Yes, you absolutely can take a train to MetLife Stadium! It's one of the most convenient and recommended ways to get there, especially for major events. Forget the stress of traffic and expensive parking – NJ TRANSIT's Meadowlands Rail Line offers a direct route right to the stadium's doorstep.
Ready to plan your hassle-free trip to see your favorite team or artist? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide!
Your Ultimate Guide to Taking the Train to MetLife Stadium
Navigating to a large venue like MetLife Stadium can seem daunting, but with a bit of planning, using public transportation, specifically the train, can be a breeze. NJ TRANSIT has made it incredibly easy for event-goers.
Step 1: Confirm Train Service Availability for Your Event ️
First things first, not every single event at MetLife Stadium has dedicated train service. NJ TRANSIT typically operates the Meadowlands Rail Service for events with an anticipated attendance of above 50,000. This generally includes major sporting events like NFL games for the New York Giants and New York Jets, and large-scale concerts.
Your Action: Before you even think about buying train tickets, check the official MetLife Stadium transportation page or the NJ TRANSIT website (
njtransit.com/metlifestadium
Step 2: Getting to Secaucus Junction
The Meadowlands Rail Line doesn't connect directly to every single train station in New Jersey or New York. Instead, it operates as a special shuttle service from a central hub: the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. This means your primary goal is to get to Secaucus Junction first.
Sub-heading: From New York City (NYC)
If you're coming from New York City, your journey will almost certainly begin at New York Penn Station.
Take any NJ TRANSIT train that makes a stop at Secaucus Junction. These trains will typically display "SEC" or indicate Secaucus Junction as a stop.
The journey from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is usually very quick, around 10 minutes.
Travel Tip: New York Penn Station can be a busy place! Arrive with enough time to spare.
Sub-heading: From Other NJ TRANSIT Lines ️
If you're starting your journey from various parts of New Jersey, you'll also connect to Secaucus Junction. NJ TRANSIT's comprehensive rail system allows connections from most of its lines, including:
Main/Bergen County Line
Montclair-Boonton Line
Morris & Essex Line
Northeast Corridor Line
North Jersey Coast Line
Raritan Valley Line
Pascack Valley Line
Port Jervis Line
Your Action: Use the NJ TRANSIT Trip Planner on their website or mobile app. Input your starting station and "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination. It will provide the best route, including any necessary transfers to Secaucus Junction.
Step 3: Transferring to the Meadowlands Rail Line at Secaucus Junction ➡️ MetLife Stadium ️
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you're just one short, dedicated train ride away from MetLife Stadium!
Sub-heading: Navigating Secaucus Junction ️
Secaucus Junction is designed for easy transfers.
Upon arriving at Secaucus Junction, you'll need to descend to the lower level platforms. Follow the signs for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Sports Complex." There are usually plenty of staff members and clear signage to guide you, especially on event days.
The travel time between Secaucus Junction and the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station (right at MetLife Stadium) is approximately 10 minutes.
Sub-heading: Frequency of Service ⏰
On event days with rail service:
Trains usually begin running approximately 3.5 hours prior to the event's start time.
They run frequently, often every 10-20 minutes, leading up to kickoff or the show.
During the event, service may be hourly.
After the event concludes, trains operate on a "load and go" basis, typically every 10-15 minutes, until crowds dissipate (usually for about 1 hour after the event). It's advised to plan your return trip, especially if you have a connecting train out of Secaucus.
Travel Tip: Don't wait until the last minute! Arrive early to enjoy the pre-game atmosphere or just to ensure a relaxed journey.
Step 4: Purchasing Your Train Ticket ️
This is a critical step to ensure a smooth journey.
Sub-heading: Recommended Purchase Methods ✅
NJ TRANSIT Mobile App: This is highly recommended! 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. This is often the quickest and most convenient option, as it avoids lines at ticket windows or vending machines.
Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Available at most NJ TRANSIT stations, including New York Penn Station and Secaucus Junction. Be sure to select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
Ticket Windows: If available at your station, you can purchase tickets from a ticket agent.
Sub-heading: Round-Trip is Key!
Always purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" (or "Meadowlands" as the destination) before boarding your first train.
Purchasing a ticket on board can incur an additional $5 surcharge.
Important: Hold onto your ticket! You'll need it for your return journey and potentially to pass through fare gates at Secaucus Junction.
Cost: A round-trip fare from New York Penn Station to the Sports Complex is approximately $11.00. Fares from other NJ TRANSIT stations will vary.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Event!
Once you arrive at the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station, you'll be just a short walk to MetLife Stadium. The station is conveniently located near the stadium, often with direct aerial connections.
Walk to the Stadium: Follow the flow of people and the signs. You'll be at the stadium gates in minutes.
Exiting the Stadium: When leaving, head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station, which is usually accessible from the MetLife or Verizon Gates.
Other Public Transportation Considerations
While the train is often the best choice for major events, it's worth noting other options:
Coach USA Bus Service (Route 351 Meadowlands Express): This bus service operates from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City directly to MetLife Stadium for NFL games and other large events. It begins service about 2.5 hours before an event and continues for a period after. Check Coach USA's website (351express.com) for schedules and fares. A round-trip ticket is usually around $14.
Local NJ TRANSIT Buses: Some local bus routes also serve the Meadowlands Complex, though they might not be as direct or frequent for large events as the specialized rail or Coach USA service. Routes like the No. 160 or No. 703 can connect you to the Meadowlands area.
Park and Ride (Train): If you prefer to drive part of the way, you can park at the Edison Park Fast parking lot located next to Secaucus Junction. From there, you can take the Meadowlands rail service to the stadium. Parking fees apply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC Penn Station by train?
Take any NJ TRANSIT train from New York Penn Station that stops at Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the dedicated Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle to the MetLife Sports Complex Station.
How to buy NJ TRANSIT tickets for MetLife Stadium?
Purchase tickets via the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App, at Ticket Vending Machines at any NJ TRANSIT station, or at ticket windows. Always buy a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex."
How to know if train service is available for my event at MetLife Stadium?
Check the official MetLife Stadium transportation page or the NJ TRANSIT website (
How to get from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium?
At Secaucus Junction, proceed to the lower level platforms and board the Meadowlands Rail Line train. It's a short, direct ride of about 10 minutes to the MetLife Sports Complex Station.
How to travel from Grand Central to MetLife Stadium?
From Grand Central, you would take the subway (S, 7, or other lines) to New York Penn Station, then follow the NJ TRANSIT train instructions to Secaucus Junction and the Meadowlands Rail Line.
How to use the NJ TRANSIT mobile app for tickets?
Download the app, create an account, select "Buy Tickets," choose your origin (e.g., "New York Penn Station") and destination ("Meadowlands Sports Complex"), select round-trip, and pay. Activate the ticket just before boarding.
How to find train schedules for MetLife Stadium events?
Schedules are typically posted on the NJ TRANSIT website (
How to get back to NYC after an event at MetLife Stadium?
Head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station after the event. Trains will run frequently ("load and go") back to Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus, connect to an NJ TRANSIT train bound for New York Penn Station.
How to find parking at Secaucus Junction for the train to MetLife Stadium?
There's an Edison Park Fast parking lot adjacent to Secaucus Junction. You can park there and then take the Meadowlands Rail Line. Check their website (parkfast.com) for rates and availability.
How to avoid long lines when taking the train to MetLife Stadium?
Purchase round-trip tickets in advance, preferably using the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App.
Arrive early at your originating station and at Secaucus Junction.
Plan your return journey and be aware of the "load and go" schedule after the event.
