The Ultimate Matchday Itinerary: What to Eat, See and Do Before the FIFA Final Kickoff 

As the exhilarating final of the FIFA Club World Cup approaches on July 13, 2025, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ, fans descending on New York and the Meadowlands of New Jersey have the perfect mix of food, culture, and excitement to enjoy before, during, and after the big match.  

Here’s the essential guide to exploring NYC and the New Jersey stadium area as you prepare for soccer history. 

A Few Days Before the Final Match: NYC Exploration & Eats

1. Dive into Summer Vibes & Culture

July in NYC is brimming with free summer concerts, outdoor film festivals, and street-style events. Catch Bryant Park’s Picnic Performances or their open-air movie nights — blankets encouraged. 

Hop on a kayak for a breezy waterfront glide from Pier 96 or Brooklyn Bridge Park, free and perfect for July afternoons.  

2. Celebrate 4th of July Early

Arrive early in July and partake in NYC’s legendary Fourth of July celebrations.  

Whether it’s fireworks cruises, rooftop viewings, or the iconic Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island, the city’s energy is unmatched.  

3. Broadway & More

Catch a Broadway show, some of which are highly anticipated during the first two weeks of July, like the revival of Sunset Boulevard, running through July 13.  

For something edgier, visit the freshly reopened Brooklyn Banks skate park under the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s iconic, crowd-pleasing, and the perfect urban adventure to round out your experience in New York City.

4. Dine Like a Local

Indulge in cuisine from standout NYC restaurants celebrating summer restaurant week.  

Don’t miss Semma in Greenwich Village, a South Indian gem recently named NYC’s No. 1 by The New York Times.  

Other stellar options: rooftop bars with skyline views, sushi at Little Island, Latin eats at Uptown Night Market in Harlem. All of these July culinary experiences bring the city’s best to your table.  

5. Move Around Smart

NYC’s bike paths along the Hudson offer both breeze and views. Rent a Citi Bike and cycle your way across Manhattan for a real, hands-on experience. Just don’t forget the hand sanitizer. 

Matchday Eve & the Road to MetLife 

1. Stay in Buzzing Manhattan or Near MetLife Stadium 

Skip the hotel and live like a New York City local ahead of game day. Stay in the exciting heart of Times Square or Midtown NYC—or close to the action near MetLife Stadium in Hoboken or Jersey City—with fully furnished apartments by Furnished Quarters.  

2. Pre-Match Eats & Atmosphere

Before your trip to the stadium, recharge at nearby fan-friendly restaurants.  

Think casual sports bars or take a train in — Ci Siamo and Carmine’s in Midtown are reliable group go-tos.  

3. Getting There Made Easy

Take NJ Transit: from Penn Station to Secaucus, then the Meadowlands Rail Line — you’re stadium-bound in roughly 45 minutes on event day.  

Alternatively, the Meadowlands Express coach bus runs from Port Authority for about $7 to 14, one-way. Rideshare fans can be dropped at Lot E. Stadium parking is $40 per vehicle.

4. Stadium Know-How & Amenities

Entry gates (including the Verizon Gate and Rideshare Zone) open several hours pre-game. Check prohibited items, and note ticket holders needing hard copies could face restrictions. Final ticket price: $60 via NJ Transit transport. Just be sure to plan ahead! 

Game Day: July 13, 2025

Morning: Fuel up with a hearty breakfast in Carlstadt or East Rutherford.  

Consider local diners for classic American comfort fare to prepare for the day ahead. It’s going to be a long day, make sure you’re eating and staying hydrated in the summer heat. 

Pre-Match: Arrive two to three hours before kickoff for fan zones, supporter villages, and chanting build-ups outside the stadium. 

Kickoff: Cheer for the Club World Cup trophy to be lifted with tens of thousands of pinpoint fans filling the 82,500-seat coliseum.  

Post-Match: Stick around for celebrations or soak in the calm of a post-final sunset and slow return via train or bus. 

The Day After: Recovery & Reflection

1. Relax in NYC

Ease muscle soreness with a visit to Othership NYC for sauna, meditation, and dip sessions, all ideal for recovery.  

If you’re not already too tired or sore, try strolling through some of NYC’s scenic parks.  

From Central Park to Bryant Park, or even the High Line — get a taste of New York’s green space and soak up its summer energy. It could also be worth considering the one-of-a-kind Little Island if you haven’t already, too. 

2. Shop or Sightsee

Head out to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, an hour away but worth the trip, for post-match retail therapy.  

Alternatively, take a cruise if that’s more your style. There are options abound from casual brunch trips to evening jazz cruises along Manhattan. The sights are unmatched! 

3. Late Lunch & Wings

Grab a late bite: flood into local bars back near the subway or Penn Station. Unwind with friends while reliving the match’s highlights. 

Final Thoughts, Plans & Prep

From vibrant NYC streets to the electric atmosphere of MetLife, your FIFA Club World Cup Final week in New York-New Jersey is poised to be an unforgettable blend of all things soccer and fun. 

• Culture & Cuisine: From Indian fine dining to rooftop bars, July is the city’s peak flavor season. 
• Events & Entertainment: Fireworks, concerts, kayaking, skate parks. There’s always next-level summer memory-making. 
• Sports & Logistics: Smart transit planning makes stadium entry seamless, allowing more time for pre-game hype and post-match relaxation. 

So, let’s lace up, savor every moment, and get ready for that final whistle on July 13. This itinerary ensures you don’t just attend a final, you live a celebration and make the most of your trip to the New York and New Jersey area.