Oct 22, 2025
·Emily Kho
When the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off across North America, few places will capture the global spotlight quite like New York City and its neighboring MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend around one match or a full-on tournament adventure, this guide covers everything you need to know about where to stay, how to get around and what to do between matches during the World Cup 2026.
Where to Stay
The New York metro area gives visitors endless lodging options, from five-star skyscraper hotels to suburban stays minutes from the stadium. Your choice depends on whether you want maximum convenience or the full NYC experience.
1. Manhattan and Brooklyn
Staying in Manhattan keeps you close to the action and within reach of direct train routes to MetLife Stadium via Penn Station.
Hotels around Midtown, Chelsea or Hudson Yards provide easy access to nightlife, dining and transit.
In Brooklyn, neighborhoods like Williamsburg or Downtown Brooklyn offer trendier, more relaxed stays that are just a short trip from Penn Station.
2. East Rutherford / Secaucus / Meadowlands
If proximity to the stadium is your top priority, nearby towns such as East Rutherford, Secaucus and Lyndhurst offer excellent hotel options. Travel times are under 15 minutes to MetLife Stadium, and you’ll avoid cross-river traffic on match day.
3. Jersey City and Hoboken
Located directly across the Hudson River, these waterfront communities blend skyline views with quick access to Manhattan and New Jersey Transit routes. Hoboken, in particular, has vibrant dining and nightlife scenes ideal for fans looking to celebrate after a match.
Getting to MetLife Stadium
Located about 10 miles west of Midtown Manhattan, MetLife Stadium is one of the most accessible venues in the tournament.
By Train
The easiest option from Manhattan is the NJ Transit service from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, where you transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line that stops right at the stadium gates. Travel time averages 30–40 minutes each way.
By Bus or Shuttle
Charter services and hotel shuttles will operate throughout the tournament, especially from Secaucus and Hoboken. The Coach USA Express and Community Coach typically run on major event days, dropping off at the stadium’s designated bus zone.
By Car or Rideshare
For drivers, MetLife sits just off I-95 and Route 3. Parking passes must be purchased in advance, and rideshare zones will be set up near Lot 26 and the American Dream complex.
Expect heavy traffic before and after matches. Plan for an early arrival.
Match-Day Planning Tips
Match days in New York will be electric with crowds, color and nonstop celebrations.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
Arrive Early: Plan to arrive 90 minutes before kickoff to explore fan zones and pass security smoothly.
Stay Hydrated: Summer temperatures can hit the high 80s °F (30 °C). Bring a refillable water bottle; hydration stations will be available.
Use Transit Apps: NJ Transit’s mobile app will update train times and platform info on game days.
Know Stadium Rules: Small clear bags are allowed; flags are welcome within size limits.
Plan Your Exit: Trains and rideshares fill up quickly post-match. Consider staying to enjoy the fan zones until crowds ease.
Things to Do Between Matches
You could spend an entire week exploring New York and still only scratch the surface. Between matches, mix iconic sightseeing with local experiences.
Classic NYC Sights
Times Square and Broadway for bright lights and shows.
Central Park for picnics, bike rides and skyline views.
The High Line and Chelsea for art, architecture and dining.
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are accessible by ferry from Battery Park.
For Culture & Food Lovers
Explore Chinatown, Little Italy and Koreatown for global cuisine.
Visit world-class museums like MoMA, The Met or the Whitney.
Sample New York pizza (try Joe’s or Prince Street Pizza) and local breweries in Brooklyn.
Across the River
American Dream Mall, a massive shopping and entertainment complex next to MetLife.
Hoboken Waterfront Walkway, with unbeatable Manhattan skyline views.
Liberty State Park in Jersey City offers ferry rides to the Statue of Liberty.
Where to Eat and Drink
From street food to Michelin-starred fine dining, the New York area caters to every taste.
Quick Eats Near the Stadium: The American Dream complex has fast-casual options like Shake Shack, Charleys Philly Steaks and Carpaccio.
Pre-Game in Manhattan: Head to Hudson Yards or Chelsea Market for quick bites before hopping on the train.
Post-Match Celebrations: Hoboken’s Washington Street and Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhoods are perfect for fan gatherings late into the night.
Travel Budget and Booking Advice
World Cup 2026 will bring record crowds, so early booking is key to saving money and reducing stress.
Hotels: Expect average nightly rates of $250–$500 in Manhattan, $150–$300 in nearby New Jersey cities and $120–$200 for suburban stays.
Transit: Round-trip NJ Transit tickets typically cost $12–$18 USD per person.
Dining: Budget $15–$20 for casual meals or $40 + for mid-range restaurants.
Why Fans Will Love New York 2026
Between the global atmosphere, the skyline, and the sheer scale of MetLife Stadium, New York will feel like the heart of the tournament. Few places can match its mix of soccer passion, accessibility and nonstop entertainment.
So whether you’re watching your team fight through the knockout rounds or hoping to witness the Final, New York City promises an unforgettable World Cup experience, on and off the pitch.
Find your FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets for MetLife Stadium on SeatGeek and start planning your trip today to the city that never sleeps, and never stops celebrating the beautiful game.