03 Feb 2026
A Sporting Tour of the US in 2026: Must-See Events for Visitors

Travel & Tourism Marketing Ltd

Football

Boston is set to host the FIFA World Cup™ 2026, and will welcome seven matches, including five group-stage fixtures, a knock out and a quarter final. All matches will be held at the Boston Stadium, also known as the home of the New England Patriots, the Gillette Stadium, between 14 June and 09 July.

The city is delighted to be hosting two Scotland matches and one England game in the first stage

  • Sunday 14 June Scotland v Haiti
  • Friday 19 June Scotland v Morocco
  • Tuesday 23 June England v Ghana

Meet Boston has spokespeople available for interview and comment including President & CEO of Meet Boston, Martha Sheridan and Julie Duffy, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer FIFA World Cup™ Boston 2026.

A range of ticket packages will be available to book, and the city will be hosting special events, watch parties and fan festivals, with celebrations expected throughout. Hotels, attractions and restaurants will be pulling out all the stops as they welcome football's biggest event.

Toyota Field in San Antonio, home to San Antonio FC celebrated its 10th anniversary this year with a new infrastructure investment. The Ground is a must-visit stop for football fans, offering an exciting lineup of matches in a setting that provides a level of intimacy many larger stadiums cannot. Fans can enjoy experiences such as pre-match tunnel entry, pre-game performances and post-match photos with players.

The home Soccer club in Nashville is based at Geodis Park, the largest football stadium in Tennessee, with a capacity for up to 30,000 spectators. The club has celebrated record-breaking victories, and the Major League Soccer schedule has now been announced, with tickets available for purchase.

The New England Revolution is one of the original major league football clubs in the US. Matches are played at the iconic Gillette Stadium in Boston. Approaching its 30th year since its inaugural season in 1996, the club has been run by the same family behind the title-winning New England Patriots. The Revolution have won the Eastern Conference Championship five times, alongside numerous other records and titles.

Boston Legacy FC will add to Boston's winning legacy as the 15th team in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) starting play in 2026. Founded and led by women, the club is committed to creating a home for the greatest female athletes, building upon the supercharged legacy of Boston's historic sports teams. The club will host its first-ever home opener on 14th March 2026, at Gillette Stadium. The historic match will be broadcast nationally.

Maine has welcomed a new addition to the New England football landscape with the launch of Portland Hearts of Pine, a club backed by significant investment. Based in Portland, Maine, the romantically named Hearts of Pine describes itself as culture-led, community-built and city-backed. The club played its first-ever USL match in March 2025, securing an emphatic 4–0 victory. The team's first official goal was scored by Walter Varela on his 28th birthday, marking a historic moment for the new franchise. There are plans to launch a women's professional team under the franchise name.

American Football

The New Orleans Saints play their home games at the Caesars Superdome, a stadium with a capacity of more than 75,000 and a fully covered roof for days when the weather is being uncooperative. The Superdome has hosted 11 Super Bowls, college football games and a wide range of festivals, concerts and major events. Visitors can join a stadium tour before taking in one of the many NFL games held from August through to December. The team's iconic black and gold uniform is a symbol of local pride, and on games days the entire city comes alive. Fans can enjoy some of the best tailgating experiences in the country, complete with the unmistakable New Orleans flair. With second line parades and classic southern cooking included, catching a game is a must-do when in Crescent City. 

The Tennessee Titans play their home games at the Nissan Stadium from September to December each year. Autumn in Nashville is football season, and there is plenty to enjoy at the stadium, from excellent local bites to theatrical pre-game music bands. The stadium itself is a leading sporting facility that also hosts an array of events throughout the year.

While the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough will host the FIFA World Cup™ matches in Boston, it is also home to the New England Patriots. The Patriots are one of the most successful NFL teams in history and have won 6 Super Bowls – the NFL Championships. This New England themed stadium (complete with lighthouse) ties with Atlanta for the largest end zone video display screen in the NFL so you won't miss a pass. The stadium is easily accessible on public transport, so city break visitors can hop on the 'T' and see a game in a sea of Red, White and Blue! 

