Your Ultimate 2026 World Cup Guide to Atlanta: Matches & Can’t-Miss Experiences
The 2026 World Cup is not just coming to North America; it's bringing the beautiful game to the heart of the American South. Atlanta, Georgia, stands ready as a premier host city, offering a dynamic mix of world-class football, Southern hospitality, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Whether you're planning to chase a specific team or soak in the tournament's electric atmosphere, this guide will help you navigate your Atlanta World Cup adventure.
Complete 2026 World Cup Match Schedule in Atlanta
Mark your calendars! Atlanta will be a hive of football activity across the group and knockout stages. Here is the full schedule of matches to be held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium (all dates and times are local to Atlanta, Eastern Daylight Time - EDT).
Group Stage Matches
June 18, 12:00 PM: Group A - European Playoff Path D Winner vs. South Africa
June 21, 12:00 PM: Group H - Spain vs. Saudi Arabia
June 24, 6:00 PM: Group C - Morocco vs. Haiti
June 27, 7:30 PM: Group K - Intercontinental Playoff Path 1 Winner vs. Uzbekistan
Knockout Stage Matches
July 2, 12:00 AM: Round of 32 - Winner of Group L vs. 3rd Place from Groups E, H, I, J, or K
July 8, 12:00 AM: Round of 16 - Match 95
July 16, 3:00 AM: Semi-Final - Match 102
Beyond the 90 Minutes: Experiencing Atlanta
The World Cup is a month-long festival, and your trip should extend beyond the stadium. Atlanta is brimming with activities for every fan.
Stadium Tour: Take the 90-minute Mercedes-Benz Stadium tour to go behind the scenes, visit the teams' locker rooms, walk on the pitch, and see the famous city view from the "window".
Fan Culture: Join the local supporters at Brewhouse Café, an official partner bar of Atlanta United, famous for its lemon pepper wings and passionate atmosphere.
Iconic Attractions: Explore the World of Coca-Cola, where you can taste over 100 beverages from around the globe—including many from World Cup participating nations. Visit the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest in the world, for an awe-inspiring break from the football frenzy.
Community Football: Feel the local pulse of the sport by checking out StationSoccer, a unique community project that has built soccer pitches at public transit stations, creating a literal football network through the city.
Essential Tips for Your Atlanta World Cup Trip
Book Accommodation Early: Hotels in downtown Atlanta and surrounding areas will sell out quickly once match schedules are finalized. Consider booking refundable rates as soon as your plans are set.
Plan Your Transport: Atlanta's MARTA transit system has a station directly at the stadium (GWCC/CNN Center), making it the most efficient way to get to and from matches. Use it to avoid traffic and parking headaches.
Prepare for the Climate: June and July in Atlanta are hot and humid. Dress in light, breathable clothing, wear a hat, use sunscreen, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Pack the RWUSX Portable Stadium Seat for your Atlanta adventure. Designed for exactly these scenarios, it transforms any hard stadium seat or bleacher into a personal comfort zone. Its lightweight design and built-in back support ensure that your focus stays on the incredible football in front of you—not on an aching back. As you cheer through a tense knockout match or wait for a semi-final showdown, you'll be thankful for the portable comfort that lets you savor every single moment of World Cup history.
