The Ultimate Guide: How New Yorkers Conquer the Commute to MetLife Stadium
Hey there, New Yorkers! Are you ready for some thrilling football, an epic concert, or a spectacular event at MetLife Stadium? As exciting as the prospect is, getting to East Rutherford, New Jersey, from the concrete jungle of NYC can feel like navigating a labyrinth. But don't you worry your New Yorker head – this comprehensive guide will break down every viable option, ensuring your journey to the stadium is as smooth as a well-executed touchdown play. Let's get you there!
Step 1: Figure Out Your Starting Point and Priorities!
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of routes and schedules, let's take a moment for some self-reflection. Where in New York are you coming from? Manhattan? Brooklyn? Queens? Staten Island? And what's most important to you for your trip? Is it speed, cost-effectiveness, comfort, or avoiding the notorious New Jersey traffic at all costs? Answering these questions will help you choose the best transportation method for your specific needs.
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| How Do New Yorkers Get To Metlife Stadium |
Step 2: The Public Transit Power Play – Your Best Bet
For most New Yorkers, public transportation is the most efficient and stress-free way to reach MetLife Stadium, especially for major events. Forget the parking woes and the traffic jams!
Sub-heading 2.1: The NJ Transit Rail Service – The Fan Favorite
This is, hands down, the fastest and most recommended public transport option. NJ Transit offers direct train service to the Meadowlands Rail Station, which is literally steps away from the stadium entrance.
How it Works (Step-by-Step):
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Head to New York Penn Station: Located at 32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues in Manhattan, this is your primary gateway. You can easily reach Penn Station via numerous subway lines (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3) or regional trains (LIRR, Amtrak).
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Board an NJ Transit Train to Secaucus Junction: Once at Penn Station, look for trains heading to Secaucus Junction. Most NJ Transit rail lines (Main-Bergen County Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Morris & Essex Line, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Pascack Valley Line, Port Jervis Line) connect here.
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Transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line: At Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to a special shuttle train that runs directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station. The travel time between Secaucus Junction and the stadium is approximately 10 minutes.
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Check for Event-Specific Service: While generally reliable, NJ Transit operates this dedicated Meadowlands Rail Service for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000. Always check the official NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands -
Purchase Your Tickets in Advance: To avoid lines and save time, buy your round-trip tickets beforehand. You can do this at ticket windows, ticket vending machines at stations, or through the free NJ Transit Mobile App. Remember, you must have a ticket to board the train from Meadowlands back to Secaucus Junction.
Sub-heading 2.2: The Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express Bus – A Direct Route from Manhattan
If you prefer a direct bus ride from Manhattan, the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express is a solid alternative.
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
How it Works (Step-by-Step):
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Make Your Way to the Port Authority Bus Terminal: Located at 625 8th Avenue in Manhattan, this is a major hub for bus transportation. Again, various subway lines can get you here.
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Locate the 351 Meadowlands Express Service: Coach USA provides this dedicated service for NFL games and other large events at MetLife Stadium.
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Check Schedules and Departures: The 351 bus service typically begins two and a half hours prior to the event start and continues to run until half an hour after the start. It also operates for approximately one hour following the conclusion of the game or event. Verify specific times on their website (351express.com).
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Purchase Your Ticket: A round-trip ticket generally costs around $14, and a one-way is $7. Purchase your ticket before boarding the bus.
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Drop-off and Pick-up: At the Sports Complex, the 351 bus drops off and picks up passengers near Parking Lot K.
Step 3: Driving – The Convenience (and Potential Headaches) Option
For some, the flexibility of driving is paramount. However, be prepared for potential traffic and the necessity of pre-paid parking for NFL games.
Sub-heading 3.1: Navigating the Roads to MetLife
MetLife Stadium is easily accessible by car and is bordered by major roadways, including the New Jersey Turnpike.
Key Highways to Consider:
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From Manhattan/Queens/Bronx (via 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, 16W or 18W.
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From Brooklyn/Staten Island (via Holland or Lincoln Tunnel): You'll typically connect to the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) and then proceed to the aforementioned exits. Be aware of tolls on bridges and tunnels!
Sub-heading 3.2: Parking at MetLife Stadium
Parking at MetLife is a well-oiled machine, but it requires planning.
Important Parking Information:
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Pre-paid Parking Permits (NFL Games): For NFL games, a pre-paid parking permit is generally required for all vehicles entering the Sports Complex. These are usually distributed to season ticket holders or available for purchase in advance. Do not assume you can just show up and pay for parking on game day for NFL events.
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Non-NFL Events: For concerts, soccer matches, and other events, pre-paid parking permits are not always required or available for purchase. Parking is often available and payable upon arrival. Check the event-specific information on the MetLife Stadium website.
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Parking Lot Hours: Parking lots typically open five hours prior to the start of an event and close two hours after the conclusion. Arriving earlier than five hours is usually not permitted.
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Accessible Parking: Dedicated accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G for those with valid ADA license plates or hang tags.
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Circulation: Circulation between parking lots is generally not permitted. Follow the directions of the traffic and parking staff to the designated lot for your entry point.
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Overnight Parking: Overnight parking is strictly prohibited at the MetLife Sports Complex.
Sub-heading 3.3: Park and Ride (Train) – A Hybrid Option
If you're driving but want to avoid the immediate stadium traffic and parking crush, consider parking at Secaucus Junction.
Tip: Keep the flow, don’t jump randomly.
How it Works:
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Drive to Secaucus Junction: The Edison Park Fast parking lot is located next to the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction (675 New Country Road, Secaucus, NJ).
