What to do when visiting New York for a New York City FC game

Local New York City FC fans know New York City, whether they live in the city itself or in a nearby county.  They know where to go, where to avoid, and the tourist places they are willing to visit.  There is a reason the city is called the city that never sleeps, because there is so much to do. 

As such, if you are either a NYCFC supporter or traveling away team supporter, and visiting New York City for the first time, then there are plenty of places to go or things to do.  Whether it is a quick trip, long weekend, or full on vacation, with the focus on the NYCFC match, there is always time to get something in. 

So, here are some places and things to do that tourists and locals alike frequent when visiting or living in the Big Apple. 

Spend time in Central Park before a New York City FC game

New York City FC fans and everyone in the city know there is one place that is never overrated: Central Park.  It does not matter whether you are just walking through, taking in the sights, grabbing food, or spending time with friends; there is quite a bit to do. 

You can always find a place to eat.  Food vendors or restaurants that are in or near the park give plenty of options.  Plus, many will plan picnics and bring their own food for get-togethers. 

There are also quite a few walking paths throughout the park that allows you to be in nature.  Sometimes, especially deep within, it is easy to forget you are in a big and crazy city.  In addition, there are plenty of areas for kids to play, like the Ancient Playground.  There are also so many statues to admire, and the scenery itself, whether made or natural, is beautiful. 

Central Park is not just about nature, but there are plenty of places visit, like the Central Park Zoo or Belvedere Castle.  There is also an ice/roller rink and a carousel.  But it is not just the places you can go; the park has events like concerts and plays.  Shakespeare in the Park is an extremely popular event, and it is free.

It is easy to spend a full day in the city’s most popular park, and it can easily keep you entertained before a NYCFC match.

See a show and watch New York City FC

If you are spending a long weekend or longer in New York City, and will be attending a New York City FC game on a Saturday night, then go see a show.  It can be Broadway, off-Broadway, a local theatre, a comedy club… Just go and see something. 

New York City is known for the theatre and shows that occur in all five boroughs.  Of course, Broadway is the big thing, and it is an experience like no other.  However, you should find what you want to go see.  There are always so many shows, and it is a great way to spend a Friday night or Saturday afternoon. 

If you choose to see a Broadway show, you could see a 2 PM show on a Saturday, then run and catch a subway, and make your way to a 7:30 PM NYCFC game.  There are the typical shows like Wicked and Hamilton, but there over 40 to choose from.  And again, if nothing catches your eye on Broadway, look for the other shows around the city. 

One word of advice: New York City FC matches are family friendly, but if you have kids, make sure the show you choose is kid friendly. 

Visit another arena or stadium and see NYCFC play

For most of the season, New York City FC will play at Yankee Stadium or Citi Field.  As a visiting Pigeon or away team supporter, you will see one of the two stadiums.  Both have their uniqueness, and if you are not used to watching the beautiful game in a baseball stadium, then it will be a unique experience. 

But New York City is known for its sports, and where they play.  Therefore, if you have time, and there is another game happening the same weekend you are in town, then you should take advantage and see another team play. 

During the hockey and basketball seasons, visitors can see the Knicks or Rangers play at Madison Square Garden, which is historically one of the best arenas in the country.  For a more modern and new arena, the Nets play at the Barclays Center. 

More likely, when NYCFC is playing at Yankee Stadium, then the Mets might be at Citi Field.  If Bronx side is in Queens, then the Yankees might be home.  Perhaps there will be a 1 PM baseball game that you can attend on Saturday, and then make your way to the NYCFC fixture in the evening.  Or, you can go to a baseball game on Friday or Sunday. 

Every stadium and arena in New York City has something to offer.  When visiting, see New York City FC or your team play at Yankee Stadium or Citi Field, and go see another team play.