Everything you need to know about FIFA in Philadelphia

Plan my philly experience

Welcome to the World Cup, Philly Style

Philadelphia is hosting the World Cup from mid June until July 4th. And we are hosting it our way with history at your feet, neighborhoods that feel like their own little worlds, and food that will ruin you for every other city. If you’re coming for FIFA 2026, consider this your curated cheat sheet to doing it right.

The Venue - “The Linc” Lincoln Financial Field

Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field (The Linc) l stadium which is the location for the FIFA World Cup matches

The Linc is where the world will gather — and Philly fans don’t do anything halfway. Expect energy, grit, and a stadium atmosphere that feels like a celebration and a homecoming at the same time.

Inside, the design works in your favor: wide concourses, clear sightlines from almost every seat, and an open‑air bowl that makes summer matches feel big and bright. Food is reliably good — this is Philly, so even stadium options have standards.

The Linc sits right in the Stadium District, which means the experience naturally spills into the surrounding streets and bars. It’s easy to navigate, easy to reach by transit, and unmistakably South Philly from the moment you arrive.

Transportation to The Linc and around Philly

Philadelphia's Septa System. Use the Broad Street Line to get to the FIFA World Cup mateches

Septa is the get way to get from Center City to the Linc. The entire trip is a straight shot down Broad Street.

  • Broad Street Line (BSL):
    This is the move. Hop on at any Center City station — City Hall, Walnut–Locust, or Race–Vine — and ride southbound to NRG Station, the final stop. When the train doors open, you’re already in the Stadium District. No transfers, no confusion, no long walks.

Walking:
Technically possible, but not recommended unless you’re staying in South Philly. From Center City, it’s a long, unshaded stretch in summer heat.

Driving:
You can drive, but expect traffic and plan ahead for parking. The Stadium District has large lots, but they fill quickly on major event days. If you’re staying in Center City, transit is faster and easier.

Bikes:

Philly is a bike‑friendly city, and Indego stations are everywhere. You can ride from Center City straight down Broad or take quieter parallel streets like 13th or 15th. There are docking stations near the Stadium District, but expect high demand on match days — dock early.

Rideshare:

Uber and Lyft are widely available, but surge pricing is real during major events. Drop‑off and pick‑up zones are clearly marked around the Stadium District, and drivers know the drill. If you’re traveling with a group or carrying gear, this is the most convenient option.

Where to stay

Philadelhpia Hotels in Center City for the FIFA World Cup 2026

If you’re here for the World Cup, staying near the Broad Street Line is the smartest move you can make. It’s the direct route to the Linc, and being close to it keeps your trip simple, fast, and stress‑free.

Center City & Midtown Village

This is the most convenient home base. You’re steps from the Broad Street Line, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and everything you’ll want between matches. It’s walkable, central, and ideal for first‑time visitors.

Old City (Historic + Easy Connection)

Old City is charming and photogenic, and it still works well for FIFA.
Take the Market–Frankford Line from 2nd or 5th Street to 15th/City Hall, then transfer downstairs to the Broad Street Line straight to the stadium.

University City (Modern + Transit‑Friendly)

University City offers newer hotels and skyline views.
Hop on the Market–Frankford Line at 34th or 40th Street, ride to 15th/City Hall, and transfer to the Broad Street Line.

What to do when you are not at the match?

Rooftop bar in Philadelphia with outdoor seating and view of the Liberty Place skyscrapers.

When you’re not at the Linc, Philly gives you plenty to do — but let’s start with the essentials. These are the foods and experiences that define the city, and I’ll link each one to your deeper guides.

Eat Your Way Through Philly

You’re not leaving without:

  • A roast pork sandwich from DiNic’s at Reading Terminal Market: Tommy Dinic's Roast Pork
    The locals‑know classic. Juicy pork, sharp prov, broccoli rabe — this is the real Philly signature.

  • A warm soft pretzel from Philadelphia Pretzel Factory: Home - Philly Pretzel Factory
    Simple, salty, perfect. Grab one fresh and eat it immediately.

  • A two‑handed hoagie: Visit — Middle Child
    Go with Middle Child — big, messy, balanced, and very Philly in attitude and flavor. No a traditional hoagie but perfect just the same

  • A BYOB dinner at La Nonna: Home | lanonna
    My favorite for a reason. Cozy, intimate, and the kind of place visitors remember long after the trip.

  • A water ice from John’s Water Ice on Christian Street: Christian St, Philadelphia, PA
    Old‑school, refreshing, and exactly what you want on a hot June day.

  • Want More? I’ve already rounded up the top 15 restaurants in the city. This is a consolidation of over 20 “best of” restaurant lists. Perfect for every occasional: Making Sense of Philly’s Many “Best Restaurants” Lists. — The Philly Curator

Explore the City

Philly’s neighborhoods each have their own personality — and you’ve already curated them beautifully.
Check out my neighborhood guide for where to wander, shop, and snack between matches: Philadelphia Neighborhoods: An Insider’s Guide to Finding the Perfect Place to Sta — The Philly Curator

Walk the Waterfront

Cherry Street Pier and Race Street Pier are perfect for a breather between matches — river breeze, art installations, and great views.

Visit the Museums

The Art Museum, the Barnes, the Constitution Center, The American Revolution Museum — all easy to reach and worth the time.

Rooftop Drinks

Summer in Philly means skyline views. A few great options:

Special Event: FIFA Fan Fest at Lemon Hill

Fairmount Park will host a major FIFA‑related event at Lemon Hill, one of the most scenic overlooks in the city. Expect:

  • Live match screenings

  • Food vendors and local favorites

  • Music, activities, and family‑friendly programming

  • Plenty of green space to relax between matches

It’s easy to reach, beautifully set above the river, and a great way to experience Philly’s park system while staying in the World Cup atmosphere.