Attending an event at MetLife Stadium, whether it's a thrilling NFL game, a major concert, or another exciting spectacle, often comes with the question: "Can I buy parking passes at MetLife Stadium?" The short answer is yes, you can, but the process and availability can vary significantly depending on the event! Let's dive into a comprehensive guide to ensure your parking experience is as smooth as possible.
Navigating Parking at MetLife Stadium: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Getting to MetLife Stadium is just half the battle; knowing where to park and how to secure your spot is crucial. Here's a detailed breakdown to help you plan your visit.
Step 1: Identify Your Event Type and Plan Ahead! ️
The very first thing you need to do is know what event you're attending. Is it a New York Giants or Jets game? A concert? A soccer match? The type of event dictates the parking pass purchase process.
NFL Games (Giants/Jets): For NFL games, pre-paid parking permits are generally required for entry into the main MetLife Sports Complex parking lots. You typically cannot just show up and pay for parking on game day in these specific lots.
Non-NFL Events (Concerts, Soccer, etc.): For most non-NFL events, pre-paid parking permits are not required, and parking is often available and payable upon arrival. However, pre-paying is still highly recommended for convenience and to potentially secure a better spot or rate.
Pro Tip: Always check the official MetLife Stadium website or the event organizer's website for specific event details and parking information. "Know Before You Go" documents are often published and contain vital information.
Step 2: Purchasing Your Parking Pass ️
Once you know your event type, you can proceed with securing your parking.
2.1 For NFL Games (Giants & Jets)
Season Ticket Holders: If you're a season ticket holder for the Giants or Jets, your parking permits are usually included with your season tickets or available for purchase through your team's official account manager. These are typically digital and can be accessed via the team's mobile app (Giants Mobile App or Jets Mobile App).
Accessing Digital Passes: Download the official team app, log into your account, and navigate to "Tickets" or "Manage Tickets" to view your parking pass.
Printing PDF Passes: For both the Giants and Jets, you can often still print a PDF version of your parking pass from your online account manager on a computer. This can be a good backup!
Single-Game Attendees: If you're attending a single NFL game and aren't a season ticket holder, securing a parking pass usually means purchasing it in advance through Ticketmaster or official resale platforms like SeatGeek.
Check for availability as soon as possible, as these passes can sell out and prices may increase closer to the event.
2.2 For Non-NFL Events (Concerts, Other Sports, etc.) ⚽
Pre-Payment Online: For many concerts and other major events, you can often pre-pay for parking online through platforms like Ticketmaster, ParkMobile, or the American Dream website (for Lots 26 and 27, which are across from the stadium).
Using ParkMobile: ParkMobile is a popular option for reserving parking spots in advance for various MetLife Stadium events. Simply use the app or website, search for MetLife Stadium, and select your event date.
American Dream Lots: Lots 26 and 27, located at American Dream across the street, often offer pre-pay options via credit card upon arrival or through partners like ParkMobile.
Payment Upon Arrival: For many non-NFL events, you can still pay for parking with a credit card upon arrival at the parking lots. Cash is generally NOT accepted at the stadium parking toll plazas.
Important Note on Accessibility: Accessible parking is available in designated lots (E, F, G) for guests with disabilities. A valid ADA license plate or hang tag is required, and the owner must be in the vehicle. Traffic and Parking staff will direct you.
Step 3: Receiving and Preparing Your Parking Pass
Once purchased, how do you actually use your pass?
Digital/Mobile Passes: For NFL games, mobile parking passes are the most common method.
Add to Mobile Wallet: It's highly recommended to add your mobile parking pass to your Apple Wallet or Google Wallet before you arrive at the stadium. This makes scanning quicker and avoids issues with spotty cell service.
No Screenshots! Screenshots of mobile passes are typically not permitted for entry as the barcodes can be dynamic and constantly changing (Ticketmaster SafeTix, for example).
Screen Brightness: If using a mobile pass, turn your screen brightness to high when approaching the parking attendant.
Printed Passes (PDFs): For some events, or if you prefer a physical copy, you may have the option to print a PDF parking pass at home.
Print Before Arrival: Make sure to print your PDF pass clearly and bring it with you. Do not rely on printing at the stadium on event day.
Step 4: Arriving at MetLife Stadium ️
Preparation is key to a stress-free arrival.
