You absolutely can take a train from Manhattan to MetLife Stadium! It's one of the most popular and efficient ways to get there, especially for major events like NFL games or concerts, as it helps you avoid the notorious New Jersey traffic and expensive parking. While there isn't a direct train, NJ Transit provides a seamless two-leg journey that's relatively quick and convenient. Let's break down exactly how you can do it.
Step 1: Your Starting Point in Manhattan – Penn Station
The first crucial step is to get to New York Penn Station. This bustling transportation hub is located in Midtown Manhattan and is easily accessible from all parts of the city via subway, bus, or even walking, depending on your starting location.
Why Penn Station? Because it's the main gateway for NJ Transit trains coming into and out of Manhattan. All NJ Transit trains that connect to Secaucus Junction (your next stop) depart from here.
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| Can You Take A Train From Manhattan To Metlife Stadium |
Sub-heading: Getting to Penn Station
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From Uptown/Downtown: The A, C, E, 1, 2, and 3 subway lines all stop directly at Penn Station.
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From East Side: You can take the 7 train to Times Square-42nd Street and transfer to the A, C, or E lines. Alternatively, take the L train to 14th Street-Union Square and transfer to the 1, 2, or 3 lines.
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Walking: If you're staying in Midtown, Penn Station might be a short walk away. Just be sure to factor in enough time to navigate the city streets.
Pro Tip: Give yourself ample time to get to Penn Station, especially on event days. The station can be incredibly crowded, and finding your way around takes a few extra minutes.
Step 2: Boarding the NJ Transit Train to Secaucus Junction ➡️
Once you're at Penn Station, your next destination is Secaucus Junction (Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction). This is a critical transfer point for almost all NJ Transit lines and where you'll catch the dedicated train to MetLife Stadium.
Sub-heading: Purchasing Your Ticket
QuickTip: Don’t ignore the small print.
This is a very important step! You should purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" (which is the official name for the MetLife Stadium station) before you board any train.
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Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): These are widely available throughout Penn Station. Look for the distinctive NJ Transit machines. Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
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NJ Transit Mobile App (MyTix®): This is often the easiest and most convenient option. Download the NJ Transit Mobile App on your smartphone (available on Apple App Store and Google Play). You can purchase and activate your ticket directly on your phone. This saves you from waiting in line at TVMs.
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Ticket Windows: If you prefer human interaction or have specific questions, head to an NJ Transit ticket window.
Important Note on Tickets:
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Joint Tickets: If you're coming from further out on the LIRR, they sometimes offer a combined LIRR/NJ Transit ticket to the Meadowlands. Check with the LIRR for details.
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No Onboard Purchase (without penalty): Generally, you'll incur a $5 surcharge if you purchase your ticket aboard the train when ticket agents or TVMs are available at your boarding station. So, buy it in advance!
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Round Trip is Key: Always buy a round-trip ticket to Meadowlands Sports Complex. It simplifies your return journey and saves time after a long event.
Sub-heading: Finding Your Train
At Penn Station, check the departure boards for trains heading to Secaucus Junction. Most trains on the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, and other lines will make a stop at Secaucus Junction. These trains are often marked with "SEC" as a stop.
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The ride from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is typically very short, around 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Transferring at Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Rail Line
Secaucus Junction is designed for easy transfers, and it's here that you'll hop on the dedicated Meadowlands Rail Line train to the stadium.
Sub-heading: The Secaucus Transfer
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Exiting Your First Train: Once your train arrives at Secaucus Junction, exit the train.
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Follow the Signs: Look for clear signs directing you to the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "MetLife Stadium." You'll generally need to go upstairs to the mezzanine level and then down to the lower level tracks (Tracks E-H) where the Meadowlands-bound trains depart.
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Show Your Ticket: Staff might be at the fare gates on the mezzanine level to check your ticket. Have your ticket ready, whether it's a paper ticket or displayed on your mobile app.
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Boarding the Meadowlands Train: These trains are specifically for events at MetLife Stadium. They run frequently on event days, typically starting about 3.5 hours before kickoff/event start and continuing an hour after. The journey from Secaucus to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station is only about 10 minutes.
