Why New York is the ultimate destination for FIFA World Cup fans

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USA has profound reputation for hosting some of the biggest and most iconic sporting events in history. And the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has proved why.

Home to some of the most iconic stadiums, there is even more to it.

From the buzz in New York and the dazzling lights of California, to the scenic surroundings of Miami, few countries can compete with the US for the best host cities for a major sporting event.

And few host cities can beat New York. While Miami is my favourite, New York, whose skyline is iconic and globally recognised, offers much more.

From the Statue of Liberty and Times Square to Central Park and the Brooklyn Bridge, the city is filled with recognisable landmarks that have offered football fans alternative retreats from football.

Are you planning a vacation or a memorable experience during the 2026 FIFA World Cup? This city should be your first stop.

With every turn and ride through the city, there is something that makes everything here feel so magical – that unique blend of cultural diversity and vibrant lifestyle.

There seems to be a different culture at every turn in the city.

I am told that more than a third of New York’s residents are foreign-born and speak over 200 different languages. This explains why fans from all walks of life have fitted in so easily.

While every month is a good month to visit the city, summer (June to August) is much better because then, the city is more vibrant. There are concerts, film festivals, food festivals, and a lot more.

Friday (July 4) was Independence Day, and locals are free to let off fireworks through the night.

September 11 site is emotional

I visited the September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Centre site in New York. Thousands of tourists visit the complex to remember and honour the 2,983 people killed in the horrific attacks of September 11, 2001.

The memorial is located at the World Trade Centre site, the former location of the Twin Towers that were destroyed during the September 11 attacks.

Brooklyn Bridge is special

I also found time to visit the Brooklyn Bridge, which is suspended over the East River from Brooklyn to Manhattan in New York City.

This bridge is a popular landmark of New York City—an outstanding architectural accomplishment that is still revered across the world.

Brooklyn Bridge is a frequent sight in movies set in New York City. The movies include Godzilla, Sex and the City, and John Wick: Chapter 2, among others.

Time Square is beautiful

While Miami is fast-becoming US’ premier sports hub, with football at the heart of it, there is an area in New York that is equally interesting – the Time Square. Fans have used the public space at the iconic Centre to express support for their teams. Thousands of fans have occasionally turned the Square into a pre-match party, a melting pot of football culture.

For years, Times Square with its iconic billboards has and is still being viewed as a cinematic backdrop for movies. Thousands of tourists find time to party within the square. I found the backdrop view from the red staircases, where tourists relax, quite breathtaking.

When the World Cup rolls off here in a year’s time, there is enough that suggests that with or without football matches at MetLife, Times Square will be a perfect World Cup Fan Zone – that designated area where fans without match tickets unite to watch games on big screens under a festive atmosphere.

Road trip to New Jersey

Those with tickets but prefer to be based in New York will still find a road trip to New Jersey, home to the MetLife Stadium, appealing.

Road trips to New Jersey, although quite costly (about $170 via Uber), can be ideal for families. There are a range of attractions and experiences for all interests.

There is a natural feel about New Jersey that makes it special in its own way. I took an afternoon walk through Branch Brook Park (first county park to be opened for public use in the US) and found its green spaces amazing. The Park starts in Newark through Forest Hill, Roseville to Bloomfield.

If you are the type that loves nature, a jog or workout at an outdoor gym, Branch Brook Park or the other 40 state recreational parks will be popular choices for you.