The World's Biggest Stage. World Cup 2026 definitive guide.
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New York / New Jersey is the epicenter of the 2026 World Cup, hosting the Grand Final. The experience spans two states: the electric energy of Manhattan and the massive scale of MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. Your strategy must balance city thrills with cross-river logistics.
Manhattan for the iconic experience. Secaucus/Hoboken (NJ) for easier stadium access.
NJ Transit is key. Take the train from NY Penn Station to Secaucus, then the rail link to the stadium.
Expect record-breaking prices for the Final. Book flexible rates immediately.
Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries can use ESTA for short stays. Others require a B-2 tourist visa. Check status as of Dec 2025 and apply early.
Check ESTA EligibilityBook flights and refundable hotels in Manhattan or NJ. Set price alerts. If traveling multi-city, plan open-jaw tickets.
Confirm match tickets. Reserve airport transfers and key restaurants (e.g. Broadway area).
Lock in eSIMs, clear stadium bags, and day trips. Re-price hotels weekly; big events often trigger cancellations.
MetLife Stadium, host of the 2026 World Cup Final.
Selected to host the 2026 World Cup Final, MetLife Stadium is a colossus. Located in the New Jersey Meadowlands, it offers massive capacity and excellent sightlines. While it lacks a roof, the energy of 82,000+ fans for the world's biggest game will be unmatched.
Getting There: The NJ Transit Rail Line is the lifeline. Trains run from NY Penn Station (Manhattan) to Secaucus Junction, then directly to the stadium station. Allow 1 hour from Manhattan.
Be at the gates 2+ hours before kickoff. Security for the Final will be unprecedented.
Bring a stadium-approved clear bag and sealed water. Lines will be long, so travel light.
Be patient. The train queue back to Manhattan can take 1-2 hours after big events.
The safest way to buy tickets is through the official FIFA portal. Registration typically opens 12-18 months before the tournament.
FIFA Official SiteMissed the draw? Trusted resale platforms offer verified tickets, though prices will be higher for high-demand matches like the Final.
Check StubHubNew York offers endless options. Manhattan is best for the full city experience. Secaucus/Meadowlands is practical for match days.
40 min train to Stadium
10 min train to Stadium
60 min train to Stadium
NJ Transit connects Manhattan to the stadium. The Subway (MTA) gets you everywhere in NYC. Use OMNY (contactless) to pay.
JFK, Newark (EWR), and LaGuardia (LGA) serve the city. EWR is closest to the stadium. JFK has the AirTrain.
Avoid driving into Manhattan or to the stadium if possible. Traffic is intense. Rideshare is good for airports but expensive.
The quintessential New York slice. Try Joe's Pizza or Di Fara for the authentic experience.
Iconic Lower East Side deli famous for massive pastrami sandwiches and movie history.
Start your day right. Ess-a-Bagel or Russ & Daughters offer the best bagels and lox in town.
New York City is a global icon. While the stadium is in NJ, you'll likely spend your free time exploring Manhattan's legendary sights.
The symbol of freedom. Book ferry tickets months in advance to visit the crown.
The neon heart of the city. Crowded, bright, and essential for a first-time visit.
A massive green oasis in the concrete jungle. Perfect for recovering from the city noise.
Manhattan is generally safe but busy. Watch out for pickpockets in Times Square. Avoid empty subway cars late at night.
New York moves fast. Walk with purpose, stand to the right on escalators, and don't block the sidewalk. Tipping 20-25% is standard.
New Yorkers value efficiency. Have your payment ready and keep moving.
Reservations are essential. Bagels are for breakfast/lunch. Pizza is a religion.
The city that never sleeps. You can find food and transport 24/7.
Hot and humid (85°F+). Thunderstorms possible. Stadium is open-air, so dress accordingly.