Dallas and the 2026 World Cup: complete guide to matches, AT&T Stadium, semifinal and transport

Dallas World Cup 2026: the Texan metropolis cements itself as one of the most important host cities of the World Cup, with 9 matches at AT&T Stadium, including two for Argentina, England's debut against Croatia, and one of the two semifinals of the tournament. In this complete guide you'll find the detailed schedule of the 2026 World Cup matches in Dallas, how to reach the stadium from different points, where to stay, which neighborhoods to explore and practical tips to enjoy each matchday. If you plan to travel to Dallas for the World Cup, this page gathers everything you need.

2026 World Cup matches in Dallas (full schedule)

AT&T Stadium World Cup 2026 has one of the fullest schedules of the tournament: five group-stage games, two Round of 32, a Round of 16 game and a semifinal. Times are in Central Time (CT), which is one hour behind Eastern Time (ET). Check the full schedule to see all matches across the 16 host cities.

Standout group-stage matches

The England vs. Croatia clash in Dallas on June 17 is a rematch of the 2018 World Cup semifinal in Russia, where the Croatians knocked out the English. Now they meet in the group stage of the new 48-team format and the atmosphere at AT&T Stadium promises to be intense. On the other hand, Argentina Dallas World Cup 2026 means two matches for the reigning champion at this venue: against Austria (June 22) and against Jordan (June 27). Check the full Argentina path through the bracket to see where the Albiceleste could advance.

The 2026 World Cup semifinal in Dallas

The most important match on the Dallas calendar is the 2026 World Cup semifinal, scheduled for Tuesday July 14 at 3:00 PM ET (2:00 PM Dallas time). AT&T Stadium is one of the two venues chosen for this stage (the other is Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, which hosts the second semifinal on July 15). The World Cup 2026 semifinal in Dallas is why many fans, especially Argentines, watch this city as a key destination: if the Albiceleste advances on its side of the knockout bracket, it could play here. Follow the standings tables live to track qualification.

AT&T Stadium: venue facts

AT&T Stadium opened in 2009 as home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys. Its design makes it one of the most imposing stadiums in the world and an ideal stage for the 2026 World Cup. It is located in Arlington, Texas, in the area known as the Entertainment District, next to Globe Life Field (baseball) and the convention center.

Key stadium facts

FIFA requires natural grass for World Cup matches, so the Cowboys' usual synthetic field will be replaced by a natural grass surface during the tournament. The retractable roof allows temperature control in the Texan summer months, essential considering June and July can exceed 35 degrees Celsius. You can see all the tournament venues in our guide to 2026 World Cup stadiums.

How to get to AT&T Stadium

AT&T Stadium is in Arlington, halfway between Dallas and Fort Worth. The main logistical challenge is that Arlington has no public transit with direct access to the stadium. Dallas's DART train does not reach Arlington. Below, the options based on your starting point.

From Dallas

The distance from Downtown Dallas to AT&T Stadium is roughly 30 kilometers via the I-30 West. By car, the trip takes 25 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. On match days, traffic increases considerably. The main options are:

• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): the most popular option. Prices rise at peak match times. AT&T Stadium has designated pickup and dropoff zones.
• FIFA shuttle: FIFA runs special shuttles from designated points in Downtown Dallas on match days. Check the departure points on FIFA.com or at the Dallas Fan Festival.
• Own car: take the I-30 West to the Collins Street or Ballpark Way exit. There are multiple parking lots around the stadium. Booking online in advance is recommended.

From Fort Worth

Fort Worth is about 20 kilometers west of Arlington. The trip via the I-30 East takes 15 to 25 minutes. The Dallas World Cup hotels in the Fort Worth area are usually cheaper, and the proximity to the stadium is a clear advantage. Rideshare from Fort Worth is generally cheaper than from Dallas because the distance is shorter.

From the airport (DFW)

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is the closest airport to AT&T Stadium, just about 15 kilometers away. The options to reach the stadium from DFW include:

• Rideshare: the trip takes 15 to 25 minutes. It is the most direct way.
• Shuttle or taxi: available in the arrivals area of every terminal.
• DART + rideshare: you can take the DART Orange Line train from DFW Airport Station to CentrePort/DFW Station, and from there an Uber to Arlington (about 10 minutes by car). This combination is cheaper.

The area's second airport, Dallas Love Field (DAL), is about 30 kilometers from the stadium and mainly serves Southwest Airlines domestic flights.

Dallas Fan Festival

FIFA organizes a Fan Festival in Dallas as part of the free activities of the 2026 World Cup. In previous editions, Fan Festivals are set up in central areas with giant screens, live music, food zones and interactive activities. Downtown Dallas is the most likely area, given that the DART train system connects the whole city and eases access. The Dallas Fan Festival is the ideal place to watch matches not played at AT&T Stadium, socialize with fans from around the world and enjoy the World Cup atmosphere without a stadium ticket. For the Fan Festival, the DART system works well; but for AT&T Stadium, plan transport in advance.

Where to stay for the World Cup in Dallas

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is vast, and choosing where to stay well can make the difference between a comfortable experience and hours lost in traffic. Here are the best Dallas World Cup hotels options based on your priority.

Arlington

If your priority is being close to AT&T Stadium, Arlington is the obvious choice. There are hotels within walking distance of the stadium (10 to 20 minutes on foot) and others a 5-minute rideshare away. The downside is that Arlington has less nightlife and dining than Dallas or Fort Worth. It is the best option if you attend several 2026 World Cup matches in Dallas and want to avoid the transport problem.

Downtown Dallas

The recommended area for most visitors. Downtown Dallas offers access to the Fan Festival, good DART connections to other parts of the city, restaurants of all kinds and active urban life. It is about 30 minutes from the stadium by rideshare or FIFA shuttle. If you want to combine matches with sightseeing, it is the best base. Uptown Dallas (McKinney Avenue) is a natural extension with rooftop bars and upscale restaurants.

