Photo: Rachael Jones

Seattle Facts

Why Seattle:

In Seattle, proximity defines the FIFA World Cup experience. This is a destination where the vibrancy of a world-class city meets the serenity of the Pacific Northwest.

The Seattle World Cup story is rooted in its:

Walkability: Seattle Stadium sits adjacent to downtown, with National Geographic calling Seattle the most walkable U.S. host city. Fans can easily walk to the Stadium and four Fan Celebrations from their downtown hotels; taking in iconic landmarks, restaurants, and small businesses along the way.

Nature access: Seattle is a world-class city carved out of nature, with 99 percent of residents living within a 10-minute walking distance of a park. Serenity is never out of reach amid the energy of the World Cup. Between matches, take in Seattle’s waterways (the revitalized waterfront is minutes from the stadium), mountain ranges, expansive forests, and city parks. From scuba diving and foraging, to city strolls and floating saunas, there’s something for every nature lover.

Sports culture: This region has among the highest rates of soccer participation in the nation, with passionate fanbases for our hometown teams. That winning culture was on display at this year’s Super Bowl Parade (welcoming an estimated 850,000 to the city), the FIFA Club World Cup, the NHL Winter Classic, the MLB All-Star Game, and the NFC Championship Game. Count on Seattle to bring the volume, pride, and a globally welcoming atmosphere.

Just the Facts

Population: An estimated 800,000 residents live in Seattle

Name: Seattle is named after Chief Si’ahl (often written Sealth), a leader of the Suquamish and Duwamish peoples. Seattle is recognized as the only major U.S. city named after a Native American leader. You may also hear Seattle referenced as The Emerald City, a nickname given for the lush forestry and foliage that surrounds the city.

Settled: 13,1851 by the Denny Party, at what is now Alki Point in West Seattle. More on Seattle’s history here (English only).

County and Region: Seattle is located in King County and associated with the Puget Sound and Pacific Northwest regions.

Nature Surroundings: Seattle receives frequent recognition as one of the most beautiful cities in the U.S., in large part to its nature proximity. Seattle is one of only two major U.S. cities to be built on an isthmus. On a clear day, mountain ranges like the Cascades and Olympic Mountains are visible, along with Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano rising to 14,411 feet in elevation.

A City of Neighborhoods: Seattle doesn’t revolve around just one urban core — instead, it offers a patchwork of diverse, neighborhoods, each offering its own take on culture, cuisine, and community. Learn more about our neighborhoods here (English only).

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Media Contact: Joey Thompson – (206) 461-5783 | [email protected]