The NFL's Carolina Panthers play their home games at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. Stadium tours are available, and games typically take place in August to December. The stadium also hosts two major college football games each year, the ACC Football Championship and Duke's Mayo Bowl.

Baseball

Fenway Park in Boston is the oldest major league baseball stadium in the US and, owing to its storied history, it has been dubbed America's most beloved ballpark. Its central location makes it easy to reach, and with series matches running from February to September it is hard to miss the chance to see the mighty Red Sox, sacred team to all Bostonians. With so many legends having passed through its doors, it's well worth getting the full experience by joining a guide who conducts visitors on a walking tour of the park and its amazing history from the 'Green Monsta' to the roof top kitchen gardens. Tours run daily throughout the year.

In Tennessee, the minor league team the Redbirds have tickets on sale now for the 2026 season at the AutoZone Park. Playing at the highest level of baseball as a Triple A Affiliate, games are known for their high level of sportsmanship. The season runs from April to August. The team is a not-for-profit organisation, meaning the money spent at games returns to the local community.

In Hattiesburg, Mississippi, baseball has become a nationally recognised and deeply rooted part of the city. The University of Southern Mississippi is home to the Southern Miss Golden Eagles baseball team, and thousands of fans regularly fill Pete Taylor Park, (named after the legendary coaches) its home stadium since 1984. Each season, teams from across the region compete in college baseball tournaments held there, drawing visitors from all over. The sport continues to shape Hattiesburg's identity, with new visitors joining each year. The stadium seats a couple of thousand spectators and offers luxury suites for premium viewing. Tickets for Southern Miss baseball games are available online.

In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, baseball is taken seriously, and it was here that Marucci, a company founded by big league baseball players and their trainers, began. The baseball bats they produce have been designed with expert precision and high-quality materials. More than 55% of major league baseball players use bats produced by Marucci. Visitors and fans of baseball can purchase their own here to take home.

The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum in Jackson, has been named one of the top 10 baseball museums in America. It features interactive sports exhibits and touchscreen kiosks that use extensive archived material, including interviews with more than 500 famous Mississippi athletes. The museum is both exciting and informative, offering kids and adults alike to have a hands-on way to explore the sporting history of Mississippi.

Basketball

The Memphis Grizzlies in Tennessee are an NBA basketball team, and on game days the whole city erupts. Memphis proudly describes itself as a basketball city, and with the drumline and passionate fan base, the atmosphere at games is always electric. The team's home arena, the Grindhouse, is located downtown. The mascot, Grizz, is a former NBA Mascot of the Year. Interestingly, Justin Timberlake is a minority owner of the franchise. 

The San Antonio Frost Bank Centre is home to the NBA five-time world champion San Antonio Spurs and superstar player Victor Wembanyama, standing at 7'5. The team plays frequently, with tickets available to purchase online, and the coming year already features a variety of themed game nights, including Barbie, Hello Kitty, Star Wars and our personal favourite, Ugly Sweater Night. Offering high quality entertainment, the centre makes a wonderful stop on any itinerary. With local eateries located inside the Frost Bank Centre, sports fans can enjoy signature dishes along with readily available deals on food, beverages and tickets. The city has just passed a new development plan which will see the Spurs move into a brand-new downtown, purpose-built stadium.  This will mean the team no longer needs to share its home with the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo and will see a huge boost to the city with this star team and its fans, right in the heart of the city. 

Another sporting team located in Boston, at TD Garden, are the Boston Celtics, who recently opened a new training facility at the purpose built Auerbach Centre Boston Landing in Brighton. The Celtics have an impressive list of legends, from Bill Russell to Kevin Garnett and it's no surprise that they hold 18 championship banners. With matches regularly scheduled and available to book, a winter trip to Boston is not complete without a visit to TD Garden for the cultural experience and the excited Boston sports crowd.  

