Skip to main content

Planning your route around Houston for the FIFA World Cup

The skyline of Houston is seen in this undated file image. (KPRC)

HOUSTON – With the FIFA World Cup 2026 underway and matches scheduled at NRG Stadium, soccer fans and Houstonians should expect significant traffic and limited parking availability.

With on-site parking expected to range from $100 to $175 — in addition to already purchased FIFA tickets — driving directly to the stadium will not be the most cost-effective option.

Recommended Videos


For those living in downtown Houston, the easiest and cheapest way to reach the stadium will be using METRO. A $3 all-day pass provides unlimited rides across the system.

ALSO READ: Houston-area World Cup 2026 watch parties, events across the city

Local bus service to NRG Stadium

For those near downtown but not within walking distance, METRO bus service remains a strong option. You can learn more information here.

Fare: $1.25 for local service

Key routes serving the area include:

  • 8 West Bellfort
  • 11 Almeda/Lyons
  • 14 Hiram Clarke
  • 60 Cambridge
  • 73 Bellfort
  • 84 Buffalo Speedway
  • 87 Sunnyside

Some routes stop near Houston Stadium, while others connect through METRORail Red Line via the Fannin South Park & Ride station.

METRO also provides service connections into downtown Houston, where riders can transfer to rail and bus routes serving the stadium and FIFA Fan Fest locations.

WEATHER INFO: Heat to tropical downpours: Houston weather outlook for FIFA World Cup 2026

For riders outside the immediate transit network, METRO’s Community Connector program offers on-demand transportation in select neighborhoods, including the Heights, Third Ward, Second Ward, Near Northside, and downtown. The service is free through the METRO app.

Park-and-ride options

For those outside central Houston, driving to a park-and-ride facility and transferring to transit may be the best option.

West Loop Transit Center

  • 4675 S. Braeswood Blvd.
  • Open 8 a.m. to 11:55 p.m.
  • Free parking
  • $2 fare to Fannin South Park & Ride, then one stop on the METRORail Red Line to the stadium

Fannin South Park & Ride

  • 1604 W. Bellfort Ave.
  • Open 5 a.m. to 1 a.m.
  • $50 parking
  • Direct access to the METRORail Red Line to the stadium

Riders can also use the METRO Trip Planner for real-time route planning and updates.

Rideshare options

Rideshare services will also be widely used during World Cup events. While convenient, surge pricing is expected.

Uber estimates fares of approximately $25 to $50 to the stadium, and $80 to $150 or more for return trips after matches.

To reduce costs after events, riders are advised to walk 10 to 15 minutes away from the stadium before requesting a pickup to avoid congestion and peak pricing.

LIST: Bars where you can watch the FIFA World Cup around Houston