Houston beats New York and LA, named the #1 U.S. city for sports tourism in 2026

HOUSTON, Texas (TXAN 24) — Sports tourism is booming worldwide, now accounting for roughly 10% of global travel spending, and new data shows Houston is leading the charge in the U.S.

A 2026 study by luggage storage network Stasher ranked the top sports tourism cities globally, placing Houston 9th overall and first among U.S. destinations. The report evaluated 50 cities based on infrastructure, affordability, fan experience, and safety.

Houston stood out for its dense sports culture and accessibility. The city earned a 9.5 out of 10 for sports bar availability and a strong 8.5 for proximity between downtown and major stadiums. Affordable public transit and lower costs compared to coastal cities helped push it ahead.

Other U.S. cities making the list include New York City (17th globally), Los Angeles (22nd), and Miami (28th). Dallas ranked 9th nationally, reinforcing Texas’ growing dominance in sports travel.

Researchers found that fans are prioritizing walkable stadium districts, affordable food and drinks, and vibrant, safe atmospheres over traditionally expensive destinations.

Stasher co-founder Jacob Wedderburn-Day noted that cities like Houston are redefining sports tourism by offering elite experiences without premium price tags.

With major events and packed schedules ahead, Texas is quickly becoming a go-to destination for fans looking to combine travel with top-tier sports experiences.