Important Consideration: The Meadowlands Rail Line only operates for events with an anticipated attendance of above 50,000. For smaller events, NJ Transit might offer bus service from Secaucus Junction instead. Always check the NJ Transit website or app for specific event day schedules before you travel.
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
Step 4: Arriving at MetLife Stadium!
Congratulations! The Meadowlands Rail Line train will take you directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station, which is conveniently located right outside MetLife Stadium.
Sub-heading: Exiting the Station and Finding Your Way
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Stadium Proximity: The station is literally steps away from the stadium entrances. You'll see the massive structure as soon as you step off the train.
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Gates: Guests typically exit near the MetLife or Verizon Gates, depending on the event.
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Post-Event Return: After the event, head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station. Trains will be waiting to take you back to Secaucus Junction, where you'll reverse your journey to Penn Station. Be prepared for crowds, but NJ Transit is very efficient in moving people out.
A Few More Handy Tips for Your Trip:
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Check Schedules: Always, always check the NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/metlifestadium -
Allow Extra Time: On event days, especially for popular games or concerts, crowds are inevitable. Factor in extra time for ticketing, transfers, and security checks. Giving yourself at least 1.5 to 2 hours from Manhattan to arriving at the stadium is a safe bet.
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Stay Hydrated/Snack: The journey isn't terribly long, but it's always good to have water and a small snack, especially if you're traveling during peak hours.
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Be Prepared for Crowds: Both Penn Station and the trains to and from the stadium will be packed. Be patient and follow directions from transit staff.
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Consider the Bus as an Alternative: While the train is generally preferred for its directness to the stadium, NJ Transit also offers the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan for many events. This is another viable option, especially if you're closer to the Port Authority or if train service is limited for a smaller event.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium using the NJ Transit Mobile App (MyTix®), at ticket vending machines (TVMs) at any NJ Transit station (including Penn Station), or at ticket windows. Always select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination and purchase a round-trip ticket.
Tip: Write down what you learned.
How to check the Meadowlands Rail Line schedule?
The Meadowlands Rail Line schedule is specific to event days at MetLife Stadium. You should always check the official NJ Transit website (
How to get to Secaucus Junction from Manhattan Penn Station?
From Manhattan Penn Station, take any NJ Transit train that lists Secaucus Junction (SEC) as a stop. Most lines (like the Northeast Corridor or North Jersey Coast Line) will stop there. The ride is typically 10-15 minutes.
How to find the Meadowlands Rail Line at Secaucus Junction?
At Secaucus Junction, follow the signs to the Meadowlands Rail Line. You'll usually need to go up to the mezzanine level and then down to the lower level tracks, typically Tracks E-H, where the dedicated stadium trains depart.
How to know if the Meadowlands Rail Line is running for an event?
The Meadowlands Rail Line usually runs for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000. Always confirm service availability by checking the official MetLife Stadium public transportation page or the NJ Transit website/app for your specific event date.
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
How to return from MetLife Stadium to Manhattan by train?
After the event, go back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station. Take the Meadowlands Rail Line train back to Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus, transfer to any NJ Transit train heading to New York Penn Station.
How to handle crowds on the train to MetLife Stadium?
Be prepared for heavy crowds, especially closer to event start times and immediately after the event. Stay patient, allow extra time, and listen to announcements from NJ Transit staff.
How to save money on train tickets to MetLife Stadium?
Purchasing a round-trip ticket in advance is generally the most cost-effective option and avoids potential onboard surcharges. Also, consider using the NJ Transit Mobile App for convenience.
How to get to MetLife Stadium if the train isn't running?
If the Meadowlands Rail Line isn't running (e.g., for smaller events), NJ Transit often provides bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan (Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express) or sometimes from Secaucus Junction. Check the MetLife Stadium website or NJ Transit for alternative bus routes.
How to stay updated on NJ Transit service alerts?
Download the NJ Transit Mobile App and enable notifications, or check the "Service Alerts" section on the NJ Transit website (njtransit.com) before and during your travel.
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