Los Angeles, California
Your Complete 2026 World Cup Guide
At a Glance
- Location
- Los Angeles, California, USA
- Population
- 4 million
- Time Zone
- PDT (UTC-7)
- Stadiums
- 1 venue
- Matches Hosted
- 8 matches
- Best Way to Get Around
- Metro Rail (E Line + K Line)
Last Updated: by KickoffAdventures Editorial Team
Overview
SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California will host 8 FIFA World Cup 2026 matches including the USMNT opening match and a quarterfinal. Located 11 miles southwest of downtown LA with a capacity of 70,240, the stadium is accessible via Metro K Line (Crenshaw) which opened in 2022 specifically to serve the stadium. The Los Angeles metro area offers 1,200+ hotels (103,000+ rooms) ranging from budget options in Long Beach ($100-180/night) to luxury Beverly Hills properties ($300-600/night, expect 2-3x surge for quarterfinal).
Getting to SoFi Stadium requires Metro E + K Line transfer (45-90 min, $1.75/ride capped at $5/day) or driving with parking costs of $100-200+ (World Cup pricing). The most budget-friendly option is staying in Inglewood/LAX area hotels ($120-200/night) within 3 miles of the stadium. Pro tip: LA Metro's fare capping means you'll never pay more than $5/day—take as many trips as you want after your 3rd ride.
Los Angeles offers diverse experiences: Hollywood glamour, world-class beaches (Santa Monica, Venice), celebrity culture (Beverly Hills), and perfect June-July weather (78°F, virtually no rain, but watch for morning coastal fog). The city is more expensive than most US cities but cheaper than NYC, with average costs of $120-180/day per person excluding accommodation. Strategic planning can save $50-200 per person—consider staying near the stadium or in Long Beach for 40-60% lower hotel rates.
⚽World Cup Stadium
Getting Around
Los Angeles Metro Rail has expanded significantly with new lines opening through 2025. Single ride costs $1.75, but fare capping at $5/day means unlimited rides after 3 taps—this is the BEST transit deal in any US World Cup city. Download the Transit app for real-time train and bus tracking.
To SoFi Stadium:
1. Take Metro E Line (Expo Line) toward Downtown LA (if coming from west/coast)
2. Transfer at Expo/Crenshaw Station to K Line (Crenshaw Line)
3. Take K Line toward Redondo Beach
4. Exit at Downtown Inglewood Station (15-minute walk to SoFi or shuttle bus)
Total time: 45-90 minutes depending on origin | Total cost: $1.75/ride (max $5/day) | Frequency: Every 12-20 minutes
Important notes:
- K Line is NEW (opened 2022) and designed specifically for SoFi Stadium access
- Trains get crowded 2-3 hours before kickoff—arrive early
- 15-minute walk from Downtown Inglewood station to stadium (well-signed)
- Stadium may run shuttle buses from station on event days
- Fare Capping Tip: Tap the same TAP card for all rides—after 3 rides ($5.25 total), all additional rides that day are FREE
Alternative: Rideshare
Uber/Lyft available but surge pricing on match days can reach $80-120 from beach areas. Better value from Inglewood/LAX hotels ($25-40). Post-match wait times 30-60 minutes.
Driving Recommended for:
- Exploring LA beyond stadium (beaches, Hollywood, theme parks)
- Visiting multiple SoCal cities (San Diego 2h, Santa Barbara 2h)
- Flexibility and comfort (LA is car-centric)
Stadium parking: $100-200+ for World Cup (Taylor Swift, Super Bowl saw $125-200+ rates) with 1-2 hour exit wait. Use Metro to save massive amounts—$5/day vs $100-200 parking.
Where to Stay
Los Angeles has 1,200+ hotels (103,000+ rooms), but prices spike 100-150% during World Cup matches, with 2-3x surges expected for the quarterfinal. Book 3-6 months in advance for best rates and availability.
