Make the most of FIFA Fever: 5 Post-Match Itineraries around Los Angeles to Add to Your FIFA World Cup 2026 Plans

Headed to Los Angeles for the 2026 FIFA World Cup? The final whistle on the field does not have to signal the end of your journey in the Golden State. One of California’s greatest luxuries is how easily it invites exploration. Within a few hours’ drive of Los Angeles, the landscape shifts dramatically: surf towns give way to desert oasis, vineyard-lined valleys unfold beyond mountain passes, and historic highways lead to small towns rich in character and culinary ambition. If you are crossing oceans for the world’s biggest football event, consider staying a little longer and letting California show you what it does best.

Family-Friendly Theme Parks- Los Angeles is your homebase for three unique and immersive theme park experiences. 

Disneyland Resort- Just 33 miles from Los Angeles in Anaheim, explore the California-only Disney attractions: Matterhorn Bobsleds, Mr Toad’s Wild Ride, Snow White’s Scary Adventures, and Cars Land. Head over to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to join the Resistance, build a lightsaber, or get up close and personal with the Millennium Falcon. Book a character breakfast (reservations recommended) or taste your way around the parks to its iconic snacks like a classic Dole Whip from the Tiki Juice Bar in Disneyland Park’s Adventureland, or at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar at the Disneyland Hotel. 

Knott’s Berry Farm- Located 31 miles from Los Angeles, the Knott’s Berry Farm amusement park in Buena Park blends big thrills with old-school charm, from its bustling boardwalk to the Western-themed Ghost Town and kid-friendly Camp Snoopy. Ride all nine roller coasters or jump on Calico River Rapids or Banzai Falls for an unforgettable adventure. For the hunger pangs, head to the beloved Mrs Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant for the fried chicken and boysenberry pie.

Universal Studios Hollywood- Get a glimpse of Glinda from Wicked, mimic the Minions, and hang out with Optimus Prime at the Universal Studios Hollywood immersive theme park, just 13 miles from Los Angeles at Universal Studios Hollywood, that also has a working TV and movie studio on the premises. Cast a spell in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or find a super star in Super Nintendo World, climb a dinosaur playground inspired by Jurassic World in DinoPlay or take the World-Famous Studio Tour to see real sets from famous movies, fun here is unlimited. For snacks, sip a butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks and order a giant pink doughnut in The Simpsons land, Springfield, U.S.A.

Beach Day- California is synonymous with palm trees and sandy beaches, offering a diverse coastal spread of beach towns, each with its own distinct vibe, all within easy distance from Los Angeles.

Santa Monica- Located within Los Angeles County and just 18 miles from the city, the nearby and Metro E Line accessible Santa Monica has it all; sun, sand, bikes, hot dogs, and a classic pier with a Ferris wheel. Pick up chairs, umbrellas, and even a beach butler at Perry’s Cafe and Beach Rentals. Grab a bike at Joyride Bike Rentals & Tours and pedal down the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, a 22-mile paved path that runs along the coast from Santa Monica to Torrance County Beach. Play arcade games and ride the vintage carousel at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. Stop at the original Hot Dog on a Stick for a timeless classic or grab a barefoot-friendly seaside meal at Back to the Beach. For overnights, book a room at Shutters on the Beach for ocean views and incredible access to the coast, or check into The Georgian, an Art Deco boutique hotel operating since 1933. 

Hermosa Beach- This charming beach town, 37 miles from Los Angeles, offers ocean views, live music, shopping, and a lively nightlife scene by the Hermosa Pier. Here you can catch live jazz at the legendary Lighthouse Café, rent bikes at Jeffers, cruise the Strand or shop around town at Soul Bungalow and The Bungalow. Enjoy a spicy margarita at Tower 12, taste breads and spreads at Atta Girl, and grab breakfast burritos from Brother’s Burritos for a perfect beach morning. After dark, expect salsa nights, drag bingo specials, and mechanical bulls. The Hermosa Fine Arts Festival returns June 13–14, while June and July bring beach tennis and volleyball tournaments along the shore. 

Santa Barbara- Known as the American Riviera, this coastal gem, 94 miles from the city, dotted with red-tiled-roof buildings, is known for great cuisine, stunning hotels, and fantastic access to the wineries of Santa Ynez Valley. Board Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner or the Coast Starlight and get dropped off just blocks from the city’s “Funk Zone,” a collection of shops, galleries, and tasting rooms. Relax on the beach near Stearns Wharf or stroll the historic pier. Visit the wonderful Santa Barbara Zoo, known for its intimate size and oceanfront setting. Also, explore the region’s famed oyster trail.

