World Cup Final Weekend at Kensico Dam Plaza

We've pulled together a fun itinerary for the whole family to celebrate the FIFA World Cup with plenty of events and activities to enjoy, plus a momentous Watch Party at the Kensico Dam Plaza for the final game.

Day 1: Arrive, Settle In & Explore

Getting There

• Metro-North Railroad to White Plains or Tarrytown (~35 minutes from Grand Central)
• Short taxi or rideshare to your hotel or Kensico Dam area

Where to Stay

• Sonesta White Plains Downtown - freshly renovated hotel with an onsite restaurant
• Cambria Hotel White Plains - featuring oversized suites
• Westchester Marriott (Tarrytown) - stylish rooms, onsite restaurant and spa

Afternoon: Ease Into Westchester

• Stroll downtown White Plains and indulge in a freshly-made coffee and pastry from Tous Les Jours or Pampelmousse
• Take Metro-North to explore nearby towns like Chappaqua or Mount Kisco for shopping and a relaxed village atmosphere. While in Mount Kisco, be sure to try a pint of cask beer at the UK-style Ambleside Pub. 

Dinner Ideas in White Plains

• The Brazen Fox (American Craft Beer Bar)
• Chazz Palminteri (Italian)
• Fogo de Chao (Brazilian steakhouse)
• Freebird Kitchen & Bar (American)
• Hudson Grille (Steak and seafood)
• Inca Gaucho (Peruvian)
• Walter’s Hot Dogs (American - a Westchester institution)
• Wolf & Warrior Brewing Company (Brewery and beer garden)

Day 2: New York State United – 2026 World Cup Watch Experience

Kensico Dam Plaza, July 19, 2026

Start the Day with a Hike and Brunch

• Walk or bike the Bronx River Pathway, a scenic and easy outing for all ages. Bikes can be rented from: 
  • Endless Trail Bikeworx 
  • Pedal Peekskill
  • Danny’s Cycles

• Hike Rockefeller State Park Preserve (Pleasantville) or stroll the Donald M. Kendall Sculpture Gardens (Purchase)

• Brunch at Lily's (White Plains) or The Farm Cafe, a Valhalla favorite known for farm-to-table fare and easy proximity to the train

Afternoon → Evening: The Main Event

As part of a statewide World Cup celebration, Kensico Dam Plaza transforms into one of New York's most iconic places to watch the final. View the match surrounded by fans in a stunning outdoor setting with a host of family-friendly activities and delicious food options.

Schedule:

12:00pm: Doors open
12:00pm-3:00pm: Family-friendly activities
3:00pm: Match kickoff

Tips for the day: 

• Arrive early and claim your spot on the lawn (the game begins at 3:00pm)
• Be prepared with plenty of water and sunscreen

Day 3: Recover + Explore

After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, spend the day enjoying these Westchester attractions: 

• Spend time at Playland Park in Rye, a classic waterfront amusement park with rides, games, plenty of food options and boardwalk views—perfect for families
• Visit Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture in Tarrytown to tour the farm and enjoy farm-to-table food in The Cafeteria.