Sport Fan's Budget Strategy:
- Inglewood/LAX Area: $120-200/night (2x surge for QF) | Walking/short drive to stadium | Best value
- Long Beach: $100-180/night | Cheapest option | 60-75 min to stadium | Beach access
- Culver City/Marina: $150-280/night | 45-60 min Metro to stadium | Mid-tier comfort
- Santa Monica/Venice: $200-400/night | Iconic beach experience | 75 min to stadium
- Beverly Hills: $300-600/night (2-3x surge for QF) | Luxury/glamour | 90 min to stadium
Money-Saving Tips:
1. Stay in Inglewood/LAX corridor (walking distance to SoFi, 50% cheaper than coast)
2. Long Beach is cheapest true beach option ($100-180/night vs $200-400 Santa Monica)
3. Use Metro with fare capping ($5/day unlimited) instead of driving ($100-200+ parking)
4. Avoid Beverly Hills/West Hollywood unless luxury is priority—pays 3-4x more for same access
5. Book directly with hotels for better cancellation policies
Pro Tips:
- Inglewood hotels near stadium are NEW (built 2020-2022)—modern amenities at budget prices
- LAX airport hotels offer free shuttles to stadium on event days (call ahead)
- Avoid Downtown LA for stadium access—farther than beach cities despite seeming central
- Many hotels charge $25-45/day parking—factor this if driving
- Stick to main designated walking paths/shuttle routes after dark in Inglewood area
Neighborhood Breakdown
Inglewood / LAX Area
Best For
Budget travelers, stadium access priority, families with cars
Distance to Stadium
0.5-3 miles
Travel Time
10-20 minutes (drive or Metro K Line)
Pros
- •Closest hotels to SoFi Stadium (walking distance from some)
- •10-minute drive or 20-minute Metro K Line to stadium
- •3 miles from LAX airport (cheapest Uber/rideshare)
- •New hotels near stadium with modern amenities
- •Lower prices than coastal or downtown areas
Cons
- •Not a traditional tourist area (industrial/suburban vibe)
- •Limited dining and entertainment outside stadium complex
- •Requires transport to reach LA attractions (30-60 min)
- •Stick to main designated walking paths/shuttle routes after dark
Long Beach
Best For
Budget-conscious travelers, beach lovers, families
Distance to Stadium
20 miles
Travel Time
60-75 minutes via Metro A + C Lines
Pros
- •Cheapest option in greater LA area
- •Actual beach access with boardwalk and pier
- •More affordable dining and activities than LA proper
- •Direct Metro A Line connection (1h 20min to stadium)
- •Laid-back coastal vibe with tourist amenities
Cons
- •Longest commute to SoFi Stadium (60-75 minutes via Metro)
- •Far from Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and major LA attractions
- •Requires full-day transit planning for match days
- •Not ideal if visiting other World Cup cities by car
Culver City / Marina del Rey
Best For
Mid-budget travelers, foodies, beach + city balance
Distance to Stadium
8 miles
Travel Time
10 min (drive) or 45-60 min (Metro E + K Lines)
Pros
- •Shortest Metro E Line commute to stadium (45-60 min)
- •Excellent restaurant scene (especially Culver City)
- •Marina del Rey has beach access and harbor views
- •Good value for amenities and location balance
- •Easy access to both beach cities and downtown LA
Cons
- •Still requires 45-60 min commute to stadium
- •Not walkable to major tourist sites
- •Can be expensive during peak season
- •Less "LA glamour" than Beverly Hills or Hollywood
Santa Monica / Venice Beach
Best For
Luxury travelers, beach lovers, first-time LA visitors
Distance to Stadium
14 miles
Travel Time
20 min (drive) or 75 min (Metro E + K Lines)
Pros
- •Iconic California beach experience (pier, boardwalk, sunsets)
- •Walkable neighborhoods with shopping and dining
- •Direct Metro E Line to stadium (1h 15min)
- •Safe, tourist-friendly areas with hotel infrastructure
- •Great for extending trip beyond match days
Cons
- •Expensive (2nd highest after Beverly Hills)
- •75-minute Metro commute to SoFi Stadium
- •Parking costs $25-40/day at hotels
- •Summer crowds and traffic congestion
Beverly Hills / West Hollywood
Best For
Luxury travelers, celebrities spotting, high-end shoppers
Distance to Stadium
15 miles
Travel Time
25 min (drive, no traffic) or 90 min (bus transfers)
Pros
- •Iconic LA glamour and luxury shopping (Rodeo Drive)
- •World-class restaurants and nightlife
- •Safe, walkable neighborhoods
- •Close to Hollywood attractions (20-30 min)
- •Top-tier hotel amenities and service
Cons
- •Most expensive option (3-4x cost of Inglewood)
- •90-minute public transit to SoFi Stadium (multiple transfers)
- •Expensive parking ($40-60/day)
- •Traffic makes driving frustrating
- •Far from stadium (15 miles)
Top Things to Do
Los Angeles offers world-class entertainment, beaches, and attractions. Plan 3-4 full days minimum to experience highlights beyond match days.
Must-See Attractions:
- Hollywood Walk of Fame - Free, 2+ hours, weekday mornings best
- Griffith Observatory - Free (planetarium $7), sunset views of LA skyline
- Santa Monica Pier - Free (rides $5-10), classic California beach experience
- Getty Center - Free admission (parking $20), world-class art and architecture
- Venice Beach Boardwalk - Free, eclectic street performers and Muscle Beach
Food Scene:
- Tacos: Leo's Tacos ($3-5), Guisados ($8-10), Guerrilla Tacos ($12-15)
- In-N-Out Burger: $8-12, California institution (multiple locations)
- Korean BBQ: Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong ($30-40/person), Park's BBQ ($40)
- Fine Dining: Providence ($200+/person), n/naka ($300+ tasting)
- Food Trucks: Kogi BBQ ($10-15), Cousins Maine Lobster ($18-25)
Beach Activities:
- Surfing Lessons: $80-120 for 2-hour group lesson (Manhattan Beach, Santa Monica)
- Bike Rentals: $15-30/day for beach path riding (26-mile Strand trail)
- Beach Volleyball: Free courts at Manhattan Beach, Santa Monica
Theme Parks (if extending trip):
- Universal Studios: $109-149/day (book online for discounts)
- Disneyland (Anaheim): $104-179/day, 45 min drive
Budget Tip: Many beaches, hiking trails (Runyon Canyon, Griffith Park), and outdoor activities are completely free. LA's best experiences don't require expensive tickets.
