Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Soccer Fans
Top Things to Do in New York City for Soccer Fans
1. Yankee Stadium
Home base for NYCFC, Yankee Stadium transforms into a lively soccer cauldron with tifos, drums, and nonstop singing echoing through the Bronx.
✓ Why Go:
Catch top-flight MLS action and soak up the supporter culture without leaving the city limits.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
March–October during MLS season; evening kickoffs amplify atmosphere.
✓ Insider Tip:
Arrive early to explore River Avenue pregame spots and breeze through security; review bag policies before you go.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans praise the energy, quick subway access, and family-friendly sections.
2. Citi Field
Queens’ ballpark regularly hosts international friendlies and select NYCFC dates, offering excellent sightlines and robust concessions.
✓ Why Go:
See global clubs and national teams in an easy-to-reach venue with modern amenities.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late spring to late summer when international tours swing through NYC.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pick lower-bowl seats near midfield for the best view when the pitch is laid over the diamond.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the food variety and smooth game-day operations.
3. Pier 40 at Hudson River Park
A massive waterfront complex with multiple soccer pitches and league play, framed by skyline and river views in the West Village.
✓ Why Go:
Jump into a pickup game or book a field with friends in one of NYC’s most photogenic soccer spots.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday evenings and sunset slots; mild spring and early fall are ideal.
✓ Insider Tip:
Wear turf or flats—studs are often restricted—and bring a light layer for breezy nights on the water.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Players rave about the cityscape backdrop and quality field surfaces.
4. Bushwick Inlet Park Soccer Field
Williamsburg’s riverside turf, steps from cafés and breweries, draws a steady stream of leagues and open play.
✓ Why Go:
Combine a game with a Brooklyn food crawl and waterfront stroll.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon into evening, especially in summer for golden-hour views.
✓ Insider Tip:
Fields are popular—arrive early for pickup and bring water; shade is limited.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Locals love the community vibe and post-match options nearby.
5. Soccer Roof Industry City
Rooftop five-a-side in Sunset Park with skyline views and fast-paced games on premium turf.
✓ Why Go:
Play small-sided matches in a uniquely NYC setting above the waterfront warehouses.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings year-round; summer nights are especially vibrant.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book courts in advance and bring a photo ID for check-in.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Players call it a bucket-list venue for urban soccer.
6. SoFive Brooklyn
A dedicated indoor complex in East New York with multiple small-sided fields, leagues, and pickup sessions.
✓ Why Go:
Reliable climate-controlled play and an easy way to join organized games while visiting.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknights and weekend mornings for structured pickup.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring turf shoes and arrive early—games turn over quickly between slots.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers praise the well-run leagues and friendly competition.
7. Smithfield Hall
Chelsea’s flagship soccer pub streams matches from MLS, EPL, and beyond across wall-to-wall screens.
✓ Why Go:
Experience multi-league matchdays with proper atmosphere and hearty pub fare.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend mornings for European games; evenings for MLS and cup ties.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve for big derbies or finals—doors can open early for 7:30 a.m. kickoffs.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans laud the sound, sightlines, and lively yet welcoming crowd.
8. Legends (The Football Factory)
Underneath Legends near the Empire State Building, this subterranean shrine is home to countless supporters’ clubs.
✓ Why Go:
Watch with diehards whose chants and rituals bring matches to life.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early weekend windows for EPL; late afternoons for Champions League midweeks.
✓ Insider Tip:
Wear your club colors—sections often group by team allegiance.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the authentic supporters’ culture and matchday buzz.
9. Banter Bar
A Williamsburg favorite where European and MLS fixtures fill the screens and conversation spills onto the sidewalk.
✓ Why Go:
Enjoy top-tier match broadcasts with craft beer in a neighborhood setting.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Saturday and Sunday mornings for Europe; evenings for MLS and NWSL streams.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check social feeds for special viewing parties and limited-capacity events.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Patrons highlight the friendly staff and knowledgeable crowd.
10. Rocco B. Commisso Soccer Stadium (Columbia University)
Intimate, riverside venue in Inwood where you can catch NCAA Division I men’s and women’s matches.
✓ Why Go:
See future pros up close with affordable tickets and classic college-soccer intensity.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
September–November for Ivy League play under crisp fall skies.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bundle a game with a walk through nearby Inwood Hill Park for pre- or post-match scenery.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors appreciate the close-to-the-action seats and neighborhood feel.
