Attending a concert at MetLife Stadium from New York City is an exciting experience, but navigating the journey can be a bit daunting for first-timers. Fear not, fellow music lovers! This comprehensive guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to get to MetLife Stadium seamlessly and enjoy your concert to the fullest.
Ready to rock out? Let's get you to MetLife Stadium!
Step 1: Determine Your Preferred Mode of Transportation
Before you even think about leaving your apartment, consider how you want to get there. MetLife Stadium offers several transportation options, each with its own pros and cons. Your choice will likely depend on your budget, desire for convenience, and how many people are in your group.
Sub-heading: Public Transportation: The Eco-Friendly & Often Most Efficient Choice
For many, public transport is the most sensible option, especially with New York City's notorious traffic.
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NJ Transit Rail Service: Your Go-To for Concerts This is generally considered the fastest and most cost-effective way to reach MetLife Stadium from NYC. NJ Transit provides special rail service directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex (where MetLife Stadium is located) for most major events, including concerts.
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Coach USA Meadowlands Express Bus (Route 351) This direct bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in Midtown Manhattan is another popular option. It offers a direct route, often taking around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Sub-heading: Driving: Convenience at a Cost (and Potential Hassle)
If you prefer the flexibility of your own car, driving is an option. However, be prepared for potential traffic, parking fees, and the post-concert exodus.
Sub-heading: Rideshare Services (Uber/Lyft): A Popular, but Potentially Pricey, Alternative
Rideshare services offer door-to-door convenience, but surge pricing after a concert can make them a very expensive option.
Sub-heading: Private Car Service/Taxi: The Most Luxurious (and Priciest) Option
For ultimate comfort and direct travel, a private car service or traditional taxi can be arranged.
QuickTip: Pay attention to first and last sentences.
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| How Do I Get To Metlife Stadium From Nyc For A Concert |
Step 2: Detailed Guide to Public Transportation
This is the recommended route for most concert-goers.
Sub-heading: Taking the NJ Transit Train
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Head to Penn Station New York (NYC). Located at 32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues, Penn Station is a major transportation hub in Manhattan, easily accessible by subway (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 lines).
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Purchase Your Round-Trip Ticket. This is crucial! Purchase a round-trip ticket from Penn Station New York to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" or "MetLife Stadium" before you board your initial train. You can buy tickets at vending machines or ticket offices. Purchasing a round-trip ticket in advance will save you time and hassle, especially after the concert when lines can be very long. Don't wait to buy your return ticket at the Meadowlands Station; you might not be allowed to board without it.
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Board a Train to Secaucus Junction. All trains bound for the Meadowlands Sports Complex require a transfer at Secaucus Junction. Look for any NJ Transit train that stops at Secaucus Junction (most lines do, including Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Morris & Essex Line, etc.). The departure boards will typically indicate "SEC" next to the line name.
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Transfer at Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Rail Line. Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, follow the signs for the Meadowlands Rail Line. This is a dedicated shuttle train that runs directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex/MetLife Stadium. The ride from Secaucus Junction to the stadium is very short, usually around 10 minutes. During peak times before and after an event, these shuttle trains run frequently (every 10-20 minutes, or on a "load-and-go" basis after the event).
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Arrive at Meadowlands Station. The station is just a short walk to MetLife Stadium. Follow the crowds – you won't be alone!
Sub-heading: Taking the Coach USA Meadowlands Express Bus (Route 351)
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Go to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT). Located at 625 8th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, PABT is easily accessible by various subway lines.
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Find the Coach USA Ticket Counter/Gate. The bus service is operated by Coach USA (not NJ Transit for direct stadium service, although NJ Transit does operate other local bus routes in the area). Check the PABT screens for the specific gate number for the "351 Meadowlands Express" to MetLife Stadium. It's wise to purchase your round-trip ticket at the ticket counter beforehand.
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Board the Bus. The bus provides a direct route to the stadium, dropping you off at Stadium Lot G-17.
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Enjoy the Ride. Travel time is typically around 20-30 minutes, but can vary greatly with traffic.
Step 3: Driving to MetLife Stadium
If you opt to drive, here's what you need to know.
Sub-heading: Planning Your Route
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From Manhattan: The most common route is via the Lincoln Tunnel to NJ-3 West, which leads directly to the Sports Complex.
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From Other NYC Boroughs: Use GPS or mapping apps (Google Maps, Waze) for the most up-to-date directions, as routes can vary based on traffic conditions.
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Important Note for NJ Turnpike Southbound: Exit 19W on the New Jersey Turnpike is an EZ Pass ONLY roadway. Ensure you have an EZ Pass or plan an alternative route.
Sub-heading: Parking at MetLife Stadium
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Parking Lots Open Early: Stadium parking lots typically open five hours prior to the scheduled start of an event and close two hours after. Arriving earlier than the lot opening time is not permitted.
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Parking Fees: For non-NFL events like concerts, pre-paid parking permits are not required unless part of a VIP package. Parking is available and payable upon arrival. Expect a fee, typically around $40 per car for concerts. Oversized vehicles like buses or RVs have higher fees.
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Follow Staff Directions: As you approach the stadium, there will be highway and street-level signs, as well as traffic and parking staff, directing you to available parking lots. Follow their directions carefully.
