How to survive the World Cup in Miami in 7 easy steps. Get the inside info

There’s a lot to know about the World Cup in South Florida.

Who has the best watch parties? What streets will be shut down? Where’s the official merch? Who’s playing and when?

We have answers to those questions and many more.

Here’s what to know about the world’s biggest sports event in Miami:

1. Which teams are playing in Miami? When are the matches?

Dates and matches in Miami: Miami, one of 11 U.S. host areas, holds four group stage games at Hard Rock Stadium, followed by three elimination games. The matches run June 15 to July 18.

Here are the World Cup match times at Hard Rock Stadium:

June 15: Kickoff at 6 p.m. Post event closure 7:30-9:30 p.m.

June 21: Kickoff at 6 p.m. Post event closure 7:30-9:30 p.m.

June 24: Kickoff at 6 p.m. Post event closure 7:30-9:30 p.m.

June 27: Kickoff at 7:30 p.m. Post event closure 9-11 p.m.

July 3: Kickoff at 6 p.m. Post event closure 7:30-9:30 p.m.

July 11: Kickoff at 5 p.m. Post event closure 7:30-9:30 p.m.

July 18: Kickoff at 5 p.m. Post event closure 7:30-9:30 p.m.

2. Where can you get official World Cup merchandise?

Official merch in South Florida: The first FIFA store in the area has opened in South Beach at 1006 Lincoln Rd

3. Where can you watch matches without tickets?

Miami event is ground zero for soccer fans: The FIFA Fan Festival in downtown Miami’s Bayfront Park is the place to celebrate the World Cup and watch matches.

Top spots around town to watch the World Cup: Find the best watch parties in South Florida — giant screens, drink specials raffles and giveaways at bars and restaurants.

4. What should you know about security and rules at World Cup matches?

Don’t come without a ticket and don’t fly a drone: Federal, state and local agencies have detailed security plans for Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

Behind the operations hub: FIFA staff is working around the clock in Coral Gables, monitoring weather, security and other issues.

5. What’s the best way to get around and avoid traffic?

Traffic, free shuttles, mass transit, street closings: Get tips on transportation during the stretch of big events.

6. Can you still find a place to stay — and at what cost?

Hotel rates and availability: Ahead of the World Cup, have hotel prices hit a low? See room rates in Miami

7. When can you keep up with the latest on the World Cup in Miami?

Follow World Cup prep and action at MiamiHerald.com: Special digital section is continually updated.

Follow World Cup reporter Michelle Kaufman: The Miami Herald sportswriter has covered seven World Cups. Her work is featured on her MiamiHerald.com page, and follow her real-time updates at @kaufsports on X.

This story was originally published June 8, 2026 at 7:48 AM.