Things to Do During the World Cup in New York & New Jersey

New York/New Jersey is the headline host city for the 2026 World Cup — MetLife Stadium hosts the Final. From Manhattan fan zones to sports bars in Hoboken, here's what to do during the tournament.

1. 1

   Watch matches at the FIFA Fan Festival NYC

   Fan Zone

   The official FIFA Fan Festival in the New York area features giant screens, live entertainment, and free entry. Check back for the confirmed location — expect it in Manhattan or the waterfront area.

   Browse NYC fan zones
2. 2

   Catch the Final at MetLife Stadium

   Attraction

   MetLife Stadium (capacity 82,500) hosts the World Cup 2026 Final on July 19 plus multiple earlier-round matches. Accessible via NJ Transit rail to Meadowlands station. The cheapest airports to fly into for the NYC/NJ area are Newark (EWR), JFK, and Stewart (SWF) for budget carriers.

   Newark Liberty (EWR) is the closest major airport to MetLife Stadium — just 15 miles away and often the cheapest option.

3. 3

   Watch parties at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center

   Fan Zone

   The USTA center in Flushing Meadows, Queens is hosting a major fan zone for the World Cup with giant screens in the outdoor plaza. Easy access via the 7 train.

   View USTA Fan Zone
4. 4

   Pub crawl through Hoboken & Jersey City

   Sports Bar

   The NJ waterfront towns of Hoboken and Jersey City are packed with sports bars, many with outdoor patios and Manhattan skyline views. A short PATH train ride from Manhattan and close to MetLife.

5. 5

   Visit Times Square & the big screens

   Attraction

   Times Square's massive LED screens will be broadcasting matches. The surrounding bars and restaurants will be buzzing with international fans — it's the natural gathering point for visitors.

6. 6

   Walk the High Line & explore Chelsea

   Outdoors

   The High Line is a 1.45-mile elevated park built on former railroad tracks, running through Chelsea and the Meatpacking District. Great for a morning walk before an evening match.

7. 7

   Eat your way through Queens

   Food & Drink

   Queens is the most ethnically diverse borough in the world. Jackson Heights for Indian and South American food, Astoria for Greek, Flushing for Chinese and Korean — every fan base's home cuisine is here.

8. 8

   Catch a game on a rooftop bar

   Sports Bar

   NYC rooftop bars offer World Cup screenings with skyline views. Try 230 Fifth, Mr. Purple, or Westlight in Brooklyn for matches with a view.