As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, Los Angeles stands out as one of the major host cities, hosting eight highly anticipated matches in the world’s most expensive stadium. Beyond the games, the city blends iconic glamour, diverse culture, and deep soccer passion, making it an unforgettable destination for fans. Here are some fascinating facts about L.A. that will inspire you before your visit to this vibrant metropolis.
Los Angeles is the second-largest city in the United States
The city is located in California and has a population of around 3.8–3.9 million. This sprawling urban giant ranks just behind New York City in size, offering endless neighborhoods ranging from bustling Downtown to laid‑back beachfront districts. It also creates an even more diverse environment for World Cup visitors, with international fan zones, global eateries, and convenient access to SoFi Stadium.
The Famous palm trees in Los Angeles were imported
The palm trees in Los Angeles are not native to the region. The iconic Mexican fan palms lining the boulevards were brought in from Mexico, especially during the 1930s as part of unemployment‑relief efforts and to enhance the city’s exotic image ahead of the 1932 Olympics. These towering symbols create the classic postcard backdrop that represents the city, making them perfect for photos near fan festivals or on the way to matches at SoFi Stadium.
Los Angeles was a part of Mexico for 27 years
Los Angeles was part of Mexico from 1821 (after Mexico gained independence from Spain) until 1848, when the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ceded California to the United States following the Mexican–American War. The city was originally founded in 1781 by settlers from Mexico. Its early history reflects deep Mexican roots, which explains many of the street names, architectural influences, and vibrant communities seen in Los Angeles today. This heritage adds cultural depth to the World Cup experience, with global fans celebrating in a city shaped by rich cross‑border ties.
Three-time Olympic Host
Beside the upcoming 2026 World Cup, L.A. will also be hosting the Olympics in 2028, marking its third time hosting another global spectacle. The upcoming Games will build on this legacy of world-class events, much like the 2026 World Cup at SoFi Stadium. Several iconic stadiums and arenas in L.A. will be taking the center stage during the event, including Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, SoFi Stadium, L.A. Live, Dodger Stadium, Rose Bowl Stadium, and Crypto.com Arena, etc.
To get the best experience out of the World Cup matches in Los Angeles, make sure to check out the official hospitality packages. It offers premium seating options with exceptional views at SoFi Stadium, access to lounges that provides upscale food and beverage options, world class entertainment, personalized services, and most importantly eliminating the uncertainties from standard ticketing for the ultimate experience.