Are you planning a trip to MetLife Stadium for a game, concert, or another exciting event? You're likely wondering about the best way to get there. The good news is, yes, you absolutely can drive to MetLife Stadium! In fact, for many, it's the most convenient option, especially if you're traveling with a group or have tailgating plans. However, driving to a major venue like MetLife Stadium requires a bit of planning to ensure a smooth experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from directions to parking and tips for a hassle-free arrival and departure. ️
Step 1: Are You Ready to Hit the Road?
Before you even think about putting your car in drive, let's make sure you're prepared! Consider the following:
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What kind of event are you attending? Football games (especially NFL) tend to draw larger crowds and have different parking dynamics compared to concerts or other events.
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What time is the event? Arriving early is always recommended to avoid peak traffic congestion. Parking lots typically open five hours before an event.
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Do you have a parking pass? For NFL games, pre-paid parking passes are often required or highly recommended. For other events, parking is usually available and payable upon arrival.
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Are you comfortable with traffic? The area around MetLife Stadium, especially on event days, can experience significant traffic. Patience is key!
Once you've considered these points, you're ready to proceed with your driving plan!
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| Can You Drive To Metlife Stadium |
Step 2: Navigating to MetLife Stadium
MetLife Stadium is located at 1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073. It's strategically bordered by major roadways, making it accessible from various points.
Sub-heading: Essential Directions by Car
Regardless of where you're coming from, it's wise to have your GPS set to the stadium's address: 1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073.
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From the George Washington Bridge: Take the George Washington Bridge to the New Jersey Turnpike South. Then, take the Turnpike's western spur to one of the Sports Complex's exits, either 16W or 18W. These exits provide direct access to the parking areas.
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From New York City and Points East (via Lincoln Tunnel): Take the Lincoln Tunnel and follow signs for Route 3 West. Continue on Route 3 West until you see signs for the Sports Complex.
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Traveling North on the New Jersey Turnpike: Follow the Western Spur (Sports Complex to Exit 16W). This offers direct access to the parking areas. If there's congestion, you can use the eastern turnpike spur (Lincoln Tunnel) to exit 16E to take Route 3 West, which also provides direct access.
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Traveling South on the New Jersey Turnpike: Follow the Western Spur (Meadowlands Complex/Carlstadt to Exit 19W). Be aware: this is an EZ Pass ONLY roadway, with no cash lanes available.
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Traveling South on the Garden State Parkway: Take Garden State Parkway South to Exit 163 (Route 17). Follow Route 17 to Paterson Plank Road, then take Paterson Plank Road East to the Sports Complex.
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Traveling North on the Garden State Parkway: Take Garden State Parkway North to Exit 153A (Route 3). Follow Route 3 East to the Sports Complex.
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From West - I-80: Merge onto I-80 East, continue onto US-46 East, then make a slight right at NJ-3 East. Follow signs to the Sports Complex.
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From East - I-80: Merge onto I-80 West, then proceed to Route 17 South to Paterson Plank Road. Follow signs to the Sports Complex.
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From West I-78: Take I-78 East (Express) toward Newark, then take the exit onto I-95 North. From I-95 North, take Exit 16W for NJ Route 3 toward Secaucus/Rutherford/Sports Complex.
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From NJ Route 24: Take Route 24 East, then I-78 East (Express) toward Newark. Take the exit onto I-95 North, and then Exit 16W for NJ Route 3 toward Secaucus/Rutherford/Sports Complex.
Step 3: Understanding Parking at MetLife Stadium
Parking at MetLife Stadium is a critical aspect of your driving plan. It's extensive but can get very busy.
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
Sub-heading: On-Site Parking Options
MetLife Stadium has numerous on-site parking lots that can accommodate a significant number of vehicles.
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Availability and Payment: For most non-NFL events (concerts, soccer, etc.), parking is generally available and payable upon arrival. For NFL games, pre-paid parking passes are often distributed or required. It's always a good idea to check the specific event details on the MetLife Stadium website for the most up-to-date information on parking requirements.
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Cost: Parking fees vary by event.
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For non-NFL events (concerts, soccer, etc.), cars typically cost $40. Buses/RVs are $160, and limousines are $100.
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For New York Jets game days, parking can be up to $75 per vehicle.
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For New York Giants game days, parking can be up to $60 per vehicle.
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For concerts or other events, parking can be up to $80 per vehicle.
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Lot Hours: Parking lots typically open five hours prior to the event start time and close two hours after the event concludes. Arriving earlier than the opening time will not grant you access to the Sports Complex.
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Accessibility Parking (ADA): Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G for guests with valid ADA license plates or hang tags. The owner of the vehicle with the valid tag must be present. There's also a dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
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Traffic Flow: Follow the directions of the traffic and parking staff carefully. They are there to ensure safe and efficient circulation. Circulation between parking lots is generally not permitted.
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Vehicle Restrictions: Trucks, trailers, buses, and other oversized vehicles are typically not permitted in the enclosed parking deck on the east side of the Sports Complex. Illegal parking on roadways, medians, or breakdown lanes is strictly prohibited and can result in ticketing or towing.
