As the world’s largest soccer tournament transforms Dallas into a global footballing stage, savvy visitors are discovering that the excitement doesn’t stop at the stadium gates. Just a short drive north, Plano stands out as one of the most compelling places to stay, explore, dine, and unwind during the Games. With its mix of outdoor beauty, cultural attractions, family-friendly entertainment, and world-class dining, Plano offers unforgettable experiences beyond the matches.
Things to Do in Plano When You’re Not at the Game
Soccer fans visiting Plano can make the most of their trip by exploring everything the city has to offer beyond the matches. Be sure to check the Visit Plano event calendar for exciting happenings around town, including potential watch parties, community events, and special gatherings where fans can come together to celebrate the game. While you’re in town, the Visit Plano website is also a great resource for discovering local attractions, dining, shopping, and family-friendly activities to enjoy between matches. Whether you’re cheering on a team or exploring the city, Plano has plenty to keep soccer fans entertained throughout their stay.
High-End Shopping and Modern Style
For visitors looking to indulge between matches, Legacy West is one of North Texas’ premier lifestyle destinations. This sleek, walkable district blends luxury shopping with chef-driven restaurants, patio dining, and rooftop lounges. Often described as the “Texas Rodeo Drive,” Legacy West is home to a collection of high-end retailers including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Golden Goose, Ralph Lauren , Chanel, Tesla, Peter Millar and More—making it a go-to spot for upscale retail in the region. Nearby, The Shops at Legacy add even more fashion, nightlife, and entertainment options, creating a vibrant hub that feels tailor-made for international travelers.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Nature lovers will appreciate Plano’s expansive green spaces. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve offers 200 acres of trails for hiking and biking, plus an observation tower with panoramic views. Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve, spanning nearly 800 acres, features scenic trails and water views—ideal for unwinding after long days. For adrenaline seekers, Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park delivers thrilling aerial courses set among the trees.
Family Fun and Entertainment
Plano offers entertainment for all ages. Fowling Warehouse combines football and bowling into a high-energy game perfect for teens and adults, while Pinstack delivers bowling, arcade games, dining, and social fun under one roof.
Dive Into Local History and Culture
Discover Plano’s heritage at the Heritage Farmstead Museum, a living history site showcasing late 19th- and early 20th-century Texas life. Downtown Plano invites visitors to explore historic architecture, local art, and boutique shopping in a walkable setting. Just minutes away, Southfork Ranch—known worldwide as the setting of Dallas—offers guided tours, horseback riding, and a uniquely Texan experience that resonates with international visitors.
Food, Drink & Local Flavor
Plano’s culinary scene reflects its diversity, with more than 1,000 restaurants representing cuisines from around the world. At the center of the action is Legacy Hall, a three-story food hall featuring dozens of chef-driven concepts, craft cocktails, and live entertainment—perfect for soccer fans sampling multiple flavors in one energetic setting. Nearby, The Boardwalk at Granite Park offers waterfront dining with scenic views and relaxed patios ideal for warm North Texas evenings. Beyond these districts, Legacy West and downtown Plano feature everything from upscale dining to casual bites, making food lovers feel right at home.
Legacy Hall
Located in the heart of Plano’s Legacy West district, Legacy Hall is a premier dining and entertainment destination that brings together over 20 unique food stalls, bars, and live music venues all under one roof. Perfect for locals and visitors alike, Legacy Hall offers a vibrant, all-in-one experience that combines global cuisine, craft beverages, and live entertainment in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Food lovers can explore an eclectic mix of offerings, from artisan tacos, sushi, and gourmet burgers to decadent desserts and specialty snacks, ensuring there is something to satisfy every palate. Complement your meal with drinks from the craft brewery, multiple bars, and specialty beverage stalls, or enjoy a refreshing cocktail while taking in the energy of the multi-level space.
The Boardwalk at Granite park
The Boardwalk at Granite Park is a lively waterfront destination in Plano that offers a little something for everyone, whether you’re looking to dine, relax, or enjoy live entertainment. With a great mix of restaurants serving everything from hand stretched pizza and craft cocktails to tacos and gelato, it’s a perfect spot to satisfy any craving. The scenic boardwalk wraps around a sparkling pond and features outdoor patios, lawn games and cozy fire pits. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy fun community events like the monthly Night Market in the evening and the daytime Market at The Boardwalk, both featuring local vendors, great food, and a festive atmosphere.
Where to Stay and Recharge
Plano offers 60+ hotels and a wide variety of accommodations, making it easy for soccer fans to find the perfect place to stay. From well-known national brands and full-service hotels to extended-stay options and budget-friendly choices, visitors can choose accommodations that fit their needs. Many hotels are conveniently located near Plano’s premier restaurants and shopping areas, making it simple for visitors to enjoy everything the city has to offer. For a full list of hotels and accommodations in Plano, visitors can explore options on the Visit Plano website.
A Strategic and Accessible Location
Located roughly 30 miles north of downtown Dallas, Plano is an ideal home base for fans who want to balance match-day thrills with relaxed exploration. Easily accessible by car, rideshare, and DART rail, Plano’s welcoming vibe and comfortable pace provide a refreshing contrast to the high-energy stadium scene. Check out Soccer Fans ’26 on the Visit Plano website for more information
Plano Dine & Discover Pass
Explore Plano and earn rewards along the way with Visit Plano’s free, limited-time Plano Dine & Discover Pass, available now through September 30, 2026. This upgraded experience builds on the popular Taste of Plano Foodie Pass by adding some of Plano’s favorite attractions to the mix. Sign up, save the pass for easy access, and start discovering everything Plano has to offer.
The FREE, mobile-friendly program features a “passport” showcasing Plano eateries and attractions. Many participating businesses also offer special discounts and other perks with their purchases. Find a list of participating restaurants & attractions here.
Through September 30, 2026, consumers simply go to the landing page at visitplano.com/dineanddiscover to sign up for free. A link is then sent to the user’s mobile phone, which opens the passport and directs the user to add the button icon to their home screen for easy access any time. Don’t miss this important step! (There are no downloads or bulky apps that take up phone space.)
