The New York / New Jersey metropolitan area is the largest in the United States, with more than 28 million residents. The region will host the 2026 World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, as well as seven other matches during the tournament.

## MetLife Stadium

MetLife Stadium is the host of the 2026 World Cup final, scheduled for July 19, 2026. The stadium is home to both the New York Giants and Jets NFL franchises and has a capacity of 82,500. The stadium is the third-largest of the 16 host venues and the largest in the New York metropolitan area.

## How to Get There

Three major airports serve the region: John F. Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty International (EWR). NJ Transit operates direct rail service from New York Penn Station to MetLife Stadium on match days, a 20-minute ride. The New York City Subway provides extensive transit throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.

## Fan Zone

The official FIFA Fan Fest will be located in Liberty State Park in Jersey City, with capacity for 50,000+ fans and views of the Manhattan skyline. The park is across the harbor from the Statue of Liberty and is one of the most iconic locations in the New York area.

## Where to Stay

The New York area has more than 300,000 hotel rooms, with concentrations in Midtown Manhattan, Lower Manhattan, Times Square, and Jersey City. Major luxury brands like the Waldorf Astoria, the Plaza, and the Mandarin Oriental are well represented.

## What to See

The New York area offers an unmatched combination of attractions:

- **Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island** — The iconic statue and the immigration museum, accessible by ferry from Battery Park.
- **Central Park** — The 843-acre park in the heart of Manhattan, with walking paths, lakes, and cultural institutions.
- **Times Square** — The commercial intersection known for its Broadway theaters, LED billboards, and shopping.
- **Empire State Building** — The 102-story Art Deco skyscraper with an observation deck offering panoramic views.
- **9/11 Memorial and Museum** — The memorial to the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks, with a museum and twin reflecting pools.
- **Broadway shows** — The famous theater district in Midtown Manhattan, with dozens of shows playing nightly.

## Where to Eat

The New York area offers every cuisine imaginable:

- **Pizza** at Joe's Pizza or Di Fara Pizza
- **Bagels** at Russ & Daughters or Ess-a-Bagel
- **Pastrami** at Katz's Delicatessen
- **Cheesecake** at Junior's
- **Fine dining** at Eleven Madison Park or Le Bernardin

## Climate

New York in June and July is warm and humid, with average highs of 80-85°F (27-29°C). The New York summer offers a vibrant atmosphere with outdoor dining, rooftop bars, and Broadway shows.

## Conclusion

New York / New Jersey is the crown jewel of the 2026 World Cup, hosting the final at MetLife Stadium. The combination of football, cultural attractions, and culinary excellence makes it a must-visit destination for any tournament fan.