Oh, planning a trip to MetLife Stadium by train from Penn Station? Excellent choice! Taking the train is often the most efficient and stress-free way to get to the stadium, especially for major events. Forget about traffic jams and expensive parking – let NJ Transit do the heavy lifting.
This guide will walk you through every step of the journey, ensuring you arrive at MetLife Stadium ready for your event. Let's get started!
Your Essential Guide: Penn Station to MetLife by Train
Step 1: Your Pre-Trip Homework – Event Details & Ticket Acquisition
Before you even think about stepping onto a train, let's get some crucial details sorted. This might seem like an obvious first step, but trust me, a little preparation goes a long way.
Sub-heading: Confirm Event-Specific Train Service
Not all events at MetLife Stadium have dedicated train service. While major events like NFL games, large concerts, and international soccer matches almost always have special NJ Transit Meadowlands Rail Service, it's always best to double-check.
Action: Visit the official NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands
Sub-heading: Purchase Your Train Tickets in Advance
This is a critical step to save you time and hassle. Trying to buy tickets at Penn Station on game day can lead to long lines and unnecessary stress.
Action: You have a few great options for purchasing your tickets:
NJ Transit Mobile App: This is highly recommended. Download the free "NJ Transit" app on your smartphone (available on Apple App Store and Google Play). You can easily purchase your round-trip ticket from "New York Penn Station" to "Meadowlands Sports Complex." Activate your ticket just before boarding.
Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Located throughout Penn Station, these machines are a convenient option. Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
Ticket Windows: If you prefer speaking to an agent or have specific questions, you can purchase tickets at the ticket windows in Penn Station.
Pro Tip: Always purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" from "New York Penn Station." This will save you the trouble of buying a return ticket at the stadium, where lines can be even longer after an event. The cost for a round-trip ticket from Penn Station to Meadowlands is typically around $11-$12 for an adult.
Step 2: Navigating Penn Station – Finding Your NJ Transit Train
New York Penn Station can be a bustling and sometimes overwhelming place. Don't worry, we'll guide you through it.
Sub-heading: Arriving at Penn Station
Penn Station is located at 32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues in Manhattan. You can get there easily by subway (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 lines), LIRR, or even Amtrak if you're coming from further afield.
Action: Once you're inside Penn Station, look for signs directing you to the NJ Transit concourse. This is usually on the lower level, but signs are generally well-placed.
Sub-heading: Locating Your Departure Track
This is where the magic happens! You'll need to find a train heading to Secaucus Junction.
Action: Look for the large electronic departure boards. These boards display train numbers, destinations, departure times, and most importantly, the track number.
You are looking for any NJ Transit train that lists "Secaucus Junction" as a stop. Many lines, including the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, and others, stop at Secaucus. Look for the "SEC" indicator next to the line name on the departure board.
Pay close attention to the track number – it can change at the last minute, so stay vigilant!
Important Note: For major events, NJ Transit often runs trains to Secaucus Junction very frequently, especially in the hours leading up to the event. Still, check the schedule in advance via the app or website to gauge peak times.
Step 3: The Journey to Secaucus Junction – Your Transfer Point
The first leg of your journey is a quick and straightforward ride to Secaucus Junction.
Sub-heading: Boarding Your Train
Once your track is announced, head directly to it. Be prepared for crowds, especially on event days.
Action: Board any train that stops at Secaucus Junction. Find a seat if you can, or be prepared to stand. The ride is short, so it won't be long.
Travel Time: The train ride from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is typically only about 10-15 minutes.
Sub-heading: Arriving at Secaucus Junction
Secaucus Junction is a modern, multi-level transfer station designed to connect various NJ Transit lines. It's also your gateway to MetLife Stadium.
Action: When your train arrives at Secaucus Junction, everyone going to MetLife Stadium will be getting off here. Follow the crowds!
Step 4: The Final Leg – Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Sports Complex
This is the shortest but perhaps most exciting part of your journey, as you're almost there!
