Going to a big event at MetLife Stadium? Wondering if you can just call an Uber and be on your way? Absolutely, you can! Uber is a convenient and popular option for getting to and from MetLife Stadium, especially for major events like NFL games, concerts, and other large gatherings. However, like with any high-traffic venue, there are some important details and strategies you should know to make your experience as smooth as possible.
Let's dive into a step-by-step guide to mastering your Uber trip to MetLife Stadium!
Step 1: Plan Ahead and Check for Events
Before you even think about opening the Uber app, the most crucial step is to plan. MetLife Stadium is a massive venue, and the traffic and logistics around it can be challenging, particularly during big events.
Sub-heading: Know Your Event Date and Time
First and foremost, confirm the exact date and time of the event you're attending. This will dictate how early you need to leave and what kind of traffic you can expect. For major games or concerts, traffic can build up hours before the event starts.
Sub-heading: Anticipate Peak Hours and Surge Pricing
Uber operates on a dynamic pricing model, meaning prices can surge significantly during times of high demand. Event days at MetLife Stadium are prime examples of when surge pricing is almost guaranteed.
Arrival: Aim to arrive well before the event starts to beat some of the peak traffic and surge pricing.
Departure: Be prepared for higher prices and longer wait times immediately after an event. Many people will be requesting rides simultaneously.
Step 2: Download and Familiarize Yourself with the Uber App
If you haven't already, download the Uber app to your smartphone and set up your account.
Sub-heading: Create Your Account and Add Payment Information
Ensure your Uber account is fully set up with your payment method linked. You don't want to be fumbling with this when you're trying to quickly request a ride in a busy area.
Sub-heading: Understand Ride Options
Uber offers various ride options. For a trip to MetLife Stadium, you might consider:
UberX: The most affordable standard option.
UberXL: Good for groups of up to six people, often a better value if you're splitting the fare.
Uber Black/Premier: For a more luxurious and often more reliable experience, though at a higher cost. These may also have dedicated pick-up/drop-off areas in some instances.
Uber Reserve: For an important event, consider reserving a ride in advance. This can help you secure a car and a more predictable price, although it may still be subject to dynamic pricing closer to the pickup time.
Step 3: Setting Your Destination and Getting a Price Estimate
Once you're ready to head to the stadium, open the Uber app.
Sub-heading: Input MetLife Stadium as Your Destination
In the "Where to?" box, type in "MetLife Stadium" or the specific address: 1 MetLife Stadium Dr, East Rutherford, NJ 07073. The app will usually auto-suggest the correct location.
Sub-heading: Check the Estimated Fare
Before confirming your ride, the app will provide an upfront price estimate for different ride options. This is where you'll see the impact of any surge pricing. Compare options and decide what best fits your budget and needs.
Keep in mind: Prices can vary based on the time of day, demand, and traffic. For example, a trip from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to MetLife Stadium might average around $92 for UberX. From Times Square, a taxi might cost $35-$50, while an UberX from East Rutherford to Manhattan is around $44. These are just estimates, so always check the app!
Step 4: Navigating Drop-Off at MetLife Stadium
MetLife Stadium has designated areas for rideshare drop-offs to manage traffic flow efficiently.
Sub-heading: Follow In-App Directions
Your Uber driver will be directed to the official drop-off zone. MetLife Stadium generally designates an area between parking lots D and E for all drop-offs and pick-ups. There's curb space along the roadway to provide a safe area. There is no charge to access the drop-off/pick-up area.
Sub-heading: Be Aware of Traffic and Road Closures
On event days, the roads leading to MetLife Stadium can be incredibly congested. Your driver might need to take alternative routes, and the estimated travel time in the app might be longer than usual. Be patient and factor in extra travel time.
Step 5: Master Your Departure from MetLife Stadium ↩️
This is often the trickiest part, but with a good strategy, you can make it seamless.
Sub-heading: Head to the Designated Uber Pick-Up Zone
MetLife Stadium has a specifically designated Uber Pick-Up Zone located in Lot E, off of West Peripheral Road, right outside of the Verizon Gate. When you request a ride, your pick-up location will likely default to a pin in this official Uber Zone.
