Heading to MetLife Stadium for a game, concert, or another exciting event? Getting there and parking can seem like a daunting task, especially with the sheer volume of people flocking to this massive venue. But fear not! This comprehensive, step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know about parking at MetLife Stadium, ensuring a smooth and stress-free arrival so you can focus on the fun ahead.
Your Ultimate Guide to Parking at MetLife Stadium
Ready to tackle MetLife Stadium parking like a pro? Let's get started!
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| How Do You Park At Metlife Stadium |
Step 1: Are You Prepared? The Essential Pre-Game (or Pre-Concert) Checklist!
Before you even think about putting your car in drive, let's make sure you're properly equipped for success. This first step is crucial for a hassle-free experience.
Sub-heading: Know Your Event & Plan Ahead
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What kind of event are you attending? NFL games (Jets/Giants) often have different parking procedures and pricing compared to concerts, soccer matches, or other special events. Always check the official MetLife Stadium website or the event's specific page for any unique parking instructions.
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When does your event start? This isn't just about kickoff or curtain rise. It's about knowing when the parking lots open. MetLife Stadium parking lots typically open five (5) hours prior to the event's start time. Arriving earlier won't get you in, and you might even be directed to leave the roadways. Give yourself plenty of time – traffic can be unpredictable, especially closer to game time.
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Have you checked the weather? Rain, snow, or extreme heat can impact traffic and your overall experience. Dress appropriately and plan for any weather-related delays.
Sub-heading: Secure Your Parking Pass (If Applicable)
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Pre-paid parking is your best friend for NFL games. For New York Jets and New York Giants games, it is highly recommended to purchase parking passes in advance. These are often distributed as digital passes through the team's official apps (e.g., New York Jets mobile app) or Ticketmaster. Make sure to download or print your pass before you leave home. Screenshots are generally not permitted for entry.
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For non-NFL events: Pre-paid parking permits are not always required or available for non-NFL events unless part of VIP or suite packages. In these cases, parking is often available and payable upon arrival.
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Consider third-party parking apps: Websites and apps like ParkMobile or ParkWhiz can also be great resources for reserving a spot in advance, often offering a variety of lots and prices. This can save you time and potentially money on event day.
Step 2: Navigating to MetLife Stadium – The Journey Begins!
Now that you're prepared, it's time to hit the road. Getting to MetLife Stadium requires a bit of attention to detail.
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
Sub-heading: Understanding the Roadways and Directions
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Follow the signs! As you approach the MetLife Sports Complex, you'll see a plethora of highway, street-level, and variable electronic message signs. These signs are your best friends for guiding you to the correct parking lot entrances. Always follow the directions of the Traffic and Parking Staff. They are there to ensure a safe and efficient flow of vehicles.
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New Jersey Turnpike – Exit 19W is EZ Pass ONLY southbound. If you're coming from the southbound direction on the New Jersey Turnpike, be aware that Exit 19W is an EZ Pass ONLY roadway. There are no cash lanes available. Plan accordingly if you don't have an EZ Pass.
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Circulation between parking lots is NOT permitted. Once you enter a specific parking lot, you generally cannot drive to another. Pay attention to the signs and staff directing you to ensure you end up in the desired lot.
Sub-heading: Parking Lot Assignments
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Ticket holder entry points: Generally, ticket holders with seats in the general seating areas will be directed to park in lots closest to their point of entry into the Sports Complex. This often includes parking on the east side (Arena lots).
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Accessible Parking (ADA): If you require accessible parking, these spaces are primarily available in Lots E, F, and G. You must have a valid state-issued accessible parking license plate or hang tag visible. The owner of the vehicle with the valid plate or tag must be in the vehicle. Traffic and parking staff will direct you to these designated areas. There's also a dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
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Oversized Vehicles (Buses, RVs, Trailers): These vehicles are generally not permitted to park in the enclosed parking deck on the east side of the Sports Complex (next to the Arena). Charter bus parking is typically in Parking Lot L. Oversized vehicles usually incur a higher parking fee.
Step 3: Arriving at the Parking Toll Plaza & Payment
You've made it to the entrance! Now for the final step before you find your spot.
Sub-heading: Payment Methods
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Cash is often NOT accepted for parking! While there might be exceptions for certain situations (like a limo driver with a pre-paid permit paying an additional fee), the general rule for MetLife Stadium parking is no cash lanes available for entry.
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Credit Card is king: Be prepared to pay with a credit card upon arrival if you haven't pre-purchased a pass.
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Pre-paid passes are scanned: If you have a pre-purchased digital pass, have it readily accessible on your mobile device (with screen brightness turned up high) or as a printed PDF. Screenshots are not valid.
