The FIFA World Cup 2026 marks a momentous occasion in football history. For the first time ever, the tournament will be hosted by three nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Running from June 11 to July 19, 2026, this expanded championship will feature 48 teams competing across 104 matches in 16 host cities throughout North America.

The New York-New Jersey region plays a starring role in this global spectacle. MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, will host five group stage matches, two knockout round matches, and the crowning jewel of the tournament: the World Cup Final on July 19, 2026.

Confirmed Matches at MetLife Stadium

• June 13: Brazil vs. Morocco

• June 16: France vs. Senegal

• June 22: Norway vs. Senegal

• June 25: Ecuador vs. Germany

• June 27: Panama vs. England

• June 30: Round of 32

• July 5: Round of 16

• July 19: Final

Times Square: The Heart of World Cup Celebrations

While Times Square may not host full-length match screenings, it will transform into a vibrant hub of World Cup excitement throughout the tournament. Expect opening-day celebrations, countdown events, highlight shows, and media activations that bring the global football spirit right to the Crossroads of the World. The iconic digital billboards and massive screens that define Times Square will showcase match highlights, player features, and tournament updates, keeping visitors connected to every moment of World Cup action.

The energy of Times Square during the World Cup will be electric. The area will naturally become a meeting point for fans from around the globe. International supporters draped in their national colors will fill the streets, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration that captures the true spirit of the World Cup.

For those who want to experience the energy of Times Square during the World Cup while enjoying a peaceful nearby retreat, consider staying at Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square.

Getting to MetLife Stadium from Times Square

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Times Square during the World Cup is the convenient access to MetLife Stadium. Located just 8 miles from the heart of Manhattan, the stadium is surprisingly easy to reach, making matchday logistics stress-free for football fans.

Multiple transportation options connect Times Square to the stadium. NJ Transit operates direct bus service from Port Authority Bus Terminal to MetLife Stadium, with the journey taking approximately 20 minutes.

For fans staying at Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square, it is just a 3-minute walk to the Port Authority Bus Terminal.

On match days, special Meadowlands Rail Service trains run directly from Penn Station to the stadium, offering another convenient option for fans.

For those preferring rideshare services, Uber, Lyft, and taxi trips typically take 12 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This makes it easy to get to the stadium and back to your Times Square hotel with minimal hassle. The proximity means you can enjoy the electric atmosphere of a World Cup match and still have plenty of time to explore everything New York City has to offer before and after the game.

Fan Zones and Official Celebrations

The New York-New Jersey region is rolling out an impressive lineup of official fan zones and celebration spaces for World Cup 2026.

In Manhattan, the NYNJ World Cup 26 Fan Village at Rockefeller Center will transform the iconic skating rink into a vibrant football pitch surrounded by large screens for live match broadcasts. The celebration extends across the entire three-block campus from July 4 to 19, with the Top of the Rock observation deck participating in the festivities. This immersive gathering place will feature live match screenings, interactive football experiences, and cultural programming reflecting the global spirit of the tournament.

For Queens-based celebrations, the NYNJ World Cup 26 Fan Zone at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center's Louis Armstrong Stadium runs from June 17 to 28, offering a flagship fan destination for diverse communities and dedicated soccer enthusiasts. Additional fan zones and pop-ups throughout the region will provide live match viewings, interactive experiences, and local vendor offerings.

The FIFA Fan Festival at Liberty State Park in Jersey City will offer live match screenings for all 104 tournament games against the stunning backdrop of the Manhattan skyline, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty. This destination promises headline music performances, celebrity appearances, family-friendly programming, and interactive football experiences.

Getting to and from fan zones and viewing parties all over the city can be challenging. Staying at a centrally located and well-connected hotel is key. Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square is steps away from 12 subway lines, providing easy access to fan zones, viewing parties, and city attractions.

Dining and Nightlife During the World Cup

Times Square and the surrounding areas offer an unparalleled selection of dining and entertainment options perfect for World Cup celebrations. With approximately 240 sports bars and nearly 1,900 pubs and bars throughout New York City, football fans have endless choices for catching matches and celebrating victories.

Several standout venues have established themselves as premier soccer-watching destinations. Legends, home to The Football Factory in the heart of Manhattan, broadcasts more than 100 live soccer games per week even during non-tournament times, making it a must-visit spot for dedicated football fans. The bar's authentic atmosphere and knowledgeable staff create the perfect environment for experiencing World Cup matches alongside fellow supporters.

Beyond sports bars, Times Square's diverse restaurant scene allows fans to explore international cuisine from around the globe. Whether you're craving authentic Italian after watching Italy play, seeking Brazilian churrasco to celebrate a Seleção victory, or looking for traditional Mexican fare, the options are limitless. The area's 24-hour dining culture means you can satisfy post-match hunger at any hour, making it ideal for fans adjusting to match schedules across different time zones.

If you are staying at a hotel near Times Square, you will be able to easily walk to hundreds of nearby pubs and restaurants.

The Times Square Experience Beyond Football

While the World Cup provides the perfect reason to visit, Times Square offers countless attractions and experiences to round out your trip. Broadway theaters will continue their stellar lineup of shows, allowing you to catch a world-class performance before or after match days. Iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and Central Park are all within easy reach, perfect for daytime exploration between matches.

Shopping enthusiasts will find everything from flagship stores of global brands to unique boutiques throughout the area.

Where to Stay for the 2026 World Cup

Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your World Cup experience, and Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square offers the perfect home base for football fans visiting New York. Located in the absolute heart of Times Square, the hotel puts you steps away from all the action, with unparalleled access to restaurants, nightlife, Broadway shows, and transportation options to MetLife Stadium.

The hotel is offering an exclusive FIFA World Cup Offer that allows guests to lock in their stay early and enjoy 20% off with the Advance Purchase rate using offer code FIFA.

Beyond the World Cup package, Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square - NYC provides modern rooms with stunning skyline views, giving you a front-row seat to the city that never sleeps.

The location offers unbeatable convenience, with easy access to public transportation that connects you to MetLife Stadium on match days. After experiencing the thrill of a World Cup match, you can return to the comfort of your Times Square hotel and still have energy to explore the city's legendary nightlife or simply relax while taking in the spectacular views from your room.

Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the world's most dynamic city. Check availability at Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square today and prepare for an unforgettable football celebration in the heart of New York.