BEST ROAD TRIP FOR FIFA WORLD CUP FANS
Fans heading to California for 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP EXCITEMENT can explore the natural beauty and grandeur of California’s most spectacular national parks in an easy road trip from SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and Levi Stadium in Santa Clara. Visalia, basecamp to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, is located just three hours’ driving distance from both sports venues, making it easy for ticket holders to add a memorable experience to their World Cup journey.
VISIT SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK
After the roar of the stadium step into a different kind of arena and come face to face with giants - the largest living things on the planet, the giant sequoia trees. They are towering, resilient and unforgettable. Just like World Cup soccer players.
A visit to the national parks must include seeing the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree by volume. What else should visitors see? Add these to the lists:
- Climb Moro Rock for spectacular views
- Drive through Tunnel Log
- See Native American pictographs at Hospital Rock
- Check out our complete list of 9 top things to see
With matches scheduled to kick off in less than a year, fans should start planning their road trip now. Whether you’re an avid soccer fan looking to take an unforgettable California road trip adventure that puts you face to face with giants, or just a huge fan of the big trees, you'll find unmatched experiences when you stay in Visalia.
EXPLORE VISALIA AND THE DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Downtown Visalia is where you'll find the best local dining and boutique shopping in a pedestrian-friendly district. Don't miss the Craft Beer Trail to see what's on tap.
Soccer fans will find lots of events and FIFA watch parties throughout the city. Soccer City 1852 shows matches on their 16-foot screen. Their tap room and beer garden add to the atmosphere.
After a trip to the park, refuel at some of the best restaurants in Downtown and throughout Visalia. From food trucks to five-star, you'll find just what you're hungry for.
Sports fans can play more than 90 courses, hit the driving range or "take a swing" at golf games at Mulligan's, Visalia's indoor golf club.
THERE IS MORE OUTDOORS
The national parks are the top reason visitors come to Visalia. But, Visalia is surrounded by other spectacular outdoor spaces that are fun to explore.
Sequoia Riverlands Trust manages several preserves aroung the area like Kaweah Oak, just minutes from downtown Visalia. Hike, birdwatch and view other wildlife. More than 300 plant and animal species including great horned owls and great blue herons can be found here. Dogs on leashes are welcome.
Spend time relaxing on the lake swimming, fishing or exploring with the Sierra Nevada mountains as your backdrop.
Explore the Woodlake Botanical Gardens. Founded by Olga and Manuel Ortega, the gardens highlight the Golden State’s agricultural and botanical beauty.
If you have more time to spend, do the Majestic Mountain Loop and see all 3 of California's most spectacular national parks: Sequoia, Kings Canyon and Yosemite. These iconic parks showcase the biggest trees, the deepest canyon and the tallest waterfalls in one spectacular trip.