The New Orleans Pelicans are an NBA basketball team with tickets currently released for games up to April 2026 so far. Halftime entertainment ranges from skilled gymnasts to brass bands with an electric twist in true New Orleans style. Spectators can expect the chance of catching a Pelicans t-shirt during giveaways if they're quick enough to catch one. Games take place at the Smoothie King Centre which is conveniently located close to the French Quarter and downtown New Orleans.

In Connecticut, the women's basketball team Connecticut Sun is part of the WNBA and is based at the Mohegan Sun Arena, which it has called home for more than 20 years. The team's past and current roster features Olympians and All-Stars. The venue seats 10,000 and is located within the Mohegan Sun Casino. The season usually runs from May to September.

The Maine Celtics are an NBA G League team based in Portland, New England. The minor league players are the rising talent of future NBA teams, and the Maine Celtics serve as an official affiliate of the Boston Celtics. Home games take place at the Portland Expo, with a range of ticket options including suites for special viewing, along with themed nights that add extra excitement to the calendar. The season began in November and will run through to March 2026.

Located in Springfield, Massachusetts, the city where basketball was born, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is dedicated to promoting, preserving and celebrating the game of basketball at every level – men and women, amateur and professional players, coaches and contributors, both domestically and internationally.

College Sports

This year's Arizona Bowl in Tucson is presented by Snoop Dogg and promises an experience unlike any other on the college athletics scene. The event is a nationally recognised college football competition and has become a much-loved tradition. The Bowl is run by a not-for-profit organisation that has repatriated millions to local causes, and in December this year will celebrate its 10th anniversary. Sanctioned by the NCAA, it brings together competing teams for the chance to win the championship. Fans can expect plenty of entertainment, tailgating and themed Snoop Dogg experiences throughout the Bowl.

In Mississippi, thousands flock to Oxford to watch the Ole Miss Rebels, the American football team of the University of Mississippi. The programme is vibrant, and full tailgating experiences are offered at The Grove and other popular locations. Fans can experience a lively atmosphere while watching games along with catering and beverages served in true Southern style. With various ticket packages available, and both men's and women's teams playing across numerous sports, the line-up and entertainment is impressive and varied.

In San Antonio, college football games are hosted at the Alamodome Stadium throughout the year. The University of Texas San Antonio (UTSA) promises ticketed games that deliver big spectacles in true Texan style, complete with pre-game entertainment and the classic college football atmosphere many have grown up watching. The UTSA Roadrunners face a variety of neighbouring college teams throughout the season.  

Knoxville, Tennessee is home to the Neyland Stadium, the sixth largest college football stadium in the US. It hosts games for the University of Tennessee Volunteers team, also known as the VOLs. With a range of seating options available, and both men's and women's teams competing, there will be several opportunities to book games in 2026. The VOLs rank among the top 10 teams in the Collegiate Athletic Conference of the southern United States.

The AutoZone Liberty Bowl, held annually at the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis. The venue seats more than 58,000 spectators and includes 40 skyboxes and several executive suites. It is the seventh oldest college bowl game and has been running for more than 60 years. 

The Tulane Green Wave college football team has roots stretching back as far as the 1890s and was one of the first organised football games in New Orleans. Their fixtures promise a show from start to finish, with large crowds, marching bands and cheerleaders celebrating the team. Mascot Greenie leads supporters into Yulman Stadium, a unique on-campus venue in uptown that opened in 2014. It seats 30,000 fans and offers ample space for tailgating.

The Louisiana State University college football team, part of the Southern Conference, hosts games at the Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge. The stadium can seat up to 100,000 fans and game days are major events. Tailgating is a must-try, particularly along North Stadium Drive, known as Victory Hill, where marching bands make their way to the stadium in a tradition dating back to the 1990s. After the game, concerts take place at Walk-On's Bistreaux and Bar, named by some as the No.1 sports bar in America.

