Absolutely! Getting to MetLife Stadium from Penn Station is a common query, and thankfully, it's quite straightforward with public transportation. Let's break down how you can make this journey a breeze.
Your Game Plan: Navigating from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium ️
Hey there, sports fans and concert-goers! Are you ready to experience the electric atmosphere of MetLife Stadium? Whether you're heading to cheer on the Giants or Jets, catch a blockbuster concert, or attend any other exciting event, getting there from the heart of New York City, specifically Penn Station, is easier than you might think. Forget the stress of driving in congested traffic or expensive parking. We've got the ultimate guide to get you there smoothly!
Step 1: Let's Get Started! Your First Move at Penn Station
Your journey begins at New York Penn Station. This bustling transportation hub is centrally located in Manhattan, making it accessible from various parts of NYC via subway, bus, or even a pleasant walk.
Find Your Bearings: First things first, once you're at Penn Station, you'll need to locate the NJ Transit concourse. Don't worry, there are plenty of signs to guide you. If in doubt, ask any station staff – they're always happy to help!
Ticket Time!: Before you do anything else, you must purchase your train ticket. You have a few options:
NJ Transit Ticket Machines: These are widely available throughout the concourse. Look for the red or blue machines.
Ticket Windows: If you prefer human interaction or have specific questions, head to a staffed ticket window.
NJ Transit Mobile App: For the tech-savvy, downloading the free NJ Transit Mobile App (available on Apple App Store and Google Play) is a fantastic option. You can purchase and activate your tickets right from your phone, saving you time and hassle. Pro Tip: Buy a round-trip ticket to the Meadowlands station directly. This joint ticket often includes the NJ Transit portion of the trip from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, and then the Meadowlands Rail Line portion.
Step 2: The Quick Hop to Secaucus Junction
Once you have your ticket in hand (or on your phone!), it's time for the first leg of your train journey.
Boarding Your Train: Head to the appropriate platform for trains going to New Jersey. Look for trains marked with "SEC" – these are destined for Secaucus Junction. Trains depart frequently, typically every 15 minutes or so.
Short and Sweet Ride: The ride from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is incredibly quick, usually taking around 10 minutes. It's often the very first stop after leaving Penn Station, so keep an eye out!
Arrival at Secaucus Junction: Secaucus Junction is a major transfer point. You'll disembark here to switch to the dedicated Meadowlands Rail Line.
Step 3: The Final Stretch: Meadowlands Rail Line to MetLife Stadium
This is the home stretch! Secaucus Junction is designed for easy transfers to the Sports Complex.
Ascend and Verify: Once you've arrived at Secaucus Junction, head upstairs to the mezzanine level. You'll typically need to show your rail ticket to staff at the gates before proceeding to the lower level for the Meadowlands Rail Line.
Locate the Meadowlands Rail Line: Look for signs directing you to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line. These trains depart from Tracks E-H on the lower level.
Direct to the Stadium: The Meadowlands Rail Line provides direct service to the MetLife Sports Complex Station, literally dropping you off right at the front door of MetLife Stadium. The travel time between Secaucus Junction and the Sports Complex station is approximately 10 minutes.
Event-Specific Service: It's important to note that NJ Transit usually operates the Meadowlands Rail Service specifically for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000. Service typically begins approximately 3.5 hours prior to the event and concludes one hour after the event. Always check the NJ Transit website or app for specific schedules for your event date, as service times can vary.
Step 4: Alternative Transportation Options (When Applicable)
While the train is generally the recommended and most efficient method, especially for large events, here are a few other options to consider:
Bus Service (Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express):
Coach USA provides the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (which is a short walk or subway ride from Penn Station) to the MetLife Sports Complex for NFL games and other major events.
This bus service usually starts about 2.5 hours before an event and continues running until half an hour after the event begins. After the event, the buses operate for approximately one hour.
Drop-off and pick-up at the Sports Complex are located near Parking Lot K.
A round-trip ticket generally costs around $14.00, and a one-way ticket is about $7.00.
