So, you're planning a trip to MetLife Stadium, and you're wondering, how do you get there by train? Excellent choice! Taking the train to MetLife Stadium, especially for major events like NFL games or concerts, can be a fantastic way to avoid the headache of traffic and expensive parking. It's often the most efficient and stress-free option.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from where to start your journey to what to expect on game day. Let's get you to the action!
Step 1: Are you ready to skip the traffic and parking chaos?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's establish one thing: If you've ever tried driving to a major event at MetLife Stadium, you know the pain of bumper-to-bumper traffic and the daunting search for a parking spot. Taking the train eliminates all of that! You get dropped off right at the stadium's doorstep, allowing you to relax and enjoy the pre-event atmosphere. So, if you're nodding along, then yes, you're ready for the train journey!
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| How Do You Get To Metlife Stadium By Train |
Step 2: Understanding the NJ TRANSIT System – Your Gateway to the Meadowlands
MetLife Stadium is located within the Meadowlands Sports Complex in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The primary public transportation provider for this area is NJ TRANSIT. They operate a dedicated rail line, often referred to as the Meadowlands Rail Line (or the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line due to a naming rights agreement), specifically for large events at the stadium.
Sub-heading: The Crucial Hub: Secaucus Junction
Tip: Let the key ideas stand out.
The key to getting to MetLife Stadium by train is Secaucus Junction (Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction). This is a major interchange station where most NJ TRANSIT rail lines converge. There is no direct train service to MetLife Stadium from New York Penn Station or Hoboken Terminal. You will always need to transfer at Secaucus Junction.
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Why Secaucus Junction is so important:
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It's the central transfer point for the Meadowlands Rail Line.
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Trains run frequently from Secaucus Junction directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex.
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The journey from Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station is approximately 10 minutes.
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Step 3: Planning Your Journey to Secaucus Junction
Your first objective is to get to Secaucus Junction. This will depend on your starting location.
Sub-heading: Traveling from New York City
If you're coming from New York City, your most common starting point will be New York Penn Station.
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From New York Penn Station (NYC):
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Take any NJ TRANSIT train that stops at Secaucus Junction. Look for trains on the Northeast Corridor or North Jersey Coast Line that display "SEC" on their departure boards, indicating a stop at Secaucus.
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Travel Tip: Purchase your ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" directly from your originating station (New York Penn Station). This will cover your entire journey, including the transfer at Secaucus, and help you avoid any surcharges or re-ticketing.
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Sub-heading: Traveling from New Jersey (and beyond)
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
If you're starting within New Jersey, you'll also likely connect via Secaucus Junction.
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From other NJ TRANSIT lines:
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Most NJ TRANSIT rail lines connect at Secaucus Junction, including the Main/Bergen County Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Morris & Essex Line, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Raritan Valley Line, Pascack Valley Line, or Port Jervis Line.
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Simply take your respective train to Secaucus Junction.
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Important: Again, buy your ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" from your initial boarding station.
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From Hoboken Terminal (NJ):
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While there isn't direct service, you can take any Main, Bergen County, Pascack Valley, or Port Jervis Line train to Secaucus Junction and then transfer.
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Alternatively, PATH trains from New York City also connect to Hoboken Terminal, offering another route for New York customers. From Hoboken, you'd follow the same steps to Secaucus Junction.
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Step 4: The Final Leg: Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, the process is straightforward.
Sub-heading: Following the Signs to the Meadowlands Rail Line
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Secaucus Junction is a large station. Follow the signs for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Meadowlands Sports Complex."
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Trains to the Meadowlands depart from the lower level of Secaucus Junction.
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Expect crowds on event days, but NJ TRANSIT staff are usually present to help direct passengers.
Sub-heading: Boarding the Shuttle Train to the Stadium
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NJ TRANSIT operates shuttle trains frequently between Secaucus Junction and the Meadowlands Sports Complex station.
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These trains typically begin running approximately 3.5 to 5 hours before an event's start time and continue until about an hour or two after the event concludes.
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Travel time from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium is a quick 10 to 13 minutes.
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The Meadowlands Sports Complex station is located right at MetLife Stadium, making for a very convenient arrival.
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
Step 5: Purchasing Your Tickets – Don't Get Caught Without One!
