Countdown to FIFA World Cup: Experts recommend booking hotels now

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A visual countdown outside City Hall is reminding residents that Philadelphia is roughly 155 days away from the start of the FIFA World Cup.

Experts say the city has never seen anything like what's coming in 2026 - and now is the time to book hotel rooms.

Next year brings a trifecta of major events: FIFA World Cup games, America's 250th birthday celebration and the MLB All-Star Game.

"There's going to be a lot of buzz in the city this year now. So looking forward to the events, having Philadelphia as a showcase for the world," said Branden Murphy of Rittenhouse.

Officials expect an economic boom, but warn that lodging will fill up fast.

"I would definitely book sooner than later. There's still availability even during the matches; however, those are going to start to fill up," said Ed Grose, president and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Hotel Association.

FIFA is expected to announce in the coming weeks which team will set up its home base at Subaru Park. Grose said once that happens, remaining rooms in the city will book quickly.

"For the motivated traveler, they can find something at every price point, every service level," Grose said.

Rates are based on supply and demand. A quick hotel.com search showed more rooms outside the city, with better availability around the Fourth of July compared to World Cup match dates.

"Once Center City fills up - what we call in the industry compression - the compression will bring room nights to suburban hotels, to City Line Avenue, to our airport hotels," Grose said.

For travelers who can't book a hotel, home rentals may be an option. Airbnb projects that 17,000 people may search its platform.

"I'm welcoming everyone to Philly. Have a great time - you're gonna have a good summer with us," said Arlana Magee of North Philadelphia.