Must-See Attractions
Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre
Iconic Hollywood Boulevard featuring 2,700+ stars embedded in sidewalks honoring entertainment legends. See celebrity handprints at TCL Chinese Theatre. Free to walk, but expect aggressive street performers and crowds. Best combined with Dolby Theatre (Oscars venue) tour.
Cost
Free (theatre tour $19)
Time Needed
1-2 hours
Best Time
Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) to avoid crowds
How to Get There
Metro B Line to Hollywood/Highland Station
Griffith Observatory
Free public observatory with planetarium shows ($7), telescopes, and stunning LA skyline views. Best sunset spot in the city. Parking lot fills by 2 PM on weekends—arrive early or take DASH Observatory bus. The hike to Hollywood Sign starts here.
Cost
Free (planetarium $7)
Time Needed
2-3 hours
Best Time
Sunset (1 hour before) for skyline views
How to Get There
Metro B to Vermont/Sunset, then DASH Observatory shuttle
Santa Monica Pier
Historic 1909 pier with Pacific Park amusement park, arcade, aquarium, and restaurants. Free to walk. Ride the solar-powered Ferris wheel ($10) for ocean views. Watch street performers and catch sunset. Beach access on both sides.
Cost
Free (rides $5-10 each)
Time Needed
2-3 hours
Best Time
Late afternoon/sunset (4-7 PM)
How to Get There
Metro E Line to Downtown Santa Monica Station (10 min walk)
Getty Center
World-class art museum with European paintings, sculptures, and photography. Architecture and gardens are free attractions themselves. Bring picnic for garden terraces. Tram ride from parking lot to hilltop museum. Reservations required (free).
Cost
Free (parking $20)
Time Needed
3-4 hours
Best Time
Weekday mornings or late afternoon (less crowded)
How to Get There
Metro 761 bus to Getty Center Dr, or drive (parking required)
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Eclectic 2.5-mile oceanfront boardwalk famous for street performers, Muscle Beach gym, skate park, and bohemian shops. Free entertainment daily. Beware: area can be gritty with aggressive vendors. Best during day; avoid after dark.
Cost
Free
Time Needed
2-3 hours
Best Time
Late morning to early afternoon (10 AM-3 PM)
How to Get There
Metro E Line to Downtown Santa Monica, then bus or bike south
Weather & When to Visit
High
78°F
(26°C)
Low
64°F
(18°C)
Rain
0-1 days/month
Humidity
60-65% (coastal) / 45% (inland)
World Cup Season (June-July 2026)
- Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C) daily averages
- Rainfall: Near-zero (0-1 days/month—essentially no rain)
- 'June Gloom': Heavy coastal fog mornings, burns off by 12-1 PM
- Inland (Stadium): Sunny and 5-10°F hotter than coast (80-85°F)
- Crowds: Peak tourist season but less intense than NYC
What to Pack:
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ (California sun is intense, even through clouds)
- Sunglasses and hat
- Light layers (evenings cool to 60-65°F near coast, but stadium stays warmer)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Light jacket or sweater for evening beach walks
- NO rain gear needed (virtually no June/July rain)
Weather Advantages:
- Predictable and pleasant—almost guaranteed sunny match days
- No humidity compared to East Coast cities
- Perfect for combining matches with beach/outdoor activities
Tip: If staying on coast, expect foggy mornings ('June Gloom') that clear by midday. Stadium is inland and lacks ocean breeze—can feel 5-10°F warmer than coastal areas. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen even if sitting in shaded seats.
Money-Saving Tips
- Use Metro fare capping ($5/day unlimited after 3rd tap) instead of driving—saves $95-195 on parking alone
- Stay in Inglewood/LAX corridor for best value—walking distance to SoFi, 50% cheaper than coast ($120-200/night vs $200-400)
- Long Beach offers cheapest beach option ($100-180/night) with Metro A Line access—40% less than Santa Monica
- Skip Beverly Hills/West Hollywood unless luxury is priority—pay 3-4x more for same stadium access
- Eat at taco trucks and casual spots ($5-12) instead of sit-down restaurants ($25-40 per person)
- Free beaches, hikes (Runyon Canyon, Griffith Park), and Getty Center admission—LA's best experiences are free
- LAX area hotels often provide free shuttles to SoFi on event days—call ahead to confirm and save rideshare costs
- Book attractions online in advance for 10-20% discounts (Universal Studios, theme parks)
- Tap the same TAP card for all Metro rides—after $5.25 (3 rides), every additional ride that day is FREE
- Avoid stadium parking ($100-200+)—take Metro K Line and save massive amounts while avoiding 1-2 hour exit wait
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Population
13 million (metro)
Time Zone
PDT (UTC-7)
Currency
USD ($)
Language
English, Spanish
Emergency
911
Major Airports
LAX - 3 mi