This is a crucial step to ensure a smooth journey.
Sub-heading: Recommended Way: NJ TRANSIT Mobile App
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Download the free NJ TRANSIT Mobile App (available on Apple App Store and Google Play).
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This app allows you to purchase and display tickets directly on your phone, making it incredibly easy and cashless. Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
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Mobile tickets include a barcode for scanning at fare gates, particularly important at Secaucus Junction.
Sub-heading: Alternative Methods: Ticket Vending Machines or Ticket Windows
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You can also purchase round-trip tickets from any NJ TRANSIT rail ticket vending machine or ticket window at your originating station.
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Always purchase a round-trip ticket in advance to avoid long lines after the event and a potential $5 surcharge if you buy your ticket on the train.
Step 6: Return Journey – Getting Back Home
Leaving MetLife Stadium by train is just as easy as arriving.
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
Sub-heading: Depart from Meadowlands Station
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Head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station, located directly outside MetLife Stadium (near the MetLife or Verizon Gates).
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Trains will be running back to Secaucus Junction. During peak periods after an event, trains operate frequently on a "load-and-go" basis.
Sub-heading: Connect at Secaucus Junction
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At Secaucus Junction, you will transfer to a train heading back to your original destination (e.g., New York Penn Station, Hoboken Terminal, or other NJ TRANSIT lines).
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Be mindful of the last train departures from Secaucus Junction to your final destination, especially for evening events, to ensure you don't miss your connection.
Step 7: Important Tips for a Smooth Train Trip
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Check Event Schedules: Always verify that train service is available for your specific event. NJ TRANSIT typically runs special service for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000. Check the official NJ TRANSIT website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands njtransit.com/metlifestadium -
Arrive Early: Especially for major games or concerts, trains can get crowded. Arriving a bit earlier allows for a more relaxed experience.
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Purchase Round-Trip Tickets: We cannot stress this enough – it saves you time and money.
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Download the App: The NJ TRANSIT Mobile App is your best friend for convenience.
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Stay Informed: Check NJ TRANSIT's website or app for any service advisories or delays on your event day.
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Follow Directions: Listen to announcements and follow the guidance of NJ TRANSIT staff.
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No Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages are generally not allowed on NJ TRANSIT buses or trains.
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Bag Policy: Be aware of MetLife Stadium's bag policy before you go. Only clear bags of a certain size are typically permitted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common "How to" questions about getting to MetLife Stadium by train, with quick answers:
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How to buy train tickets for MetLife Stadium?
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Purchase round-trip tickets using the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App, or at ticket vending machines/ticket windows at any NJ TRANSIT rail station, selecting "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
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How to get to MetLife Stadium by train from NYC Penn Station?
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Take any NJ TRANSIT train from NYC Penn Station that stops at Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line.
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How to find the train schedule for MetLife Stadium events?
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Visit
njtransit.com/meadowlands njtransit.com/metlifestadium
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How to transfer trains at Secaucus Junction for MetLife Stadium?
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At Secaucus Junction, follow signs for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" to the lower level, where shuttle trains depart directly for the stadium.
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How to know if train service is running for a specific MetLife Stadium event?
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Check the official MetLife Stadium public transportation page or the NJ TRANSIT Meadowlands page. Train service is usually provided for events with anticipated attendance over 50,000.
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How to avoid a surcharge when buying train tickets to MetLife Stadium?
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Purchase your round-trip ticket in advance from a ticket machine, ticket window, or the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App. Buying on the train incurs a $5 surcharge.
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How to get back from MetLife Stadium by train after an event?
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Head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station outside the stadium, take a train back to Secaucus Junction, and then transfer to your desired NJ TRANSIT line.
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How to park and take the train to MetLife Stadium?
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You can park at the Edison Park Fast parking lot near Secaucus Junction and then take the Meadowlands Rail Line to the stadium. Confirm rail service is running for your event.
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How to get to MetLife Stadium by train from Hoboken?
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Take an NJ TRANSIT train from Hoboken Terminal (Main, Bergen County, Pascack Valley, or Port Jervis Line) to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line.
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How to use the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App for MetLife Stadium tickets?
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Download the app, create an account, select "Buy Tickets," choose "Rail," select your origin station and "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination, and then purchase your round-trip ticket. Activate before boarding.
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