Union Station in Kansas City became the epicenter of the Summer of Soccer, drawing more than 400,000 visitors over the course of the tournament. The influx of fans turned the historic hub into a bustling marketplace, with streets filled with food stalls, merchandise booths and interactive soccer experiences.
Economic Impact
Local businesses reported unprecedented spikes in sales, as the concentration of foot traffic translated into higher revenues. The City of Entrepreneurs marketplace, which showcased more than 100 small enterprises, alone generated over $1 million in sales, underscoring the event’s economic ripple effect.
Among the vendors, several well‑known brands posted double‑digit growth. Parisi Coffee saw a 50 percent jump in sales compared with the same period last year, while Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and Rally House each logged substantial increases. Even established retailers such as Harvey’s and Harvey’s Whistle Stop benefited from a sales lift of more than 22 percent.
The digital footprint of the event amplified its reach, with Union Station logging 18.4 million impressions and amassing 818,000 video views across social platforms. Engagement metrics — 316,000 interactions — reflected the enthusiasm of both local and virtual audiences.
George Guastello, president of Union Station, praised the tournament’s success and hinted at future large‑scale events that could further energize downtown Kansas City. “The energy we witnessed this summer proves that sports can be a catalyst for community growth,” he said, signaling a commitment to expanding the venue’s calendar.