Sub-heading: Transferring to the Meadowlands Rail Line
At Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to a special shuttle train that goes directly to MetLife Stadium.
Action: Once you exit your first train at Secaucus Junction, you'll need to go down to the lower level. There are escalators and elevators clearly marked for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Meadowlands Sports Complex."
Your existing round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" will allow you to pass through the fare gates at Secaucus Junction. Simply tap or scan your ticket.
Follow the signs and the flow of people – it will be very obvious where to go on event days, as staff will often be present to direct passengers.
Important Note on Schedules: The Meadowlands Rail Service usually begins approximately 3.5 to 4 hours before major events and runs frequently (every 10-20 minutes) during this pre-event window. During the event, service is typically hourly. After the event, trains run on a "load and go" basis for about an hour or until all passengers have departed. Always check the specific event schedule on the NJ Transit website.
Sub-heading: Arrival at Meadowlands Sports Complex Station
Congratulations! You've made it. The Meadowlands Sports Complex Station is literally steps away from MetLife Stadium.
Action: Exit the train and follow the signs leading you directly to the stadium entrances. You'll be right at the MetLife or Verizon Gates, depending on the specific event setup.
Travel Time: The shuttle ride from Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Sports Complex is incredibly quick, usually only 7-10 minutes.
Returning to Penn Station After Your Event
Getting back is essentially the reverse of your journey to the stadium.
Step 1: Board the Meadowlands Rail Line at Meadowlands Sports Complex Station. Head back to the same station you arrived at. Expect crowds, especially right after the event. Trains will be running frequently to clear the stadium.
Step 2: Transfer at Secaucus Junction. Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, follow the signs for trains going back to New York Penn Station. You'll likely head to an upper level platform.
Step 3: Ride back to Penn Station. Board any NJ Transit train heading to New York Penn Station.
Step 4: Arrive at Penn Station. You'll be back at your starting point, ready to continue your journey or explore more of NYC.
FAQ: Your Quick Answers for a Smooth Trip
Here are 10 common questions with quick answers to make your train journey to MetLife Stadium even smoother:
How to check the specific train schedule for my event?
Visit the official NJ Transit website (
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
Use the NJ Transit Mobile App (highly recommended), ticket vending machines (TVMs) at Penn Station, or ticket windows at Penn Station. Always buy a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex."
How to find my train track at Penn Station?
Look for the large electronic departure boards in the NJ Transit concourse. Find any train listing "Secaucus Junction" with a "SEC" indicator. The track number will be displayed.
How to transfer at Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium?
At Secaucus Junction, follow the clear signs and crowds to the lower level for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Meadowlands Sports Complex." Your existing ticket will allow you through the fare gates.
How to know if the Meadowlands Rail Service is running?
NJ Transit typically runs the Meadowlands Rail Service for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000. Always confirm on the official NJ Transit or MetLife Stadium websites for your specific event.
How to estimate the total travel time from Penn Station to MetLife by train?
Allow approximately 30-45 minutes total, including transfer time at Secaucus Junction. This can vary slightly based on train frequency and crowds on event days.
How to ensure I don't miss the last train back from MetLife Stadium?
NJ Transit usually runs trains on a "load and go" basis for about an hour after an event concludes. It's wise to head towards the station shortly after the event ends to avoid extremely long waits. Check the specific return schedule for your event if provided.
How to handle large crowds on the train?
Be prepared for standing room only, especially on peak event days. Be patient, follow directions from NJ Transit staff, and keep your belongings secure.
How to get help if I'm lost or confused at Penn Station or Secaucus Junction?
Look for NJ Transit employees in uniform. They are usually very helpful and can direct you to the correct platforms and trains.
How to save money on train tickets to MetLife?
Purchasing a round-trip ticket in advance is the most cost-effective way. There are no direct discounts for this specific route beyond standard fare types (e.g., child/senior/disabled fares if applicable).
