Come for the World Soccer Championship, Stay for the Awesome Microadventures

Make the most of your trip with convenient accommodations near all the excitement, and just a short light rail ride to the beautiful game.

Attending a soccer match or watch party? Find incredible things to do in between.

Free Savings Pass: Spend Less. Explore More.

Sign up for the free Seattle Southside Savings Pass to unlock dozens of deals and discounts on restaurants, attractions, local tours, and more.

Get the Pass

What to Do While You’re Here

Catch the big game then catch a show, then take a look at an eye-catching fish statute. There’s more than one way to enjoy Seattle Southside.

Watch & Wander

Find Local Restaurants

These restaurants have won a place in the hearts of locals. Grab breakfast at a quaint cafe or fuel up at a lively eatery that will put you in the game mood.

Find Local Gems

Getting to the Stadium

Explore every inch of curiously wonderful Seattle Southside with easy and convenient rides on the Link Light Rail.

Ride the Rails

Book a Room

Find the perfect place to stay for Let's Play SEA26 World Soccer Tournament

To Learn More:
seattlesouthside.com/events
QR code for Events
Events from
May 29, 2026
to
May 29, 2027

Getting to the Seattle Stadium for Soccer Matches

2026 World Soccer Tournament Matches

Seattle will host six soccer matches between June 15 and July 6, 2026. Matches will be held at Seattle Stadium (Lumen Field), home to the MLS Seattle Sounders FC, the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks, and NWSL Seattle Reign FC.

For the latest match details, Seattle transportation info, and more, visit SeattleFWC26.

What to Do Near Seattle: Five One-Day Itineraries

Get the Guides

Explore five custom itineraries for different types of travelers: sports lovers, foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, appreciators of the arts, and those who just want a taste of the PNW.

More Trip Ideas for Visiting Soccer Fans

More Dining Ideas

FAQs About the World Soccer Championship in Seattle

Where should I stay for the World Soccer Championship in Seattle?

Seattle Southside is a convenient place to stay for the World Soccer Championship in Seattle if you want easy access to the airport, Link light rail, hotels, restaurants, and nearby attractions. It gives visitors a practical home base close to the action without needing to stay in downtown Seattle.

How do I get from Seattle Southside to Seattle Stadium for a soccer match?

Visitors staying in Seattle Southside can use Link light rail to travel toward Seattle Stadium for match day. With stations near the airport and throughout the area, it’s one of the easiest ways to get to the stadium without dealing with downtown parking and traffic.

Are there hotels near light rail for Seattle soccer matches?

Yes. Seattle Southside offers hotels with convenient access to Link light rail, making it a smart choice for travelers attending soccer matches in Seattle. Staying near the airport and transit can make arrivals, departures, and match-day transportation much easier.

What are the best things to do between soccer matches in Seattle?

Between matches, visitors can explore Seattle Southside restaurants, breweries, family attractions, parks, and nearby Pacific Northwest day trips. It’s a great base for filling your itinerary with dining, sightseeing, and local experiences before the next match.

Is Seattle Southside a good place to stay for soccer fans visiting Seattle?

Yes. Seattle Southside is ideal for soccer fans who want a more convenient stay near Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, direct transit options, and plenty of food and activities. It works especially well for travelers who want easy logistics and more value during a major event.

What should I do in Seattle Southside before or after a match?

Before or after a match, you can grab a meal, visit local attractions, enjoy sports bars, explore international dining, or plan a short outing around the Puget Sound region. Seattle Southside makes it easy to turn a match trip into a fuller Seattle-area getaway.

How many matches will be played in Seattle during the World Soccer Championship?

Seattle is set to host six matches during the tournament, making it one of the key host cities in North America.

What types of matches will be played in Seattle?

The six matches in Seattle will include:

  • Four group-stage matches
  • One Round of 32 match
  • One Round of 16 match

This means fans visiting Seattle will have the chance to experience both early tournament action and high-stakes knockout rounds.

Where will the matches be held in Seattle?

All matches are expected to take place at Seattle Stadium (Lumen Field), one of the premier soccer venues in the United States and home to several professional teams.

Why is Seattle hosting multiple matches?

Seattle was selected as a host city due to its strong soccer culture, world-class stadium, and ability to accommodate large international events. Its location and infrastructure also make it an ideal destination for traveling fans.

Is Seattle a good base for attending multiple matches?

Yes—Seattle’s transit options, including Link light rail, and nearby areas like Seattle Southside make it easy for visitors to stay, explore, and travel to matches throughout the tournament.

What Does “The Beautiful Game” Mean?

“The Beautiful Game” is a popular nickname for association football (soccer), used to describe the sport’s elegance, creativity, and global appeal. It reflects how the game can be played with artistry, skill, and fluid movement—not just physical strength or competition.

Where did the phrase “The Beautiful Game” come from?

The expression is widely credited to Brazilian soccer legend Pelé, who used it to describe the joy and artistry of the sport. In Portuguese, it’s known as “o jogo bonito,” which translates directly to “the beautiful game.”

Why is soccer called “The Beautiful Game”?

The phrase highlights what makes soccer unique:

  • Creativity and flair — players express individuality through dribbling, passing, and scoring
  • Fluid, continuous play — the game flows with minimal stops compared to other sports
  • Universal accessibility — it can be played anywhere, by anyone, with minimal equipment
  • Emotional connection — it brings together cultures, countries, and communities worldwide

Is “The Beautiful Game” used around the world?

Yes. The phrase is recognized globally across different languages and cultures. While Pelé helped popularize it, the idea resonates universally because soccer is played and loved in nearly every country.

Does “The Beautiful Game” refer to a specific style of play?

Not exactly—it’s more of a philosophy than a rule. However, it often refers to:

  • Attacking, expressive play
  • Skillful ball control and teamwork
  • A focus on enjoyment and creativity

Teams and players who embrace these qualities are often said to embody “The Beautiful Game.”

Why is the phrase still relevant today?

Even as soccer becomes faster and more competitive, the idea of “The Beautiful Game” remains central to its identity. It reminds fans and players alike that beyond winning, the sport is about inspiration, artistry, and shared global passion.