World Cup Itinerary: Make Bucks County Your Base for Philadelphia & New York City Match Days

If you’re headed to the FIFA World Cup in Philadelphia or New York City this summer, confirm your match date, map your route, and create an off-day itinerary to make the most of your trip. Bucks County is close to both cities but away from the crowds, with convenient public transit that will get you to the game on time. It’s also a destination in its own right, with small-town dining and family-friendly attractions to keep you occupied between matches.

Before You Go – Key Dates & Getting There 

Philadelphia will host six matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Lincoln Financial Field on June 14, 19, 22, 25, 27, and July 4 — capped by a Round of 16 match that coincides with Independence Day and America’s 250th anniversary. New York/New Jersey will also take center stage, hosting eight matches at MetLife Stadium on June 13, 16, 22, 25, 27, and 30, followed by a Round of 16 match on July 5 and the World Cup Final on July 19.  

Bucks County offers straightforward access to both Philadelphia and New York City, putting you between two major host stadiums. For full match schedules, stadium details, and travel options, check our World Cup hub for the most up‑to‑date information. 

Your Match‑Day Plan 

Morning in Bucks County 

The game is sure to provide all the excitement you need, so take it easy by starting your match‑day morning with something simple and grounding. Grab coffee from a local café in towns like Doylestown, New Hope, or Yardley, where you can take a quiet walk past independent shops, historic streets, and early‑morning river or town‑center views. It’s an easy, relaxed way to ease into the day before you make your way into Philadelphia for the match. 

Head to the Stadium Early 

Plan to arrive at the stadium about 3 hours before kickoff. This gives you plenty of time to move through security, settle in, and enjoy the match‑day atmosphere. The SEPTA Broad Street Line offers a direct ride to NRG Station, which sits right beside the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, making it the easiest way to get there on a busy game day. 

After the Final Whistle 

Head back to Bucks County on SEPTA and wind down from the day. If you’re still in the mood for more soccer, catch another match on TV at one of our top sports bars. Or, if you’re ready to celebrate, stop by a local brewery along the Bucks County Ale Trail for a post‑game drink.

Off‑Day Ideas Between Matches 

Outdoor Fun & Adventure 

Bucks County has outdoor activities for all ages and energy levels. Spend an easy half-day at Shady Brook Farm in Yardley exploring the Farm Market and Garden Center, picking some fruits, veggies, or flowers, and grabbing a drink at Stone’s Throw Pub. On a Friday or Saturday night, you might even catch a concert out on the patio.  

Hellerick’s Adventure Farm in Doylestown also offers farm-based attractions that are great for kids, such as veggie picking, hayrides, and farm animal encounters, as well as a ropes course and a climbing wall.  

A short drive across town leads you to Peace Valley Lavender Farm, where roughly 3,000 lavender plants blanket the hillside in peak bloom each June and July. The year‑round shop is filled with handmade lavender products, making it a calm and scenic stop between activities.  

Those looking to ramp things up can head to TreeTrails Adventures in Trevose, which features ziplining courses for both children and adults, providing an easy way to elevate the adrenaline. 

Sesame Place Philadelphia in Langhorne brings out the kid in everyone (the little ones and the little‑ones‑at‑heart) with more than 25 Sesame Street–themed rides, water attractions, character meet‑and‑greets, and seasonal parades. 

For a quirky geologic adventure, pack a hammer and head to Ringing Rocks Park in Upper Black Eddy. After an easy one-mile hike, you’ll reach a huge boulder field filled with rocks that ring like bells when struck. Or take a ride on the New Hope Railroad, enjoying the scenic Bucks County countryside and the historic Witch’s Hat Train Station. 

Museums & Historic Sites 

Spend a day on Doylestown’s Mercer Mile to experience a unique slice of Bucks County history. See more than 40,000 pre-industrial American artifacts in the Mercer Museum, and then take a tour of Fonthill Castle, the former home of their collector, Henry Mercer. If you’re still curious about this archeologist and artifact collector, continue to Moravian Pottery and Tile Works to learn about his historic pottery-making methods. 

History buffs will appreciate spending a day at Washington Crossing Historic Park, where visitors can take a guided tour and explore Revolutionary-era buildings and exhibits, or enjoy a pleasant day hiking and picnicking by the Delaware River. Then, head to Pennsbury Manor in Morrisville, the reconstructed country estate of William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania. Take a guided tour or explore at your own pace as you learn about 17th-century life. 

Art lovers can view the largest collection of impressionist paintings by Pennsylvanian artists at the Michener Art Museum in Doylestown, along with special exhibits and an outdoor sculpture garden. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love the Bucks County Children’s Museum in New Hope; it’s full of interactive, play-based history and science exhibits. 

Small‑Town Strolls: Shopping & Dining by Town 

Bucks County features several small towns perfect for a leisurely day of strolling and dining. Doylestown is known for its restaurant row, cultural district, and independent shops. Start your day with a brunch in the historic Hattery Stove & Still, then make a quick stop at Bucks Country Gardens to browse the boutique and greenhouse. Music lovers can hunt for vintage vinyl and CDs at Siren Records before heading to Jules Thin Crust for a slice of organic pizza. 

New Hope is an artsy river town with lots of eclectic shops. Go for a coffee and a confection as you browse the vendors at the Ferry Market. For something more elevated, enjoy a classy brunch overlooking the Delaware River at Stella of New Hope. Share small plates as you savor a few drinks at Nektar, a wine, beer, and whiskey lounge. End your day with dinner and a view at Martin’s Riverhouse Restaurant. 

In Newtown, indulge in a farm-to-table meal at Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar. Then stop for dessert at Nina’s Waffles & Ice Cream, a beloved Bucks County spot known for its fresh waffles topped with your choice of ice cream. It also has locations in Doylestown, Peddler’s Village, New Hope, and Dublin. 

Begin your morning in Yardley with breakfast and coffee at Pretty Bird Coffee Roasters. Later, grab a pint at Vault Brewing Company and enjoy the speakeasy vibe of this repurposed bank building. If you like bicycles, don’t forget to check out the top-of-the-line bikes and gear at Firehouse Cycles. When you’re ready for a meal, Charcoal BYOB, a family restaurant, serves locally sourced dishes with a modern twist, perfect for either lunch or dinner. 

Peddler’s Village is one of Bucks County’s signature destinations. With more than 60 unique shops and restaurants in this charming fairytale village, there’s plenty to explore, including sand sculptures commemorating America’s 250th year. When you get hungry, try colonial American favorites at the Cock ‘n Bull. On July 4, attend a family-friendly Red, White, and Blueberries BBQ Bash, filled with music, games, and fun. 

Scenic Add‑On 

For a low-effort, high-impact off-day, take our covered bridge driving tour. See all or some of our 12 covered bridges as you drive across the countryside and pass through many of our towns. Be sure to leave some extra time to explore the bridges in Tyler State Park. 

No Ticket? Here’s Where to Watch 

If you want to take in the excitement of a match but don’t have a ticket, head to one of our sports bars and restaurants known for their plentiful screens and lively atmosphere. Philadelphia & New York City will also host large-scale fan events and activities during the tournament, so you may wish to head into the city to experience the excitement. 

Plan Your World Cup Getaway 

If you’re headed to the FIFA World Cup in Philadelphia & New York City this summer, confirm your match date, map your route and create an off-day itinerary to make the most of your trip. Bucks County has lots of comfortable and convenient places to stay, and we can help you plan your visit beyond your World Cup itinerary.