Kansas City
United States
The BBQ capital of the world and Soccer Capital of America! Kansas City brings incredible food, legendary tailgating, and the loudest stadium on Earth to World Cup 2026.
Getting There
By Air
Kansas City International (MCI) - new terminal opened 2023!
About 25 minutes from downtown.
From MCI Airport
- • Uber/Lyft - $35-45 to downtown
- • Rental Car - Recommended for KC
- • Hotel Shuttles - Some hotels offer service
Getting to Arrowhead Stadium
Limited Public Transit
KC doesn't have extensive transit to the stadium. Plan for driving, rideshare, or official shuttles.
Official Match Day Shuttles
FIFA will operate shuttle buses from downtown KC and Power & Light District. Check official transport page.
Rideshare
Uber/Lyft drop zones available. Expect surge pricing and waits post-match.
Driving & Tailgating
Stadium has massive parking lots. Arrive EARLY for legendary KC tailgating! Parking from $40-60.
Where to Stay
Power & Light District
Downtown entertainment district. Bars, restaurants, likely shuttle hub.
From $150/night
Country Club Plaza
Spanish-style outdoor shopping district. Upscale area with fountains.
From $180/night
Crossroads Arts District
Galleries, breweries, restaurants. First Friday art walks.
From $160/night
Independence / East KC
Closer to Arrowhead. More affordable, easier stadium access.
From $100/night
Must-See Attractions
National WWI Museum
America's official WWI museum with stunning memorial tower.
Country Club Plaza
Historic outdoor shopping district with Spanish architecture.
Nelson-Atkins Museum
World-class art museum. Free admission!
City of Fountains
KC has more fountains than any city except Rome!
Jazz District
Historic 18th & Vine, American Jazz Museum.
Union Station
Beautiful 1914 Beaux-Arts train station, Science City.
Food & Drink
BBQ Capital of the World
Legendary BBQ Joints
- • Joe's Kansas City - Z-Man sandwich!
- • Q39 - Modern BBQ
- • Gates BBQ - "Hi, may I help you?"
- • Arthur Bryant's - Historic legend
- • Slap's BBQ - Competition-style
Beyond BBQ
- • Kansas City-style tacos (many spots)
- • Boulevard Brewing (KC's craft beer)
- • Crossroads restaurants
- • Power & Light dining
- • Country Club Plaza cafes
Match Day Tips
- • Arrive EARLY for tailgating - It's legendary at Arrowhead
- • Eat BBQ before the match - You'll need the energy for cheering!
- • Rent a car if possible - KC is spread out
- • Prepare for heat - July in KC can be 95°F+ with humidity
- • Do the tomahawk chop - It's a KC tradition (respectfully adapted)
- • Stay in Power & Light for best nightlife and shuttle access
Cost Guide
Quick Facts
Weather: Hot & humid, 90-100°F
Currency: USD ($)
Time Zone: CDT (UTC-5)
Transit: Limited, car recommended
Nickname: City of Fountains
Arrowhead Stadium
World's loudest stadium! Home of 3x Super Bowl champion Chiefs.
View all stadium matches →