The University of Lafayette has a college football team known as the Ragin' Cajuns and offers outstanding viewing and tailgating. Cajun Field, where the team plays, sits two feet below sea level in a natural bowl. A sophisticated drainage system keeps the field in good playing condition, and the stadium can seat over 40,000 spectators. For tailgating revelry, the Krewe De Chew is a popular starting point, and various local businesses near the field take part in game day events, serving fans in true Cajun style. The Ragin' Cajuns have a range of teams that play across a variety of sports in both men's and women's divisions.

The Arizona Wildcats in Tucson are the college basketball team for the University of Arizona. Basketball games can attract upwards of 15,000 fans and upwards of 56,000 for college football games. These matches welcome big crowds, filled with music and cheerleading as supporters line the streets to celebrate. The Wildcats are part of the National College Athletic Association (NCAA) and the university has one of the most successful basketball programmes in NCAA history. The team is widely regarded as one of the most respected and competitive in the country, and with convenient transport options such as the Sun Link Streetcar, it's easy for visitors to reach games and enjoy downtown Tucson at the same time.

Cycling

One of the largest cycling events in the US takes place in Tucson each year. El Tour De Tucson is a premier cycling event that has welcomed more than 10,000 participants. The event helps raise funds for charity and has generated nearly $130 million to date. Riders can choose their preferred distances, with courses extending up to 102 miles. Cyclists of all ages and abilities are welcome, making it an excellent way to experience Tucson's scenic landscape.

Equestrian Sports

With San Antonio's strong sense of Mexican heritage, the sport of Charreada holds a special place in the city. Charreada is Mexico's national sport, with a history dating back to the 16th century, and shows can be booked at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. The sport is a mesmerising blend of dressage-style horsemanship and livestock herding skills. Affectionally known as Noche de Vaquero, which roughly translates as Cowboy Night, (Vaquero are Mexican stockmen) takes places every year at San Antonio Rodeo, the only national rodeo in the US to include a Mexican ranching skills event. The show offers exquisite costumes and a vibrant celebration of tradition and culture. The next rodeo runs from 12th February – 1st March with an incredible series of events including concerts by stars such as Brad Paisley, Miranda Lambert, Sheryl Crowe and Ludacris.

The Newport International Polo event welcomes players from around the world to compete in this exciting spectator sport. Matches will take place in 2026 to celebrate 35 years of the Newport International Polo Series and the 150th anniversary of America's first polo club. Matches are held every Saturday, and on selected Fridays, from June to September. Spectators can enjoy opening and closing ceremonies, divot stomps, fan prizes and live coverage to enhance the experience.

Fishing

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic is a premier fishing tournament that has been running for more than 25 years, drawing teams of highly skilled anglers who compete for multi-million-dollar prizes. Competitors fish for pelagic species found in the Gulf, ranging from swordfish to mahi mahi. With record-breaking catches each year and an electric atmosphere, crowds gather in large numbers to admire the fish displayed at public weigh-in on awards day.

The Toledo Bend reservoir in Louisiana has been hosting a fishing rodeo such as the Bassmaster Classic since 1970. The 186,000-acre reservoir has produced numerous record-breaking catches, and large-scale tournaments are held between April and October. Several of these tournaments are designed for children and beginners, with dates spread throughout the season. The Cajun Canyons Billfish Classic 2026 is scheduled for 31st May in Venice, Louisiana and promises a full programme of festivities. Alternatively, the Empire South Tarpon Rodeo in August is the second oldest fishing rodeo in the state and offers equally memorable experiences.

Golf

The Zurich Golf Classic in New Orleans is part of the PGA tour located in Avondale, Louisiana. Unlike many other golfing tournaments, it's distinctive for its two-man team format. The next tournament is scheduled for 20th - 26th April, and tickets are already available for purchase, with VIP options for fans looking to further their experience. The event is well known for capturing the fun and camaraderie of team golf, and combined with New Orleans' famous hospitality, it would be a shame for any golfing fans to miss.

