City Overview
New York New Jersey
New York City needs no introduction; the cultural and financial capital of the world. The stadium sits across the Hudson River in New Jersey's Meadowlands.
From Times Square to Central Park, the Statue of Liberty to world-class museums, NYC offers unmatched urban energy. Add in diverse neighborhoods, Broadway theaters, and a global culinary scene, and you have the ultimate World Cup finale destination.
The Stadium
MetLife Stadium (Capacity: 82,500)
Located in East Rutherford, NJ (8 miles from Manhattan), MetLife Stadium opened in 2010 as a shared home for the NFL's Giants and Jets. The open-air venue hosted Super Bowl XLVIII and numerous international association football matches including Copa América finals. Its selection for the 2026 World Cup Final cements the region's status as a global sports capital.
Fan Zones & Public Viewing
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Manhattan skyline, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty, Liberty State Park in Jersey City, NJ will transform into a landmark destination for all match viewings, concerts, and festivities throughout the tournament.
The NYNJ Host Committee will announce additional Fan Zones and pop-ups that will offer live match viewings at a later date. Possible prime locations:
- Central Park.
- Times Square.
- Hudson River Park.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park.
- Governors Island.
- Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
Fans Visiting New York New Jersey
New York New Jersey hosts eight matches in total.
- Saturday, 13th June - Brazil vs Morocco.
- Tuesday, 16th June - France vs Senegal.
- Monday, 22nd June - Norway vs Senegal.
- Thursday, 25th June - Ecuador vs Germany.
- Saturday, 27th June - Panama vs England.
- Tuesday, 30th June - I Winner vs 3rd C/D/F/G/H.
- Sunday, 5th July - Winner 76 vs Winner 78.
- Sunday, 19th July - 2026 World Cup Final.
Getting There
By Air
A number of airports serve New York New Jersey; JFK (28 miles), Newark (6 miles), LaGuardia (17 miles).
- From Manhattan: NJ Transit trains to Secaucus + event shuttle.
- Coach USA buses from Port Authority.
- Ferry service on match days expected.
- Getting to the stadium could take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and point of departure.
- Extensive organised transport planned for the tournament.
Accomodation
Where to Stay in New York New Jersey
Accommodation options around New York New Jersey are almost unlimited. Key areas to consider:
- Midtown Manhattan: Central, Times Square, transit hub.
- Lower Manhattan: Financial District, near 9/11 Memoriale.
- Brooklyn: Williamsburg, DUMBO (trendy, cheaper).
- Jersey City: Near stadium, Manhattan views.
- Queens: Near airports, diverse neighbourhoods.
- Newark, NJ: Airport proximity, budget-friendly.
Eat & Drink
Where to Go
- Sports Bars: Legends (Yankee Stadium area), Flying Puck, Smithfield Hall.
- Pizza: Joe's, Prince Street, Lucali.
- Bagels: Russ & Daughters, Essa Bagel.
- Fine Dining: Eleven Madison Park, Le Bernardin, Per Se.
- Etnic: Everything imaginable in every borough.
- Delis: Katz's, 2nd Ave Deli, Mile End.
Local Cuisine
Highlights
New York-style pizza (thin crust, foldable).
- Bagels with lox and cream cheese.
- Pastrami sandwiches.
- Hot dogs (street vendors, Nathan's).
- Cheesecake (Junior's).
- Black and white cookies.
- Halal cart food.
- Everything bagel seasoning.
- Craft beer scene.
Top Attractions
What to See in New York
- Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
- 9/11 Memorial and Museum.
- Central Park.
- Metropolitan Museum of Art.
- Times Square.
- Empire State Building.
- Brooklyn Bridge.
- Broadway shows.
- High Line park.
- One World Observatory.
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
- Yankee Stadium (historic venue).
Getting Around New York New Jersey
Travelling between New York City (NYC) and New Jersey (NJ) is common and there are multiple efficient transportation options available.
- NJ Transit Rail Lines: There are five NJ Transit rail lines that go directly to Penn Station in NYC; a reliable and efficient option for commuters.
- PATH Subway: The PATH subway is considered the number one method to travel from NJ to NYC. It offers frequent service and connects key points in both states.
- Walking is the best way to get around New York City, especially for short distances.
- The NYC Subway system connects Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, and is the backbone of public transit in the city; especially recommended if you're travelling more than a mile.
- Buses are also managed by New York City Transit and complement the subway system, but subways tend to be faster for most trips.
- Driving in New York City is generally discouraged. Traffic congestion and scarce, expensive parking make driving a hassle. Instead, rely on public transit, taxis, or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft for convenience.
- Taxis (yellow cabs) and ride-hailing services are convenient but can be costly. They are a good option if you want to avoid walking or public transit, but be prepared for higher fares.
Practical Tips
- Most expensive World Cup host city.
- Book accommodation extremely early.
- July heat can be intense (27-32°C).
- Fast pace; keep up or step aside.
- Tipping: 18-20% (or more).
- Legal drinking age: 21.
- MetroCard/OMNY essential.
- Sales tax: 8.875%.
- Walk on right, stand right on escalators.
- 24/7 city, where something is always open.
- Neighbourhoods vary drastically.
- Download MTA app for real-time transit.
- Security is tight at the stadium, so arrive early.
- Clear bag policy.
- Final expected to draw unprecedented crowds.
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