Why DeKalb Is the Smart Stay for International Travelers

If you’re planning an unforgettable trip to the United States to experience world-class summer soccer in 2026, there’s no better place to base your stay than DeKalb County, Georgia. Just a short ride from downtown Atlanta — where multiple international matches will be played at one of the country’s most iconic stadiums — DeKalb offers the perfect blend of convenience, culture, comfort, and local flavor.

Here’s why savvy international travelers are choosing DeKalb as their home base:

Easy Access to Atlanta’s Major Travel Hubs

DeKalb County is ideally positioned near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) — one of the world’s busiest and most globally connected airports. Whether you’re flying from Europe, Asia, Africa, or South America, you’ll find direct and one-stop connections that make arriving in Georgia a breeze. Once you’re here, DeKalb’s central location makes reaching match venues in Atlanta smooth and stress-free.

Travel tip: Airport transfers to DeKalb are quick via rideshare, shuttle services, or MARTA rail and bus routes.

Smart & Stress-Free Transit to Match Cities

One of DeKalb’s biggest advantages is connectivity. With nearby access to MARTA — Atlanta’s rapid rail and bus network — you can hop on an easy ride straight into Downtown Atlanta for match days and events. This saves time and eliminates the hassle of match-day traffic while giving you flexibility to explore other parts of the region.

Local transit improvements are underway to support the influx of global visitors, with plans for multilingual signage and enhanced services.

More Than Just a Place to Stay — It’s a Place to Explore

While Atlanta’s record-setting soccer matches headline the summer schedule, DeKalb has its own rich offerings to make your trip memorable:

Vibrant Cultural Diversity

From Buford Highway’s international food scene — where authentic cuisine from around the world awaits — to global festivals and cultural experiences, DeKalb reflects the spirit of international travel itself.

Local Flavors & Entertainment

Enjoy craft breweries, local wineries, cozy cafés, and world-class dining. After your match days, unwind in spaces celebrating southern hospitality and global tastes.

Parks, History & Outdoor Fun

Explore serene green spaces, historic sites, and community markets — all perfect for relaxing after an action-packed day.

Smart Stays at Every Budget

DeKalb offers a wide range of accommodation options — from well-appointed hotels and boutique stays to family-friendly suites and extended-stay lodgings. Many are close to MARTA stations, giving you easy access to Atlanta’s stadium and city center every day of your trip.

Booking early can help you secure great rates before summer demand peaks.

Eat, Shop & Experience Local Life

Unlike staying only in downtown Atlanta districts, choosing DeKalb lets you enjoy:

-Diverse international restaurants — often at better value
-Markets and eateries beloved by locals
-Shopping experiences with local flair
-Cultural events and community festivals

This means your trip becomes more than just about the matches — it becomes about living like a traveler who’s truly in the place.

Prime Spot for Match Days — and Beyond

Atlanta’s match schedule includes multiple high-profile games throughout June and July 2026, highlighted by exciting group stage matches and knockout action at Mercedes-Benz Stadium downtown. DeKalb’s proximity ensures you’re never far from the heartbeat of the action.

When match day excitement winds down, DeKalb remains a welcoming and strategic place to rest, recharge, and explore more of the South’s unique hospitality.

Final Score: DeKalb Wins

For international travelers seeking comfort, convenience, culture, and excellent connectivity to Atlanta’s soccer action in 2026, DeKalb County is the smart stay choice. It delivers on value, accessibility, and local flavor — making it the perfect basecamp for your global soccer adventure.