New York is hosting some of the biggest matches of the 2026 World Cup — including the Final. MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey seats over 82,000 fans, making it the largest venue in the tournament. Here's everything you need before you land.
Getting to MetLife Stadium
MetLife is across the Hudson in New Jersey, not Manhattan. Don't make the classic tourist mistake of getting off at Penn Station and expecting a short walk.
By train (recommended): Take NJ Transit from New York Penn Station on the Meadowlands Rail Line. A dedicated match-day shuttle runs directly to the stadium — journey time is about 20 minutes and costs around $5 each way. This is by far the fastest, cheapest option on match day.
By car: Park + Ride lots open 4 hours before kickoff. Traffic builds up fast — arrive at least 3 hours early if driving. Parking passes must be pre-purchased online; walk-up parking is not guaranteed.
From JFK/EWR/LGA: Newark Airport (EWR) is your closest option — 20 minutes to the stadium by cab or rideshare. From JFK allow 60–90 minutes. From LaGuardia, expect 45–75 minutes depending on traffic.
Stadium Area: What to Expect
The MetLife complex sits in a wide open suburban sports campus. There are no nearby bars or restaurants within walking distance of the stadium — stock up before you go, or eat at the venue (expensive but solid). The fan zones around the stadium will be active on match days with food trucks, screens, and merchandise.
Pack light. Security checks are thorough and bags larger than 12"x6"x12" are not permitted inside.
Best Fan Bars in NYC
You don't need to be at the stadium to soak up the atmosphere. New York's football fan culture is concentrated in a few key spots.
Smithfield Hall (Midtown West): One of the city's best football bars. Multiple floors, wall-to-wall screens, and a crowd that actually knows the game. Gets packed early for big matches — arrive 90 minutes before kickoff.
Legends (Upper West Side): Massive sports bar near Columbus Circle. Stadium-style seating, good sound system, and a lively mix of international fans during tournaments.
The Football Factory at Legends: Specifically football-focused. Run by football fans, for football fans. Expect scarves on the walls and the full 90 minutes shown without interruption.
Tír na nÓg (Midtown): Irish pub that fills fast with European fans during major tournaments. Friendly, loud, great atmosphere.
Where to Stay
For the stadium experience: Stay in Midtown Manhattan (Hell's Kitchen or Times Square area). Easy access to Penn Station for the NJ Transit match-day trains, and you're central for everything else.
For the local NYC experience: Brooklyn (Williamsburg or Park Slope) gives you better food, lower prices, and a more authentic feel. The commute to the stadium adds 20–30 minutes but is manageable.
To avoid: Newark itself unless you find a great deal — limited nightlife and dining compared to Manhattan or Brooklyn.
Neighbourhoods Worth Your Time
Lower East Side: Excellent bar scene, diverse food, unpretentious. Perfect for nights after a match.
Williamsburg, Brooklyn: Rooftop bars with Manhattan skyline views, great brunch spots, and a younger crowd. Takes time to get to the stadium but worth it as a base.
West Village: Quieter, charming, great restaurants. Good if you're traveling as a couple or want somewhere calmer between matches.
Food Picks
Joe's Pizza (multiple locations): Non-negotiable. Best pizza in the city, $3 a slice, eat standing up. Go before or after a match.
Xi'an Famous Foods: Bold, spicy hand-pulled noodles. Multiple locations across Manhattan. Cheap, fast, unforgettable.
Motorino (East Village): Proper Neapolitan pizza for when you want to sit down and take your time.
The Halal Guys (various carts + restaurants): NYC street institution. Gyro plate with white sauce and hot sauce is a must.
Russ & Daughters (Lower East Side): For a completely different vibe — legendary Jewish deli, incredible smoked salmon bagels. Worth it for breakfast before an early match day.
Plan Your New York Trip in Depth
- Best areas to stay in New York for World Cup 2026 — neighbourhoods for solo fans, couples, and families, plus price expectations
- Where to meet fans in New York for World Cup 2026 — fan zones, supporter marches, and the best bars for finding your crowd
- Things to do in New York for World Cup 2026 — how to spend your days around match day
- New York football bar guide for World Cup 2026 — full venue breakdown with booking advice