The 2026 FIFA World Cup is bringing millions of soccer fans to the New York area — and while the matches will be unforgettable, your time off the pitch should be just as exciting.
Whether you’re visiting for one game, the full tournament, or making NYC your home base between matches, there’s no shortage of iconic experiences, skyline views, food, culture, and entertainment to explore.
From Times Square attractions and Broadway shows to immersive indoor experiences like RiseNY, this guide covers the best things to do in NYC during the FIFA World Cup.
Why NYC Will Be One of the Biggest FIFA Destinations
The New York metropolitan area is expected to become one of the most electric destinations during the tournament. Fans from around the world will gather for:
- Match days
- Watch parties
- Fan festivals
- NYC sightseeing
- Food and nightlife
- Broadway and entertainment
Many visitors attending matches at MetLife Stadium will stay in Manhattan, making Times Square and Midtown major hubs for FIFA travelers.
That means people will be searching for:
- Things to do between FIFA matches
- Indoor NYC attractions
- Family-friendly activities in Manhattan
- Best experiences near Times Square
- What to do before or after a soccer game
And that’s where RiseNY becomes a must-visit experience.
1. Experience NYC From Above at RiseNY
If you only have time for one immersive attraction during your FIFA trip, make it RiseNY.
Located in the heart of Times Square, RiseNY combines:
- NYC history and pop culture exhibits
- Interactive museum-style galleries
- A thrilling flying theater ride over New York City
Guests soar over iconic landmarks including:
- The Statue of Liberty
- Central Park
- Times Square
- The Brooklyn Bridge
- The Manhattan skyline
Why FIFA visitors love it:
- Perfect indoor activity between matches
- Air-conditioned escape during summer heat
- Easy to fit into busy itineraries
- Family-friendly and group-friendly
- Located near Broadway theaters and restaurants
- Highly Instagrammable and unique to NYC
For international travelers searching:
- “Best indoor attractions in NYC”
- “Things to do near Times Square”
- “What to do before a FIFA game”
- “Family-friendly NYC experiences”
RiseNY checks every box.
2. Explore Times Square
No trip to New York City is complete without visiting Times Square.
During the FIFA World Cup, expect:
- Massive crowds of international fans
- Soccer-themed activations
- Brand experiences
- Outdoor entertainment
- Watch parties and celebrations
It’s one of the best places in the city to feel the energy of the tournament outside the stadium.
3. Catch a Broadway Show
Broadway remains one of the top attractions for visitors from around the world.
Whether you want:
- A classic musical
- A comedy
- A family-friendly production
- A star-driven play
The Theater District offers unforgettable entertainment within walking distance of RiseNY.
Many FIFA visitors will pair:
- RiseNY
- dinner in Times Square
- a Broadway show
into the perfect pre-game or non-match-day itinerary.
4. Visit Iconic NYC Landmarks
If it’s your first time in NYC, don’t miss the classics:
- Statue of Liberty
- Central Park
- Brooklyn Bridge
- Empire State Building
Summer is one of the best times to explore the city on foot and experience NYC’s neighborhoods, waterfronts, and skyline views.
5. Find the Best Soccer Watch Parties in NYC
Even when you’re not inside the stadium, NYC will feel like one giant fan festival.
Popular activities include:
- Sports bars showing every match
- Outdoor screenings
- International fan gatherings
- FIFA-themed pop-ups
- Rooftop watch parties
Neighborhoods like Midtown Manhattan, Lower East Side, and Brooklyn are expected to become major hubs for soccer fans throughout the tournament.
6. Cool Off With Indoor Attractions
Summer in NYC can get hot — especially during crowded event weeks.
That’s why visitors often search:
- “Air-conditioned things to do in NYC”
- “Rainy day NYC attractions”
- “Indoor activities near Times Square”
Indoor experiences like RiseNY are ideal because they provide:
- Comfort
- Entertainment
- Flexible timing
- Memorable photo opportunities
- Easy access from hotels and transit hubs
Why RiseNY Is Perfect for FIFA Visitors
RiseNY offers something many NYC attractions don’t:
- A full New York story in one place
- A quick but unforgettable experience
- Indoor comfort during busy summer travel
- A location directly in Times Square
- An attraction that works for families, couples, groups, and international tourists
For travelers balancing:
- match schedules
- transportation
- sightseeing
- dining
- nightlife
RiseNY fits naturally into any FIFA itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in NYC during the FIFA World Cup?
Top experiences include visiting Times Square, seeing a Broadway show, exploring Central Park, visiting iconic landmarks, and experiencing immersive attractions like RiseNY.
What should soccer fans do in NYC between matches?
Fans can explore museums, rooftop views, watch parties, Broadway shows, restaurants, and indoor attractions near Times Square such as RiseNY.
What are the best indoor attractions in NYC during summer?
Popular indoor experiences include immersive museums, observation decks, Broadway theaters, and RiseNY’s flying theater attraction.
Is RiseNY good for tourists visiting NYC during FIFA?
Yes — RiseNY is ideal for FIFA visitors because it’s centrally located, family-friendly, indoors, and offers a uniquely New York experience in under two hours.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring unmatched global energy to New York City — and the city is ready.
Between matches, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do, from skyline adventures and Broadway nights to waterfront walks and immersive attractions.
And if you want one experience that truly captures the excitement, culture, history, and thrill of New York City, make sure RiseNY is part of your FIFA itinerary.
