Introduction
As the FIFA World Cup approaches, fans are facing unprecedented travel challenges. The usual $13 train ticket from New York City to MetLife Stadium has skyrocketed to $105 for tournament matches, leaving many to wonder: can you simply walk there? The Guardian sent intrepid reporter Mark McPartland on foot to find out.
The Hike: Scenic but Grueling
McPartland began his journey in Manhattan, crossing into New Jersey via the George Washington Bridge. The route took him through some unexpectedly scenic areas, but the walk was no stroll in the park. Covering roughly 12 miles, the trek clocked in at around 4.5 hours. For European fans accustomed to pedestrian-friendly stadium approaches, the reality of American infrastructure soon became starkly apparent.
Pedestrian Infrastructure Fails the Test
What started as a determined urban hike ended in frustration. As McPartland neared the stadium, he encountered blocked pedestrian routes and highways with no safe crossing points. “Even the most adventurous hiker would be stopped in their tracks,” McPartland noted. The final approach to MetLife Stadium is designed entirely for vehicular traffic, with no sidewalks or pedestrian crossings. This is not just an inconvenience—it’s a safety hazard.
What This Means for World Cup Attendees
With the World Cup expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors, the lack of pedestrian access raises serious concerns. While local clubs like New York Red Bulls and New York City FC play in more accessible venues, MetLife’s car-centric design is a legacy of outdated planning. For the tournament, fans are advised to budget for the steep train fare or seek alternative transportation—but walking is not a viable option.
To see the full journey, watch The Guardian's original video.
Key Takeaways
- Walking from NYC to MetLife Stadium takes about 4.5 hours but is ultimately impossible due to blocked pedestrian access.
- The World Cup-related price hike for train tickets to $105 has pushed fans to explore extreme alternatives.
- American infrastructure around the stadium heavily prioritizes cars, posing safety risks for pedestrians.
- Visitors should plan on paying the inflated transportation costs or arrange ridesharing.
Quick Facts
Train ticket price (usual): $13
Train ticket price (World Cup): $105
Walking distance: ~12 miles
Walking time: 4.5 hours
Pedestrian access to stadium: Blocked
