Goal-den state

California ready to welcome visitors as World Cup nears

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WITH just under a year to go until the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be held across the USA, Canada and Mexico, Irish footie fans will be hoping the Boys in Green can make an appearance in the competition for the first time since 2002.

However, it will be a spectacle of soccer either way - and California is ready to roll out the welcome to visitors to two of its most iconic cities, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

California will host 14 football games across LA’s SoFi Stadium and San Fran’s Levis’ Stadium, with the first of the Golden State's games kicking off on June 12 in LA.

Whether you're hoping to nab tickets to games or just looking to lap up the incredible atmosphere, here's our guide to the best hotels, bars, nights out, day trips and more...

LOS ANGELES: While LA is best known for Tinseltown and its rich movie heritage, this vibrant metropolis is a cultural powerhouse of diversity, creativity and constant reinvention.

Must-See Attractions: No trip to LA is complete without a hike to the iconic Hollywood sign - choose from two guided tours with Bike and Hikes LA.