Going to a big game or concert at MetLife Stadium? ️ You're probably wondering about the best way to get there. While you can't take the New York City subway directly to MetLife Stadium, you absolutely can leverage the regional train system, specifically NJ Transit, for a convenient and often less stressful journey. Forget the traffic headaches and expensive parking; public transportation is a fantastic option for most major events!
Step 1: Understanding the Transportation Landscape ️
First things first, let's clear up a common misconception: the NYC subway system (MTA) does not extend into New Jersey, where MetLife Stadium is located. Therefore, a direct "subway" ride isn't possible. However, New Jersey has its own extensive public transit network, NJ Transit, which is your key to reaching the stadium.
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| Can You Take The Subway To Metlife Stadium |
What's the Goal?
Your primary goal is to get to the Meadowlands Rail Station, which is right at the stadium's doorstep. To do this, you'll almost certainly need to pass through Secaucus Junction. This station acts as a crucial transfer hub for many NJ Transit lines.
Step 2: Planning Your Route to Secaucus Junction
Your starting point will dictate the best way to reach Secaucus Junction.
From New York City:
If you're coming from New York City, your journey will begin at New York Penn Station.
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From New York Penn Station (NYC): This is the most common starting point for visitors from NYC. You can take almost any NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station that is headed to New Jersey; most will stop at Secaucus Junction. Look for lines like the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Morris & Essex Line, or Midtown Direct trains. The ride to Secaucus Junction is typically quick, around 10-15 minutes.
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Pro Tip: Always check the departure boards and listen to announcements to confirm your train will stop at Secaucus Junction.
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From Other Parts of New Jersey:
If you're already in New Jersey, you'll use different NJ Transit lines to reach Secaucus Junction.
QuickTip: Skim the intro, then dive deeper.
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Connecting Lines: Various NJ Transit rail lines connect to Secaucus Junction, including the Main-Bergen County Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Morris & Essex Line, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Pascack Valley Line, and Port Jervis Line.
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Travel Time Awareness: Depending on your starting station in New Jersey, travel times to Secaucus Junction will vary significantly.
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From Upstate New York/Connecticut (Metro-North):
For those coming from further afield, you'll generally need to connect through New York City.
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Metro-North to Grand Central, then Subway to Penn Station: Take a Metro-North train to Grand Central Terminal in NYC. From there, you'll need to take the NYC Subway (e.g., the S shuttle to Times Square, then the 1/2/3 or A/C/E to Penn Station) to reach New York Penn Station. Once at Penn Station, follow the "From New York City" steps above.
Step 3: The Meadowlands Rail Line: Your Final Leg
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line.
Transferring at Secaucus Junction:
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Easy Transfer: Secaucus Junction is designed for easy transfers. Simply follow the signs for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Sports Complex." You'll likely go down an escalator or stairs to a lower level platform where the shuttle trains to MetLife Stadium depart.
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Event-Specific Service: NJ Transit operates the Meadowlands Rail Service specifically for events at MetLife Stadium. This service is typically active for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000. It's crucial to check the NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/metlifestadium -
Quick Ride: The train ride from Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station (MetLife Stadium) is very short, typically around 10 minutes. The station drops you right at the front door of MetLife Stadium.
Step 4: Purchasing Your Tickets ️
Don't wait until the last minute! Purchasing tickets in advance will save you time and hassle.
Ticket Options:
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NJ Transit Mobile App: This is by far the easiest and most recommended method. Download the free NJ Transit Mobile App (available on Apple Store and Google Play). You can purchase and activate your tickets directly on your phone.
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Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Available at all major NJ Transit stations, including New York Penn Station and Secaucus Junction.
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Ticket Windows: Staffed ticket windows are available at larger stations.
Important Considerations:
Tip: Reading on mobile? Zoom in for better comfort.
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Round-Trip Tickets: Always purchase a round-trip ticket before boarding your initial train. This avoids a $5 surcharge for purchasing tickets on board and ensures a smoother return journey.
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Fare: The round-trip fare from New York Penn Station to the Sports Complex is currently around $11.00. Fares from other NJ Transit stations will vary.
