Going to MetLife Stadium for an event? Fantastic! But before you can immerse yourself in the roar of the crowd or the electrifying atmosphere of a concert, there's one crucial detail to sort out: parking. Navigating parking at a major venue like MetLife Stadium can be a bit tricky if you're not prepared. But don't worry, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival!
The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Parking Pass for MetLife Stadium
Purchasing your parking pass in advance is highly recommended to avoid last-minute scramble and potentially higher on-site prices. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Identify Your Event and Its Parking Requirements
Before you even think about buying a pass, the absolute first thing you need to do is know your event! Is it a New York Giants game? A New York Jets game? A major concert? A soccer match? The type of event can sometimes dictate the availability and specific procedures for parking.
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Why is this important? For NFL games (Giants and Jets), parking is often pre-sold and tied to season ticket holder accounts or specific resale platforms. For other events like concerts, while pre-payment is often available, you might also have the option to pay upon arrival (though this is not recommended as lots can fill up quickly and prices might be higher).
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Action Item: Grab your event tickets and confirm the date and time of the event you're attending. This will be essential for finding the correct parking pass.
Step 2: Navigate the Official Channels – Your Primary Source
The most reliable and often most affordable way to secure a parking pass is through official channels.
Sub-heading: Official Stadium Website
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Visit the MetLife Stadium Official Website: Head to MetLifeStadium.com. This is your go-to source for all official information.
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Locate the "Parking" or "Plan Your Visit" Section: On the stadium's website, look for a section dedicated to parking. This is usually found under "Plan Your Visit" or a similar heading.
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Find Your Specific Event: Once in the parking section, you'll typically find a calendar or list of upcoming events. Click on your event.
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Look for Parking Pass Purchase Options: For many events, especially NFL games, you'll see information about pre-paid parking or links to purchase parking passes directly.
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For NFL games: Parking passes for Giants and Jets games are often distributed to season ticket holders first. If you're not a season ticket holder, you might need to look for passes on the official team resale marketplaces or general ticket marketplaces (see Step 3).
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For non-NFL events (concerts, etc.): The stadium site will often direct you to authorized ticket vendors that also sell parking, or indicate if parking is payable upon arrival.
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Sub-heading: Official Ticket Retailers
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Check the Ticket Retailer You Used for Your Event Ticket: Often, when you purchase your event ticket (e.g., through Ticketmaster, Live Nation, or the team's official ticketing partner), you'll be given the option to add parking to your order during the checkout process. This is often the easiest way to secure a pass.
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Pro Tip: Always check your original ticket purchase confirmation or revisit the ticketing website where you bought your event tickets. There might be a direct link or prompt to add parking.
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Step 3: Explore Reputable Secondary Marketplaces (If Primary Fails)
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
If you can't find parking directly through the official stadium site or your event ticket retailer, or if the event is a sold-out NFL game, the secondary market is your next best bet. However, exercise caution and stick to well-known, reputable sites.
Sub-heading: Trusted Resale Platforms
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Ticketmaster Resale: Since Ticketmaster is often the primary vendor, many legitimate resale parking passes will appear here. Search specifically for "MetLife Stadium parking" and filter by your event date.
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SeatGeek: This is another popular platform that aggregates tickets and parking passes from various sources. It's known for its user-friendly interface and deal ratings.
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Vivid Seats: Similar to SeatGeek, Vivid Seats is a well-established marketplace for event tickets and parking.
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StubHub: One of the largest ticket marketplaces, StubHub is a reliable source for finding parking passes.
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Important Note on Resale: While these platforms are generally safe, be aware that prices on the secondary market can fluctuate based on demand. You might pay more than face value, especially for high-demand events. Always check the seller's reputation and read reviews if possible. Ensure the listing clearly states it's for parking at MetLife Stadium for your specific event date.
Step 4: Understand Parking Pass Delivery and Usage
Once you've purchased your parking pass, you need to know how to use it!
Sub-heading: Digital Passes are King!
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Digital Delivery: Most MetLife Stadium parking passes are now digital. This means they'll be delivered to your email or directly into the ticketing app of the platform you purchased from (e.g., Ticketmaster app).
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Saving to Your Mobile Wallet: It's highly recommended to save your digital parking pass to your phone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet for iOS, Google Pay for Android). This makes for quick and easy scanning at the lot entrance, even if you lose internet connection.
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Printing a Backup (Optional but Recommended): While digital is preferred, having a printed copy as a backup can save you if your phone dies or encounters technical issues. Just make sure the barcode is clear and scannable.
Sub-heading: Arriving at MetLife Stadium
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Follow Directions and Signage: As you approach MetLife Stadium, there will be plenty of highway and street-level signs directing you to the various parking lots. Follow these carefully.
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Present Your Pass: At the parking lot entrance, a parking attendant will scan your digital or printed pass. They will then direct you to an available parking spot.
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Do NOT pull a new ticket from the machine if you have a pre-paid pass, as this may void your pre-paid pass.
