2026 World Cup San Francisco Bay Area: Levi's Stadium & SF Soccer Culture | California Now Podcast

Video Overview & Insights

How do you experience the World Cup like a local in the San Francisco Bay Area?

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Josh Meyers explores the places, people, and culture that make the Bay Area a standout World Cup host region. He begins at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, where Stephanie Rogers of the San Francisco 49ers shares how the venue is gearing up for the world’s biggest soccer tournament—from innovative design to fan-focused experiences. Along the way, Josh gets a closer look at what makes this stadium and its surrounding area a must-visit for travelers.

Next, the focus shifts to San Francisco’s fan culture at McTeague’s Saloon, where members of the soccer fan organization American Outlaws bring the energy and passion of matchday to life. They share what makes the Bay Area’s soccer community so unique and how visitors can tap into the excitement during the tournament. Plus, some great local recommendations for things to do in San Francisco beyond the matches.

The episode concludes in the vibrant Castro District at Rikki’s, a groundbreaking women-centric sports bar redefining how fans gather and celebrate the game. Co-owners Danielle Thoe and Sara Yergovich talk about creating an inclusive space and why it’s become a go-to destination for watching matches.

From world-class venues to neighborhood watch parties, this episode is your guide to experiencing the World Cup in true Bay Area style.

What You’ll Learn

• What sets Levi’s Stadium apart as a World Cup venue

• How local fan groups create unforgettable matchday energy

• Where to watch games across San Francisco

• Why inclusive sports spaces are shaping the future of fandom

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro: World Cup excitement in the Bay Area

01:12 Inside Levi’s Stadium

09:26 Levi's Stadium’s Rooftop Garden

11:32 A look inside the 49ers Museum

13:38 Santa Clara highlights & local tips

15:07 Vuori Ad

16:55 Meet the American Outlaws

18:14 Bay Area soccer fan culture

22:41 What to do in SF: Local recommendations

27:13 Rikki’s and the Castro District

29:46 A new kind of sports bar experience

35:44 Watch the USWNT with fans at Rikki’s

36:27 Outro & Credits

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