Charlotte Hotels See Boost from FIFA Club World Cup and Other Major Events
Bank of America Stadium recently played host to four major soccer matches from June 22–30, including a high-profile appearance by global powerhouse Real Madrid. These events helped drive a notable uptick in tourism and hotel stays across the city.
By the Numbers: Hotel occupancy in Mecklenburg County rose by 3.5% compared to the same time last year, according to data from the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA).
What They’re Saying: “Events like the FIFA Club World Cup don’t just bring people to Charlotte — they elevate our global profile, create lasting impact, and generate measurable benefits for our visitor economy,” said CRVA CEO Steve Bagwell in a statement.
Context: While business travel and office work haven’t fully returned to pre-pandemic levels, leisure travel in Uptown Charlotte has seen a significant rebound.
Big Picture: Charlotte has been on a hot streak in 2025, attracting a string of major events. These include:
– The ACC Tournament in March
– The Lovin’ Life Music Festival featuring Kendrick Lamar
– Concerts by Shakira and Metallica
– The PGA Championship in May
– Two nights of Savannah Bananas baseball games at Bank of America Stadium in June
What We’re Watching: Despite ongoing concerns about crime in Uptown, hotels and local businesses remain busy with out-of-town visitors. City leaders are actively working to address safety concerns, Axios’ Alexandria Sands reports.
What’s Next: Charlotte is preparing to host another marquee soccer event — the MLS All-Star Game — in late July 2026 at Bank of America Stadium. The weeklong celebration is expected to draw fans, media, and players from across the country, likely filling hotels once again.
Source: axios.com