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Keep Your Ticket: You'll need your ticket to exit the fare gates at Secaucus Junction and to board the train from the Meadowlands back to Secaucus.
Step 5: Navigating on Event Day & Return Journey ♀️♂️
MetLife Stadium event days are busy, so be prepared!
At MetLife Stadium:
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Exiting the Station: Once you arrive at Meadowlands Sports Complex Station, simply follow the crowds. The station is designed for direct access to the stadium.
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Gates: For accessing the train while at an event, guests should typically exit from the MetLife or Verizon Gates.
The Return Journey:
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Post-Event Trains: After the event, head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station. NJ Transit trains will be running frequently on a "load-and-go" basis until crowds dissipate.
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Transfer at Secaucus: You'll take the Meadowlands Rail Line back to Secaucus Junction. From there, you'll transfer to an NJ Transit train heading back to your original destination (e.g., New York Penn Station or other NJ locations).
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Check Schedules: While post-event trains run frequently, it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the general NJ Transit schedule for trains departing Secaucus Junction, especially if you're traveling late.
Other Public Transportation Options
While the train is generally the most recommended, there are also bus options available.
Coach USA Bus Service (Route 351 Meadowlands Express):
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From Port Authority Bus Terminal (NYC): Coach USA provides direct bus service (Route 351 Meadowlands Express) from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City to the MetLife Sports Complex for NFL games and other large events.
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Schedule: This bus service typically starts 2.5 hours before an event and continues until half an hour after the event begins. It operates for approximately one hour after the event concludes.
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Drop-off/Pick-up: The bus drops off and picks up passengers in Lot K, near the Quest Diagnostics Performance Center.
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Fares: A round-trip ticket is around $14.00, and a one-way is about $7.00.
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Check 351express.com or call (800) 877-1888, Ext. 3 for more information.
NJ Transit Local Bus Service:
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Some local NJ Transit bus routes (like the Nos. 85, 160, 703, 772) serve the general Meadowlands area, including American Dream and the Meadowlands Racetrack.
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However, for direct access to MetLife Stadium on event days, the Meadowlands Rail Service or the Coach USA 351 Express are usually the most convenient and recommended options.
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check NJ Transit train schedules for MetLife Stadium?
You can check NJ Transit train schedules for MetLife Stadium events on the official NJ Transit website (
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
The easiest way is to use the NJ Transit Mobile App on your smartphone. Alternatively, you can purchase tickets at Ticket Vending Machines or ticket windows at major NJ Transit stations.
How to get from New York Penn Station to MetLife Stadium?
Take an NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line which goes directly to MetLife Stadium.
How to avoid long lines for tickets at MetLife Stadium?
Purchase your round-trip tickets in advance using the NJ Transit Mobile App or at a ticket vending machine before you even get to Penn Station or Secaucus Junction.
How to know if the Meadowlands Rail Service is running for an event?
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
NJ Transit typically operates the Meadowlands Rail Service for events with anticipated attendance over 50,000. Always check the MetLife Stadium website or NJ Transit's event-specific pages for confirmation.
How to get from MetLife Stadium back to New York City after an event?
Take the Meadowlands Rail Line from MetLife Stadium back to Secaucus Junction, and then transfer to any NJ Transit train bound for New York Penn Station.
How to use the NJ Transit Mobile App for tickets?
Download the app, create an account, select your origin and destination, choose your ticket type (round-trip recommended), pay, and then activate your ticket when you're ready to board.
How to find the Meadowlands Rail Line platform at Secaucus Junction?
At Secaucus Junction, follow the clear signage for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Sports Complex." It's typically on a lower level platform.
How to travel with a large group to MetLife Stadium by public transport?
While public transport is efficient, traveling in a large group might require extra coordination. Purchase tickets in advance for everyone and try to stick together, especially during transfers. Consider the Coach USA 351 bus if a direct route from Port Authority is preferable for your group.
How to ensure a smooth public transit experience to MetLife Stadium?
Plan ahead, check event-specific schedules, purchase round-trip tickets in advance, download the NJ Transit app, and allow ample travel time to account for potential crowds or delays.
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