Your Ultimate Guide: Getting from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium
Hey there, stadium-bound adventurer! Are you ready to catch a thrilling game, sing along to your favorite band, or experience an unforgettable event at MetLife Stadium? Getting there from the bustling heart of New York City, specifically Penn Station, might seem a bit daunting at first, but with this detailed, step-by-step guide, you'll be navigating your way like a seasoned pro. Let's dive in and make your journey as smooth as possible!
Navigating Your Way: The Public Transit Advantage
While driving or taking a taxi might offer direct routes, public transportation, especially NJ Transit, is often the most convenient and cost-effective way to reach MetLife Stadium from Penn Station, particularly on event days when traffic and parking can be a nightmare. Forget the stress of battling New Jersey Turnpike congestion and expensive parking fees – let the train take the strain!
Step 1: Arriving at Penn Station (NYC)
First things first, you need to get to Penn Station in New York City. Are you coming from within Manhattan, another borough, or even out of state? Penn Station is a major transportation hub, so you have plenty of options:
Subway: Numerous MTA subway lines (1, 2, 3, A, C, E) directly serve Penn Station. Look for signs leading to "34 St-Penn Station."
Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): If you're coming from Long Island, the LIRR terminates directly at Penn Station.
Amtrak: For travelers from further afield, Amtrak also has a major presence at Penn Station.
Bus: Various city buses will get you to the vicinity of Penn Station.
Walking/Ride-share: If you're staying nearby, a walk or a quick ride-share can get you there.
Once inside Penn Station, follow the signs for NJ Transit. This is crucial, as Penn Station serves multiple train lines. You're looking for the New Jersey Transit concourse.
Step 2: Boarding the NJ Transit Train to Secaucus Junction
This is the first leg of your train journey to MetLife Stadium.
2.1 Finding Your Train to Secaucus Junction
Locate NJ Transit Tracks: Head to the NJ Transit section of Penn Station. You'll typically find departures for Secaucus Junction from tracks on the lower levels.
Look for "SEC" or Meadowlands-bound Trains: Any NJ Transit train that is marked with "SEC" (for Secaucus Junction) will get you to your transfer point. These trains often include lines like the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, and Raritan Valley Line. Don't worry, Secaucus Junction is usually the first stop after leaving Penn Station.
2.2 Purchasing Your Ticket
Round-Trip to Meadowlands: It's highly recommended to purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" from the start. This ticket will cover both your journey to Secaucus and the connection to MetLife Stadium.
Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): These are the easiest way to buy your ticket. They are located throughout the NJ Transit concourse. Select "Meadowlands" as your destination.
NJ Transit Mobile App: For ultimate convenience, download the official NJ Transit Mobile App. You can purchase your tickets directly on your phone and activate them before boarding. This is a great way to avoid lines at ticket machines, especially on event days.
Ticket Windows: If you prefer speaking to someone, there are also ticket windows available.
The cost for a round-trip adult ticket from New York Penn Station to Meadowlands is approximately $12.60 (as of current information). Make sure to hold onto your ticket, as you'll need it for the transfer and for your return journey.
2.3 The Ride to Secaucus Junction
Short and Sweet: The train ride from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is quite brief, typically lasting around 10-15 minutes.
Relax and Observe: Take this short ride to mentally prepare for the excitement ahead! You'll notice many other fans making the same journey, so you're in good company.
Step 3: Transferring at Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction
Secaucus Junction is the gateway to MetLife Stadium via public transport.
3.1 Navigating Secaucus Junction
Head Upstairs: Upon arriving at Secaucus Junction, you'll need to go upstairs to the mezzanine level.
Show Your Ticket: NJ Transit staff will be at the gates to check your ticket. This is where your pre-purchased "Meadowlands" ticket comes in handy.
Follow the Signs: Look for clear signage directing you to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line or "Sports Complex Station."
3.2 Boarding the Meadowlands Rail Line
Dedicated Shuttle Trains: For major events at MetLife Stadium (which is most of the time you'd be going there!), NJ Transit operates dedicated shuttle trains on the Meadowlands Rail Line. These trains leave from Tracks E-H on the lower level of Secaucus Junction.
Frequency: These shuttle trains typically run frequently, especially in the hours leading up to an event, often every 10-20 minutes.