Lot Opening Times: Parking lots typically open five (5) hours prior to the start of an event and close two (2) hours after the conclusion. Arriving earlier than the stated opening time is generally not permitted.
Follow Signage and Staff: As you approach MetLife Stadium, there will be numerous highway, street-level, and electronic message signs directing you to the parking lot entrances. Always follow the directions of the Traffic and Parking Staff – they are there to ensure efficient flow.
One Car = One Space: MetLife Stadium enforces a "one car, one space" policy. Saving parking spaces is not permitted, and groups wishing to tailgate together should plan to arrive together.
Vehicle Searches: Vehicles are subject to search by NJ State Police, which may include a canine unit. Refusal to a search will result in denied entry to the Sports Complex.
No Overnight Parking: Overnight parking is strictly prohibited on the MetLife Sports Complex.
Step 5: Understanding Parking Costs and Alternatives
Parking at MetLife Stadium isn't free, and prices can vary.
General Parking Rates (approximate and subject to change):
Cars (non-NFL events): $40 per vehicle
Buses/RVs: $160 per vehicle
Limousines: $100 per vehicle
NFL Game Days (American Dream Lots 26 & 27): Up to $60 for Giants games, up to $75 for Jets games.
Concerts/Other Events (American Dream Lots 26 & 27): Up to $80 per vehicle.
American Dream Parking: Located across the street, Lots 26 and 27 at American Dream offer convenient parking. If you visit an American Dream attraction and show your ticket confirmation, your parking fee may be reduced to $5 (plus tax) for the entire day, otherwise, event rates apply after three hours.
Public Transportation/Off-site Parking: Consider alternatives to driving directly to the stadium.
Secaucus Junction Park & Ride: You can park at the Edison Park Fast lot at Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction and take NJ TRANSIT rail service directly to the MetLife Sports Complex. This can be a great way to avoid traffic congestion around the stadium.
Ride Share: There is a designated Ride Share Zone in Lot E for services like Uber and Lyft. Be aware of potential surge pricing and longer wait times after events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common "How to" questions about MetLife Stadium parking:
How to buy parking passes for NFL games at MetLife Stadium?
For NFL games, parking passes are primarily sold in advance through the official team (Giants or Jets) account managers for season ticket holders, or via Ticketmaster and official resale platforms like SeatGeek for single-game attendees.
How to buy parking passes for concerts or other non-NFL events at MetLife Stadium?
For non-NFL events, you can often pre-pay online through platforms like Ticketmaster or ParkMobile, or pay by credit card upon arrival at the stadium parking lots.
How to access my mobile parking pass for MetLife Stadium?
Download the official New York Giants or New York Jets mobile app, log in to your account, and go to the "Tickets" section to view and add your parking pass to your mobile wallet. For other events, check the app of your ticket provider (e.g., Ticketmaster).
How to print a parking pass for MetLife Stadium if I prefer a physical copy?
For many NFL games and some other events, you can log into your online account manager on a computer and select the option to print a PDF version of your parking pass. Ensure your printer is connected and working.
How to pay for parking at MetLife Stadium on event day?
If pre-payment wasn't required or possible, you can typically pay by credit card upon arrival at the parking lot toll plazas. Cash is generally not accepted.
How to find accessible parking at MetLife Stadium?
Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G for guests with disabilities. You must have a valid ADA license plate or hang tag visible, and the owner must be in the vehicle. Follow staff directions upon arrival.
How to find the parking lots at MetLife Stadium?
As you approach the stadium, follow the numerous highway and street-level signs. Traffic and Parking staff will also be on hand to direct you to the appropriate lots based on your parking pass or general parking availability.
How to avoid traffic when driving to MetLife Stadium for an event?
Arrive early (lots open 5 hours before event start), consider public transportation options like the train from Secaucus Junction, or utilize ride-share services to the designated drop-off zone.
How to know the parking lot opening and closing times at MetLife Stadium?
Parking lots typically open five hours before an event starts and close two hours after its conclusion. Always double-check the specific event details on the MetLife Stadium website for any variations.
How to handle tailgating with my parking pass at MetLife Stadium?
Tailgating is generally permitted in the MetLife Sports Complex parking lots, provided it's limited to the lined parking space occupied by your vehicle ("one car, one space" policy). Open fires and deep fryers are prohibited, and hot coals must be disposed of in designated bins.