Sub-heading: Security Screening
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Vehicles are subject to search: For security reasons, vehicles entering the MetLife Sports Complex parking lots are subject to search by the New Jersey State Police, which may include a canine unit. If you refuse a search of your vehicle, you will not be permitted to enter the Sports Complex. This is a vital safety measure.
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No overnight parking: Overnight parking is strictly prohibited on the MetLife Sports Complex.
Step 4: Parking Your Vehicle & Tailgating (If You Wish!)
You've paid, you're in! Now to find your spot and perhaps enjoy some pre-event festivities.
Tip: Summarize each section in your own words.
Sub-heading: Finding Your Spot
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Follow staff directions: Again, the traffic and parking staff are there to help. They will direct you to an available space. Do not try to park illegally outside the Sports Complex on roadways, medians, or breakdown lanes, as violators will be ticketed and/or towed.
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One car = one space: This is a fundamental rule. Tailgating activities should be confined to your lined parking space and the area directly in front of or behind your vehicle. Blocking drive lanes is prohibited.
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Remember your location: Take a picture of your parking lot and row number, or make a mental note. After an exciting event, it's easy to forget where you parked!
Sub-heading: Tailgating Guidelines
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Tailgating is permitted! MetLife Stadium is a fantastic venue for tailgating. Enjoy your food, drinks, and camaraderie.
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Be considerate: Keep your tailgating activities within your designated space. Be mindful of your neighbors and keep noise at a reasonable level.
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Propane tanks: Check the stadium's official policy for any restrictions on the size or type of propane tanks allowed for grilling.
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Clean up! Be a good fan and dispose of all your trash properly. Leave your parking spot as clean as you found it.
Step 5: Post-Event Departure – The Homestretch
The event is over, and it's time to head home. Departure can be just as busy as arrival, so patience is key.
Sub-heading: Patience is a Virtue
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Expect delays: Thousands of people are leaving at the same time. Be prepared for slow-moving traffic within the parking lots and on the surrounding roadways.
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Follow staff directions (again!): Traffic staff will be orchestrating the departure to keep things moving as efficiently as possible. Follow their instructions.
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Designated pick-up/drop-off areas: If you're being picked up by a taxi, limousine, or ride-share service, ensure you head to the designated drop-off/pick-up points. For taxis/limos, this is usually between Lots E and D. For rideshares, Lot E is a common designated zone. Be aware that ride-share services often have surge pricing and long wait times after events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about MetLife Stadium Parking
Here are 10 common questions you might have about parking at MetLife Stadium, with quick answers to help you out!
How to buy MetLife Stadium parking passes?
For NFL games, pre-paid parking passes are highly recommended and can often be purchased through the specific team's official app (Jets/Giants) or Ticketmaster. For non-NFL events, pre-paid passes might not be available, and you'll pay upon arrival. Third-party apps like ParkMobile or ParkWhiz also offer pre-booking options.
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
How to pay for parking at MetLife Stadium?
For most events, MetLife Stadium parking is cashless at the toll plazas. Be prepared to pay with a credit card upon arrival if you don't have a pre-purchased pass.
How to find accessible parking at MetLife Stadium?
Accessible parking for guests with disabilities is available in Lots E, F, and G. A valid, state-issued accessible parking license plate or hang tag must be visible, and the owner must be in the vehicle. Traffic and parking staff will direct you.
How to drop off or pick up someone at MetLife Stadium?
There are designated drop-off and pick-up areas. For taxis and limousines, this area is typically between Lots E and D. For rideshare services, Lot E is often a designated zone. Follow signage and staff directions.
How to know when MetLife Stadium parking lots open?
MetLife Stadium parking lots typically open five (5) hours prior to the scheduled start time of an event. Check the specific event details as hours can vary.
How to tailgate at MetLife Stadium?
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
Tailgating is permitted! Limit your activities to your designated lined parking space and the area immediately in front of or behind your vehicle. Be considerate of other fans and clean up after yourself.
How to park an oversized vehicle at MetLife Stadium?
Trucks, trailers, buses, and other oversized vehicles are generally not permitted in the enclosed parking deck. Charter bus parking is usually located in Parking Lot L. Oversized vehicles will incur a higher parking fee.
How to avoid traffic when parking at MetLife Stadium?
Arrive early! Giving yourself plenty of time (ideally right when the lots open) will help you beat the heaviest traffic. Consider public transportation options if available for your event.
How to find my car after the event at MetLife Stadium?
Take a picture of your parking lot and row number when you park. It's easy to forget after an exciting event, so having a visual reminder is a great strategy.
How to determine parking costs at MetLife Stadium?
Parking costs vary by event type and can range significantly. For NFL games, expect higher prices (e.g., $60-$90+ for cars). Concerts and other events may have different rates. Check official stadium or third-party parking websites for specific event pricing.
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