Absolutely! Planning a trip to MetLife Stadium from Penn Station can seem a bit daunting with all the different train lines and transfers. But don't worry, it's a very common route, and with this step-by-step guide, you'll be navigating it like a pro in no time. Let's get you ready for your event at MetLife! concert or whatever brings you there!
Can You Take a Train from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium? ️
Yes, you absolutely can! While there isn't a direct, one-seat ride from New York Penn Station straight to MetLife Stadium, NJ TRANSIT offers a convenient two-part train journey that gets you right to the stadium's doorstep. This involves a quick transfer at Secaucus Junction, a major transportation hub in New Jersey. It's often the most efficient and stress-free way to get to the Meadowlands Sports Complex, especially for large events, as it avoids traffic and parking hassles.
Step 1: Planning Your Trip & Getting Your Tickets (The Smart Way!) ️
Before you even step foot in Penn Station, a little preparation goes a long way. This is where you can save time and avoid stress.
Check Event-Specific Train Schedules
The Meadowlands Rail Line (sometimes branded as the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line) from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium only operates for major events with an anticipated attendance of 50,000 or more. This includes NFL games for the Giants and Jets, large concerts, and other significant events.
Crucial Tip: Always check the NJ TRANSIT website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands njtransit.com/metlife
Purchase Your Round-Trip Ticket in Advance
This is perhaps the most important step to ensure a smooth journey. You'll need a ticket that covers the entire journey to "Meadowlands Station."
Via the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App (Recommended!): This is the easiest and quickest method. Download the free NJ TRANSIT Mobile App from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination. The app allows you to purchase and display your tickets directly on your phone, providing a barcode for gate access.
At a Ticket Vending Machine (TVM): Located at Penn Station (and other major NJ TRANSIT stations), these machines are user-friendly. Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination. Make sure to purchase a round-trip ticket to avoid longer lines and a $5 surcharge when buying a ticket on board for your return journey.
At a Ticket Window: If you prefer speaking to someone, ticket windows are available at Penn Station.
Cost Estimate: A round-trip adult ticket from New York Penn Station to Meadowlands is approximately $12.60. Child, senior, and disabled fares are available at a reduced rate.
Step 2: Navigating Penn Station to Secaucus Junction ➡️
Once you have your ticket, it's time to find your train! New York Penn Station can be bustling, but NJ TRANSIT concourses are well-marked.
Locate the NJ TRANSIT Concourse
New York Penn Station is a large station with multiple train services (Amtrak, LIRR, NJ TRANSIT). Follow the signs for NJ TRANSIT. The NJ TRANSIT concourse is generally on the lower level, and there are often escalators or stairs leading directly to it from the main station area.
Find Your Train to Secaucus Junction
Look for the departure boards in the NJ TRANSIT concourse. These boards will display train destinations and track numbers.
Key Identifier: You're looking for any NJ TRANSIT train that lists "SEC" (for Secaucus) as a stop. Most NJ TRANSIT lines (including the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Morris & Essex Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Main-Bergen County Line, Pascack Valley Line, and Port Jervis Line) stop at Secaucus Junction.
Travel Time: The ride from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is typically very quick, usually around 10-15 minutes. Secaucus Junction is the first stop after leaving Penn Station.
Boarding Your Train
Once your track is announced, proceed to the platform and board the train. Find an available seat and relax!
Step 3: Transferring at Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Rail Line ️
Secaucus Junction is specifically designed for efficient transfers, making this step straightforward.
Arriving at Secaucus Junction
When your train arrives at Secaucus Junction, everyone going to MetLife Stadium will be getting off here. You'll exit your train on the upper level of the station.
Proceed to the Lower Level for Meadowlands Rail Line
Follow the signs for "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Meadowlands Sports Complex." You'll need to go downstairs to the lower level (Tracks E-H). There are escalators and elevators for easy access.
Ticket Scan: You will likely need to scan your ticket again at the fare gates to access the Meadowlands Rail Line platforms. This is why having a round-trip ticket is crucial!
