You're planning a trip to MetLife Stadium, perhaps for a thrilling NFL game, a spectacular concert, or another exciting event! Getting there can seem a bit daunting, especially if you're not familiar with the area, but taking the train is absolutely one of the most convenient and stress-free ways to reach the stadium. Let's break down exactly how you can do it, step-by-step. ️
Step 1: Are You Ready to Ditch the Driving Stress?
Before we dive into the specifics, ask yourself: Are you tired of traffic jams, expensive parking, and the hassle of navigating crowded roads on event days? If the answer is a resounding YES!, then taking the train is definitely for you. NJ TRANSIT offers direct rail service right to MetLife Stadium for most major events, making it a fantastic alternative to driving.
Step 2: Understanding the NJ TRANSIT System: Your Gateway to the Stadium
The key to getting to MetLife Stadium by train lies with NJ TRANSIT, New Jersey's public transportation system. Their Meadowlands Rail Service is specifically designed to bring fans directly to the stadium.
Sub-heading: The Central Hub: Secaucus Junction
Almost all NJ TRANSIT rail lines connect at the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. Think of Secaucus Junction as your main transfer point. No matter where you're coming from on the NJ TRANSIT rail system, you'll likely pass through or connect here.
Sub-heading: The Final Leg: Meadowlands Rail Line
From Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line. This dedicated shuttle service takes you directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station, which is literally steps away from MetLife Stadium's front door. The travel time between Secaucus Junction and the Sports Complex is typically around 10 minutes.
Step 3: Planning Your Journey: Where Are You Starting From?
Your starting point will dictate the initial part of your train journey.
Sub-heading: Traveling from New York City (Penn Station New York)
If you're coming from Manhattan, your primary starting point will be New York Penn Station.
Board an NJ TRANSIT train to Secaucus Junction. Look for trains marked with "SEC" on the departure boards.
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll need to transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line on the lower level.
Take the Meadowlands Rail Line train directly to the MetLife Sports Complex station.
Sub-heading: Traveling from Other NJ TRANSIT Lines in New Jersey
If you're starting from another location within New Jersey that's served by NJ TRANSIT, you'll typically follow this pattern:
Take your originating NJ TRANSIT train (e.g., Main/Bergen County, Montclair-Boonton, Morris & Essex, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast, Raritan Valley, Pascack Valley, or Port Jervis lines) to Secaucus Junction.
Once at Secaucus Junction, transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line on the lower level for the short ride to the stadium.
Sub-heading: Traveling from Hoboken Terminal ⛴️
While there isn't a direct train from Hoboken to MetLife Stadium, you can:
Take any Main, Bergen County, Pascack Valley, or Port Jervis Line train from Hoboken Terminal to Secaucus Junction.
From Secaucus Junction, transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line to reach the stadium.
Sub-heading: Traveling from Metro-North (Connecticut/Upstate New York)
If you're coming from areas served by Metro-North (like parts of New York or Connecticut):
Take a Metro-North train to Grand Central Terminal in NYC.
From Grand Central, take the subway (or a short walk/taxi) to New York Penn Station.
Follow the steps for "Traveling from New York City" above.
Step 4: Ticketing Essentials: Don't Get Caught Without a Ticket! ️
This is a crucial step! Always purchase your round-trip tickets in advance.
Sub-heading: Where to Purchase Tickets
NJ TRANSIT Mobile App: This is highly recommended for convenience. Download the free app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. You can purchase and activate your tickets right from your phone.
Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Available at most NJ TRANSIT stations.
Ticket Windows: At larger stations like New York Penn Station and Newark Penn Station, you can purchase tickets from a ticket agent.
Sub-heading: Selecting Your Destination
When purchasing your ticket, be sure to select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination. This ensures your ticket includes the necessary transfer at Secaucus Junction.
Sub-heading: The Importance of Round-Trip Tickets
Purchase a round-trip ticket to Meadowlands from your originating station. This will save you time and hassle, especially after the event when crowds are trying to depart. Be aware that tickets purchased on the train may incur an additional surcharge.
