The FIFA World Cup is coming to Dallas in 2026, and with nine matches hosted here, the DFW area will see more games than any other U.S. city. It’s an exciting moment — but let’s be realistic. World Cup trips can get expensive fast.
The good news? Dallas is one of the most affordable World Cup host cities if you plan smartly. With the right timing, a flexible approach to lodging and transportation, and a few local insights, you can enjoy the tournament atmosphere, explore the city, and still stay within a reasonable budget.
This guide is written from a local, family-savvy perspective — prioritizing safety, logistics, and value — without sacrificing fun.
Essential Budget Planning for the Dallas World Cup
FIFA Ticket Strategy (This Matters Most)
Tickets will make or break your World Cup budget.
Whenever possible, apply during FIFA’s official ticket release windows. Face-value tickets are dramatically cheaper than anything on the resale market, where prices can quickly exceed four figures — even for upper-level seats.
If you’re reading this between December 11, 2025 and January 12, 2026, you still have a critical opportunity:
Register for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Random Selection Draw through FIFA’s official ticket site. Create a FIFA ID if needed and apply as soon as the match schedule is released.
Applicants selected through the lottery will be notified in February 2026. At this stage, official lottery tickets are often the only way to avoid inflated resale prices.
(Personally, seeing secondary listings over $1,000 for nosebleed seats had me running for the hills. Landing tickets anywhere near face value feels like a major victory.)
Start Early — But Don’t Panic
Planning 12–18 months ahead offers the biggest savings, especially for accommodations and flights. However, even if you’re starting later, there are still ways to keep costs under control with flexibility.
A realistic daily budget for Dallas during the World Cup is $100–200 per person for food, local transportation, and activities — excluding accommodations, which can spike significantly during the tournament. Dallas’ cost of living is moderate compared to other host cities, so with smart planning, travelers can still enjoy a full experience without breaking the bank.
Getting to and from the Dallas World Cup Without Overspending
Here’s the honest local reality: Dallas is not a walk-everywhere city.
Best Transportation Options (In Order)
- Rideshare (Uber, Lyft, Alto): The easiest and safest option for families and group and you avoid the hassle of parking.
- Rental Car: Often cheaper than expected, especially when split among multiple people. Check rental car locations off the airport property. A quick (and cheap!) Uber ride to off-airport rental locations has saved me big at times in the past (and I much prefer riding to the rental shop in an uber vs the rental bus with all our kiddie gear). If you go the rental car route, make sure to budget for premium parking expenses near the stadium.
- TRE (Trinity Railway Express): A solid option between Dallas and Fort Worth (note: no Sunday service).
- DART Light Rail & Buses: Available, but not always the easiest or most comfortable option — particularly with kids, late at night, or when multiple transfers are required.
- While DART can work for experienced local riders, visitors may be surprised by how isolated some transfer stations feel, even when they appear to be located in otherwise safe areas. During off-peak hours, stations may have limited foot traffic, few families or commuters nearby, and long gaps between trains — conditions that can feel uncomfortable or vulnerable, especially after dark or in extreme heat.
Public transportation in Dallas can involve long waits, transfers, and extended walks, which is manageable for some travelers but less ideal with kids or late at night.
If budget allows, a rental car or coordinated rideshare will save both money and stress.
Strategic Accommodation Planning For Dallas World Cup
Where You’ll Save the Most
Booking outside of Arlington and downtown Dallas can reduce lodging costs by 40–60%.
- Downtown Dallas: $150–350/night for moderate hotels and hovers around $1,000 for ultra-luxe accommodations during the tournament
- Fort Worth: $150–250/night with great character and value for moderate hotels. Plan over $500 for the luxe picks.
- Outer Suburbs: Even lower rates with predictable comfort.
For budget-conscious travelers, I’d pick a reliable suburban hotel (Residence Inn, Homewood Suites) 20–40 miles from AT&T Stadium. Mansfield, Grapevine, Las Colinas, North Richland Hills, or near DFW Airport often offer excellent value — and a quieter stay away from stadium crowds.
If you’re looking for the full Dallas experience, I’d choose Downtown Dallas or Fort Worth. For a complete breakdown of the best family-friendly hotels, hidden value picks, and which areas give you the most Dallas experience without overspending, check out my full guide on World Cup Hotels [here →].
Group Travel = Major Savings
Groups of 6–8 people can dramatically cut costs by:
- Splitting large Airbnb rentals
- Sharing transportation
- Preparing some meals at home
Large house rentals often cost $25–40 per person per night when shared — perfect for families or friend groups looking to save while staying together.
A Note on Hostels & Nightlife Areas
Dallas does have hostel options, including one in Deep Ellum, with rates as low as $35–45 per night.
That said, Deep Ellum is a nightlife district. During the day it’s colorful and creative; at night it becomes crowded and rowdy.
- ✅ Fine for groups of adults who want nightlife
- ❌ Not ideal for families or those prioritizing calm evenings
Choose accordingly.
Free and Low-Cost World Cup Fun in Dallas
FIFA Fan Festival at Fair Park
The official FIFA Fan Festival at Fair Park will offer free match screenings, cultural programming, and entertainment throughout the tournament. It’s one of the most accessible ways to experience World Cup energy without match tickets. Admission is typically free, though parking may cost extra. Note: Fair Park can get very rowdy, and some areas feel less closely supervised than others. Families with young kids or those seeking a calmer experience may want to plan visits during daylight hours or consider alternative free viewing spots around the city.
Texas Live!
Just outside the AT&T Stadium in Arlington is a hotspot for World Cup watch parties. Expect 100-foot screens, themed drinks, DJs, and food specials, and a lively stadium-like atmosphere. While it’s perfect for soaking up the tournament energy and grabbing deals on food and drinks, families with young kids may prefer calmer options — but it’s a must-know if large, energetic crowds are your thing.
Family-Friendly World Cup Watch Parties
- Klyde Warren Park: A favorite for outdoor watch parties, food trucks, and a fenced in playground area for kids to move around.
- Suburban Downtowns: Family-oriented towns like The Colony (scheduled to host Summer of Socceroften organize well-run watch events with easier parking, calmer crowds, and a more community-focused feel.
- Dallas Arts District: Several museums offer free days and public programming during major events.
- FC Dallas (Toyota Stadium): Known for large, free watch parties during major matches, complete with fan zones, giveaways, raffles, and access to the National Soccer Hall of Fame — a big win for families with soccer-loving kids.
These areas are walkable, well-patrolled, and centrally located. I’ll continue updating this list as I discover more family-friendly and budget-conscious World Cup viewing options around Dallas — so check back for new tips!
Budget-Friendly Dining (That Still Feels Fun)
Best Affordable Dining Options
Tacos
Dallas is taco heaven, and family favorites include Taco Joint, Torchy’s Tacos, Rusty Taco, and Urban Taco. Perfect for a quick, flavorful, and wallet-friendly meal.
$10-$15 meal
Thai Takeout
Delicious, convenient, and easy to grab for families or groups on the go. Thai Thai and Royal Thai are Dallas favorites (kids love the fried rice!).
$14–18 per meal
Klyde Warren Park Food Trucks
Street tacos, barbecue, pizza, and international bites make for fun, casual dining in a lively outdoor setting.
$12–15 meal
Bishop Arts District tacos
Tiny tacos with big flavor — an authentic local experience that won’t break the budget.
$2–3 each.
Grocery runs for group meals
$8–12 per person; Shopping at H-E-B, Trader Joe’s, or other national chains (Kroger, Whole Foods, SuperTarget) lets you prep quick meals at your accommodation, saving money while accommodating picky eaters or dietary needs.
Bars and breweries offer festive, budget-friendly options before 7 PM. A few popular spots to explore: HG Supply Rooftop, Bowen House, Bowl & Barrel, Haywire, Hopdoddy Burger Bar, Hudson House, Old Monk, and Si Tapas. Great for a social atmosphere without overspending.
Smart Match-Day Cost Savers
- Buy official merchandise before game day (Dick’s Sporting Goods often beats stadium prices)
- Bring (empty) refillable water bottles and fill them up on arrival
- Pack snacks for long match days
- Walk 10–15 minutes away from the stadium before ordering rideshare to avoid surge pricing
These small choices add up quickly over multiple matches.
Final Thoughts: A Smart World Cup Is a Memorable One
You don’t need VIP packages or premium upgrades to enjoy the World Cup in Dallas. Some of the most memorable moments come from park watch parties, shared meals, and exploring neighborhoods at an easy pace.
Plan early, stay flexible, and don’t try to do everything. A thoughtfully planned trip is almost always more enjoyable — and more affordable — than an expensive, overpacked itinerary.
Dallas has plenty to offer in 2026. With smart planning, you can enjoy it all without overspending.
Dallas World Cup 2026 Budget FAQs
Is Dallas an affordable World Cup host city?
Yes — compared to cities like New York or Los Angeles, Dallas offers more affordable hotels, dining, and transportation options, especially when booking outside the downtown core.
Where should families stay for the World Cup in Dallas?
Family-friendly hotels in suburban areas near Arlington, Fort Worth, or DFW Airport often provide the best balance of space, safety, and price. For a complete breakdown of the best family-friendly hotels, hidden value picks, and which areas give you the most Dallas experience without overspending, check out my full guide on World Cup Hotels [here →].
Can you enjoy the World Cup in Dallas without game tickets?
Absolutely. Free watch parties, FIFA Fan Festival events at Fair Park, and public viewing areas throughout Dallas allow visitors to enjoy the atmosphere without purchasing match tickets.
