Absolutely! Getting to MetLife Stadium from Penn Station is a common and relatively straightforward journey for many attending events. Let's break down how you can make this trip efficiently.
Can You Get To MetLife from Penn Station? Absolutely! Your Guide to a Smooth Journey!
Planning a trip to MetLife Stadium for a concert, a Giants or Jets game, or any other exciting event? If you're starting from Penn Station in New York City, you're in luck! It's one of the most common and convenient starting points for reaching the stadium via public transportation. While there's no direct train line that runs straight from Penn Station to MetLife, a simple transfer makes it incredibly accessible.
Ready to dive into the details and ensure you arrive at MetLife Stadium stress-free? Let's go!
 |
| Can You Get To Metlife From Penn Station |
Step 1: Navigating to Penn Station (If You're Not Already There)
First things first, if you're not already at Penn Station (located at 32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues in Manhattan), you'll need to get there.
Sub-heading 1.1: NYC Subway Connections
New York City's subway system is your best friend here. Several lines directly serve Penn Station:
-
The 1, 2, 3 (red lines)
-
The A, C, E (blue lines)
Simply find the closest subway station to your current location and take the appropriate line to "34th Street-Penn Station."
Sub-heading 1.2: Bus or Walk
Depending on your starting point in Manhattan, you might find it easier to take a local bus or even walk to Penn Station. Use a mapping app on your phone to determine the most efficient route for you.
Step 2: The Main Leg – Penn Station to Secaucus Junction (NJ Transit)
QuickTip: If you skimmed, go back for detail.
This is the primary part of your journey, and it's quite simple!
Sub-heading 2.1: Purchase Your NJ Transit Ticket
Before you even think about boarding a train, you need to purchase your ticket. You have a few convenient options:
-
NJ Transit Mobile App: This is highly recommended for ease and speed. Download the official NJ Transit Mobile App to your smartphone (available on Apple App Store and Google Play). You can purchase your round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" directly on the app. This ticket will cover your entire journey, including the transfer at Secaucus Junction.
-
Ticket Vending Machines: Located throughout Penn Station, these machines allow you to purchase tickets with cash or credit/debit cards. Look for the large, usually yellow or blue, NJ Transit ticket machines. Select "Meadowlands" as your destination.
-
Ticket Windows: During busier hours, you might find ticket windows open, but vending machines or the app are generally faster.
Pro Tip: Always purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" at the start of your journey. This will save you time and potential hassle after the event when the stations are crowded. Failing to purchase a ticket before boarding can result in an additional $5 charge.
Sub-heading 2.2: Boarding the Train to Secaucus Junction
Once you have your ticket, head to the NJ Transit tracks within Penn Station. Almost any NJ Transit train departing from Penn Station (except for Amtrak trains or Long Island Rail Road) will stop at Secaucus Junction. Look for trains marked with "SEC" or any line that mentions Secaucus Junction as a stop (e.g., Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Raritan Valley Line, etc.). The train ride from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is typically very quick, usually around 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: The Crucial Transfer – Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium (Meadowlands Rail Line)
Secaucus Junction is your transfer point to the Meadowlands Rail Line, which takes you directly to the stadium.
Sub-heading 3.1: Arriving at Secaucus Junction
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll hear announcements guiding you. Follow the signs for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Sports Complex". Secaucus Junction is a large, modern transfer station, and the signs are generally very clear, especially on event days when many people are heading to MetLife.
Sub-heading 3.2: Boarding the Meadowlands Rail Line
Tip: Revisit challenging parts.
The Meadowlands Rail Line (also known as the "Sports Complex" line) is a dedicated shuttle service that operates only when there are major events at MetLife Stadium. These trains will take you directly to the Meadowlands Station, which is just steps away from the stadium gates. The ride from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium is very short, typically around 10 minutes.
Sub-heading 3.3: Schedule Considerations
NJ Transit typically begins service on the Meadowlands Rail Line approximately 3.5 to 4 hours prior to the start of an event. Trains usually run every 10-20 minutes. After the event, trains operate on a "load and go" basis for up to 3 hours, or until the last customers depart. It's always a good idea to check the NJ Transit website (
Step 4: Arriving at MetLife Stadium
Congratulations! Once you step off the train at Meadowlands Station, you're essentially right at the stadium. Follow the flow of people, and you'll quickly find yourself at the entrance gates.