The Travelers Championship is a PGA tour event held annually in Cromwell, Connecticut. It is a signature tournament in the PGA Tour which has gained national attention across the US, promising spectators a day of world-class sportsmanship. The event raises millions for charity each year, and fans travel far and wide to watch the finest players compete on the course.

In Hawaii, passengers can add a flightseeing experience to their visit to the PGA Tour Sentry Tournament of Champions, held annually in January. The tournament showcases some of the finest golfers in the world. Other experiences which you may want to attend with Maverick Helicopters include the Queen Liliʻuokalani Canoe Races and Duke's OceanFest.

Ice Hockey

With Boston being the sports paradise it is, it's no surprise the Boston Bruins ice hockey team has a long history of holding top positions on the Eastern Conference leaderboards. Home games are regularly played at TD Garden, where large crowds turn out to watch them in action. Whether it's your first time experiencing ice hockey or you're a superfan, the atmosphere is always electric. Visitors are welcome to come and watch the Bruins train for free at the Warrior Ice Arena at Boston Landing in Brighton, with training schedules available online.

The Nashville Predators in Tennessee compete in the National Hockey League (NHL), with home games held at the Bridgestone Arena in downtown Nashville. Fixtures are currently bookable through to April. Thanks to the arena's central location, game days can easily fit into any itinerary looking to enjoy music, cuisine and the general experience of Nashville.

The Tucson Roadrunners, part of the American Hockey League (AHL), play at the Tucson Convention Centre Arena, a 250,000 square-foot venue. Games run from October to April each year, with every season featuring themed nights and high-energy action on the ice. The Roadrunners focus on developing the next generation of hockey talent and are entering their 10th year, with over 30 games typically played on home ice each season.

The Maine Mariners, also part of the AHL, are based in Portland, Maine, and play at the Cross Insurance Arena. Tickets are already on sale for matches scheduled through to April 2026 so far.

The Carolina Hurricanes are an ice hockey team competing in the NHL, with home games played at the Lenovo Centre in Raleigh, North Carolina. The venue welcomes over 1.5 million fans each year and has a capacity of more than 18,000 for ice hockey fixtures. A wide range of tickets is available, including premium seating options for matches scheduled through to April 2026.

Motor Racing

The Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee hosts a variety of events for motor racing enthusiasts. Highlights include the NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals and races at the Volunteer Speedway in Bulls Gap. Known as the world's fastest dirt track, it offers old-school short-track racing. The racing season is set to return on 12th April 2026 with tickets available and luxury viewing suites offered for private viewing.

In Connecticut, New England, the historic Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park is a closed-circuit road course and oval racing track tucked away in the countryside. The 5/8 mile banked oval hosts the annual NASCAR Stock Car racing events, including the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and All-American Series. A must-visit for both amateur and professional drivers.

In New England, the New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon hosts major NASCAR Cup Series events. Set to return in August 2026 as the penultimate race in the NASCAR Cup Series. Visitors can camp at the S6 Grounds to extend the experience, with large crowds expected and a buzzing atmosphere accompanying the high level of expertise and high-quality racing.

Maverick Helicopters offer several sports-themed flights, including the Las Vegas Grand Prix experience that takes passengers over the strip for a unique view of one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year. Showcasing the world's most talented drivers, this bird's-eye perspective of the 17-turn, 3.8-mile track alongside the Strip's iconic landmarks created an unforgettable flying experience. This experience takes place annually, usually in November.

Other top choices for sports fans include the Hollywood and Beyond tour in California, where guests can fly over hallowed sporting turf such as the Dodgers Stadium, Crypto.com Arena, home of the LA Lakers & Kings, as well as downtown Long Beach, the location of the Long Beach Grand Prix.

