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The countdown to the 2026 World Cup has begun. With just about 35 days left, the scramble for the best hotels and lodges is real. Visitors, fans, and officials are racing to secure early bookings at locations that offer comfort, convenience, and relaxation as they prepare to participate in the World Cup.
For many Black fans traveling across host cities, finding hotels and lodges that cater to their needs while offering proximity to match venues is essential. Beyond location, there is a deeper consideration: choosing spaces that reflect Black culture and identity while also supporting Black-owned businesses during such a global event is significant. The World Cup presents a unique opportunity to amplify and patronize Black enterprises and the services they provide.
This year’s tournament will be hosted across three countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Major cities, including Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, Seattle, Vancouver, Toronto, Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey, are already preparing to welcome an estimated 5 to 7 million spectators.
Below are Black-owned hotels and lodges where fans can stay during the global football fiesta.
Ode Toronto Hotel, Toronto, Canada
Source: https://www.odetoronto.ca/
While publicly listed Black-owned hotels remain limited, cities like Toronto and Vancouver (host locations) boast vibrant Black communities ready to showcase their culture, cuisine, and music throughout the tournament.
Ode Toronto Hotel is a Black-owned hospitality brand located at 1417 Dundas Street West. Founded by Erica Herbert and her children, Tiffany, Chanelle, Brittney, and Nicholas Ramsubick, the hotel commenced operations in 2021 and has since stood out for its unique ability to provide guests with unforgettable experiences. It is also known to the locals as “Little Portugal” because it leverages the neighborhood’s distinctiveness, which is noted for several Portuguese bakeries, local art, and thrift shops.
Toronto matches are expected to be held at the Toronto Stadium. From the Ode Toronto Hotel, it takes you 10–20 minutes by car and 20–36 minutes via public transport (TTC – Toronto Transit Commission) to get to the stadium. Rooms currently start from approximately C$250 (about $183.97 USD). You will find more details about them on their website.
Yowie Hotel and Gift Shop, Philadelphia, U.S
Source: https://helloyowie.com/
Founded by Shannon Maldonado, Yowie functions as both a boutique hotel and a lifestyle retail space showcasing independent designers, art, and home goods. Beyond offering comfort, they have also elevated their service by doing away with the conventional front desk routine and providing guests with a private-like experience that eliminates all interruptions while still ensuring staff are easily accessible through remote support.
Located at 226 South Street in Philadelphia’s Queen Village neighborhood, the hotel is a short walk to Independence Hall and Old City and also boasts several local boutiques, food and coffee shops, offering guests plenty of other fun places to explore. Guests can expect a 15–20-minute drive to the stadium. Rates typically range between $285 and $332.50. You can check them out here
Akwaaba Bed and Breakfast Inns, U.S
Source: https://www.akwaaba.com/
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Brooklyn, New York, and the Poconos Lake region in Pennsylvania, Akwaaba offers expansive porches and serene grounds where guests can relax before and after matches. It is ideal for travelers who want to combine football with cultural exploration.
The Hotel has a rich historical background dating back to the 1880’s. Restored to a modern architectural style, it boasts an indoor pool, tennis court, on-site spa, and several other amenities that provide guests with the desired comfort throughout their stay. Nearby attractions include Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and several historic landmarks that highlight the city’s rich Black heritage. It is approximately 3 miles from the stadium, about a 5–10 minute drive. Rates vary by room type but generally start from around $225 per night. See further details here.
La Maison in Midtown, U.S
Source: https://la-maison-in-midtown.houston-hotels-tx.com/en/
La Maison offers a charming, home-like stay with individually designed rooms. It is ideal for travelers seeking comfort and privacy in a central Houston location. Located around the Midtown district, the hotel is just a stone’s throw from the restaurant community Wine and Bar, Elizabeth Glover Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Bustling Children’s Family Museum, and Spec’s Wines Store, where visitors can explore their very best collection of wines.
It features a 24-hour fitness center and provides free Wi-Fi in public areas and free on-site parking. The hotel is approximately a 20–25 minute drive to the stadium. Rates typically range from $319 to $429 per night. Visit their website for more information.
Casa ELM in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Source: https://www.theredlinevenice.com/
Located at 20 17th Ave, Venice, CA, steps from Venice Beach and other iconic attractions, this hotel offers a stylish, apartment-style experience for guests looking to combine football with leisure. Its beachfront setting offers more than proximity to matches; guests can also enjoy walks on the beach or dip in the ocean.
Its rooms feature a full lifestyle experience; every room pays homage to Venice’s cultural heritage, showcasing the exquisite art, stories and design of the community. Amazing dining spots and other forms of entertainment are readily available for guests. It’s about 10–12 miles, or a 20–35 minute drive to the stadium. Rates range from $172 to $317 per night, with expected increases during the tournament. Find further information on their website.
Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. okechukwu.onicima@gmail.com
