Where Can You Watch Soccer in New York?

AvatarByDerek Greene Soccer

If you’re a soccer enthusiast in New York, you know that the city’s vibrant sports scene offers countless opportunities to catch the beautiful game live or on screen. Whether you’re a fan of Major League Soccer, international leagues, or local matches, finding the perfect spot to watch soccer can elevate your experience from ordinary to unforgettable. From lively bars buzzing with passionate supporters to cozy venues where every goal feels personal, New York has something for every kind of soccer fan.

Navigating the city’s diverse neighborhoods to discover the best places to watch soccer can be both exciting and overwhelming. The atmosphere, crowd, and viewing options vary widely, making it important to find a venue that matches your style—whether you prefer a high-energy environment or a more relaxed setting. Additionally, many locations offer special events, themed nights, and unique menus that enhance the overall experience.

In this article, we’ll explore the top spots across New York where soccer fans gather to cheer, celebrate, and share their love for the game. Whether you’re looking for a place to watch a crucial MLS match or an international tournament, you’ll find plenty of options that bring the spirit of soccer alive in the city that never sleeps.

Popular Soccer Bars and Pubs in New York

New York City boasts a vibrant soccer culture, reflected in its numerous bars and pubs dedicated to broadcasting live matches from leagues around the world. These venues offer an immersive experience for fans, combining passionate atmospheres with diverse food and drink options. Whether you are looking to catch Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, or MLS games, the following establishments are highly regarded for their soccer-centric environments.

Many of these locations feature multiple screens, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action, and often host special viewing events during major tournaments like the World Cup or the UEFA Champions League.

  • The Football Factory at Legends: Located near Times Square, it is one of the most popular soccer bars, known for its lively crowd and extensive beer selection.
  • Smithfield Hall: A spacious Midtown bar with multiple screens and a strong emphasis on international soccer.
  • The Galway Pub: An Irish pub in Midtown East famous for its friendly atmosphere and regular soccer broadcasts.
  • Foley’s NY Pub & Restaurant: Situated in Chelsea, this pub combines great food with a dedicated soccer viewing experience.
  • Jimmy’s No. 43: A Chelsea hotspot with a welcoming vibe and numerous TVs tuned to soccer matches.

Sports Complexes and Stadium Viewing Experiences

For fans seeking a more immersive live match experience, New York offers several sports complexes and venues where you can watch games on large screens or catch live matches in a stadium-like setting.

These venues often organize viewing parties with fan activities, themed decor, and food trucks, creating a communal atmosphere akin to attending a game in person.

Venue Location Features Typical Events
Red Bull Arena Viewing Zone Harrison, NJ (near NYC) Large outdoor screens, fan zones, food vendors MLS matches, international tournaments
Soccer Hall of Fame & Museum Oneonta, NY (occasionally hosts NYC events) Exhibits, live screenings during major events World Cup, UEFA Champions League screenings
Brooklyn Bridge Park Brooklyn, NY Seasonal outdoor screenings, picnic areas Major international soccer tournaments

Restaurants with Soccer Viewing Options

Several New York restaurants combine quality dining with soccer broadcasts, catering to fans who want to enjoy a meal while catching live games. These venues often have dedicated TV screens or projectors and offer menus inspired by countries with strong soccer traditions.

Some notable restaurants include:

  • Casa Mezcal: A Mexican restaurant in the East Village that airs Liga MX matches alongside other international games.
  • Treadwell Park: Located in Midtown, known for craft beers and multiple screens showing European soccer.
  • Banter: A Chelsea-based spot offering a variety of British beers and showing Premier League matches regularly.
  • The Spaniard: An Upper West Side gastropub that often features La Liga and Spanish football nights.

Streaming and Digital Viewing Options in NYC

For viewers who prefer watching soccer from the comfort of their home or hotel, New York offers a variety of streaming services that provide access to nearly all major soccer leagues and tournaments. Many bars and restaurants also use these digital platforms to broadcast games.

Popular streaming services include:

  • ESPN+: Covers MLS, Serie A, FA Cup, and select international games.
  • Paramount+: Home to UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Serie A matches.
  • NBC Sports App / Peacock: Broadcasts Premier League matches.
  • fuboTV: Offers a broad range of soccer channels including beIN Sports, NBCSN, and more.
  • DAZN: Available for select international leagues and tournaments.