San Luis Obispo County- Located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the mellow San Luis Obispo County offers rolling hills, classic California beach towns, and plenty of delicious bites. Start the day with a walk on the South Hills trail, or head to the Pismo Preserve for coastal views and family-friendly trails. Make your way to Morro Bay, just 12 minutes up Highway 1, to spot sea otters, harbour seals, and the iconic Morro Rock. Alternatively, wander the beaches of Cayucos or Avila. Fuel up with blue corn waffles at Hidden Kitchen before hitting the sand, or grab sandwiches at High Street Deli.  Every Thursday night from 6–8:30 p.m., downtown SLO transforms into a lively Farmer’s Market, featuring more than 100 vendors, live music, and local treats.

Sampling California Wine among Vineyards- One of California’s greatest pleasures is the wine that the local vintners cultivate in their hills. 

Los Olivos- Nothing says California quite like a delicious Pinot Noir from the rolling wine hills of Santa Ynez Valley, 130 miles from Los Angeles. Head north to the charming town of Los Olivos, with over 35 tasting rooms all within walking distance. Pick up a new cowboy hat at Jedlicka’s Western Wear, enjoy a round of bocce while sipping at Coquelicot Tasting Room, and shop for local goods while tasting cider at Dreamcôte Wine Co. For dinner, reserve a table at the acclaimed seafood spot Bar Le Côte, then sleep in at the luxurious Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, a beautifully restored landmark. 

Solvang- With its Danish-style architecture, windmills, and cosy bakeries, Solvang, just 128 miles from Los Angeles, feels like a fairytale village tucked into Santa Barbara County. If you are looking to use public transportation, take the train to Santa Barbara and grab the Amtrak bus into town. When in Solvang, explore more than 25 tasting rooms throughout town, visit the towering troll sculpture at California Nature Art Museum, enjoy an outdoor performance at the stunning Solvang Festival Theater, and pick up a sandwich and play a vintage arcade game at the Peasants Deli & Arcade. Also, try the classic æbleskiver—Solvang’s famous Danish pancakes—at Solvang Restaurant. 

Temecula- Located just 90 miles from Los Angeles, Temecula Valley is known for its relaxed, wine country atmosphere, with plenty of ways to sip and stroll through town. Follow the De Portola Wine Trail, a scenic stretch dotted with some of the region’s top wineries or book a poolside tasting at Bottaia Winery. You may also taste wines at Ponte Winery, a Spanish mission–style winery where you can also spend the night. Moreover, the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival from June 19–21, 2026, is a must-visit annual event featuring hot air balloons, premium wine tasting, and concerts.

Wellness Getaway in Ojai- Ojai is a serene village, located 82 miles from Los Angeles, where locals head to unwind and eat good food. From indulging in a massage or spa day at the Ojai Valley Inn to browsing shelves at Bart’s Books, an outdoor bookstore, sampling estate-made olive oils at Ojai Olive Oil Company, to picking up Ojai pixies, a unique type of tangerine, during their spring harvest (March–June), the village offers a myriad of experiences. Stay at the newly renovated Hotel El Roblar for poolside lounging. Around town, try pastries at The Dutchess, oysters at Rory’s Place, and beers at Topa Topa Brewing Company. On Sundays, the Ojai Inn hosts an outdoor bluegrass brunch with live music and breakfast buffet. The Ojai Valley Music Festival, a four-day music celebration, will run from June 11–14. Also, the Ojai Wine Festival will take place on Saturday, June 20, at Lake Casitas.

Big-City Adventures in San Diego- From its world-famous zoo to laid-back beach towns and a renowned food scene, San Diego, located 120 miles from Los Angeles, offers endless ways to fill a long weekend. Spend the day at Balboa Park, home to the San Diego Air & Space Museum, the Lily Pond and the San Diego Zoo. Go on kid-friendly rides and play with LEGOs at LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, or shriek on the epic roller coasters at SeaWorld San Diego. Take a beach day at Ocean Beach, and break for burgers and shakes at Hodads. Post up at the historic Hotel del Coronado with easy access to the beach, but also explore North Park and Mission Hills neighbourhoods to feast on the latest culinary hot spots, Communion and Leia. Check into the newly remodelled, maximalist Hotel Lafayette. Moreover, the San Diego County Fair in June at the beachside fairgrounds in Del Mar, and NASCAR weekend at Naval Base Coronado June 19–21 are much-awaited events.