If you're traveling to New York City for FIFA, you're already in for an unforgettable experience. But once the final whistle blows, what should you do with the rest of your time?
Whether you're visiting for a single match, extending your stay for the weekend, or squeezing sightseeing into a packed schedule, New York offers world-famous attractions, incredible food, iconic neighborhoods, and experiences you won't find anywhere else.
Here's how to make the most of 48 hours in NYC during FIFA.
Day 1: Experience the Energy of Midtown Manhattan
Start Your Morning in Times Square
No first trip to New York is complete without seeing Times Square. The bright lights, giant billboards, street performers, and nonstop energy capture the excitement of the city like nowhere else.
Grab a coffee and take in the atmosphere before the crowds peak.
Discover New York at RiseNY
If you're looking for one attraction that delivers the story, spirit, and excitement of New York in a single visit, make RiseNY your next stop.
Located in the heart of Times Square, RiseNY combines museum exhibits, immersive galleries, and a soaring flying theater experience that lets guests glide over the city's most iconic landmarks.
Perfect for FIFA visitors with limited time, RiseNY allows you to experience New York's culture, entertainment, fashion, finance, music, and Broadway history before virtually taking flight above the skyline.
Why FIFA visitors love RiseNY:
- Located steps from Times Square hotels and Broadway theaters
- An indoor experience that's ideal rain or shine
- Family-friendly and suitable for all ages
- A unique way to experience New York without spending hours traveling between attractions
- One of the few attractions where you can "fly" over the city in under an hour
If you're wondering what to do in NYC between FIFA matches, RiseNY belongs at the top of the list.
Lunch in Hell's Kitchen
Just west of Times Square, Hell's Kitchen offers some of Manhattan's best dining options. From classic New York pizza to international cuisine, you'll find something to satisfy every appetite before your next adventure.
Spend the Afternoon Exploring Central Park
Walk north to Central Park and discover one of the world's most famous urban parks.
Highlights include:
- Bethesda Terrace and Fountain
- Bow Bridge
- Sheep Meadow
- Strawberry Fields
- The Mall and Literary Walk
It's the perfect way to balance the excitement of FIFA with a little fresh air and classic New York scenery.
Catch a Broadway Show
As the curtain rises, experience another New York institution: Broadway.
Whether you choose a long-running favorite, a family musical, or a critically acclaimed new production, seeing a Broadway show is one of the most memorable ways to spend an evening in the city.
Day 2: Explore Downtown and Beyond
Visit Lower Manhattan
Start your second day by heading downtown to discover another side of New York City.
Popular stops include:
- The Financial District
- Wall Street
- The Charging Bull
- The Oculus
- Battery Park
From Battery Park, you'll also enjoy views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor.
Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
One of the city's most iconic experiences is crossing the Brooklyn Bridge on foot.
The walk offers incredible views of Manhattan's skyline and provides countless photo opportunities to remember your FIFA trip.
Explore Brooklyn
Once across the bridge, spend time exploring Brooklyn's waterfront neighborhoods.
Enjoy lunch, browse local shops, and take in panoramic views of Manhattan from Brooklyn Bridge Park.
End Your Trip with a Classic New York Dinner
Before heading home—or on to your next FIFA match—treat yourself to one last New York meal.
Whether it's a steakhouse, a neighborhood Italian restaurant, a classic deli, or another slice of pizza, dining in New York is an experience in itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should FIFA visitors do in NYC between matches?
RiseNY, Times Square, Central Park, Broadway, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Lower Manhattan are among the best attractions for visitors with limited time.
Is RiseNY worth visiting during a FIFA trip?
Yes. RiseNY is one of the best things to do in NYC for FIFA visitors because it combines immersive exhibits and a flying theater experience in a convenient Times Square location, making it easy to fit into a busy itinerary.
What are family-friendly things to do in NYC during FIFA?
RiseNY, Central Park, Broadway shows, and walking the Brooklyn Bridge are all excellent family-friendly activities that appeal to visitors of all ages.
How many days do you need in New York City?
While you could spend weeks exploring the city, 48 hours is enough time to experience many of New York's highlights, especially if you focus on iconic neighborhoods and centrally located attractions.
Make Every Minute Count
FIFA may be the reason you're coming to New York City, but the city itself deserves a place on your itinerary.
From the bright lights of Times Square and the magic of Broadway to skyline views from the Brooklyn Bridge, there are endless ways to experience the energy that makes New York unforgettable.
And if you want to capture the heart of the city in one immersive attraction, RiseNY offers an experience unlike any other—bringing together New York's history, culture, and excitement before lifting you into the skies above the city itself.
Your FIFA trip only lasts a few days. Make every hour count.