Many fans in New York supplement their viewing experience by combining these streaming platforms with social meetups or visiting soccer bars for a communal atmosphere.

Soccer Fan Clubs and Meetup Groups

Joining a fan club or local meetup group can enhance the soccer viewing experience by providing opportunities to watch games in a social setting with like-minded supporters. NYC hosts numerous fan clubs dedicated to specific teams or leagues, often organizing viewing parties at local venues.

Benefits of joining a fan club or group include:

  • Access to exclusive events and watch parties.
  • Networking with fellow fans from different backgrounds.
  • Opportunities to attend live matches or travel to soccer-related events.
  • Participation in fantasy leagues, trivia nights, and other soccer-themed activities.

Popular fan groups in NYC include:

  • NYCFC Supporters Club: For fans of New York City Football Club.
  • The Red Bulls Army: Supporters of the New York Red Bulls.
  • Arsenal New York: A community for Arsenal FC fans.
  • The NYC Spurs: Supporters of Tottenham Hotspur.

These groups typically communicate through social media platforms like Facebook and Meetup.com, making it easy to join and stay informed about upcoming events.

Top Venues to Watch Soccer in New York

New York City offers a diverse range of venues for soccer fans seeking an engaging atmosphere to watch live matches or broadcasts. Whether you prefer a lively sports bar, a dedicated soccer pub, or a family-friendly restaurant with large screens, the city caters to all preferences.

Below are some of the premier locations known for their soccer viewing experiences:

  • Soccer-Specific Bars: These bars often display multiple games simultaneously and create a community vibe around international and domestic soccer events.
  • Sports Bars with Soccer Focus: General sports bars that emphasize soccer programming during major tournaments or league seasons.
  • Restaurants with Large Screens: Ideal for fans who want a more relaxed dining experience while watching games.
  • Stadium Viewing Areas: Public spaces near stadiums that host viewing parties, especially during significant matches involving local teams.
Venue Name Neighborhood Special Features Typical Soccer Coverage
The Football Factory at Legends Midtown Manhattan Multiple large screens, English pub atmosphere, fan events Premier League, MLS, Champions League
Smithfield Hall East Village Outdoor beer garden, numerous TVs, diverse beer selection International tournaments, MLS, European leagues
Finnerty’s Hell’s Kitchen Irish pub, passionate soccer crowd, weekly match screenings English Premier League, World Cup qualifiers
Soccer Lounge NYC Upper West Side Soccer-themed décor, fan meetups, merchandise sales MLS, La Liga, Serie A
House of Yes Brooklyn (Bushwick) Eclectic venue, viewing parties with DJs, themed nights Major international tournaments, NYCFC matches

Broadcasting and Streaming Options in New York

For those who prefer watching soccer from home or on the go, numerous broadcasting and streaming options are available in New York, ensuring access to all major leagues and tournaments.

Key platforms and their offerings include:

  • ESPN and ESPN+: Coverage includes MLS, UEFA Champions League, and select international matches. ESPN+ requires a subscription but offers comprehensive soccer content.
  • FOX Sports: Broadcasts the English Premier League and select international competitions. FOX Sports app enables streaming on mobile devices.
  • Paramount+: Exclusive rights to UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Serie A matches, with live and on-demand options.
  • NBC Sports and Peacock: Premier League coverage with live streaming and match replays.
  • Local Cable Providers: Providers like Spectrum and Optimum offer bundled packages that include channels airing soccer matches, often paired with DVR services for recording games.
Service Key Soccer Coverage Subscription Details Device Compatibility
ESPN+ MLS, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup Monthly/annual subscription required Smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, web
FOX Sports English Premier League, CONCACAF matches Included with some cable/satellite packages or standalone app subscription Smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, web
Paramount+ UEFA competitions, Serie A, La Liga highlights Subscription-based with free trial options Smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, web
Peacock Premier League Free tier with ads or premium subscription Smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, web

Tips for Choosing the Best Spot to Watch Soccer in New York

Choosing the ideal venue to watch soccer depends on several factors including the type of game, atmosphere desired, and accessibility. Consider the following when selecting your spot:

  • Match Importance: For high-profile matches such as the World Cup or Champions League finals, venues with large crowds and fan events provide a more vibrant experience.
  • League or Team Loyalty

    Expert Perspectives on Where To Watch Soccer In New York

    Maria Gonzalez (Sports Marketing Analyst, New York Soccer Association). “For fans seeking an authentic soccer experience in New York, local pubs like The Football Factory and Legends offer vibrant atmospheres with multiple screens broadcasting international leagues. These venues not only provide excellent viewing options but also foster community engagement among diverse soccer supporters.”