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Accessible Parking: Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G for vehicles with valid ADA license plates or hang tags. The owner of the vehicle with the tag must be present. A dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
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No Overnight Parking: Overnight parking is strictly prohibited.
Step 4: Rideshare Services and Taxis
While convenient, consider the potential for higher costs and wait times.
Tip: Read mindfully — avoid distractions.
Sub-heading: Using Rideshare Apps (Uber/Lyft)
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Designated Zones: MetLife Stadium has designated rideshare drop-off and pick-up zones, usually located in Lot E. Follow the signs upon arrival and departure.
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Surge Pricing: Be aware that surge pricing is very common, especially after a major concert, and wait times can be significant (potentially over an hour). Factor this into your budget and time management.
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Battery Life: Keep your phone fully charged! You'll need it to request your ride.
Sub-heading: Taxis
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Traditional taxis are an option, but similar to rideshares, they can be costly, and finding one immediately after a concert might be challenging.
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Designated taxi drop-off/pick-up areas are typically between parking lots E and D.
Step 5: Arriving at MetLife Stadium & Enjoying the Concert!
Once you've made your way to the stadium, here are a few extra tips for a smooth experience.
Sub-heading: Security and Bag Policy
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Clear Bag Policy: MetLife Stadium strictly enforces a clear bag policy. Only transparent bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" are permitted (one per person). Small non-clear clutch-type bags (4.5" x 6.5" or less) are also allowed (one per person). One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc or similar) are acceptable.
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Prohibited Items: Avoid bringing backpacks, fanny packs, camera cases (unless they meet the small clutch size), large purses, and any other non-clear bags exceeding the specified dimensions.
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Bag Searches: All guests and their belongings are subject to search prior to entry. Be prepared to open your bag for inspection.
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Bag Check: If your bag doesn't comply, there are often bag check facilities outside the gates (for a fee, usually $5 for non-NFL events). It's best to avoid this by adhering to the policy.
Sub-heading: Food and Drink
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Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted, with the exception of a factory-sealed plastic bottle of water or soft drink 20 oz or less in size.
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Concessions are available throughout the stadium, offering a variety of food and drink options.
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International guests purchasing alcohol must present a valid passport for age verification; foreign driver's licenses are not accepted.
Sub-heading: Re-Entry Policy
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MetLife Stadium typically has a no re-entry policy for concerts. Once you exit the stadium, you will not be permitted to re-enter. Plan accordingly!
Step 6: Leaving MetLife Stadium After the Concert
The post-concert rush can be intense, so having a plan is key.
Sub-heading: Public Transportation Departure
QuickTip: Pause after each section to reflect.
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NJ Transit Rail: Head back to Meadowlands Station. Trains will be operating on a "load-and-go" basis back to Secaucus Junction. Be prepared for crowds and potentially a short wait. From Secaucus, you can connect to your desired line back to Penn Station. Remember your round-trip ticket!
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Coach USA Bus: Return to the designated bus loading area (usually where you were dropped off). Buses will depart when full. Again, expect crowds and potential delays.
Sub-heading: Rideshare/Taxi Departure
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Proceed to the designated rideshare/taxi pick-up zone. Be patient, as wait times can be long and surge pricing will likely be in effect. Consider walking a bit further away from the immediate stadium area if you want to try and avoid some of the initial surge.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to choose the best transportation option for me?
The best option depends on your priorities: NJ Transit train for speed and cost-effectiveness, Coach USA bus for directness from Port Authority, driving for personal vehicle convenience (with parking fees and traffic), and rideshare for door-to-door service (but expect surge pricing).
How to buy NJ Transit tickets to MetLife Stadium?
You can buy NJ Transit tickets at vending machines or ticket offices at Penn Station New York. Always purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" in advance to avoid long lines and potential issues when departing from the stadium.
How to know if NJ Transit is running special service for my concert?
NJ Transit typically announces special rail service for major MetLife Stadium events. Check the official NJ Transit website (
How to find the Coach USA bus gate at Port Authority?
Upon arrival at the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT), consult the digital departure boards for "351 Meadowlands Express" and its designated gate number. It's often best to inquire at an information desk if you're unsure.
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
How to avoid traffic when driving to MetLife Stadium?
While avoiding all traffic is impossible, leaving extra early is your best bet. Check real-time traffic apps (Google Maps, Waze) before you leave and consider less common routes if they are suggested.
How to find accessible parking at MetLife Stadium?
Accessible parking is located in Lots E, F, and G. Ensure your vehicle has a valid ADA license plate or hang tag, and the owner must be present. Traffic and parking staff will direct you to these spaces.
How to handle the clear bag policy at MetLife Stadium?
Pack light and smart! Use a clear bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" or a small clutch (4.5" x 6.5"). Be prepared for your bag to be searched upon entry.
How to stay connected at MetLife Stadium?
Cellular service can be spotty with large crowds. Consider downloading your tickets and any important information (like transportation schedules or ride-share app details) beforehand, and try to conserve your phone battery.
How to find my seats once inside MetLife Stadium?
Consult your concert ticket for your section, row, and seat number. There will be ample signage and stadium staff (ushers) to guide you to your designated seating area.
How to deal with large crowds when leaving the concert?
Be patient and follow the directions of stadium and transportation staff. For public transport, expect a wait but trust the process – trains and buses will run until everyone is accommodated. For rideshares, be prepared for surge pricing and longer wait times.
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