Yes, you absolutely can tailgate at MetLife Stadium! It's a cherished tradition for many attending games and events there. However, there are specific rules and guidelines you must follow to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to have a fantastic tailgate at MetLife.
Step 1: Get Ready to Party! (Pre-Game Planning)
Before you even think about firing up that grill, let's get you organized. A successful tailgate begins long before you hit the parking lot.
A. Understand the Event and Parking
First things first, what event are you attending? The parking and tailgating procedures can slightly vary.
NFL Games (Jets/Giants): For NFL games, parking is typically pre-paid. You'll need to secure your parking permit in advance. These are often tied to your ticket purchase or can be bought separately through official channels like Ticketmaster or the team's website. Keep an eye on your specific parking tier (Premium, Reserved, General, etc.) as this can influence which lots you're directed to.
Non-NFL Events (Concerts, Other Sports): For non-NFL events, parking is usually available on a first-come, first-served basis and is payable upon arrival. This means getting there early is even more crucial!
B. Gather Your Gear
Now for the fun part: packing! Here's a checklist of essentials, but feel free to personalize it:
Grilling Essentials:
Portable Grill: Propane or charcoal (check rules on charcoal disposal!).
Fuel: Propane tank or charcoal briquettes.
Utensils: Tongs, spatulas, grill brush.
Cooler: Filled with ice, drinks, and perishable food.
Food: Burgers, hot dogs, snacks, condiments, buns, paper plates, napkins, cups.
Seating & Shelter:
Folding Chairs: For comfortable lounging.
Folding Table: For food and drinks.
Small Canopy/Tent: Crucial! Just be aware of size restrictions (generally not exceeding an 8' x 8' footprint).
Entertainment:
Portable Speaker: Keep the volume reasonable (under 65 decibels).
Games: Cornhole, frisbee, football.
Team Gear: Jerseys, flags, banners (hand-held, no poles).
Safety & Clean-up:
Fire Extinguisher: Highly recommended (minimum Class 2A-10B:C).
Trash Bags: Leave no trace!
Wet Wipes/Hand Sanitizer: For easy clean-up.
First-Aid Kit: Just in case.
Sunscreen/Rain Gear: Be prepared for any weather!
Step 2: Arriving at MetLife (The Parking Lot Experience)
This is where the magic begins! Getting to the stadium and finding your spot is key to a smooth tailgate.
A. Timing is Everything
The parking lots typically open 5 hours prior to the start of an event and close 2 hours after. Always double-check the specific event's "Know Before You Go" guide for exact times, as they can vary. Arriving early is paramount, especially for popular events, to secure a good spot and avoid traffic. Aim for at least 3-4 hours before kickoff.
B. Navigating the Lots
MetLife Stadium has extensive parking lots. For NFL games, your pre-paid permit will direct you to a specific area (e.g., Lots E, F, G for accessible parking). For non-NFL events, it's first-come, first-served.
One Car = One Space: This is a golden rule at MetLife. Your tailgating setup (tables, chairs, grills, etc.) must be limited to the lined parking space and the area directly behind or in front of your vehicle. Do not occupy adjacent spaces, even if they're empty, and absolutely do not block drive lanes. Stadium tailgate patrol actively enforces this.
Saving Spaces is Prohibited: If you're meeting friends, plan to arrive together. Saving spots for other vehicles is not allowed.
Oversized Vehicles: Trucks, trailers, and other oversized vehicles (not buses) will generally be directed to park along curbs so they don't take up multiple lined spaces. They are not permitted in enclosed structured parking decks.
C. Parking Decks vs. Surface Lots
Be aware of the distinction:
Surface Lots: Tailgating, including grilling, is permitted in all MetLife Sports Complex surface parking lots, unless otherwise designated.
Parking Decks: The use of grills and other heating devices is NOT allowed in the parking decks.
Step 3: Setting Up Your Tailgate (Rules and Regulations)
Once you're parked, it's time to transform your space into a pre-game paradise! But remember, fun comes with responsibility.
A. Grilling Guidelines
Safety first when it comes to cooking!
Safe Distance: Grills are permitted but must be used at a safe distance from your vehicle and other property.
No Open Fires: Open fires are strictly prohibited.
No Deep Fryers: Deep fryers or any oil-based cooking/frying devices are not allowed.