The New England Racing Museum in Loudon, New Hampshire showcases the region's motor racing heritage. Covering more than 10,000 square feet, the museum educates the public through an extensive display of motorcycles from various disciplines. Visitors can see famous trophies, helmets and much more, alongside special soapbox derby displays, and a slot car track and racing simulators.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina, gives visitors the chance to get up close to the legends of NASCAR and immerse themselves in the history and passion of the sport. Exhibits include interactive experiences with classic and modern-day cars as well as realistic racing simulators.. The museum also features displays from Disney Pixar's Cars, including the character Lightning McQueen, and offers guided tours.

Running

The Boston Marathon is the world's oldest annual marathon, traditionally held on Patriots' Day, the third Monday of April. The Boston Marathon ranks among the world's best-known road racing events and is one of seven World Marathon Majors. The event attracts 500,000 spectators each year, making it New England's most widely viewed sporting event. What started with 18 participants in 1897 now attracts over 31,000 registered participants each year.  The 130th Boston Marathon will run on 20th April 2026.

Sailing

The Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race in Maine, New England is an annual white-water paddling event. Held in the third week of April, it is the largest paddling event in New England and one of the largest in the US. The 16.5-mile course begins in the town of Kenduskeag and finishes near the Penobscot River in downtown Bangor.

The Sailing Museum in Rhode Island, New England presents a wide variety of interactive exhibits which chart the history of sailing as a sport. The galleries include stories that explain the history of the America's Cup, one of the most prestigious sailing races in the world. High-tech exhibits and inclusive environments allow visitors to design their own boats and try steering the tiller and wheel. The museum celebrates those who have contributed to the sport, including design, shipbuilders, historians and Olympians.

Skiing

In Vermont, New England, the Stifel Killington Cup is held annually in November. This Audi FIS Ski World Cup event is the largest ski competition to be held in the eastern United States. The event has become a firm favourite with both locals and visitors, and past events have featured World Cup winners and Olympic champions. With big crowds expected each year, make sure to wrap up warmly and enjoy the various categories and competing teams.

The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum in Stowe, New England preserves the heritage of the winter sports for which the region is known. With various exhibitions that explore a variety of snow-related activities, and current displays tracing the evolution of snowboarding from backyard beginning to global snow sport fame. The museum has been operating since 1988 and has continued to collect and preserve the rich history of skiing with more than 8,000 items.

Other Sports Hall of Fame

The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in Natchitoches is a must-visit sporting attraction. The museum celebrates athletes and coaches with interactive exhibits and media displays that highlight the impact and importance of sport Louisiana's culture. With memorabilia and even the fastest car of 1963 on display, the Hall of Fame offers plenty to discover during your visit.  

The International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island, invites visitors to connect with the stories and history of tennis. In the last few weeks, Roger Federer has been elected to the Hall of Fame for his incredible career. A variety of exhibits showcase interactive displays, rare artifacts, compelling accounts from tennis legends. The museum explores the evolution of the game, and with more than 28 countries represented in the newly renovated museum, it's a great stop for fans, players and enthusiasts alike. Visitors are even allowed to book a game and play on one of the hallowed 13 grass or 6 hard courts, which is the equivalent of playing at Wimbledon!

Ends

For more information on the above destinations, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk. For media enquiries, more information, hi-res images or video, please contact:

Caroline Donaldson-Sinclair, PR Account Director: caroline@ttmworld.co.uk

For Meet Boston, Discover New England, and Visit San Antonio

Jennie Jordan, Senior PR Account Manager: jennie@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Mississippi and Tupelo CVB

Anisha Hegde, PR Account Executive: anisha@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Tucson

Adam Aspinall, PR Account Manager : adam@ttmworld.co.uk

For Explore Louisiana, Maverick Aviation, Tennessee Tourism and New Orleans & Company

Maxine Hanson, PR Executive: maxine@ttmworld.co.uk

Kirsty Dillury, Chief Communications Officer kirsty@ttmworld.co.uk

For any other enquiries, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk, email ttmoffice@ttmworld.co.uk or

call +44 (0)208 313 1717