Things to Do in New York: The Best World Cup 2026 Final Guide

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World Cup Info

🏟️ Host stadium: MetLife Stadium
📍 District / Area: East Rutherford, NJ
👥 Stadium capacity: 82,500
🚶‍♂️Stadium Type: Open Air

Welcome to New York: A World Cup 2026 Host City

Welcome to the capital of the world. Planning your trip starts with identifying the best Things to do in New York, especially as the city gears up to host the World Cup 2026 Final. This metropolis offers an unmatched energy. Before you arrive, check the New York weather; summer here is hot, vibrant, and electric.

Logistics are key in the “Big Apple.” International fans booking flights to New York can land at JFK, LaGuardia, or
Newark Liberty Airport (EWR),
which is the closest hub to the stadium. Navigating the transit system is an adventure in itself.

Accommodation requires strategy. You must decide between staying in Manhattan to be close to the top Things to do in New York, or booking
hotels near MetLife Stadium
in New Jersey to avoid match-day traffic.

While the match takes place at the colossal
MetLife Stadium,
the party is in the city. From Broadway shows to Central Park, the list of Things to do in New York is endless.

Things to do in New York

SoFi Stadium (Inglewood) Capacity: 70,240 Type: Indoor-Outdoor (Roof covered)

LAX International Distance to Stadium: Only 6 km (4 miles). Transfer time: ~15 mins by car.

Santa Monica & Downtown Santa Monica for beach vibes. LA Live (Downtown) for city celebrations.

Top Things to Do in New York

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

The universal symbol of freedom. Taking the ferry to see Lady Liberty up close is undeniably one of the most iconic Things to do in New York. It offers breathtaking views of the skyline and a deep dive into immigrant history.

Central Park

A massive green oasis in the concrete jungle. Whether you rent a bike, visit the zoo, or just picnic on Sheep Meadow, this park is essential. It tops the list of relaxing Things to do in New York to escape the city noise.

Times Square

The “Crossroads of the World.” Neon lights, massive screens, and crowds define this spot. While touristy, visiting it at night is one of the mandatory Things to do in New York for any first-time visitor.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

A poignant tribute to resilience. Located at the World Trade Center, the reflecting pools and museum offer a powerful emotional experience. It is one of the most significant historical Things to do in New York.

Broadway Show

The pinnacle of live theater. Whether it’s a classic musical or a new play, seeing a show in the Theater District is magical. It is a cultural highlight among all Things to do in New York.

Where to Stay: Best Hotels in New York

🏟️ Closest to Stadium

Hilton Meadowlands

Located in New Jersey, practically across the street from the venue. It is the number one choice for fans searching for hotels near MetLife Stadium. Perfect for match days, but far from NYC nightlife.

💎 Iconic Luxury

The Plaza

Stay in a castle next to Central Park. Famous from movies, this hotel defines Manhattan luxury. It is the ultimate choice if budget is not an issue and you want the classic New York hotels experience.

🤖 Tech/Budget

YOTEL New York Times Square

A futuristic hotel with a robot luggage handler. The rooms (cabins) are small but affordable and central. It’s a great option for fans prioritizing location and saving money on New York hotels.

⛴️ Best Views & Transit

W Hoboken

Located on the NJ waterfront. It offers the best skyline views of Manhattan and is a train ride away from the stadium. It balances being one of the stylish hotels near MetLife Stadium with easy city access.

🎒 Solo/Budget

Pod 51 Hotel

New York is expensive, but Pod 51 offers efficient, affordable rooms in Midtown. It allows you to save your budget for tickets and food, making it a favorite among budget New York hotels.

🍸 Nightlife

Dream Downtown

Located in the Meatpacking District. Known for its glass-bottom pool and rooftop clubs. If you want to party with models and influencers, this is the spot among New York hotels.

Best Restaurants & Food in New York

🥪 Legendary Deli

Katz's Delicatessen

Home of the massive pastrami sandwich. This spot is a movie star itself. Waiting in line here is a rite of passage and offers one of the most authentic experiences among restaurants in New York.

🍕 Best Slice

Joe's Pizza (Greenwich Village)

No reservations, just the perfect NY slice. It is fast, cheap, and world-famous. If you are looking for the quintessential “New York Pizza,” this stands above all other restaurants in New York.