Follow the Crowd: For major events, there will be a large number of people making this transfer. Simply follow the flow of foot traffic and the directions of NJ TRANSIT staff, who are usually present to guide passengers.
Board the Shuttle Train to Meadowlands Station
The trains to Meadowlands Sports Complex will depart from the lower level. These are dedicated shuttle trains that run directly to the stadium.
Travel Time: The journey from Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Station is incredibly short, typically only about 10-13 minutes.
Direct to the Stadium: The Meadowlands Rail Station is located just steps away from MetLife Stadium, offering a very convenient arrival experience.
Step 4: Enjoying Your Event and Planning Your Return
You've made it! Now, enjoy your game, concert, or event at MetLife Stadium!
Returning to Penn Station
After the event, the process is essentially the reverse.
Head Back to Meadowlands Rail Station: Follow the signs to the Meadowlands Rail Station.
Board the Shuttle to Secaucus Junction: Trains will operate on a "load-and-go" basis for a period after the event, ensuring everyone can get back.
Transfer at Secaucus Junction: Once you arrive back at Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to any NJ TRANSIT train heading towards New York Penn Station. Again, check the departure boards on the upper level for trains marked "New York" or "New York Penn Station."
Arrive at New York Penn Station: You'll arrive back where you started, hopefully after a fantastic event!
Important Reminder: Hold onto your round-trip ticket for your return journey. You'll need it to get through the fare gates at Secaucus Junction on your way back.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey ✨
Allow Ample Time: Especially for large, high-attendance events, train stations and platforms can get crowded. Plan to arrive at Penn Station well in advance of your desired arrival time at MetLife.
Check for Service Alerts: Before you leave, quickly check the NJ TRANSIT website or app for any service advisories, delays, or track changes.
Stay Hydrated and Comfortable: Especially in warmer weather or if you anticipate crowds, bring water and wear comfortable shoes.
Be Patient: While NJ TRANSIT does an excellent job of moving large crowds, there might be brief waits, especially after an event. Patience is key!
Follow Instructions: Listen to announcements and follow directions from NJ TRANSIT personnel. They're there to help manage the flow of passengers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ⁉️
How to buy a train ticket to MetLife Stadium from Penn Station?
You can buy a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" using the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App, at a ticket vending machine, or at a ticket window at Penn Station.
How to find the right train at Penn Station for MetLife Stadium?
Look for any NJ TRANSIT train on the departure boards that shows "SEC" (for Secaucus Junction) as a stop. All of these trains will take you to Secaucus, where you transfer.
How to transfer at Secaucus Junction to get to MetLife Stadium?
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, go downstairs to the lower level (Tracks E-H) and follow the signs for the "Meadowlands Rail Line." You'll scan your ticket to access the platform for the shuttle train to the stadium.
How to know if train service is running to MetLife Stadium for my event?
Always check the official NJ TRANSIT website (
How to find the Meadowlands Rail Station at MetLife Stadium?
The Meadowlands Rail Station is located directly at the Sports Complex, just a short walk from MetLife Stadium. You'll see it as you exit the train.
How to get back to Penn Station from MetLife Stadium by train?
From Meadowlands Station, take the shuttle train back to Secaucus Junction. Once at Secaucus Junction, transfer to any NJ TRANSIT train heading towards "New York Penn Station" on the upper level.
How much does a train ticket cost from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium?
A round-trip adult ticket from New York Penn Station to Meadowlands is approximately $12.60.
How long does the train ride take from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium?
The entire journey, including the transfer, typically takes about 35-45 minutes. The first leg to Secaucus is about 10-15 minutes, and the second leg to Meadowlands is about 10-13 minutes, plus transfer time.
How to avoid long lines when buying tickets?
Purchase your round-trip ticket in advance using the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App or at a ticket vending machine before you even get to Penn Station.
How to get real-time updates on train service to MetLife Stadium?
Download the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App for real-time departures, service alerts, and schedule information. You can also follow NJ TRANSIT on social media for updates.