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Park Your Car: This lot has over 1,100 spaces and is open 24 hours a day. Parking costs vary (e.g., $20 per game).
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Take the Meadowlands Rail Service: From Secaucus Junction, you can then take the short train ride directly to MetLife Stadium, as described in Step 2.1. Always confirm rail service is operating for your event.
Step 4: Ridesharing and Taxis – Convenience at a Cost
For those who prioritize convenience above all else, ridesharing services (like Uber/Lyft) and traditional taxis are readily available.
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Sub-heading 4.1: Ridesharing Logistics
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Designated Drop-off/Pick-up Zones: MetLife Stadium has designated drop-off and pick-up zones for ridesharing services. Follow stadium signage and app directions carefully.
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Surge Pricing: Be aware that surge pricing can be significant before and after major events due to high demand.
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Traffic: While you won't be parking, you'll still be subject to traffic congestion on the roads leading to and from the stadium.
Sub-heading 4.2: Taxi Services
Similar to ridesharing, taxis will also utilize designated drop-off and pick-up areas. Fares can be substantial, especially from New York City, and may not include bridge/tunnel tolls.
Step 5: Consider Group Travel/Charter Buses
For larger groups, a private charter bus can be an excellent and surprisingly cost-effective option.
Benefits of Chartering a Bus:
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Convenience: Everyone travels together, eliminating the need for multiple cars or coordinating public transit for a large group.
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Amenities: Many charter buses offer amenities like comfortable seating, restrooms, and even onboard entertainment.
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Parking: Charter buses have designated parking in Lot L at MetLife Stadium, simplifying the arrival and departure process.
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Cost-Effective for Groups: When splitting the cost among a large group, a charter can be more economical than individual public transit fares or multiple taxis/rideshares.
Step 6: Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip
QuickTip: Reading twice makes retention stronger.
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Check Event-Specific Information: Always, always check the official MetLife Stadium website and NJ Transit website for the most up-to-date transportation information specific to your event. Schedules and services can vary based on attendance projections.
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Buy Tickets in Advance: Whether it's train tickets or pre-paid parking, securing your tickets beforehand will save you time and potential headaches on event day.
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Arrive Early: Regardless of your chosen method, arriving well in advance of the event start time is crucial. This allows for unexpected delays, gives you time to navigate to your seats, and soak in the pre-event atmosphere.
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Dress for the Weather: MetLife Stadium is an open-air venue. Be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
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Pack Light: Be mindful of the stadium's bag policy to avoid delays at security checkpoints.
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Stay Hydrated and Fuelled: Especially if you're taking public transport, ensure you have water and snacks for your journey.
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Plan Your Return: Just as important as getting there is knowing how you'll get back. Familiarize yourself with return schedules and pick-up locations.
Related FAQ Questions
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Brooklyn?
From Brooklyn, you can take a subway to New York Penn Station (e.g., via the 2 or 3 train from Church Ave) and then follow the NJ Transit rail service steps to MetLife Stadium. Alternatively, you can take a subway to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (e.g., via the A, C, E, N, Q, R, W trains) and then take the Coach USA 351 bus. Driving involves navigating bridges/tunnels (Holland or Lincoln) and then the NJ Turnpike.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Queens?
From Queens, take a subway to New York Penn Station (e.g., via the E train) for the NJ Transit rail service. Another option is taking a subway to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (e.g., via the A, C, E, N, Q, R, W trains) and then the Coach USA 351 bus. Driving usually involves the Midtown Tunnel or Queensboro Bridge to Manhattan and then connecting to major New Jersey routes.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Staten Island?
From Staten Island, the most common public transit route involves taking the Staten Island Ferry to Manhattan, then connecting to a subway to New York Penn Station or the Port Authority Bus Terminal for the train or bus services, respectively. Driving typically involves bridges (Goethals or Outerbridge Crossing) to New Jersey and then connecting to the NJ Turnpike.
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium from ticket windows, ticket vending machines at stations (especially New York Penn Station and Secaucus Junction), or conveniently through the free NJ Transit Mobile App.
Tip: Stop when confused — clarity comes with patience.
How to check MetLife Stadium event-specific transportation information?
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website (metlifestadium.com) and the NJ Transit website (
How to find parking at MetLife Stadium?
For NFL games, parking generally requires a pre-paid permit obtained in advance. For non-NFL events, parking is often available for purchase upon arrival. Refer to the MetLife Stadium website's parking section for specific event details and lot opening times.
How to use ridesharing services (Uber/Lyft) to get to MetLife Stadium?
When using ridesharing apps, input "MetLife Stadium" as your destination. The apps will direct you to designated drop-off and pick-up zones at the stadium. Be prepared for potential surge pricing around event times.
How to avoid traffic when going to MetLife Stadium?
The best ways to avoid traffic are to take the NJ Transit rail service (train) directly to the stadium, or to utilize the Park and Ride option at Secaucus Junction and take the train from there. Arriving very early if driving can also help, but traffic is often unavoidable on major event days.
How to travel to MetLife Stadium on a budget?
The NJ Transit train from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction and then the shuttle to Meadowlands Rail Station is typically the most cost-effective public transportation method. The Coach USA 351 bus is also reasonably priced. Carpooling can make driving more affordable.
How to plan my return trip from MetLife Stadium?
Familiarize yourself with the return schedules for NJ Transit trains and Coach USA buses well in advance. For trains, remember you must have a valid ticket to board from Meadowlands to Secaucus Junction. For rideshares/taxis, confirm the designated pick-up locations and be prepared for potential wait times and surge pricing.
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