By Brisbane Airport Corporation
Copyright brisbanetimes
When it comes to sport-loving travellers, California is at the top of its A-game. With more professional teams, major events and world-class stadiums than anywhere else in the US, the Golden State is sport’s premier stage. And with 2026 shaping up to be a packed calendar — from NBA thrillers and NFL rivalries to the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup — Aussie fans can expect games on a grand scale.
A global sporting stage
If you love sport, California delivers gold at every podium. The state is home to more high-profile teams than anywhere else in the US, meaning every season is game season.
Los Angeles alone boasts 11 pro teams — the most of any American city — and with that comes some of sport’s biggest names. Hear the roar inside Crypto.com Arena as LeBron James nails a three-pointer for the Lakers. Feel the grandstands shake at Dodger Stadium as Shohei Ohtani belts a homer into the stands, 50,000 fans leaping to their feet with Dodger Dogs in hand. Or join the sea of horns and jerseys at SoFi Stadium when LA Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp charges over the line for a touchdown.
For Aussie visitors, catching one of these iconic moments live isn’t just another holiday highlight — it’s an experience that stays with you long after the final whistle.
Get out of town
Beyond Los Angeles’ bright lights, there’s even more to explore. In San Francisco, feel the pulse of the crowd at Levi’s Stadium or catch Steph Curry dazzling under the lights at Chase Center. Further south in San Diego, rally behind the Padres at Petco Park or witness elite rugby clashes at Snapdragon Stadium. Sacramento and Lake Tahoe serve up their own adrenaline — think high-stakes NBA showdowns and alpine adventures that rival the world’s best. Speaking of cool… in Anaheim dial up your nostalgia to its full force by watching the Mighty Ducks play a game of ice hockey. Or ace it in Palm Springs, where the BNP Paribas Open unfolds at Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Think centre-court drama framed by a cinematic desert skyline. Love all.