Step 5: Know the Rules and Regulations (Tailgating, Lot Hours, etc.)
To ensure a smooth experience, be aware of MetLife Stadium's parking policies.
Sub-heading: Parking Lot Hours of Operation
Tip: Reread key phrases to strengthen memory.
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Opening Times: Parking lots typically open five (5) hours prior to the start of an event.
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Closing Times: Lots usually close two (2) hours after the conclusion of an event.
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Crucial: Do not arrive earlier than the stated opening time, as you will not be permitted to enter and may be directed to leave the roadways. Overnight parking is also not permitted.
Sub-heading: Tailgating Policies
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MetLife Stadium generally permits tailgating in designated areas. However, there are rules to follow regarding space, open flames, alcohol, and general conduct. Always check the official MetLife Stadium website for the most up-to-date tailgating guidelines.
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Important: Some parking lots, like those at American Dream (Lots 26, 27, 28) which are adjacent to MetLife, might have different or stricter tailgating rules. Always confirm based on your specific parking location.
Sub-heading: Vehicle Restrictions
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Be aware that oversized vehicles (trucks, trailers, buses) may have specific parking areas (e.g., Lot L for charter buses) or may not be permitted in certain lots (like the enclosed parking deck at American Dream). Limousines and black car services also have specific rules.
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Vehicles are subject to search by New Jersey State Police. Refusal may result in denied entry.
Step 6: Consider Alternative Parking & Transportation Options
While this guide focuses on buying a parking pass for the main MetLife Stadium lots, it's worth knowing about alternatives.
Sub-heading: American Dream Mall Parking
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The American Dream entertainment complex is located directly across from MetLife Stadium and offers pre-paid event parking in Lots 26, 27, and 28. These can be reserved via their website, often in partnership with ParkMobile.
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Note: American Dream's parking has its own rates and policies, which might differ slightly from the direct stadium lots. If you visit an American Dream attraction, you might be able to validate your parking ticket for a reduced rate.
Sub-heading: Park and Ride (Secaucus Junction)
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If you want to avoid driving directly to the stadium, consider the Edison Park Fast parking lot at Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. You can park here and then take the NJ TRANSIT rail service directly to the MetLife Sports Complex. This is a great option to bypass traffic directly around the stadium. Always check that rail service is running for your specific event.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to secure your MetLife Stadium parking pass and enjoy your event without the added stress of parking woes!
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| How Do I Buy A Parking Pass For Metlife Stadium |
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common "How to" questions about MetLife Stadium parking, with quick answers:
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
How to find out the parking lot opening time for my specific event?
Quick Answer: Check the "Know Before You Go" document or the specific event page on the official MetLife Stadium website, as opening times can vary but are typically 5 hours before the event.
How to pay for parking on-site if I don't pre-purchase?
Quick Answer: For most non-NFL events, parking is available and payable upon arrival via credit card. Cash is generally not accepted on-site in MetLife Stadium lots, but it might be at American Dream lots. Pre-purchasing is highly recommended.
How to get accessible parking at MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G. You must have a valid state-issued ADA license plate or hang tag, and the owner of the vehicle with the tag must be present. Traffic and parking staff will direct you.
How to know which parking lot is best for my seating section?
Quick Answer: MetLife Stadium staff will direct you to parking lots closest to your point of entry into the Sports Complex. Refer to the stadium's parking map on their website if you want to familiarize yourself with the layout beforehand.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from the New Jersey Turnpike?
Quick Answer: If traveling southbound on the NJ Turnpike, use Exit 19W (EZ Pass ONLY). There are no cash lanes for this exit. Follow highway and street-level signs to the stadium parking entrances.
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
How to know if tailgating is allowed in my parking lot?
Quick Answer: Tailgating is generally permitted in most MetLife Stadium lots, but specific rules apply. Always check the official MetLife Stadium website's "Tailgating" section for the most up-to-date guidelines for your event. Some adjacent lots (like American Dream's) may have different policies.
How to ensure my digital parking pass works at the gate?
Quick Answer: Save your digital pass to your phone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Pay) beforehand. Ensure your phone is charged. Having a clear screenshot or printed copy as a backup is also a good idea.
How to avoid traffic when driving to MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: Arrive early! Also, consider using the "Park and Ride" option at Secaucus Junction, where you can park and take the NJ TRANSIT train directly to the stadium, avoiding road traffic immediately surrounding the complex.
How to get a refund for a MetLife Stadium parking pass?
Quick Answer: Generally, parking passes for MetLife Stadium events are non-refundable and non-transferable to other dates, especially if purchased through official channels or American Dream's pre-paid system. Review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase.
How to contact MetLife Stadium about parking questions?
Quick Answer: For general inquiries or guest services, you can call the MetLife Stadium Guest Services Hotline at 201.559.1515. For specific parking system inquiries, you can try SP Plus Parking Systems at 312.274.2000.
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