The countdown is officially on for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and for New York fans with a passion for the beautiful game, there's plenty to get excited about—especially if you're planning a trip to the Lone Star State. While the tournament kicks off in Mexico City on Thursday, June 11, with Group A action featuring host nation Mexico taking on South Africa, the real road trip for many East Coast supporters will lead straight to Texas.

That's right: the 2026 World Cup will feature more than a dozen matches in the Lone Star State, split between two iconic venues. Dallas Stadium in Arlington will host nine total matches, including five group-stage games and four knockout fixtures that will have fans on the edge of their seats. Among the headliners: the first semi-final on Tuesday, July 14, plus a Round of 16 tie and two Round of 32 clashes. Group-stage teams set to appear in Dallas include powerhouses like Argentina, England, Croatia, and the Netherlands, alongside Japan, Austria, and Jordan—a lineup that promises world-class drama under the Texas lights.

Meanwhile, Houston Stadium will welcome seven matches, with two knockout-phase games adding to the intensity. Whether you're a die-hard supporter of a specific nation or just love the electric atmosphere of a World Cup crowd, both venues offer a chance to witness history in stateside stadiums that know how to host a party.

For New Yorkers, the travel is straightforward, and the payoff is huge. Imagine swapping the subway for a tailgate and catching a semi-final in Arlington—this is the kind of bucket-list experience that deserves a fresh kit and a new scarf. The tournament runs from June 11 through the final on July 19, so mark your calendars and start planning your gear. After all, the 2026 World Cup isn't just about the matches; it's about the memories you'll make along the way.