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Security: Vehicles are subject to search by New Jersey State Police, which may include canine units. Refusal of a search will result in denial of entry.
Sub-heading: Off-Site Parking Alternatives
While on-site parking is convenient, especially for tailgating, you might consider alternatives:
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American Dream Mall: Located directly across from MetLife Stadium, the American Dream mall offers parking in Lots 26 and 27 for MetLife Stadium events. These lots are typically pre-pay only through ParkMobile or by credit card upon arrival (no cash). If you visit an American Dream attraction and validate your parking ticket at admissions, your parking fee may be reduced to $5 (plus tax). Be aware of their special event day parking rates if you don't validate.
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Local Businesses: Some local businesses might offer parking, but this is usually on a limited, unofficial basis and might not be as secure or well-regulated.
Step 4: Arrival and Departure Tips for Drivers
Driving to MetLife Stadium offers flexibility, but managing arrival and departure can be challenging.
Sub-heading: Mastering Your Arrival
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Arrive Early, Seriously: This is the most crucial tip. Arriving at least 2-3 hours before kickoff or concert start time for a major event will give you ample time to navigate traffic, park, and get to your seats without stress. For NFL games, consider arriving even earlier if you plan to tailgate.
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Follow Signage and Staff: Once you're in the vicinity of the Sports Complex, pay close attention to highway, street-level, and electronic message signs. These will direct you to the appropriate parking lots based on your ticket entry gate (if applicable) or general parking.
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Have Your Payment Ready: If you're paying for parking upon arrival, have your credit card or cash ready to expedite the process at the toll plazas. For pre-paid passes, have them easily accessible.
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Check for Road Closures/Traffic Alerts: Before you leave, check local traffic reports and the MetLife Stadium website or social media for any real-time updates on road closures or significant traffic delays.
Sub-heading: Smooth Departure Strategies
Tip: Every word counts — don’t skip too much.
Leaving MetLife Stadium after a major event can be a test of patience.
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Patience is a Virtue: Expect significant delays when exiting the parking lots and surrounding roadways. Thousands of vehicles are trying to leave at the same time.
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Know Your Exit Route: Familiarize yourself with the major roadways leading out of the Sports Complex (e.g., New Jersey Turnpike, Route 3, Route 17). Having a general idea of your desired direction can help you choose the most efficient exit.
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Consider Post-Event Activities: If you're not in a rush, you might consider grabbing a bite to eat at a nearby restaurant or spending some time at the American Dream mall to let the initial rush of traffic subside.
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Utilize Navigation Apps: Waze or Google Maps can be invaluable for real-time traffic updates and alternative routes, though even these can struggle with the sheer volume of post-event traffic.
Step 5: Consider Alternatives (Just in Case!)
While driving is a solid option, it's worth being aware of public transportation, especially if you're coming from New York City or don't want to deal with parking.
Sub-heading: Public Transportation Overview
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NJ Transit Train Service: For events with anticipated attendance above 50,000, NJ Transit operates the Meadowlands Rail Service, which delivers guests directly to the stadium. Most NJ Transit rail lines connect at Secaucus Junction, where you can transfer to a shuttle train to the Meadowlands Rail Station. Travel time from Secaucus Junction to the stadium is about 10 minutes.
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Coach USA Bus Service (Route 351 Meadowlands Express): This bus service runs from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan directly to the MetLife Sports Complex for NFL games and other large events.
While this post focuses on driving, knowing these alternatives can be a good backup plan or an option for future visits!
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to get driving directions to MetLife Stadium?
You can get driving directions by entering "1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073" into your GPS or preferred mapping application (like Google Maps or Waze).
QuickTip: Stop and think when you learn something new.
How to pay for parking at MetLife Stadium?
For non-NFL events, you typically pay upon arrival at the toll plaza with a credit card or cash. For NFL games, pre-paid parking passes are often required.
How to find accessible parking at MetLife Stadium?
Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G for guests with a valid ADA license plate or hang tag, and the owner must be in the vehicle.
How to know if my parking pass is required for an event?
For NFL games, pre-paid parking passes are usually required. For other events, check the specific event details on the MetLife Stadium website to confirm if pre-paid passes are necessary or if parking is available for purchase on-site.
How to avoid traffic when driving to MetLife Stadium?
The best way to minimize traffic is to arrive very early (5 hours before event start is ideal) and plan your route using real-time traffic apps.
How to find my car after the event in the vast parking lots?
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
Take a photo of your parking lot section sign, or drop a pin on your smartphone's map app when you park.
How to drop off passengers at MetLife Stadium?
There's a designated drop-off and pick-up area between parking lots E and D, with curb space for safe loading and unloading.
How to know the parking lot opening hours?
Parking lots typically open five hours prior to the scheduled event time.
How to get out of MetLife Stadium quickly after an event?
Exiting quickly can be challenging due to high traffic volume. Patience is key, and having a general idea of your exit route can help. Consider waiting out the initial rush.
How to check for real-time traffic updates around MetLife Stadium?
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze, or check local news and radio traffic reports before and during your drive.
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