Sub-heading: Fare Information
A round-trip fare from New York Penn Station to the Sports Complex is approximately $11.00. Fares from other locations will vary. Always check the NJ TRANSIT website or app for the most up-to-date fare information.
Step 5: Event Day Logistics: Timings and Tips ⏰
Knowing when the trains run and how to navigate the stations will make your journey smooth.
Sub-heading: Train Schedule for Events
Before the Event: Meadowlands Rail Service typically begins approximately 3.5 to 4 hours prior to the event's kick-off or start time. Trains usually run every 10-20 minutes during peak periods leading up to the event.
During the Event: Service generally continues hourly during the event.
After the Event: Trains run frequently, often on a "load-and-go" basis (every 10-15 minutes) for up to one hour after the event concludes, or until all customers have departed.
It's crucial to check the specific NJ TRANSIT schedule for your event date and time on their website (
Sub-heading: Navigating Secaucus Junction
When you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll likely be on the upper level. Follow the signs for "Meadowlands Rail Line" to descend to the lower level platform where the shuttle trains to MetLife Stadium depart.
Sub-heading: Departing MetLife Stadium
After the event, head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station. You'll board trains back to Secaucus Junction. From there, you'll transfer to your connecting NJ TRANSIT train to your final destination.
Important Note: Following large events, there will be a lot of people trying to get on the trains. Be prepared for queues. The closer you are to the front of the line, the shorter your wait will be. NJ TRANSIT often has ambassadors in brightly colored clothing to assist travelers.
Step 6: Additional Considerations for a Smooth Trip ✨
Sub-heading: Staying Informed
NJ TRANSIT Website & App: Regularly check njtransit.com and the NJ TRANSIT mobile app for service alerts, advisories, and real-time updates.
Social Media: Follow NJ TRANSIT on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) (@NJTRANSIT) for immediate notifications.
MetLife Stadium Website: Visit metlifestadium.com for event-specific transportation details, including any changes or special services.
Sub-heading: Bag Policy
Remember that MetLife Stadium has a strict clear bag policy. Be sure to check their website before you go to avoid any issues at the gates.
Sub-heading: Accessibility
NJ TRANSIT trains and stations are generally accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs, it's always a good idea to contact NJ TRANSIT customer service in advance to confirm arrangements.
Step 7: Enjoy Your Event!
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to a stress-free and enjoyable experience getting to and from MetLife Stadium by train. It's a fantastic way to avoid traffic, parking fees, and the overall chaos of driving on event days. So, sit back, relax, and let NJ TRANSIT do the driving!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC Penn Station by train?
Take any NJ TRANSIT train marked "SEC" to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line which goes directly to the stadium.
How to buy train tickets for MetLife Stadium?
Purchase tickets using the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App, at ticket vending machines (TVMs) at any NJ TRANSIT station, or at ticket windows at larger stations. Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
How to know the train schedule for MetLife Stadium events?
Check the official NJ TRANSIT website (
How to get back from MetLife Stadium by train after an event?
Head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station. Trains will run frequently ("load-and-go") back to Secaucus Junction, where you can connect to your originating line.
How to connect to the Meadowlands Rail Line at Secaucus Junction?
Trains arriving at Secaucus Junction from other lines will drop you off on the upper level. Follow signs to the lower level for the Meadowlands Rail Line trains to MetLife Stadium.
How to find out if there's train service for a specific event at MetLife Stadium?
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website's transportation section or the NJ TRANSIT website's MetLife Stadium page. Rail service is typically provided for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000.
How to avoid long lines when buying train tickets?
Purchase your round-trip tickets in advance, either through the NJ TRANSIT mobile app or at a ticket vending machine before you even get to a major hub like Penn Station.
How to get from Newark Penn Station to MetLife Stadium by train?
Take an NJ TRANSIT train from Newark Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line for direct service to the stadium.
How to get real-time train updates for MetLife Stadium events?
Download the NJ TRANSIT mobile app for push notifications and real-time service alerts, or check their website and social media channels.
How to park and ride the train to MetLife Stadium?
You can park at the Edison Park Fast parking lot located next to Secaucus Junction (675 New Country Road at Seaview Drive, Secaucus, N.J., 07094) and take the Meadowlands Rail Service from there.