Travel Time: The ride from Secaucus Junction directly to the Sports Complex Station (which is right at MetLife Stadium) is incredibly quick, usually taking only about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Arriving at MetLife Sports Complex Station
Congratulations, you've made it!
Steps from the Stadium: The MetLife Sports Complex Station drops you off literally steps from the stadium entrance. You'll exit the train and find yourself right in the heart of the action.
Follow the Crowd: On event days, the flow of people will naturally guide you towards the stadium gates.
Important Considerations & Tips for a Smooth Journey
Check Event Schedules: Always, always, always check the NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/metlifestadium Buy Round-Trip Tickets in Advance: This is a game-changer. Buying your round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" beforehand saves you time and stress, especially when returning after a crowded event.
NJ Transit Mobile App: A Lifesaver: Seriously, download it. It allows you to buy and activate tickets, check schedules, and get real-time updates.
Allow Ample Time: While the train journey itself is efficient, factor in time for getting to Penn Station, navigating the stations, potential lines at ticket machines (if you don't use the app), and security checks at the stadium. Aim to arrive at Penn Station at least 1.5 to 2 hours before the event starts, especially for popular games or concerts.
Post-Event Departure: After an event, trains from MetLife Stadium back to Secaucus Junction will run on a "load and go" basis for a period (typically up to 3 hours after the event concludes) until all customers have departed. Be prepared for crowds when heading back, but NJ Transit is generally very efficient at moving people.
Stay Informed: Listen for announcements at the stations and on the trains. NJ Transit staff are usually on hand for major events to help guide passengers.
Alternative: Coach USA Bus (Route 351): While the train is generally preferred from Penn Station, you also have the option of taking the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus. This bus departs from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (which is a short walk or subway ride from Penn Station). It offers direct service to MetLife Stadium for NFL games and other large events. Check Coach USA's website (
coachusa.com/351-meadowlands-express
Remember, planning is key! With these steps and tips, you'll be enjoying your MetLife Stadium experience without a hitch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Penn Station quickly? The fastest way is typically by taking an NJ Transit train from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transferring to the Meadowlands Rail Line directly to MetLife Stadium. The entire journey can take as little as 30-45 minutes of actual travel time, though you should factor in waiting and transfer times.
How to buy train tickets for MetLife Stadium from Penn Station? You can buy tickets at NJ Transit ticket vending machines at Penn Station, at a ticket window, or most conveniently, through the NJ Transit Mobile App by selecting "Meadowlands" as your destination.
How to know if the Meadowlands Rail Line is running?
The Meadowlands Rail Line to MetLife Stadium typically only operates for major events. Always check the official NJ Transit website (
How to return to Penn Station from MetLife Stadium? After an event, simply board the Meadowlands Rail Line train at the Sports Complex Station back to Secaucus Junction. From there, transfer to any NJ Transit train heading to New York Penn Station. Trains run on a "load and go" basis for a few hours after events.
How to avoid crowds when traveling to MetLife Stadium? To minimize crowds, aim to arrive at Penn Station and make your transfers well in advance of the event's start time (e.g., 2-3 hours prior). For the return journey, either leave slightly before the event ends or be prepared for significant crowds as everyone departs simultaneously.
How to find the correct platform at Penn Station for Secaucus-bound trains? At Penn Station, look for digital departure boards that list NJ Transit trains. Find trains with "SEC" or "Secaucus Junction" as a stop, and note the platform number. There will also be clear signage in the NJ Transit concourse.
How to use the NJ Transit Mobile App for tickets? Download the NJ Transit Mobile App, create an account, select "Buy Tickets," choose "Rail," then "Meadowlands," and select "Round Trip." Activate your ticket just before you board your first train.
How to get from Port Authority Bus Terminal to MetLife Stadium? From Port Authority Bus Terminal (which is a short distance from Penn Station), you can take the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus. This is a direct service for most major events. Check the Coach USA website for schedules.
How to check for delays or service alerts for NJ Transit? The best way to check for any service disruptions or delays is through the NJ Transit Mobile App, their official website (njtransit.com), or their social media channels (e.g., Twitter).
How to estimate total travel time from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium? While the train ride itself is about 20-25 minutes (Penn Station to Secaucus, then Secaucus to MetLife), factor in waiting for trains, transfers, and walking within stations. A safe estimate for the total public transit journey from the moment you step into Penn Station until you're at the stadium entrance is generally 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on crowd levels and train frequency.