Title: The Ultimate Fan Guide to FIFA 2026 in NYC: Where to Eat, Watch, and Explore

The world’s biggest game is coming to the world’s greatest city! This summer, New York City and New Jersey are taking center stage as hosts of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Final. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter with tickets to the final at MetLife Stadium or a curious traveler looking to soak up the atmosphere at a FIFA Fan Festival, there is no better time to be in the Big Apple.🍎
But let’s be honest: in NYC, the action on the pitch is only half the story. To truly “score” this summer, you need to know where the locals eat, how to navigate the crowds, and where to find the best flavors in the city.

Know the Schedule: Key FIFA 2026 Dates in NYC/NJ

The New York New Jersey region will host eight matches, culminating in the historic Final on July 19, 2026.
  • Group Stage Matches: June 13, 16, 22, 25, and 27
  • Round of 32: June 30
  • Round of 16: July 5
  • The World Cup Final: July 19, 2026
Pro Tip: Even on non-match days, the city will be electric. If you want to avoid the heaviest stadium traffic but still want the “vibe,” plan your food tours for the “off-days” in late June.

Where to Watch: FIFA Fan Festivals & Villages

If you don’t have tickets to the stadium, the FIFA Fan Festivals are the next best thing. These are massive, official watch parties with giant screens, live music, and—of course—incredible food.
  • Liberty State Park (Jersey City): The official epicenter with the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop.
  • Rockefeller Center Fan Village: Located in the heart of Midtown, perfect for fans staying in Manhattan.
  • USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (Queens): A flagship destination in the “World’s Borough.”

Eat Like a Local: Fueling Your Match Day

You can’t experience New York on an empty stomach. While the stadium has its own eats, the real culinary magic happens in the neighborhoods.

Pre-Game in Chelsea & The High Line

Before heading across the river for a match, spend your morning in Chelsea Market. It’s the perfect staging ground with easy access to the Lincoln Tunnel and the ferries, but packed with world-class food.
  • Must-Try: Grab a classic NY-style pizza slice at Filaga or fuel up with famous pork dumplings at Nom Wah.
The Experience: Walk it off on the High Line for iconic views of the Hudson River.

From
$68

Chelsea Market + High Line + Hudson Yards Food & History Tour

New for Spring 2026: The Ultimate Pizza Tour

Just in time for the tournament, we are launching our Official NYC Pizza Tour. We’ll take you to the hidden gems that tourists usually miss, proving why NYC is the undisputed pizza capital of the world. It’s the perfect group activity for fans traveling in packs!
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Level Up Your Trip: Private & Custom Tours

Traveling with a large group of supporters? Don’t settle for “generic.” We specialize in:
  • Stylist-Led Shopping: For the fans who want to look as good as their favorite players.
  • Upscale Dining Tours: Reserved seating and curated menus for those who want a premium, “sit-down” experience away from the stadium chaos.
  • Social Impact Experiences: Support local small businesses and nonprofits like Earth Matter while you explore.

Travel Logistics: Getting to MetLife Stadium

MetLife Stadium (renamed “New York New Jersey Stadium” for FIFA) is just five miles west of NYC.
  • NJ Transit: Take the train from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line.
  • NY Waterway: Consider the ferry for a scenic route. Just remember to book your tour of the West Side (Chelsea/Hudson Yards) near the ferry terminals to make the most of your day!

Book Your Summer 2026 Experience Today!

With over 1.2 million visitors expected, NYC is going to be busy. Our tours are already beginning to fill up for the July 2026 window. Book a public tour before they fill up or hold your date for a private tour with just a 10% deposit. Ensure your World Cup trip is as delicious as it is exciting!

Private Chelsea Market, High Line & Hudson Yards Food & History Tour

3 hours

Private Immigrant New York Food Tour: Lower East Side, Chinatown & Little Italy

3 hours

Private Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn Bridge Tour

3 hours

Private Williamsburg Bites Food Tour

3 hours

Private Chelsea Market & West Village Dessert Tour

3 hours

Private Midtown Architecture Walking Tour

3 hours

Private Industry City Tour – Brooklyn Design Center Artisans Tour

3 hours

Private Brooklyn Graffiti Workshop & Street Art Walk

2 hours

Private Greenwich Village Food Tour

2 hours

Private Red Hook Brooklyn: Behind the Scenes Neighborhood Tour

3 hours

Private Nomad & Flatiron Architecture & Food Tour

3 hours

Private Hell’s Kitchen Dessert Tour

3 hours

Private 5th Avenue Tour

3 hours

Private Sustainable Brooklyn Food & Fashion Tour

3 hours

Private Sustainable Harlem Tour

4 hours

Personalized NYC Shopping Tour with Stylist

4 hours