Fort Worth

Fort Worth is the most interesting and often the most affordable alternative. Just 20 minutes from AT&T Stadium, Fort Worth offers the Stockyards (western culture, BBQ, rodeo), a more relaxed atmosphere and hotel prices below Dallas. It is especially recommended if you want an authentic Texan experience. If you travel to the Houston host city after Dallas, Fort Worth can be a good logistical midpoint.

Weather and practical tips

Dallas in June and July is hot. Average temperatures exceed 33-35 degrees Celsius during the day, with moderate humidity. These are the essential tips to survive the Texan summer during the World Cup.

What to bring

• Hydration: bring a reusable water bottle. The entry lines at the stadium can take time under the sun. Inside AT&T Stadium, the retractable roof and air conditioning keep a pleasant temperature.
• Sun protection: sunscreen, a cap or hat and sunglasses are essential if you go to the Fan Festival or walk around the stadium area before the match.
• Light clothing: breathable fabrics and light colors. The difference between the outdoor heat and indoor air conditioning can be big, so a light layer doesn't hurt.

Safety and money

• Dallas is a big city with the normal precautions of any metropolis. The tourist areas (Downtown, Uptown, Deep Ellum, Arlington) are generally safe.
• Card payment is accepted in practically all establishments. Cash is useful in small shops and food stands.
• The standard restaurant tip is 18-20% of the total before tax.

48-hour itinerary in Dallas

If you travel to Dallas specifically for the World Cup, this two-day itinerary lets you combine a match at AT&T Stadium with the best of the city.

Day 1: arrival and exploration

• Morning: arrival at DFW airport. Transfer to the hotel in Downtown Dallas or Arlington. If you arrive early, stroll through Klyde Warren Park, an elevated park over the highway with food trucks and views of the Dallas skyline.
• Midday: lunch in Deep Ellum. Try Texan barbecue (brisket, ribs) at one of the neighborhood's restaurants or an authentic taco at a local stand.
• Afternoon: visit the Dallas Fan Festival. Giant screens, FIFA activities and World Cup atmosphere. If there is no match that day at AT&T Stadium, you can watch other cities' games on the festival screens.
• Night: dinner in Uptown (McKinney Avenue) and a rooftop bar to enjoy the Dallas night skyline.

Day 2: match at AT&T Stadium

• Morning: breakfast in the Bishop Arts District. Independent cafés, vintage shops and murals. It is Dallas's most picturesque neighborhood.
• Midday: transfer to Arlington. Arrive at least 2 hours before the match to avoid lines and enjoy the pre-game atmosphere around AT&T Stadium.
• Afternoon/night: World Cup match. After the game, the exit can take 60 to 90 minutes. If your hotel is in Arlington, you can walk back. If you are in Dallas, use rideshare or the FIFA shuttle.

If you have a third day, dedicate it to Fort Worth: the Stockyards, the Kimbell Art Museum and western culture. Or visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, dedicated to the history of JFK.

Where to watch the matches on TV and streaming

If you are in Dallas but don't have a ticket for a match at AT&T Stadium, there are many ways to watch the games. Our guide to where to watch the 2026 World Cup free covers all the streaming options. In Dallas, the best alternatives are:

• Dallas Fan Festival: free giant screens with every match of the tournament. The best collective atmosphere outside the stadium.
• Bars and restaurants: Deep Ellum, Uptown and Lower Greenville have dozens of bars with big screens. Arrive early to secure a spot for the most in-demand matches (like England vs. Croatia in Dallas or the Argentina games).
• At your hotel: most hotels will have the matches in common areas. FOX, Telemundo and Peacock broadcast in the United States.

Food and neighborhoods to live the World Cup

Dallas has a diverse food scene that reflects its cultural mix. From Texan barbecue to authentic Mexican food, these are the neighborhoods you can't miss. If you visit another host city after Dallas, compare with the Houston guide to plan your route.

Teams that play in Dallas

AT&T Stadium hosts top teams during the group stage. Here is a summary of each team passing through Dallas, with a link to its page to follow its run in the tournament.

• Argentina: two matches (vs. Austria on June 22, vs. Jordan on June 27). The world champion looks to defend its title.
• England: one match (vs. Croatia on June 17). The Three Lions debut at the 2026 World Cup in Dallas.
• Croatia: one match (vs. England on June 17). A rematch of the Russia 2018 semifinal.
• Netherlands: one match (vs. Japan on June 14). The Oranje open the Dallas calendar.
• Japan: two matches (vs. Netherlands on June 14, vs. Sweden on June 25).
• Austria: one match (vs. Argentina on June 22).
• Jordan: one match (vs. Argentina on June 27).
• Sweden: one match (vs. Japan on June 25).

Check the standings tables to follow each group's progress and discover how qualification is decided in the new 2026 World Cup format.

Venue map and Dallas location

Dallas is one of the 11 host cities in the United States for the 2026 World Cup. Other nearby cities with matches include Houston (about 3.5 hours by car). You can see the location of all the venues on our interactive map, and check the full list of qualified teams to plan which matches to watch.

Related articles

• Argentina's path at the 2026 World Cup
• Argentina national team · England national team · Croatia national team
• Where to watch the 2026 World Cup free
• Houston guide for the 2026 World Cup
• How the 2026 World Cup format works
• Favorites to win the 2026 World Cup
• Full schedule · Knockout bracket · Standings
• The 16 stadiums of the 2026 World Cup
• Venue map · All teams

Sources: FIFA.com for schedule and matches; AT&T Stadium for capacity and venue data; DART for public transport; DFW Airport for airport information; FIFA Tickets for official tickets.