Where to Stay in Seattle for the 2026 World Cup (Best Neighborhoods + Hotel Tips)
Headed to Seattle for the 2026 FIFA World Cup? You’re not alone—and the earlier you figure out where to stay, the better. Whether you want to be near the stadium, surrounded by bars, or chilling with a waterfront view, this guide has you covered.
Here’s everything you need to know about where to stay in Seattle for the World Cup—best neighborhoods, hotel tips, transit access, and vibes.
🏟️ First, Where’s the Stadium?
Lumen Field, Seattle’s World Cup stadium, is located in the SODO neighborhood—just south of downtown.
Closest light rail stops:
Stadium Station
International District/Chinatown Station
Staying close to these stations = easy match day logistics.
1. Downtown Seattle
Closest to Lumen Field. Best for convenience.
🟢 Walkable to the stadium
🟢 Easy access to light rail, monorail, and ferries
🔴 Can be noisy, touristy, and expensive
Good for: First-time visitors, transit lovers, people who want to stumble home from the match
Hotel picks:
The Charter Hotel
Hotel 1000
citizenM Seattle
HI Seattle (budget hostel)
2. Capitol Hill
Seattle’s nightlife + culture district
🟢 Tons of bars, restaurants, and music venues
🟢 LGBTQ+ friendly, very walkable
🟡 A short light rail ride or 10-min Uber to Lumen
Good for: Foodies, night owls, younger travelers, queer travelers
Hotel picks:
Hotel Sorrento
Silver Cloud Hotel
Sonder at Solis
Airbnb options galore
3. International District / Pioneer Square
Right next to the stadium with food from around the world
🟢 Walkable to Lumen Field
🟢 Amazing Asian cuisine
🔴 Some areas can feel sketchy at night—just be smart
Good for: Fans who want to be in the thick of it, food adventurers, history nerds
Hotel picks:
Embassy Suites by Hilton
Best Western Plus Pioneer Square
Hotel Interurban (slightly farther south)
4. Ballard
Chill neighborhood with breweries, cafes, and cool vibes
🟢 Great for longer stays
🔴 25–35 mins from stadium via bus/Uber
🟢 Waterfront parks, indie shops, amazing food
Good for: Travelers who want to explore, not just attend games
Hotel picks:
Hotel Ballard
Ballard Inn
The Sound Hotel (closer to downtown but similar vibe)
5. South Lake Union / Belltown
Modern, clean, and central—but still fun
🟢 Close to downtown + transit
🟢 Safe, walkable, and full of restaurants
🟡 Can feel a bit corporate
Good for: Professionals, families, Amazon tourists (yes, that’s a thing)
Hotel picks:
Moxy Seattle
EVEN Hotel
The Astra
Pan Pacific Seattle
6. West Seattle (Hidden gem)
Beach town meets city escape
🟢 Beautiful views and chill vibes
🔴 You’ll need to use the Water Taxi or Uber to get downtown
🟢 Marination Ma Kai, Alki Beach, sunsets galore
Good for: Long stays, families, fans who want downtime between matches
Hotel picks:
The Grove West Seattle Inn
Airbnb all day
🚌 How to Get Around (Transit Tips)
Use the Link Light Rail—connects SEA Airport → Stadium → Downtown → Capitol Hill → University District → Northgate
Consider a hotel near a station, even if it’s not downtown
You don’t need to rent a car unless you’re doing day trips
🛏️ Booking Tips for World Cup Visitors
Book early: Hotels will fill up months in advance
Watch cancellation policies: Flexible bookings = peace of mind
Check walkability + transit: Google Maps is your friend
Don’t sleep on Airbnbs: Especially in Ballard, Capitol Hill, or West Seattle
Read reviews from 2024–2025: Things can change fast
🌎 Hosting Friends? Point Them Here
Even if you’re a local, this guide is worth sharing with visiting friends. Pick a neighborhood that matches their style—and you’ll be the MVP of their trip.
