Oh, my goodness, can you feel the electricity in the air? I am absolutely over the moon because the World Cup is coming to our very own West Coast! As someone who is always looking for the next big adventure to share with my family, I can tell you right now: this is going to be the trip of a lifetime. There is something so magical about the beautiful game, isn’t there? It brings people from every corner of the globe together, and when you pair that energy with the salty breeze of the Pacific and the iconic sights of San Francisco, Seattle, and Los Angeles, you have the recipe for a perfect summer.
If you’re like me, you don’t just want to see a match; you want to immerse yourself in the destination. You want the kids to remember the sound of the seagulls at the pier as much as the roar of the stadium. That’s why I’ve put together this “Pier-to-Pitch” itinerary. We’re going to chase the sun from the Bay to the Sound and down to the SoCal surf, staying at some of the most unique, character-filled spots in the Curator Hotel & Resort Collection. Pack your jerseys and your sunscreen, everyone—we’re going on a road trip!
Part 1: San Francisco—The “Pier-to-Pitch” Experience
Our journey begins in the City by the Bay. San Francisco has this incredible, eclectic soul that I just adore. It’s a city of hills, history, and, of course, some of the best food you’ll ever eat. When the World Cup fans descend, the energy here is going to be absolutely palpable.
Where to Base Your Team
For this leg of the trip, you are spoiled for choice. If you want to be right in the heart of the maritime action, you absolutely must stay at the Argonaut Hotel. It’s located in the historic Haslett Warehouse at Fisherman’s Wharf, and it feels like stepping into a sophisticated nautical dream. The exposed brick and timber beams are so charming, and the kids will love being steps away from the Sea Lions at Pier 39.
If you’re looking for something with a bit more of a “tech-chic” or artistic vibe, the “Z Hotels” are fantastic. Hotel Zephyr is a personal favorite for families because of its incredible outdoor “Yard”—it has giant Connect Four, fire pits, and even a life-sized animal sculpture made of recycled tires! It’s playful, edgy, and located right on the waterfront. For a more sophisticated, artistic retreat, Hotel Zelos, Hotel Zeppelin, Hotel Zetta, or Hotel Zoe offer everything from high-tech game rooms to moody, bohemian lounges.
The Game Day Itinerary
I think the best way to experience a San Francisco match day is what I call the “Water Way.” Start your morning at the Harbor Court Hotel, which sits right on the Embarcadero with those stunning, postcard-perfect views of the Bay Bridge. It is the absolute best spot to soak in the salt air and the city’s energy before heading to the ballpark!
- Morning Fuel: Grab a sourdough bowl of clam chowder or a fresh pastry at the Ferry Building Marketplace.
- The Journey: Instead of sitting in traffic, take the ferry! There’s something so liberating about being on the water, watching the city skyline shrink behind you as you head toward the pitch.
- The Match: Soak in the international atmosphere. Paint your faces, sing the anthems, and lose your voice cheering!
- Post-Match: Head back to the city and grab dinner at Ozumo for some incredible sushi to celebrate the win.
Part 2: Seattle—Emerald City Energy and Salmon Tosses
After the fog of the Bay, we’re heading north to the lush, green beauty of Seattle. I’ve always found Seattle to be so incredibly welcoming. It’s a city that embraces its rugged roots while being effortlessly cool.
Living on the Water
There is truly only one place to stay if you want the ultimate Seattle experience: The Edgewater Hotel. You guys, this hotel is literally over the water. It’s steeped in rock-and-roll history (The Beatles famously fished out of their window here!), and the views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains are enough to take your breath away.
The rooms are cozy with a high-end lodge feel—think slate fireplaces and warm wood accents. It’s the perfect place to retreat after a loud, high-energy soccer match. I love sitting in the restaurant with a glass of Washington wine, watching the ferries glide across the sound. It’s pure magic.
The Seattle “Must-Do”
You cannot visit Seattle without a trip to Pike Place Market. It’s a sensory explosion!
- The Experience: Take the kids to see the famous fishmongers at Pike Place Fish Market. If you’re lucky (and brave!), they might even let you catch a flying salmon! It’s a memory your children will talk about for years.
- Hidden Gem: Seek out the Gum Wall for a quick, gross-but-cool photo op, then grab a bag of hot, fresh donuts from Daily Dozen Doughnut Company.
- The Pitch: Seattle’s soccer culture is legendary. The “March to the Match” is an experience in itself—thousands of fans chanting and drumming their way to the stadium. Even if you aren’t a die-hard fan, the passion is contagious. You’ll find yourself singing along before you know it!
Part 3: Los Angeles & Santa Monica—The Grand Finale
Finally, we’re driving down the coast to the sun-drenched streets of Southern California. Los Angeles is a sprawling kaleidoscope of cultures, and when the World Cup hits, the “City of Angels” is going to be the center of the universe.
Find Your Hollywood or Beach Vibe
In LA, your “home base” really defines your trip. If you want to be in the middle of the creative, musical pulse of the city, Hotel Ziggy on the Sunset Strip is a blast. It’s rebellious, fun, and has a fantastic saltwater pool that is just perfect for those hot Cali afternoons.
For a more “home-away-from-home” feel, especially with a family, I highly recommend Montrose at Beverly Hills or Chamberlain West Hollywood. These properties offer spacious suites (many with kitchenettes and fireplaces) that feel like chic West Hollywood apartments. They are tucked away on quiet, leafy streets but are still just a short stroll from all the action.
If you’re a history buff, the Los Angeles Athletic Club in Downtown LA is a hidden gem. It’s a private club with a rich heritage, and staying there gives you access to some of the most incredible athletic facilities I’ve ever seen—perfect if you need to burn off some of that travel energy.
But, since we’re doing a coastal kickoff, you might want to end with your toes in the sand. Viceroy Santa Monica is the epitome of coastal glamour. The poolside cabanas are “Instagram-perfection,” and the vibe is sophisticated yet relaxed. Further south in Redondo Beach, Portofino Hotel & Marina offers a unique perspective—it’s nestled on a private peninsula, so every room has a view of the water and the local sea lions!
The Ultimate Sunset Send-off
For our final day, I suggest a classic California experience to celebrate a successful road trip.
- Morning: Head to the Griffith Observatory for a hike and a view of the Hollywood Sign. It’s a great way to see the scale of the city.
- Afternoon: Make your way to the Santa Monica Pier. Rent cruisers and take a bike ride along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail (the “Strand”). Riding from Santa Monica down to Venice Beach as the sun starts to dip is just… wow. It feels like you’re living inside a postcard.
- Dinner: Enjoy fresh seafood at The Lobster overlooking the Santa Monica Pier, or grab some gourmet tacos from a local truck—you can’t leave LA without eating a taco!
- The Farewell: As the World Cup excitement winds down, sit on the beach, listen to the waves, and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve shared.
Making Memories That Last
You know, at the end of the day, the scores of the matches might fade, but the feeling of exploring these incredible cities with the people you love will stay with you forever. That’s why I’m such a fan of the Curator collection—they aren’t just hotels; they are part of the story. They reflect the personality of the neighborhood and give you a window into the local culture that you just don’t get at big chain resorts.
Whether you’re cheering in the stands in Seattle, riding a cable car in San Francisco, or catching a wave in Santa Monica, I hope this trip brings you as much joy as I’ve had planning it for you. This West Coast World Cup road trip is about more than just soccer; it’s about the journey, the discovery, and the beautiful memories you’ll create along the way.
Safe travels, my friends, and enjoy every single moment!
