Thinking about catching a game or concert at MetLife Stadium and wondering about parking? You're in luck! The American Dream Mall offers convenient parking options for MetLife Stadium events, making it a popular choice for many attendees. However, there are some important details and steps you need to know to ensure a smooth experience. Let's dive in!
Parking at American Dream for MetLife Stadium: Your Complete Guide
Navigating event parking can be a headache, but with American Dream Mall's proximity to MetLife Stadium, it becomes a much more manageable affair. Being "across the street" from the stadium, it's a prime location for those attending concerts, NFL games (Giants and Jets!), and other major events.
Step 1: Confirm the Event and Your Parking Needs
Alright, before we get into the nitty-gritty of parking, let's start with the basics! Are you attending an NFL game, a concert, or another special event at MetLife Stadium? The type of event can sometimes influence parking availability and rates.
What's the date and time of your event? Knowing this helps you plan your arrival.
Are you looking for pre-paid parking or do you plan to pay on arrival? Both options exist at American Dream for stadium events.
Are you planning to visit any American Dream attractions before or after the event? This can significantly reduce your parking cost!
Once you've got these details sorted, you're ready to proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Understand American Dream's Event Parking Policy
American Dream has a specific policy for parking on MetLife Stadium event days. It's crucial to be aware of these rules to avoid any surprises.
Sub-heading: Designated Parking Lots and Access Times
For MetLife Stadium events, American Dream typically designates specific parking areas.
For Concerts/Events: Parking Lots 26, 27, and 28 are usually open, with access available starting 3-4 hours prior to the event start. Parking Deck A may also be available.
For NFL Games: Parking Lots 26, 27, and 28, along with Parking Deck A, typically open 5 hours prior to kickoff.
It's vital to note that vehicles parked in other American Dream decks may be charged the event rate if they exit after the event ends, so stick to the designated lots if you're solely there for the stadium.
Sub-heading: Payment Methods and Rates
Payment for event parking at American Dream is usually pre-pay only.
You can often pay by credit card upon arrival to Lots 26 or 27. Cash is generally not accepted onsite.
If you have a New York Jets or New York Giants prepaid parking pass, you can show it upon arrival to Lot 26 or 27 on game days.
The parking rates can vary depending on the event:
New York Jets game days: Up to $75 per vehicle.
New York Giants game days: Up to $60 per vehicle.
Concerts or other events: Up to $80 per vehicle.
Keep these figures in mind when budgeting for your trip!
Sub-heading: The Amazing Parking Validation Program
Here's a fantastic perk! American Dream offers a parking validation program that can drastically cut your costs.
If you visit an American Dream attraction (like Nickelodeon Universe, DreamWorks Water Park, Big Snow, or others), make sure to show your ticket confirmation at admissions to validate your parking ticket.
This validation will reduce your parking fee to a mere $5 per vehicle (plus tax)! This is a huge saving compared to the standard event rates.
This is a great incentive to arrive early, explore the mall's attractions, and then head over to MetLife Stadium.
Step 3: Getting from American Dream to MetLife Stadium
Once your car is parked, you'll need to make your way to the stadium. Given its close proximity, it's a relatively easy journey.
Sub-heading: The Short Walk ♀️
The most straightforward way to get from American Dream to MetLife Stadium is often by walking. The mall is literally across the street. Depending on where you park within the designated lots, the walk can range from a few minutes to a short stroll. Always follow pedestrian signs and staff directions for the safest route.
Sub-heading: Public Transportation (If Applicable)
While a direct shuttle from American Dream specifically for MetLife Stadium events isn't explicitly advertised as a regular service by American Dream itself, you can utilize the broader public transportation network in the Meadowlands complex.
NJ Transit Rail Service: For major events with anticipated attendance above 50,000, NJ Transit operates the Meadowlands Rail Service. This service takes you directly to the MetLife Stadium entrance from Secaucus Junction. While not directly from American Dream, you could potentially take a short ride-share or taxi from American Dream to Secaucus Junction and then hop on the train.
NJ Transit Bus Routes: Local NJ Transit bus routes (like the 703) serve the American Dream area and are near the MetLife Sports Complex. However, on major event days, Route 703 may not enter the Sports Complex property starting two hours before the event and continuing until one hour after it ends, operating instead along Paterson Plank Road.
Given the close proximity, walking is usually the preferred and most efficient method directly from the American Dream parking lots.
Step 4: Post-Event Departure
After the event, the process of leaving is essentially the reverse of arrival.
Sub-heading: Follow Exit Signage
Once you're back at American Dream, simply follow the clear signage to the parking exits. Remember the lot where you parked!
Sub-heading: Have Your Payment Ready
If you didn't pre-pay, or if you utilized the validation program, have your credit card or validated ticket ready at the exit. Ensure you pay the correct amount, especially if you qualified for the reduced rate.
Conclusion
Parking at American Dream Mall for MetLife Stadium events is a viable and often convenient option. While event day rates can be higher than regular mall parking, the opportunity to validate your parking by visiting an attraction offers a fantastic way to save money and enhance your overall experience. By planning ahead, understanding the parking policies, and knowing your transportation options, you can enjoy a stress-free day at MetLife Stadium.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to pay for parking at American Dream Mall for MetLife Stadium events?
You can generally pay by credit card upon arrival at Lots 26 or 27. Cash is typically not accepted onsite. You can also show a pre-paid parking pass for specific NFL game days.
How to get the reduced parking rate at American Dream for MetLife Stadium events?
To get the reduced rate ($5 plus tax), you need to visit an American Dream attraction (e.g., Nickelodeon Universe, DreamWorks Water Park) and validate your parking ticket at admissions with your attraction ticket confirmation.
How to find the designated parking lots for MetLife Stadium events at American Dream?
Look for Lots 26, 27, and 28, and potentially Parking Deck A. There will be clear signage directing you to these specific areas on event days.
How to walk from American Dream Mall to MetLife Stadium?
Once parked in the designated lots, simply follow the pedestrian walkways and signs across the street to MetLife Stadium. It's a short and direct walk.
How to use public transportation from American Dream to MetLife Stadium?
While there's no dedicated American Dream-MetLife shuttle, for large events, you can take NJ Transit rail service from Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Rail Station. You'd need to arrange a short ride-share or taxi from American Dream to Secaucus Junction.
How to know the parking rates for different MetLife Stadium events at American Dream?
Rates vary by event: Jets games up to $75, Giants games up to $60, and concerts/other events up to $80. Always check American Dream's official website for the most current rates for your specific event.
How to find out if pre-paid parking is available for my event?
Check the American Dream Mall parking website or the specific event details on the MetLife Stadium website. Some NFL game days allow for pre-paid passes.
How to avoid high parking fees when attending a MetLife Stadium event?
The best way is to utilize American Dream's parking validation program by visiting one of their attractions, reducing your parking fee to $5.
How to know the parking lot opening hours on MetLife Stadium event days?
Parking lots for MetLife Stadium events at American Dream typically open 3-4 hours before concerts/events and 5 hours before NFL game kickoffs.
How to ensure a smooth parking experience at American Dream for a MetLife Stadium event?
Arrive early, know your designated parking lot, have your payment method ready (credit card or pre-paid pass), and consider validating your parking by visiting an American Dream attraction.
