuingly operated restaurant, Union Oyster House was a favourite of JFK and still serves up some of the best ‘chowdah’ in Boston. Join the debate. Which is the best Italian bakery in the North End? The front runners are certainly Mike’s pastry and Modern Pastry Shop… but be prepared to queue! Insider Tip: South Street Diner eat breakfast with the locals at this old school diner just steps from the tourism hubs but tucked away enough to be strictly for those ‘in the know’.
At the Tall Ship Bar Oysters are also always on the menu along with cracking cocktails and some of the best views of Boston from the deck. Grab the ferry to Charlestown and time it for sundown. Boston’s locals love a speakeasy. Check out the Wig Shop (if you can spot it) and Temple Records for eclectic music. If you pop downstairs will find some of the finest sushi east (or west) of Japan. Another bar well worth seeking out is Blind Duck at Raffles Hotel. Book a table and were your best bib and tucker… This is a classy waterfowl!
Hidden Gems –
This may surprise visitors, but Boston is a hub for live jazz music. From hole-in-the-wall bars to historic jazz clubs and casual restaurants, you’ll discover multiple gems offering prime experiences throughout the city. For the coolest night out, the top choice must be Grace by Nia a supper club in the Seaport area. For a casual brunch try The Beehive. Insider Tip: Follow that with a wander around the farmers market, vintage market and open studios at SOWA on Sundays.
Boston Stadium (Gillette Stadium) is located in Foxborough, about 22 miles from downtown Boston, and will host all seven matches during the tournament. For more information FIFA transportation- https://www.meetboston.com/events/festivals-and-annual-events/fifa-world-cup-2026/transportation/
For more information on America’s Walking City – https://www.meetboston.com/, https://www.meetboston.com/things-to-do/boston-sports/
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