Coal Disposal: Proper disposal of hot coals is essential. There are designated bins for this. Never dispose of hot coals in open parking spaces, under vehicles, or next to parked vehicles, as this can cause fires.
B. Alcohol Consumption
Enjoy your beverages responsibly.
Responsible Consumption: Guests are asked to consume alcohol responsibly at all times.
Impaired Guests: Individuals determined to be impaired before entering the stadium will not be allowed in and may face legal consequences.
C. Sound Systems
Keep the party lively, but be considerate.
Decibel Limit: Sound systems must not produce sound in excess of 65 decibels (New Jersey State Ordinance).
Direction: Anyone using a sound system must face the system towards their vehicle and not in the direction of other guests to avoid causing a negative experience.
D. Commercial Activity
This is a private party, not a marketplace.
No Selling: Individuals and companies are prohibited from selling access to a tailgate party or engaging in any unauthorized commercial tailgating or marketing activities on the premises.
Step 4: Packing Up and Heading In (Post-Tailgate Etiquette)
As game time approaches, it's time to transition from tailgating to spectating.
A. Clean Up Your Space
Leave No Trace: This is paramount. Pack out everything you packed in. Use the designated trash and coal disposal bins. Leave your parking spot cleaner than you found it. ♻️
Early Departure (if not staying post-game): If you're not planning to tailgate after the game, aim to pack up about 30 minutes before kickoff to make your way into the stadium without rushing.
B. Entering the Stadium
Bag Policy: Be aware of MetLife Stadium's clear bag policy. Only clear bags (12" x 6" x 12" or less) and small clutch purses (4.5" x 6.5" or less) are permitted. Food in clear plastic bags and factory-sealed plastic water bottles (20 oz or less) are generally allowed.
Security Screening: All vehicles and bags are subject to visual search upon entry. Expect security screening at the gates.
Step 5: Post-Game Departure
Patient Exit: The parking lots can be very congested after an event. Be patient, follow the directions of traffic personnel, and enjoy the post-game atmosphere.
Lot Closing Time: Remember, the parking lots generally close 2 hours after the conclusion of an event.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get a parking pass for MetLife Stadium?
For NFL games, parking passes are typically pre-paid and can be purchased in advance through Ticketmaster, the official team websites (Giants or Jets), or as part of a ticket package. For non-NFL events, parking is often payable upon arrival.
How to find my assigned parking lot at MetLife Stadium?
If you have a pre-paid permit for an NFL game, your permit will indicate your specific parking lot (e.g., E, F, G). For other events, traffic and parking staff will direct you to available lots upon arrival.
How to dispose of hot coals after tailgating?
MetLife Stadium provides designated bins for hot coal disposal in the parking lots. It's crucial to use these bins and never dump coals on the ground, under vehicles, or in regular trash cans.
How to tailgate with a large group at MetLife Stadium?
If you're with a large group, the best way to tailgate together is to carpool and arrive at the stadium at the same time. Saving parking spaces is not permitted, so arriving together is the only way to ensure you're parked near each other.
How to find accessible parking for tailgating at MetLife Stadium?
Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G. You must have a valid ADA license plate or hang tag, and the owner of the vehicle with the tag must be present.
How to bring food and drinks into MetLife Stadium for tailgating?
You can bring food and drinks for tailgating. Remember to consume alcohol responsibly. For entry into the stadium itself, there's a clear bag policy for food in clear plastic bags and factory-sealed plastic water bottles (20 oz or less).
How to ensure my tailgating tent is allowed?
Tents or canopies are permitted but must not exceed an 8' x 8' footprint. Ensure your tent fits within your single designated parking space.
How to keep my tailgating noise levels respectful?
Keep your sound systems at a reasonable volume, not exceeding 65 decibels. Point speakers towards your vehicle to minimize disturbance to other tailgaters.
How to avoid getting my vehicle towed while tailgating?
To avoid towing, always adhere to the "one car = one space" rule, do not block drive lanes, and do not engage in unauthorized commercial activities. Any violation of laws or tailgating policies can result in your vehicle being towed.
How to get to MetLife Stadium if I don't want to drive?
You can take public transportation! NJ Transit offers rail service directly to the MetLife Sports Complex from Secaucus Junction. There are also bus services from the Port Authority Bus Terminal. You can still enjoy the pre-game atmosphere in designated activity zones even without a car.
