Stadium Guide

NRG Stadium (Houston)

nrg stadium

Quick Introduction

NRG Stadium sits in Houston’s south Inner Loop, next to the historic Astrodome and the Texas Medical Center. For FIFA World Cup 26™, expect a big-event buzz across the entire NRG Park complex—plenty of pre-match plazas and easy light-rail access right to the gates. Houston’s June weather is hot and humid, but the stadium’s retractable roof and modern HVAC help keep the atmosphere comfortable without dulling the noise. Sightlines are broad, concourses are wide, and the video boards are massive—perfect for following every angle. It’s a tech-forward venue built for major moments, hosting five group matches plus two knockouts.

Learn more about Houston with our in-depth fan guide.

Match dates in Houston

  • June 14, 2026 — Group Stage
  • June 17, 2026 — Group Stage
  • June 20, 2026 — Group Stage
  • June 23, 2026 — Group Stage
  • June 26, 2026 — Group Stage
  • June 29, 2026 — Round of 32
  • July 4, 2026 — Round of 16

NRG Stadium (Houston)

Stadium Overview

Step off METRORail at Stadium Park/Astrodome and you’re funneling straight toward Gate 2—no confusing turns, just a short walk with drums, scarves, and that undercurrent of “this is the day.” Inside, the bowl opens up quickly; the lower and upper levels stack steep enough to keep you on top of the play, and corner video boards anchor the ends if you want a quick replay. With the roof closed, crowd noise bounces—chants stay loud, and you’ll feel it in the concourses as well. Those concourses are broad, dotted with grab-and-go stands and fixed counters; expect card taps and mobile pay at many events. First aid and family restrooms are clearly signed, and the sensory room near Section 133 is a welcome quiet reset if the moment’s too much.

Two quick tips: arrive early if you’re taking the Red Line (pre-match trains fill fast); and bring a light layer—even on steamy days, air-conditioning under the roof can feel cool once you sit.

Type: retractable-roof, indoor/outdoor multi-purpose stadium within the NRG Park complex in the City of Houston. The venue lists a seating capacity range of approximately 72,000–80,000 with 198 suites; FIFA match capacities may vary based on configuration. NRG Stadium is directly served by METRORail’s Red Line, with the Stadium Park/Astrodome stop adjacent to the complex.

Four main levels of concourses ring the seating bowl, with large end-zone LED boards and a 360-degree fascia. The roof is fully retractable, allowing the venue to operate closed and climate-controlled or open when conditions permit. Premium spaces include the Champions Club and Director’s Club. The standard playing surface is artificial turf (grass will be installed for FIFA per tournament requirements). Conditions tip: the venue can close the roof and cool the bowl—pack a light layer even in summer.

 

  • Concessions & water: Outside food and beverage are generally not permitted (medical/child exceptions). Many events operate as cashless for food, beverage, and merchandise; major cards and mobile pay are widely used.
  • Merch & payments: Permanent and event-day merchandise locations operate inside the stadium; event pages note acceptance of major credit cards at concessions and merch.
  • Facilities: First aid is available at all events; family restrooms and a Nursing Mothers Room are located throughout the stadium (Nursing Room near Section 133). A designated Sensory Room sits near Section 133 with KultureCity sensory bags available at Guest Experience booths. 
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair and companion seating on all levels; mobility assistance (wheelchair escorts to seats); assisted listening devices by request; elevators at all main entrances; accessible routes throughout; service animals permitted; sensory accommodations as above.

Bag policies vary by event at NRG Park. Backpacks and large bags exceeding 11″ × 17″ are not allowed. When a clear-bag policy is in effect, only clear plastic/vinyl/PVC bags up to 12″ × 6″ × 12″, a one-gallon clear freezer bag, or a small clutch (about 4.5″ × 6.5″) are permitted. Exceptions are made for medically necessary items (and diaper bags are subject to inspection). Lockers/storage are generally not available. Always check the specific event page for final rules.

All guests and permitted items are subject to inspection at security checkpoints; magnetometer screening and bag checks are used. Commonly prohibited items include weapons, fireworks, noisemakers, laser pointers, professional camera lenses over posted limits, outside food/beverage (medical/child exceptions), and drones. NRG Park enforces a no re-entry policy unless otherwise posted. The complex is smoke-free; designated outdoor smoking areas exist, and e-cigs are not permitted inside during Texans events. FIFA World Cup 26™ uses mobile tickets in the official tournament app.

Follow the venue Code of Conduct—unruly or unsafe behavior leads to ejection. Gate opening times are set per event (for NFL it’s two hours pre-kickoff; for other events, at management’s discretion), so verify on your match page and arrive early if using METRORail.

Houston in June is hot and humid; with a closed roof and AC inside, a light layer helps once seated. Handheld signs must be event-related, small, and not block views; poles aren’t permitted.

NRG Stadium (Houston)

Transportation Guide

Metro/Rail

Take METRORail Red Line to Stadium Park/Astrodome, steps from NRG Park. Fannin South Transit Center offers special-event park-and-ride with a flat parking fee and a rail wristband for your group. Service levels increase on big event days.

Bus

METRO local buses connect to the Red Line and nearby transit centers; see route details (e.g., Route 40 to Hobby, Route 102 to IAH/downtown) and system map for transfers to rail.

Airport

From George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), METRO’s 500 IAH Downtown Direct runs every 30 minutes to downtown; transfer to the Red Line for NRG Park. From William P. Hobby (HOU), METRO local buses connect downtown for Red Line transfer.

NRG Stadium (Houston)

Parking Guide

NRG Park operates multiple color-coded surface lots (Red, Yellow, Blue, Orange, Maroon, Teal, etc.) surrounding the complex. Event pages indicate which gates and lots are open; NRG Stadium events typically use Gate 9 at Kirby & Westridge for access. On some events, advance parking sales are offered via the venue’s parking page; follow the “Buy Parking” link from Directions & Parking when posted and note that re-entry to the complex may require an additional parking fee. Day-of parking is first-come, first-served unless the event requires a pre-purchased pass.

Accessible parking is available across designated sections of NRG Park lots on a first-come basis to vehicles displaying a valid state placard or plate and holding a paid NRG Park parking pass; staff can direct you to the ADA sections closest to the gates. If you’re using mobility assistance, the Blue Lot 19 mobility drop-off (Gate 9) is available pre-event; post-event pickup is delayed until traffic clears. If you prefer to avoid traffic, consider METRORail’s Fannin South Transit Center park-and-ride special-event option and ride one stop to the stadium.