Sub-heading: Request Your Ride After Reaching the Zone
Do not request your Uber until you are physically in or very close to the designated pick-up zone. Requesting too early means your driver might arrive before you do, leading to cancellations and frustration.
Sub-heading: Connect with Your Driver
The area will be crowded. Once you've requested your ride:
Look for in-app directions that will guide you to your driver.
Use the in-app chat or call feature to communicate with your driver if you're having trouble finding each other.
Confirm details: Always verify the driver's name and license plate number before getting into the car. This is a crucial safety tip.
Sub-heading: Expect Delays and Surge Pricing
Again, be prepared for longer wait times and higher prices when leaving a major event. Many people will be requesting rides simultaneously, creating significant demand. If the surge pricing is too high, consider waiting a bit for it to drop, or explore alternative transportation.
Step 6: Consider Alternatives to Uber
While Uber is convenient, it's not always the best or only option.
Sub-heading: Public Transportation (NJ Transit)
NJ Transit is often the most efficient and cost-effective way to get to MetLife Stadium for large events.
Train Service: NJ TRANSIT operates the Meadowlands Rail Service for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000. This service delivers guests directly to the front door of MetLife Stadium. Most NJ TRANSIT rail lines connect at the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction, where you can transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line. The travel time between Secaucus Junction and the Sports Complex station is approximately 10 minutes. Round-trip fare from Secaucus to the Sports Complex is around $11.
Bus Service (Coach USA Route 351): Coach USA provides the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City to the MetLife Sports Complex for NFL games and other large events. The bus operates before and after events, with drop-off and pick-up in Lot K. A round-trip ticket costs about $14.
Sub-heading: Taxis
Traditional taxis are also an option, though they might operate from different designated areas than rideshares. Their pricing is usually metered, which can be beneficial during extreme surge pricing on Uber.
Sub-heading: Other Rideshare Services
While Uber is the preferred rideshare partner, other services like Lyft also operate in the area and can be a viable alternative, especially if Uber's surge pricing is too high.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to calculate the cost of an Uber to MetLife Stadium?
To get an accurate estimate, open the Uber app, enter MetLife Stadium as your destination, and the app will display the upfront cost based on current demand and traffic conditions.
How to find the Uber drop-off zone at MetLife Stadium?
The designated drop-off area for all rideshares at MetLife Stadium is typically located between parking lots D and E, with curb space along the roadway.
How to find the Uber pick-up zone at MetLife Stadium after an event?
The official Uber Pick-Up Zone is in Lot E, off of West Peripheral Road, right outside the Verizon Gate. Follow in-app directions to this specific area.
How to avoid surge pricing when taking an Uber to MetLife Stadium?
Try to schedule your Uber ride in advance using Uber Reserve, or consider leaving much earlier or later than peak event times. You can also monitor prices and wait for them to drop.
How to share an Uber ride to MetLife Stadium with friends?
You can use the "Split Fare" feature in the Uber app to divide the cost of the ride among your group.
How to contact your Uber driver if you can't find them at MetLife Stadium?
Use the in-app messaging or call feature to communicate with your driver directly once your ride is accepted.
How to know if public transportation is a better option than Uber for MetLife Stadium?
For large events, public transportation (NJ Transit trains and buses) is often more reliable and cost-effective, as it bypasses heavy car traffic and has dedicated routes directly to the stadium.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC without a car?
The most common public transportation options from NYC are NJ Transit trains from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction (then a shuttle to the stadium) or the Coach USA Route 351 bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal.
How to ensure your safety when using Uber for MetLife Stadium?
Always verify your driver's name, vehicle make/model, and license plate number with the information in the app before getting into the car. Share your trip status with trusted contacts.
How to find alternative rideshare apps for MetLife Stadium besides Uber?
Lyft is the primary competitor to Uber in the area and can be used as an alternative. Taxis are also available.
