WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 05: Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, draws out the card of FIFA during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on December 05, 2025 in Washington, DC.
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When the FIFA World Cup comes to North Texas in summer 2026, fans from around the globe will be looking for more than just world-class soccer. They’ll want the full experience, and that includes great food, cold drinks and a chance to celebrate with fellow fans.
The matches will be held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, about 15 miles from Fort Worth. But many visitors will find Fort Worth’s mix of Western heritage and urban energy makes it the perfect home base. The city has two entertainment districts that are ready to welcome World Cup fans, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends or bringing the family.
Here’s what you need to know about the West 7th Entertainment District and Panther Island Pavilion.
West 7th Entertainment District
Between downtown Fort Worth and the Cultural District, West 7th is a walkable neighborhood that’s become one of the city’s hottest entertainment spots. The main strip buzzes with restaurants, bars and entertainment venues, so it’s popular amongst young professionals and groups looking for a night out.
For World Cup fans, the concentration of bars and restaurants makes it perfect for spontaneous celebrations. When your team wins, you can hop from one venue to another, all within walking distance. Many spots have big screens too for watching matches.
Dining and nightlife options
The dining scene at West 7th ranges from gastropubs and craft breweries to sushi bars and Tex-Mex spots. Rooftop lounges are a great shout if you want views of the Fort Worth skyline.
The district is at its busiest Thursday through Saturday evenings, though during the World Cup, expect the energy to extend to whenever major matches are being played. Many bars and restaurants will have live music and DJs, especially on weekends. Notable venues that have become local favorites include Varsity Tavern and Social House.
Getting there and getting around
The district is located on West Seventh Street, a few minutes from downtown. Most venues are open daily, with parking available in several garages and surface lots. On busy nights, rideshare services are your best bet.
Plan on two to four hours if you’re going for dinner and drinks, or longer if you’re bar-hopping during a big match.
Panther Island Pavilion
For a different kind of experience, head to Panther Island Pavilion, an outdoor event venue on the banks of the Trinity River just north of downtown.
The venue has made a name for itself as Fort Worth’s go-to spot for large outdoor events. Throughout the year, it hosts major concerts, food and beer festivals, and cultural celebrations. With its scenic river views and expansive festival grounds, it’s built for the kind of large-scale gatherings that World Cup tournaments inspire.
The open-air setting has space for thousands of fans to come together for watch parties and international celebrations. Panther Island Pavilion actually has the only waterfront stage in Texas and a 10,000-square-foot indoor building called The Shack.
Water activities
Beyond the festivals and concerts, Panther Island Pavilion has plenty of water activities. During summer months, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards or tubes. The venue also has sandy beaches and shaded picnic areas for lunch or just relaxing.
For fans traveling with families, this combo is perfect. Kids can burn off energy with water activities while adults enjoy the festival atmosphere.
Practical info
Panther Island Pavilion operates on an event-based schedule, opening daily for river activities during summer months. Public access to the grounds is free, while concerts and festivals require tickets. The venue has on-site parking lots with overflow parking for large events. Accessible pathways and restrooms means visitors of all abilities can enjoy the venue, too.
Plan on one to three hours for river activities, or a half-day visit or longer for concerts and festivals.
Planning your visitHow close are these districts to the World Cup venue?
Both districts are about 15 miles from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, so it’s very easily accessible from the matches. They’re also close to downtown hotels.
Will there be official World Cup watch parties?
Expect watch parties and fan zones at bars throughout West 7th and large outdoor events at Panther Island Pavilion during the tournament. Check local event calendars as the World Cup approaches for specific details.
Is public transit an option?
Trinity Metro operates bus service throughout Fort Worth and connects to downtown and the Cultural District. The system also includes TEXRail, a commuter rail line that runs from downtown Fort Worth to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. Bike and scooter rentals are available as well.
Where can I find current event schedules?
Check the Panther Island Pavilion website and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram for up-to-date listings. Local coverage frequently spotlights new restaurant openings, major concerts and the districts’ roles in citywide celebrations and sports events.
Tips for World Cup fans
Making the most of your visit requires some advance planning. Arrive early for major events, as parking and tables fill up fast, especially when popular teams are playing. Using ride-share or public transit helps avoid traffic and parking hassles.
For outdoor events at Panther Island Pavilion, bring sunscreen and hats to protect against the Texas sun, which can be intense in June and July. Check event calendars regularly for World Cup-themed parties, concerts and family activities.
Consider combining a visit to West 7th with a trip to the Cultural District or downtown for a full day of Fort Worth exploration. This lets you experience multiple facets of the city while positioning yourself perfectly for evening celebrations.
This article was created by content specialists using various tools, including AI.