MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford is your main venue, easily accessible via NJ Transit and PATH.
For a non-match day, explore iconic NYC sights like Central Park and the Brooklyn Bridge.
Book hotels and transit passes ahead of time to avoid match-day stress.
Expect summer temperatures around 85°F; plan for outdoor activities accordingly.
Check the official FIFA schedule for match times and stadium rules.
If You Only Have One Non-Match Day
With just one non-match day in New York/New Jersey, prioritize iconic sights and quick transit options to maximize your experience. Start your day early at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take the first ferry from Battery Park, which departs around 8:30 AM. The round-trip ferry costs approximately $23.50 for adults and $12 for children, and you should expect to spend 2-3 hours exploring both sites. Afterward, catch the 1 train from Battery Park to 59th St – Columbus Circle to access Central Park. Aim to be in the park by noon; the stroll from the south entrance to Bethesda Terrace will take about 30 minutes.
After enjoying a picnic lunch in the park, head to the High Line in the Meatpacking District. This elevated park stretches 1.45 miles and will take roughly 1-1.5 hours to walk. To get there, exit Central Park at 7th Ave and take the subway to 14th St. Finish your sightseeing with a visit to the Brooklyn Bridge. Walk across the bridge and explore the DUMBO area for stunning views of Manhattan. This should take about 2 hours. Wrap up your day in Times Square to experience the vibrant energy of the city. Expect to spend a couple of hours here, especially if you want to grab dinner nearby, with options like Juniors for cheesecake or Shake Shack for burgers.
Quick Reference for One Non-Match Day
Activity/Sight
Time Needed
Cost Band
Best For
Book Ahead
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
2-3 hours
$$
Families
Y
Central Park
2-3 hours
$
Solo/Friends
N
High Line
1.5 hours
$
Solo/Friends
N
Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO
2 hours
$
Families
N
Times Square
2 hours
$$
Families/Solo
N
Match-Day Mistakes Fans Make in New York/New Jersey
Many fans underestimate the importance of planning their transit. On match days, NJ Transit can get extremely crowded, particularly before and after match times. It’s crucial to arrive at the station at least 1.5 hours before kickoff. When traveling from New York City, take the NJ Transit train from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to a direct train to MetLife Stadium. This transfer can save you time and ensure you avoid delays. Also, don’t forget about the bag policy: check official FIFA and MetLife Stadium rules to avoid delays. Many fans overlook the need for a transit pass, which can help skip long ticket lines. Consider purchasing a round-trip ticket in advance to save time and hassle.
Not arriving early enough at the station — aim for 1.5 hours before the match.
Forgetting to check the bag policy; verify on FIFA.com.
Ignoring surge pricing for rideshares after the match — plan accordingly to avoid high costs.
Not booking accommodations early; hotels fill up fast, especially during the tournament.
Before You Go: Booking & Timing That Saves Headaches
Booking your hotel in advance is essential. Look for options near transit lines, especially those serviced by NJ Transit to the Meadowlands. Expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $300 per night, depending on proximity to the stadium. Consider hotels in Secaucus or Newark for more budget-friendly options. For example, the Embassy Suites by Hilton in Secaucus offers rates starting around $190 per night and includes breakfast.
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For dining, making reservations is advisable, particularly for weekend matches. Many popular restaurants can be fully booked weeks in advance. Consider places like Katz’s Delicatessen for a classic NYC experience or Los Tacos No. 1 for quick, authentic Mexican. Additionally, check for outdoor dining options since summer weather can be hot and humid, typically around 85°F with possible thunderstorms. Outdoor spots like The Frying Pan offer great views on the Hudson River.
Pro Tip: Plan for extreme weather. Bring water, sunscreen, and rain gear to stay prepared. NYC can experience sudden thunderstorms in summer.
If you have extra time, consider day trips to nearby outdoor attractions. Hudson Highlands State Park offers stunning views and trails. The popular Breakneck Ridge Trail is a challenging 3-mile hike with a steep ascent of around 1,300 feet, taking about 2-3 hours, and is roughly 60 minutes from Manhattan. Bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water, as this area can get quite hot. The trailhead is located near the Breakneck Ridge Metro-North station, making it easy to access by train.
Jones Beach is another great option, about 45 minutes from the city. It’s perfect for a relaxing beach day, but remember to bring sunscreen and snacks as amenities can be pricey. The beach offers a 2-mile boardwalk for walking and cycling, along with ample space for sunbathing. Alternatively, Palisades Interstate Park offers scenic views of the Hudson River and several hiking trails, all within an hour’s drive. The Giant Stairs trail is a must for adventurous hikers, featuring boulders and a rugged terrain. Parking is available at numerous sites within the park, but arrive early to secure a spot.
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