Consider this option if the train schedule doesn't align perfectly with your plans or if you prefer a direct bus ride.
Taxi/Rideshare (Uber/Lyft):
Taking a taxi or rideshare from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium is certainly an option for convenience, but it will be significantly more expensive and subject to traffic congestion, especially on event days.
The estimated cost for a taxi can range from $45 to $60, excluding potential surge pricing for rideshares. Tolls (around $10-$15) will also be added to your fare.
Travel time by car can vary greatly, from 17-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Designated drop-off and pick-up areas for taxis and limousines are typically between parking lots E and D at MetLife Stadium.
This is best considered if you're traveling with a group to split the cost or if public transport schedules don't work for you.
Driving:
While not from Penn Station directly, if you decide to rent a car, MetLife Stadium is easily accessible by major roadways.
Pre-paid parking permits are often required for NFL games and other large events. Check the MetLife Stadium website for parking information and to purchase permits in advance if available. Parking lots usually open five hours before an event and close two hours after.
This option offers the most flexibility but comes with the challenges of traffic and parking fees.
Important Travel Tips for a Smooth Experience
Arrive Early!: Especially for major events, transportation hubs like Penn Station and Secaucus Junction can get extremely crowded. Give yourself ample time to navigate, purchase tickets, and make transfers.
Check Event Schedules: Always, always, always verify the NJ Transit and MetLife Stadium event schedules for the most up-to-date information on train times and transportation services specific to your event.
Mobile App Power!: Seriously, download the NJ Transit app. It's a lifesaver for schedules, real-time updates, and ticket purchases.
Bag Policy Awareness: MetLife Stadium has a strict clear bag policy. Only clear bags (12" x 6" x 12" or less), small non-clear clutch purses (4.5" x 6.5" or less), or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag are permitted. An exception is made for medically necessary items. Do NOT bring backpacks, large purses, or other prohibited items unless you want to deal with bag check facilities (which may have a fee).
Stay Hydrated and Comfortable: Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you'll be walking a fair bit. You can bring factory-sealed water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less) into the stadium, or an empty reusable water bottle to fill at water fountains.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Penn Station using public transport?
You can get to MetLife Stadium from Penn Station by taking an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction, then transferring to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line, which takes you directly to the stadium.
How to buy train tickets for MetLife Stadium from Penn Station?
You can buy NJ Transit train tickets from ticket machines or ticket windows at Penn Station, or conveniently through the NJ Transit Mobile App. Look for a round-trip joint ticket to the Meadowlands.
How to find the correct train at Penn Station for MetLife Stadium?
At Penn Station, look for trains marked "SEC" which are bound for Secaucus Junction. These are your first stop.
How to transfer at Secaucus Junction for MetLife Stadium?
At Secaucus Junction, head upstairs to the mezzanine, show your ticket, and then go to the lower level to board the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line (Tracks E-H).
How to know the train schedule for MetLife Stadium events?
Always check the official NJ Transit website or their mobile app for specific train schedules related to your event date, as service is often adjusted for large events.
How to get to MetLife Stadium by bus from NYC?
You can take the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC, which offers direct service to the stadium for many events.
How to estimate taxi or rideshare cost from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium?
A taxi or rideshare from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium typically costs between $45 and $60, plus $10-$15 in tolls, but prices can surge during peak times.
How to find parking at MetLife Stadium if driving?
Parking at MetLife Stadium usually requires a pre-paid permit for major events. Check the MetLife Stadium website or ParkWhiz for availability and to purchase permits in advance.
How to check MetLife Stadium's bag policy?
MetLife Stadium has a clear bag policy; only clear bags (12"x6"x12" or smaller) or small clutch purses (4.5"x6.5" or smaller) are allowed. Always verify the latest policy on their official website before attending.
How to make the return journey from MetLife Stadium to Penn Station?
The return journey mirrors the arrival: take the Meadowlands Rail Line back to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to an NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station. Ensure you have a round-trip ticket or purchase a new one for the return leg.
