Pelé’s New York: Exploring the Manhattan Sites of His American Soccer Era

Tickets: $39.98 ( incl. $4.98 fees ) (advance registration required)

Click the link below to officially register for this experience:

https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1984486617895

Edson Arantes do Nascimento — better known to the world as Pelé — rose from humble beginnings in Brazil to become the most celebrated soccer player in history, winning three World Cups and captivating millions with his extraordinary talent. By the time he arrived in New York City in 1975 to join the New York Cosmos, the global icon had already transformed the sport. In honor of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it’s time to explore the Manhattan landmarks tied to Pelé’s unforgettable American chapter.

Join New York Adventure Club as we hit the streets for a special walking tour through Midtown Manhattan that retraces Pelé’s remarkable New York story — from the moment the Brazilian superstar arrived to sign with the Cosmos to the glamorous social scene that surrounded him during soccer’s most electric era in America.

Led by licensed New York City Tour Guide Ann McDermott, our unique experience will include:

• A discussion of Pelé’s groundbreaking arrival in 1975, and how his signing with the New York Cosmos helped ignite a soccer revolution across the United States
• A visit to the Plaza Hotel and Grand Army Plaza, where Pelé stayed during his trip to New York to finalize his historic Cosmos contract
• A walk past the former site of the legendary 21 Club, the iconic Midtown restaurant where Pelé officially signed with the Cosmos
• An overview of the corporate forces behind the Cosmos, including Warner Communications and the influential figures tied to Park Avenue Plaza and Rockefeller Center
• A stop outside the former Studio 54, where Pelé mingled with celebrities, athletes, and cultural icons during the height of New York’s legendary nightlife

See you there!

*Please bring a water bottle and comfortable pair of shoes as we’ll be doing a lot of walking!
**This tour concludes on 54th Street near 8th Avenue

About Ann
Ann McDermott, a native born New Yorker has spent her whole life in NYC born in Brooklyn, working in midtown and going to Rock shows where ever they happened. She's spent the bulk of her career in IT in various positions and she's well versed in the technology behind the music as well as the people who "made it happen". Once upon a time she worked for Warner Cable the company that launched MTV as well as ATCO records. In 2019 she became a licensed New York City Tour Guide and looks forward to showing you around!

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Event takes place rain or shine.
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Photo Credit: Main - Dave Merrell, Top Right - Ivan Rohovchenko
Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours