Top 10 Things to Do in NYC Before a MetLife Stadium Match

For most international tourists attending matches at MetLife Stadium, the actual football is only half the draw. The other half is exploring the greatest city in the world: New York. If you are staying in Manhattan or taking the train in from New Jersey, you will likely have several free days to explore. The sheer scale of the city can be overwhelming, so prioritizing your itinerary is essential.

The Golden Rule of NYC Tourism

Do not attempt to see everything in one day. Manhattan is massive, and transit times between neighborhoods can take 45 minutes or more. Group your activities geographically. If you are visiting the Statue of Liberty (Downtown), spend the rest of the day exploring the Financial District and the Brooklyn Bridge. If you are visiting Central Park (Uptown), spend the afternoon at the nearby museums.

The Essential First-Timer Checklist

• Observation Decks:

  You must see the city from above. The Empire State Building is the classic choice, but the Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center) offers better views of Central Park, and the Edge (Hudson Yards) offers a thrilling glass-floor experience.

• Mastering the Subway:

  Do not rely on Ubers or taxis in Manhattan; the traffic will waste hours of your vacation. Download Google Maps, set it to "Transit" mode, and use the subway. You can pay simply by tapping your contactless credit card or Apple Pay at the turnstiles.

• Walking the High Line:

  This elevated park built on a historic freight rail line is arguably the best free attraction in the city. It winds through Chelsea and offers incredible architecture views, ending right near the fantastic Chelsea Market food hall.

Embrace the pace of the city. Walk fast, have a plan, and leave plenty of time to simply sit in a café and watch the incredible diversity of New York pass by.