Published on February 17, 2026
By: Tuhin Sarkar
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner, and Los Angeles, alongside New York, Kansas, New Jersey, and other US cities, is pushing the boundaries with dynamic tourism campaigns. As the tournament draws nearer, these cities are launching strategic tourism initiatives to attract millions of international visitors, aiming to make this World Cup the most impactful in history.
From Los Angeles’ bold new efforts to New York’s iconic campaigns, these US cities are turning up the heat on global tourism. They know that the World Cup will bring an influx of football fans, and they’re preparing like never before. These cities are set to showcase their unique cultures, attractions, and rich heritage through carefully crafted tourism strategies. Each city, including Kansas and New Jersey, is positioning itself to offer not just soccer matches, but a full experience that fans will never forget.
This is more than just a sports event—it’s a massive opportunity to boost US tourism like never before. The US tourism sector is gearing up for a world-changing year, and these cities are leading the charge. Keep reading to see how Los Angeles, New York, Kansas, New Jersey, and more are making World Cup 2026 unforgettable for every fan.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to the USA—and the US tourism sector is buzzing with excitement! From coast to coast, US cities are rolling out the red carpet and creating jaw-dropping tourism campaigns that will capture the attention of millions of football fans around the globe. As the USA gets ready to host this prestigious event, the US tourism industry is gearing up for a record-breaking surge in international visitors. Get ready to explore how America’s cities are shaping up to be the ultimate destinations for World Cup fans, bringing tourism to unprecedented heights!
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The Big Apple and The Garden State are ready to take over the world!
In one of the most ambitious campaigns, New York City and New Jersey are positioning themselves as the ultimate global tourism destination for 2026. Officially branded as “Where the World Comes to Play,” this mega-marketing campaign will target more than 20 international markets. From high-fashion catwalks to iconic skyscrapers, the US tourism sector is betting big on the World Cup to elevate NYC and NJ’s status as top-tier destinations for millions of visitors. By capitalizing on major global events and world-class attractions, New York is set to reap massive rewards from this explosive World Cup tourism boom.
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In true New York fashion, NYC Tourism + Conventions has gone all-in, focusing on high-octane, full-throttle tourism marketing aimed at fans who dream of the electric energy of Times Square, the thrilling chaos of NYC streets, and the iconic football matches happening in the world’s most famous city. You’re not just visiting for the games—you’re entering New York’s world of limitless possibilities. What’s more, the campaign is expected to radically reshape US travel trends by driving unprecedented international visitors to NYC and NJ during the World Cup season.
LA is ready to give the world a show they’ll NEVER forget!
Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world, is also preparing for an all-out World Cup tourism frenzy. The official tourism campaign, “Start Your World Cup Experience in LA,” is aimed at visitors who crave both soccer excitement and the endless adventure that only LA can deliver. It’s not just about the matches, but about living the California dream while soaking up sunshine, thrilling nightlife, diverse culture, and unforgettable sporting energy. Whether it’s cheering for your team or exploring the glitz and glam of Hollywood, LA is giving fans the ultimate experience.
From dynamic digital campaigns to interactive fan experiences, Los Angeles Tourism is pouring money into a multi-platform promotional juggernaut that will ensure every visitor leaves LA with unforgettable memories. And what better place to kick off your World Cup adventure than Los Angeles, where the heat is on, and the party never stops? You’ll find yourself surrounded by world-class stadiums, stunning beaches, and a host of legendary spots that make LA the #1 place to be during the 2026 World Cup.
Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board has officially launched its World Cup 2026 campaign, inviting football fans from across the globe to “Start Your World Cup Experience in LA”. The campaign marks a major effort to engage visitors ahead of the city hosting eight matches and offering 39 days of fan engagement during FIFA World Cup 2026.
As an official Los Angeles World Cup Host City Supporter and Official Tourism Board Promoter, Los Angeles Tourism is committed to delivering an unforgettable experience for World Cup visitors. The campaign will run across several domestic and international markets. These include the United Kingdom, Australia, Mexico, South Korea, and several US cities such as New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Phoenix, Portland, Detroit, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Sacramento, and Washington, DC.
Eileen Hanson, Chief Marketing Officer of Los Angeles Tourism, emphasized the significance of the campaign: “As we prepare for one of the biggest years in our city’s history, this campaign reflects our commitment to the thousands of Angelenos and hundreds of local businesses who depend on tourism. As an official Los Angeles World Cup Host City Supporter, the World Cup offers a moment to showcase the creativity, diversity, and spirit that sets Los Angeles apart, and we’re proud to welcome fans as they begin their journeys here.”
