Ultimate New York Soccer Travel Guide

This ultimate New York soccer travel guide combines expert insights and insider tips to help you plan the perfect football trip. At Soccer Trippers, we’ve explored stadiums across the globe, and New York stands out for its mix of iconic venues, diverse fan culture, and unmatched energy.

Why New York is a Top Destination for Football Fans

New York is home to New York City FC and the New York Red Bulls, making it a rare city with two rival MLS teams. The Hudson River Derby between them is one of the fiercest rivalries in Major League Soccer. With international friendlies, big-name players, and a multicultural fan base, New York is one of the best places in America to experience the global game.

Read our full New York City FC Club Guide | New York Red Bulls Club Guide

Must-Visit Football Stadiums in New York

• Yankee Stadium Guide – The home of NYCFC, located in the Bronx. While primarily a baseball stadium, it hosts electric soccer matchdays.
• Red Bull Arena Guide – A soccer-specific venue across the Hudson in Harrison, New Jersey, with one of the best atmospheres in MLS.
• Future NYCFC Stadium – A purpose-built stadium in Queens, expected to open later this decade.

Insider Tip: For the best rivalry experience, catch a Hudson River Derby—it’s one of MLS’s most passionate fixtures.

Where to Stay in New York as a Football Fan

• Hotels near Yankee Stadium – Ideal for fans attending NYCFC matches.
• Hotels near Red Bull Arena – Stay in Jersey City or Newark for easy stadium access.
• Luxury Hotels in Manhattan – Combine football with world-class sightseeing and nightlife.
• Budget Hotels in Queens & Brooklyn – Affordable options with direct transport to stadiums.
• Best Neighborhoods in New York for Football Fans – The Bronx for NYCFC, Jersey City for Red Bulls, or Manhattan for central access.

Pro Tip: New York’s public transport system makes it easy to base yourself centrally and still reach both stadiums.

Best Sports Bars & Places to Watch the Game

• Smithfield Hall (Manhattan) – A soccer mecca, popular with fans of NYCFC and European football.
• Legends NYC – Located near the Empire State Building, this bar shows matches from across the world.
• Carragher’s NYC – A Liverpool-themed pub and a hub for Premier League games.

See our full New York Sports Bars Guide

How to Get Around New York

New York’s subway, PATH trains, and buses connect all major boroughs. Yankee Stadium is accessible via the 4, B, and D subway lines, while Red Bull Arena is best reached by PATH to Harrison.

Read our New York Public Transport Guide

Insider Tip: On derby days, plan extra time—stadiums and trains get packed with rival fans.

Other Must-Visit Landmarks for Football Fans

• NYCFC Club Shop – Grab official team gear in the Bronx.
• Red Bull Arena Fan Plaza – A lively pre-match zone filled with food, drinks, and activities.
• Times Square & Midtown Pubs – Many bars here are dedicated to international football screenings.

Check our New York Football Landmarks Guide | New York Football Restaurants Guide

Final Whistle in New York

From the Hudson River Derby to iconic sports bars and a buzzing city atmosphere, New York is one of the ultimate soccer destinations in the U.S. Whether you’re cheering in the Bronx, across the Hudson in Harrison, or watching from a Manhattan pub, the city offers football fans an unforgettable experience.

What’s your favorite soccer memory in New York? Share your story and explore our other guides, including the Philadelphia Soccer Travel Guide and the Washington D.C. Soccer Travel Guide, to plan your next American football adventure.