🥩 Historic Steak

Keens Steakhouse

Famous for its mutton chops and ceiling covered in clay pipes. Since 1885, it has served legends. It is one of the best historic restaurants in New York for a celebratory World Cup dinner.

🥘 Near Stadium

Segovia Steakhouse (Moonachie)

Located in New Jersey near the stadium. This Spanish restaurant serves massive portions of paella and steak. It is a fan favorite for pre-match dining, unlike the crowded restaurants in New York city center.

🌮 Best Tacos

Los Tacos No. 1

Located in Chelsea Market. Many claim these are the best tacos outside Mexico. Fast, standing-room only, and incredibly delicious, making it a standout among casual restaurants in New York.

🌉 Romantic View

The River Café

Nestled under the Brooklyn Bridge. It offers Michelin-starred food with the most stunning view of the Manhattan skyline. It is the crown jewel of waterfront restaurants in New York.

New York Fan Experience: Play, Watch & Chant

📺 Giant Screens

Hudson Yards Public Square

The Mega Fan Fest

With the massive “Vessel” and “Edge” nearby, this area is expected to host the primary Fan Fest. Watching matches here on giant screens with the skyline behind you is a core part of the experience before getting to MetLife Stadium.

Watch

⚽ Scenic Play

Pier 5 at Brooklyn Bridge Park

Pitch with a View

Play football on turf fields right on the water, with the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan as your backdrop. It is arguably the most scenic place in the world for a pickup game.

Play

🥁 Chants

The Third Rail (NYCFC)

Local Supporters

Join the supporters of New York City FC. They gather at bars in the Bronx and Queens. Learning their songs is great practice for the atmosphere you will face after getting to MetLife Stadium for the final.

Culture

Best Time to Visit New York

The World Cup Season ⚽🔥

Electric Summer

June – July

20°C - 30°C

Hot, humid, and crowded. The New York weather in summer can be sticky, but the energy is unbeatable. Rooftop bars and outdoor parks are in full swing. Pack light clothes and stay hydrated.

The Sweet Spot 🌿

Autumn Gold

September – October

15°C - 22°C

New York in the fall is cinematic. The New York weather becomes crisp and cool, and Central Park turns orange. It is comfortable for walking all day without the summer heat.

Winter / Budget ❄️

Holiday Magic

January – March

-2°C - 8°C

The cheapest time to fly. Be ready for freezing New York weather and snow. However, hotel prices drop significantly, and the museums offer a warm, cultural escape from the cold.

Getting Around in New York

🚇 24/7 Service

NYC Subway

The subway is the fastest way to move within NYC. It runs 24/7. Use “OMNY” to tap and pay with your phone. However, remember the subway does NOT go to New Jersey; it is useless for getting to MetLife Stadium directly.

🚆 Essential for Match

NJ Transit Train (Secaucus Junction)

This is critical. To reach the match, you must take a train from “New York Penn Station” to “Secaucus Junction,” then transfer to the stadium line. It is the only reliable method for getting to MetLife Stadium and avoiding traffic jams.

City Map New York

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The Final Guide: NYC/NJ

Essential Intel for the World Cup 2026 Final

Is the stadium in New York or New Jersey?

This is the most common question. While you are looking for Things to do in New York, the stadium (MetLife) is actually in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This means you need to plan carefully. You can enjoy all the Things to do in New York city center during the day, but allow at least 60-90 minutes for getting to MetLife Stadium via NJ Transit trains for the match.

Where should I stay: City or Stadium?

It depends on your priority. If you want to experience the top Things to do in New York like Times Square and Broadway, stay in Manhattan. However, if your focus is solely the match, booking hotels near MetLife Stadium is smarter to avoid traffic. Many fans split their stay to enjoy the best Things to do in New York before moving closer to the venue.

What is a must-do for first timers?

The list of Things to do in New York is huge. Start with the Statue of Liberty and Central Park. Don’t miss the Things to do in New York related to food, like grabbing a slice of pizza or a bagel. Just walking the streets is one of the best free Things to do in New York.

Does the subway go to the stadium?

No. The NYC Subway does not cross into New Jersey. For getting to MetLife Stadium, you must use NJ Transit from Penn Station. Do not confuse the two systems when planning your itinerary of Things to do in New York.

How hot will it be?

The New York weather in July is hot and humid (often 30°C+). When ticking off your list of Things to do in New York, wear comfortable shoes and carry water. The stadium is open-air, so the New York weather will directly affect the match experience.

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