The campaign features a diverse range of advertising mediums, including TV, connected TV, digital display, search, social media, and out-of-home placements. In one of the most eye-catching promotions, Waterloo Station in London was transformed into a World Cup-themed hub. The activation included an appearance by Andrew Henderson, five-time Freestyle Football World Champion, on January 28. To amplify engagement, creator-driven content has been deployed globally, including work from Rich McCor, a UK-based creator known for his artistic take on football and culture.
Strategic partnerships with airlines play a crucial role in the distribution strategy of the campaign. In Australia, Los Angeles Tourism is working with United Airlines to promote flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. In Mexico, Volaris continues to operate a Los Angeles-branded aircraft and is integrated into a 360-degree campaign in collaboration with Televisa. Meanwhile, in South Korea, a 3D billboard in Seoul’s K-Pop Square features LAFC players, including Son Heung-Min, to attract football fans from Asia.
Los Angeles Tourism has also teamed up with OneFootball, a digital football platform with over 645 million monthly users, to expand its global reach. A dedicated multilingual resource hub has been set up at DiscoverLA.com/FIFAWorldCupLA, offering football fans detailed neighbourhood itineraries, cultural guides, and culinary insights, including A Taste of the World Cup in LA.
In partnership with the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee, Los Angeles Tourism has developed a 39-day Fan Experience Guide. This guide features key details about official Fan Zones, community events, and must-see attractions for World Cup visitors. The campaign’s goal is to ensure that the World Cup 2026 experience in Los Angeles is unforgettable, offering a blend of football action, culture, and the vibrant spirit of the city.
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You might not expect Delaware to be a World Cup powerhouse, but this small state is making big moves. The Delaware Tourism Office has partnered with Philadelphia Soccer 2026™, launching a statewide initiative to engage fans through watch parties and football-centric events. Delaware’s campaign is designed to show the world that you don’t have to be in the heart of a major city to experience the magic of the World Cup. In fact, Delaware’s charm lies in its authentic experiences and community-driven tourism, offering a refreshing escape from the hectic city scene.
As one of the smaller World Cup tourism players, Delaware is betting on its proximity to major matches in Philadelphia, while also showcasing its own hidden gems. Delaware’s promotional strategy aims to create a seamless flow of visitors into its charming towns, iconic beaches, and vibrant communities during the World Cup. (news.delaware.gov)
Kansas is cashing in on the global football fever!
Kansas, while not a host city itself, is rolling out the red carpet for World Cup fans in its own unique way. By awarding $100,000 in tourism marketing grants, the Kansas Department of Commerce is supporting local campaigns to attract international fans to Kansas attractions during the World Cup. Local communities will develop their own targeted strategies, from World Cup watch parties to fan activations, to create a world-class experience for every visitor.
Kansas knows the US tourism sector will be looking at the entire Americas during the World Cup, and the state’s marketing efforts are focused on leveraging its charm and culture to draw visitors into local hotspots. Whether it’s historic towns, outdoor adventures, or music festivals, Kansas wants to capture its share of the World Cup tourist boom. (kansascommerce.gov)

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Boston is going ALL OUT to welcome World Cup visitors!
As one of the major tourist hubs in America, Boston is anticipating record numbers of international tourists during the 2026 World Cup. Massachusetts officials have already begun preparing for massive tourism influxes and traffic disruptions, ensuring that visitors will have an unforgettable experience. From historic landmarks like the Freedom Trail to its top-tier hotels and world-class restaurants, Boston is setting the stage for what promises to be a blockbuster World Cup tourism season.
City officials are preparing strategically, not only for match day crowds but also for pre- and post-event tourism that will drive business across every corner of the city. Visitors can expect seamless experiences that bring together the best of Boston’s charm with the excitement of global football. (wbur.org)
Sugar Land is putting itself on the map as a World Cup supporter city!
Sugar Land, Texas, a suburb of Houston, has officially been named an “official World Cup Host City Supporter” by FIFA 2026. This designation puts Sugar Land front and centre in Texas’ tourism strategy, supporting Houston’s World Cup festivities with its own set of exclusive promotions. By partnering with the Houston Host Committee, Sugar Land is leveraging its proximity to major stadiums and local attractions to draw in tourists looking for a unique World Cup experience.
Expect frenzied fan zones, exciting cultural events, and a celebration of local pride as Sugar Land steps up to the World Cup plate. By developing specialized tourism campaigns, the city aims to make sure visitors feel the football fever in every corner of the city.
With just a few years to go before the 2026 World Cup kicks off, US cities are preparing for a tourism boom like never before! From New York to Los Angeles, Kansas, and even Sugar Land, the US tourism sector is fully committed to ensuring that the 2026 World Cup experience is unlike any other. Through bold campaigns, strategic planning, and a strong focus on attracting international visitors, America’s cities are primed and ready to capture the attention of millions. This once-in-a-lifetime event will undoubtedly reshape the tourism landscape for years to come—ushering in a new era of global visitors who will leave their mark on the US tourism sector forever.
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