Beyond the Stadium: Five Bay Area Getaways for FIFA World Cup 2026 Visitors
San Jose: As California prepares to host matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, travellers are being encouraged to explore the wider San Francisco Bay Area through a series of short post-match road trips.
From coastal towns and wine regions to historic landmarks and natural wonders, several destinations located within a few hours of San Jose offer visitors an opportunity to extend their World Cup experience beyond the stadium.
Santa Cruz Blends Surf Culture with Redwood Trails
Less than an hour from San Jose, Santa Cruz offers a mix of coastal attractions and outdoor experiences. Known for its surfing heritage, the town draws visitors to Steamer Lane and the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum.
Nearby parks such as Big Basin Redwoods State Park and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park provide opportunities to explore towering redwoods, while the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk features historic rides including the Giant Dipper roller coaster.
Napa and Sonoma Anchor California’s Wine Tourism
A two- to three-hour drive north leads to Napa Valley and Sonoma County, internationally recognised wine regions known for premium varietals.
Visitors can tour vineyards, experience wine tastings, and visit attractions such as Castello di Amorosa. The region is also known for fine dining, including Michelin-starred establishments like The French Laundry.
Sacramento Highlights Gold Rush Heritage
Located about 120 miles northeast, Sacramento combines historical attractions with a modern food culture. Known as the “Farm-to-Fork Capital,” the city features sites such as the California State Railroad Museum and the Crocker Art Museum.
Nearby destinations, including Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, offer insight into California’s Gold Rush era.
Yosemite Offers Iconic Natural Landscapes
Further east, Yosemite National Park stands out as one of the most iconic natural attractions in the United States. The park features granite cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient sequoia groves.
Key highlights include El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls, with activities ranging from hiking to guided valley tours.
Lake Tahoe Combines Scenic Beauty with Adventure
About 200 miles from San Jose, Lake Tahoe offers alpine scenery and outdoor recreation. Known for its clear waters and mountain backdrop, the destination is popular for hiking, kayaking, and lakeside relaxation.
Visitors can explore areas such as Emerald Bay State Park and the Tahoe Rim Trail.
Extending the World Cup Experience
With international visitors expected in large numbers, these nearby destinations provide an opportunity to combine football with travel, showcasing California’s diverse landscapes and cultural offerings beyond match venues.
