Hey there! Planning a trip to MetLife Stadium for a game, concert, or other exciting event? You're probably wondering about the best way to handle payments once you're inside. Let's get right to it!
Step 1: Can You Use Cash at MetLife Stadium? (The Quick Answer!)
Let's cut to the chase: No, MetLife Stadium is a virtually cash-free venue. That means you cannot directly use physical cash for purchases at concession stands, retail stores, or for parking within the stadium complex. This policy is in place to enhance efficiency, speed up transactions, and provide a more sanitary environment for all guests.
"So, what do I do if I only have cash?" Don't worry, they've got you covered! While cash isn't accepted directly, MetLife Stadium offers a convenient solution to convert your cash into a usable form of payment. Keep reading to find out how.
Step 2: Understanding the Cash-Free Policy
MetLife Stadium has fully embraced a cashless payment system. This isn't just a suggestion; it's a firm policy across all points of sale inside the stadium. This shift aligns with a growing trend in large venues to streamline operations and improve the fan experience.
Why Cashless?
Faster Transactions: Eliminates the need for cash handling, counting change, and reduces queues, getting you back to the action quicker.
Enhanced Hygiene: Reduces physical contact with money, promoting a cleaner environment.
Increased Security: Less cash on-site means less risk for both staff and patrons. ️
Efficiency: Simplifies accounting and operational processes for the stadium.
Step 3: Your Go-To Payment Methods
Since cash isn't king here, what should you bring to pay for your food, drinks, and merchandise? MetLife Stadium accepts a wide array of digital payment options:
A. Credit and Debit Cards
All Major Cards Accepted: This includes Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
Tap to Pay: Many vendors are equipped with contactless payment readers, allowing for quick "tap-and-go" transactions. Look for the contactless symbol on payment terminals.
Chip and Swipe: If tap-to-pay isn't available, you can still use the traditional chip insertion or magnetic stripe swipe methods.
B. Mobile Wallets
Apple Pay and Google Pay: These are widely accepted and offer a secure and convenient way to pay using your smartphone or smartwatch. Simply hold your device near the payment terminal.
Other Mobile Payment Apps: Depending on the vendor, other mobile payment applications might also be supported.
C. Jets Rewards Cash QR Code (For Season Ticket Holders)
If you're a New York Jets Season Ticket Holder, you can leverage your Jets Rewards Cash QR code for seamless, cash-free transactions at concessions and retail locations. This can also earn you Jets Rewards points on qualifying purchases.
Step 4: Converting Your Cash with Reverse ATMs
So, you arrived with only cash, or perhaps you prefer to use cash but understand the stadium's policy. Fear not! MetLife Stadium provides a brilliant solution: Reverse ATMs.
What is a Reverse ATM?
A reverse ATM is a machine that allows you to insert cash and, in return, receives a prepaid debit card. Think of it as a cash-to-card converter.
Where to Find Reverse ATMs
MetLife Stadium strategically places these convenient machines throughout the venue. You'll typically find them in high-traffic areas. Here are some general locations to look out for:
MetLife West Hall
Adjacent to sections:
100 Level: 117, 128, 149
200 Level: 220a, 245a
300 Level: 304, 322, 334, 347
How to Use a Reverse ATM
Locate a Reverse ATM: Keep an eye out for signs pointing to "Reverse ATM" or "Cash to Card."
Insert Your Cash: Follow the on-screen prompts and insert your desired amount of cash into the machine.
Receive Your Prepaid Card: The machine will dispense a prepaid Visa debit card loaded with the equivalent value of the cash you inserted.
No Expiration Date: A fantastic perk is that these Visa debit cards typically have no expiration date. This means you can use any remaining balance on future visits or anywhere else Visa debit cards are accepted outside the stadium.
No Fees: This service is generally offered free of charge to guests, so you won't incur any additional fees for converting your cash.
Step 5: Other Important Payment Considerations
Beyond concessions and retail, here are a few more payment-related points to keep in mind for your MetLife Stadium experience:
A. Parking
Prepaid Parking: For NFL game days, prepaid parking permits are generally required and must often be printed in advance. Mobile parking passes are usually not accepted for entry into the parking lots.
On-Site Parking (if available): If you pay for parking upon arrival (e.g., at certain lots like American Dream's lots 26 and 27 which service MetLife Stadium events), it will be credit card only. No cash accepted at the toll plazas or parking entrances.
Ticket Office: Similarly, if you're purchasing tickets directly at the stadium ticket office (though digital tickets are the preferred and often only method of entry), they will also be cash-free, accepting only major credit/debit cards.
B. Mobile Ordering
For added convenience and to skip lines, consider using the official team apps (like the New York Jets App) for mobile ordering of food and beverages. You can order and pay directly from your phone, then pick up your items at designated express pickup locations. This is an excellent way to save time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to pay for food at MetLife Stadium?
You can pay for food at MetLife Stadium using debit cards, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay, or a prepaid Visa debit card obtained from a reverse ATM.
How to get a prepaid card at MetLife Stadium?
You can get a prepaid Visa debit card at MetLife Stadium by using one of the on-site Reverse ATMs. Simply insert your cash into the machine, and it will dispense a prepaid card loaded with that amount.
How to pay for parking at MetLife Stadium?
Parking at MetLife Stadium for events like NFL games often requires a prepaid parking permit. If paying on-site at designated lots, payment is typically by credit or debit card only; cash is not accepted at parking toll plazas.
How to use a mobile wallet at MetLife Stadium?
To use a mobile wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay) at MetLife Stadium, simply open your mobile wallet app on your smartphone or smartwatch and hold your device near the payment terminal at concession stands or retail locations that support contactless payments.
How to find reverse ATMs at MetLife Stadium?
Reverse ATMs at MetLife Stadium are located in the MetLife West Hall and near sections 117, 128, 149 (100 Level); 220a, 245a (200 Level); and 304, 322, 334, 347 (300 Level). Look for signage within the stadium.
How to skip lines for concessions at MetLife Stadium?
You can often skip lines for concessions at MetLife Stadium by using mobile ordering through the official team apps (e.g., New York Jets App), which allows you to order and pay from your phone for express pickup.
How to ensure my credit card works at MetLife Stadium?
Ensure your credit or debit card has sufficient funds and is not expired. Most modern cards with a chip or contactless payment capability should work seamlessly. "Swiped" credit/debit card transactions may not be accepted at parking toll plazas or the ticket office.
How to pay for merchandise at MetLife Stadium?
Merchandise at MetLife Stadium can be purchased using debit cards, credit cards, mobile payment options, or a prepaid Visa debit card from a reverse ATM. Cash is not directly accepted.
How to get a refund on a MetLife Stadium prepaid card?
Prepaid Visa debit cards issued by the reverse ATMs at MetLife Stadium typically have no expiration date, so you don't necessarily need a refund. The remaining balance can be used for future purchases at the stadium or anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted.
How to prepare for a cash-free experience at MetLife Stadium?
To prepare for a cash-free experience, make sure you have a valid credit or debit card, your mobile wallet set up, or be ready to convert cash to a prepaid card using the on-site reverse ATMs. Consider downloading the team's mobile app for mobile ordering.