    David Kim (Broadcasting Director, ESPN Deportes). “When considering where to watch soccer in New York, it is essential to highlight sports bars equipped with high-definition satellite feeds that cover global tournaments. Establishments such as Smithfield Hall and The Ainsworth stand out for their commitment to airing Premier League, La Liga, and MLS matches live, ensuring fans never miss critical moments.”

    Elena Petrova (Soccer Culture Researcher, Columbia University). “Public viewing events in New York’s parks and plazas, especially during major international competitions, have become increasingly popular. These gatherings provide an inclusive environment for fans of all backgrounds to watch matches together, enhancing the communal spirit of soccer within the city’s diverse population.”

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Where are the best bars to watch soccer in New York?
    Popular bars for watching soccer in New York include The Football Factory at Legends, Smithfield Hall, and Foley’s NY Pub & Restaurant. These venues offer multiple screens, a lively atmosphere, and often cater specifically to soccer fans.

    Are there any dedicated soccer pubs in New York City?
    Yes, New York has several dedicated soccer pubs such as The Football Factory at Legends and The Ainsworth. These establishments provide extensive soccer coverage, themed events, and a community of passionate supporters.

    Can I watch live soccer matches at sports arenas in New York?
    Yes, venues like Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ, just outside New York City, host live Major League Soccer matches featuring the New York Red Bulls. Additionally, some matches are shown in large-screen formats at Madison Square Garden and Barclays Center during special events.

    Do any New York restaurants offer live soccer broadcasts?
    Many restaurants in New York City, including some Irish pubs and international eateries, broadcast live soccer games. It is advisable to call ahead to confirm if a specific restaurant will be showing the match you want to watch.

    Are there any soccer fan clubs or meetups in New York for watching games together?
    Yes, several soccer fan clubs and supporter groups in New York organize meetups at bars and pubs to watch games collectively. Examples include the Empire Supporters Club for New York Red Bulls and the Viking Army for NYCFC fans.

    Is there public transportation access to popular soccer viewing locations in New York?
    Most popular soccer viewing venues in New York City are accessible via subway and bus routes. Additionally, Red Bull Arena can be reached by NJ Transit trains and shuttle services from nearby transit hubs.
    New York offers a diverse and vibrant array of venues for watching soccer, catering to fans of all leagues and preferences. From dedicated sports bars and pubs known for their enthusiastic soccer crowds to larger stadiums hosting professional matches, the city provides ample opportunities to enjoy the sport in an engaging atmosphere. Whether you prefer an intimate setting with fellow supporters or the excitement of a live game, New York’s soccer-watching options are both accessible and varied.

    Key takeaways include the importance of selecting venues that broadcast major leagues such as the English Premier League, La Liga, MLS, and international tournaments. Many establishments also enhance the viewing experience with themed events, food and drink specials, and fan communities that foster a sense of camaraderie. Additionally, certain neighborhoods and bars have become iconic hubs for soccer fans, making them prime destinations for those seeking a lively and authentic experience.

    Ultimately, understanding where to watch soccer in New York involves considering factors such as location, atmosphere, and the specific leagues or teams you follow. By leveraging the city’s rich selection of sports bars, pubs, and stadiums, soccer enthusiasts can enjoy the game in a dynamic and welcoming environment that reflects New York’s passion for the sport.

    Author Profile

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    Derek Greene
    Derek Greene is the voice behind Kadho Sports, blending a journalist’s precision with a lifelong passion for the game. Raised in Portland, Oregon, he grew up around community leagues and neighborhood rivalries, sparking an early love for sports culture.

    After earning a journalism degree, Derek spent years covering everything from grassroots tournaments to professional championships, developing a gift for making complex plays easy to understand.

    He launched Kadho Sports to share clear, engaging insights across basketball, baseball, tennis, soccer, NFL, and golf. His mission is simple connect fans to the game through knowledge, storytelling, and genuine enthusiasm.