Other Transportation Alternatives (Less Recommended from Penn Station)
While the NJ Transit train is by far the most efficient and recommended method from Penn Station, here are a couple of other options, though they involve more steps or are less direct from Penn Station:
Bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal
 |
You could travel from Penn Station to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (a short subway ride or walk away) and then take a Coach USA Express Bus (Route 351) directly to MetLife Stadium. This bus service runs for major events.
-
The 351 Meadowlands Express departs from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (usually from Gates 411-415 on the 3rd floor of the South Wing or sometimes from a street-level departure area on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues).
-
The round-trip fare is typically around $18.
-
Travel time is around 20 minutes, subject to traffic.
-
Why it's less ideal from Penn Station: It adds an extra transfer within Manhattan, which isn't necessary when the train is so convenient.
Rideshare/Taxi
A taxi or rideshare service (Uber, Lyft) is an option, but it can be significantly more expensive (typically $35-$50+) and subject to heavy traffic, especially on event days. The travel time can vary wildly, from 12 minutes on a clear day to well over an hour in heavy traffic. Given the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of NJ Transit, this is generally not the preferred method from Penn Station.
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
Essential Tips for a Seamless Journey
-
Plan Ahead: Always check the NJ Transit website or app for event-specific schedules before you leave. Service frequency and operating hours for the Meadowlands Rail Line are tied to events at MetLife Stadium.
-
Buy Round-Trip Tickets: As mentioned, purchasing your round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" at Penn Station or via the app saves a lot of time and avoids surcharges.
-
Allow Ample Time: Especially on major event days, trains can be crowded, and there might be short waits. Give yourself enough time to comfortably make your connections and get to the stadium before your event begins. A general rule of thumb is to allow at least 45-60 minutes from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium, including transfer time.
-
Follow the Crowd: On event days, many people will be making the same journey. Don't hesitate to follow the flow of foot traffic and listen for announcements.
-
Stay Informed: NJ Transit's My Transit Alerts (text messages and emails) and their social media channels (@NJTRANSIT) are great resources for real-time service updates and advisories.
By following these steps, your journey from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium will be a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying your event!
10 FAQ Questions & Quick Answers
How to Check NJ Transit Schedules for MetLife Stadium?
You can check NJ Transit schedules specifically for MetLife Stadium events on their official website:
How to Buy a Train Ticket to MetLife Stadium?
Purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" using the NJ Transit Mobile App, ticket vending machines at Penn Station, or at a ticket window.
How to Know Which Train to Take from Penn Station to Secaucus?
Almost any NJ Transit train departing from Penn Station (except Amtrak or LIRR) will stop at Secaucus Junction. Look for trains marked with "SEC."
How to Transfer at Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium?
QuickTip: Pause at lists — they often summarize.
At Secaucus Junction, follow signs for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Sports Complex." These trains provide direct service to the stadium.
How to Find the Meadowlands Rail Line at Secaucus Junction?
The Meadowlands Rail Line usually departs from a dedicated platform at Secaucus Junction. Signs and staff will guide you on event days.
How to Estimate Travel Time from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium?
Allow approximately 45-60 minutes for the entire journey from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium, including the transfer at Secaucus Junction.
How to Avoid Delays When Traveling to MetLife Stadium?
Purchase your round-trip ticket in advance, arrive at Penn Station with ample time, and check NJ Transit alerts for any service advisories.
How to Get Back to Penn Station from MetLife Stadium After an Event?
Board the Meadowlands Rail Line at MetLife Stadium back to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to any NJ Transit train going to New York Penn Station.
How to Find Out If the Meadowlands Rail Line is Operating?
The Meadowlands Rail Line operates only for major events at MetLife Stadium. Check the official NJ Transit website or event-specific transportation guides for confirmation.
How to Save Money on Transportation to MetLife Stadium?
Taking NJ Transit is the most cost-effective option. Purchasing a round-trip ticket upfront for the "Meadowlands" destination also helps avoid extra fees.
 |
