The moment Australian football fans have been waiting for is almost here.
On June 20, the Socceroos take on the United States in Seattle as part of FIFA World Cup 26, one of six games the city will host during the tournament.
Whether you are heading to Lumen Field for the match or joining the party from the fan zones, here is everything you need to know to make the most of your time in the Emerald City.
Before The Game: Eat, Drink And Soak It Up
Seattle is a food lover’s city and there is no shortage of places to fuel up before kick-off.
The city is famous for its shellfish, so a stop at Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar in Pioneer Square is a must. Order a shucker’s dozen, some Dungeness crab and a cold Washington State beer before making your way to the stadium.
For something more casual, Reuben’s Brews on 1st Avenue in downtown offers 28 taps and solid American pub fare in a family-owned setting.
For a more leisurely pre-game experience, stroll through Pike Place Market and stop at Lowell’s Restaurant, a century-old institution with three floors of waterfront views.
Known for its eggs benedict and fresh local seafood, it is ideal for a relaxed breakfast or lunch before the big game.
Getting To The Stadium
Good news for fans staying in the city centre, Seattle is one of the most walkable FIFA host cities this year.
Lumen Field is only about 30 minutes on foot from downtown. Follow Alaskan Way along the waterfront or head down 1st Avenue to soak up the atmosphere on the way to kick-off.
If you would rather save your legs, Sound Transit’s Link Light Rail connects downtown directly to the stadium.
No Ticket? No Problem
Seattle has set up four official Fan Celebration Zones where fans can watch every game on big screens with live entertainment, food and drinks, all free of charge.
The main hub is Seattle Center, with a large indoor viewing area at The Armory and outdoor overflow space at the Mural Amphitheatre.
Waterfront Park on Pier 62, Victory Hall in the SODO district with its seven-metre outdoor screen, and Pacific Place with a new four-storey LED display round out the options.
Between Games: Explore The City
If you are staying in Seattle for more than one match, the city offers plenty to keep you busy.
Culture lovers should not miss MoPOP, the Museum of Pop Culture, with 85,000 artefacts spanning music, film and sport.
For the outdoors, Alki Kayak Tours offers guided paddles on Elliott Bay where you might spot sea lions, harbour seals and sea otters along the way.
Seattle’s neighbourhoods are worth exploring on foot. Capitol Hill is packed with independent boutiques, parks and bars.
The Chinatown-International District offers authentic cuisine, galleries and the quirky Seattle Pinball Museum.
For a different perspective, catch the ferry across to Bremerton for military history and fresh shellfish at Tiny’s House of Crabs.
Hikers can choose from the gentle 4.5-kilometre Discovery Park Loop Trail, with canyon and Puget Sound views, or the 10.5-kilometre Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop, which links the Fremont and Wallingford neighbourhoods along the waterfront.
Come on you Socceroos!
