Traveling from Penn Station, New York City, to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is a common journey for sports fans and concertgoers. The duration of this trip can vary significantly depending on your chosen mode of transportation, traffic conditions, and whether a major event is taking place at the stadium. This guide will walk you through the various options, providing step-by-step instructions and estimated travel times to help you plan your visit effectively.
How Long Does It Take to Go from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium? Your Ultimate Guide
Are you planning to catch a game, see a concert, or attend a special event at MetLife Stadium and wondering about the best way to get there from NYC's Penn Station? You're in the right place! Figuring out public transportation or driving in a bustling metropolitan area can be daunting, especially when you're on a tight schedule or unfamiliar with the routes. Let's break down everything you need to know for a smooth and efficient journey.
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| How Long Does It Take To Go From Penn Station To Metlife Stadium |
Step 1: Assess Your Priorities and the Event Schedule
Before you even think about which train or bus to take, consider a few crucial factors:
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What kind of event are you attending? Is it a major NFL game with tens of thousands of attendees, or a smaller concert? Large events often have dedicated, more frequent public transport services.
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What time is the event? This will dictate peak travel times and the availability of special services.
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How much luggage are you carrying? Public transport is generally easier with light bags.
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Are you traveling with a group or solo? Group travel might make ridesharing or taxis more cost-effective.
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What's your budget? Public transport is almost always cheaper than private options.
Understanding these points will help you choose the most suitable and stress-free travel method.
Step 2: Choosing Your Mode of Transportation
There are primarily three ways to get from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium: Train, Bus, and Car (including rideshare/taxi). Each has its pros and cons regarding travel time, cost, and convenience.
Option A: Public Transportation - The Most Recommended Method
For most events, public transportation, particularly the train, is the most efficient and recommended way to reach MetLife Stadium, as it often bypasses traffic congestion.
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
Sub-heading: By Train (NJ Transit Rail Service)
This is typically the most popular and reliable option for major events. There is no direct train from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium, but it involves a simple transfer.
Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour 25 minutes, including transfer and waiting times. The actual train ride from Secaucus Junction to the stadium is only about 10 minutes.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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From Penn Station (New York) to Secaucus Junction:
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Head to the NJ Transit concourse within New York Penn Station.
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Board any NJ Transit train that stops at Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. Look for trains marked with "SEC" on the departure boards.
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This first leg of the journey typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Trains run frequently.
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Pro-tip: Purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" beforehand at a ticket vending machine or via the NJ Transit Mobile App to avoid lines and ensure a smooth transfer. If you're using a joint LIRR/NJT ticket, activate it on the NJ Transit app before boarding.
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From Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium (Meadowlands Rail Line):
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Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, head upstairs to the mezzanine level. You'll need to show your rail ticket to staff at the gates.
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Follow the signs for the "BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line" to the lower level (Tracks E-H). This is a dedicated shuttle service to the stadium.
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The train ride from Secaucus Junction directly to the MetLife Stadium Sports Complex station takes approximately 10 minutes.
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Important Note: Rail service to the stadium typically begins around 3.5 hours before an event and continues until about 1 hour after the event concludes. During peak periods before and after events, trains operate frequently (every 10-20 minutes). Check the official NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/MetLife
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Sub-heading: By Bus (Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express)
This is another viable public transport option, especially for those who prefer a direct ride without transfers.
Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes to 1 hour, subject to traffic. The official estimate is 20 minutes each way, but heavy traffic on game days can significantly extend this.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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From Port Authority Bus Terminal to MetLife Sports Complex:
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Walk or take a short subway ride from Penn Station to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) located at 42nd Street and 8th Avenue. This walk is roughly 10-15 minutes.
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Once at PABT, locate the gates for the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service (typically in the South Wing, on the third floor, at Gates 411-414, or sometimes on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues – always confirm for your specific event).
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These buses provide direct, door-to-door service to the MetLife Sports Complex.
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Ticket Purchase: You can purchase round-trip tickets online via Coach USA's website (recommended for priority boarding) or at windows 11-15 in the South Wing of PABT. Exact cash fare ($18 round-trip) may also be accepted at the bus.
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Bus service usually begins 2.5 hours before an event and runs until 30 minutes after the event starts. Return service operates for about 1 hour after the event.
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The drop-off and pick-up location at the Sports Complex is usually near Parking Lot K.
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Option B: Driving Yourself
While convenient for some, driving to MetLife Stadium from Penn Station (or anywhere in NYC) can be fraught with challenges, primarily traffic and parking.
Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes to 1.5 hours or more, depending heavily on traffic conditions, especially around event times. The distance is about 8-10 miles.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
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Navigate Out of Manhattan:
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From Penn Station, you'll need to navigate to one of the tunnels or bridges leading to New Jersey (e.g., Lincoln Tunnel, Holland Tunnel, George Washington Bridge). The Lincoln Tunnel is often the most direct route.
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Be prepared for significant tolls.
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Follow Signs to Meadowlands Sports Complex:
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Once in New Jersey, follow signs for Route 3, which leads directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex.
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Parking at MetLife Stadium:
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Pre-paid Parking: For major events, a pre-paid parking permit is almost always required. You cannot just show up and expect to buy parking on event day for large events. Purchase these permits well in advance through the event promoter or official stadium channels.
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Off-site Parking/Park & Ride: If you don't have a pre-paid permit, consider parking at the Edison Park Fast lot next to Secaucus Junction and taking the Meadowlands Rail Service from there. This parking lot is open 24 hours and costs around $20 per game.
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Be aware: Parking lots fill up quickly, and navigating them can be time-consuming. Factor in at least 30-60 minutes for parking, walking to the stadium, and security checks.
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Option C: Taxi/Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
This offers door-to-door convenience but is often the most expensive option and still subject to traffic.
Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes to 1.5 hours or more, highly dependent on traffic.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Request a Ride:
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From Penn Station, simply open your preferred rideshare app (Uber, Lyft) or hail a yellow cab.
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Input "MetLife Stadium" as your destination.
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Designated Drop-off/Pickup Zones:
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At MetLife Stadium, rideshare services have designated drop-off and pickup zones, typically located at Lot E near the American Dream Mall. These zones are a short walk from the stadium entrance.
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Post-Event Caution: After an event, demand for rideshares will be extremely high, leading to surge pricing and potentially long wait times. Consider walking a few blocks away from the stadium before requesting your ride to potentially find a car faster and at a slightly better rate.
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Step 3: Crucial Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
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Buy Round-Trip Tickets in Advance: For public transport, this is paramount. It saves time and hassle, especially on crowded event days.
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Download Relevant Apps: The NJ Transit Mobile App is invaluable for buying tickets, checking schedules, and getting service alerts. The MTA app is useful for subway connections if you're taking the bus from Port Authority.
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Check Event Schedules and Service Alerts: Always verify NJ Transit and Coach USA schedules for your specific event date, as service times can vary. Check for any service advisories or delays before you leave.
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Allow Ample Time: Especially for large events, always overestimate your travel time. Arriving early allows for unexpected delays, security checks, and finding your way around.
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Stay Hydrated and Pack Light: If using public transport, you might be standing for a bit. Keep hydrated and carry only essential items, adhering to stadium bag policies.
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Familiarize Yourself with Stadium Policies: MetLife Stadium has a clear bag policy. Check their website beforehand to avoid issues at security.
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Have a Backup Plan: In case of unexpected delays or cancellations, know an alternative route.
Summary of Estimated Travel Times (from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium)
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Train (NJ Transit with transfer at Secaucus Junction): 45 minutes - 1 hour 25 minutes (highly recommended for major events)
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Bus (Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express from Port Authority): 20 minutes - 1 hour (can be affected by traffic)
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Driving/Taxi/Rideshare: 30 minutes - 1.5 hours+ (heavily dependent on traffic and parking)
Remember, these are estimates. Your actual travel time may vary. Planning ahead is key to a stress-free trip to MetLife Stadium!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to purchase NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
QuickTip: Slowing down makes content clearer.
You can purchase round-trip tickets to "Meadowlands" using the NJ Transit Mobile App, at ticket vending machines, or at ticket windows at your origin station (including Penn Station). It's highly recommended to buy a round-trip ticket in advance.
How to know if the special Meadowlands Rail Line is running?
The Meadowlands Rail Line (from Secaucus Junction to the stadium) operates for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000, such as NFL games and major concerts. Always check the official NJ Transit website (
How to get from Penn Station to Port Authority Bus Terminal?
The Port Authority Bus Terminal is located at 42nd Street and 8th Avenue. From Penn Station (34th Street and 7th/8th Avenues), it's about a 10-15 minute walk north, or you can take a short subway ride (e.g., A, C, E trains one stop north to 42nd St - Port Authority Bus Terminal).
How to find out about traffic conditions to MetLife Stadium?
Before driving, check real-time traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze. Local news and radio stations also often provide traffic updates, especially on event days.
How to avoid long lines for public transportation after an event?
To minimize waiting, consider leaving the event a few minutes early, or be prepared for significant queues. For the train, having your round-trip ticket ready is essential. For rideshares, walk a few blocks away from the stadium's immediate vicinity before requesting your car.
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
How to check MetLife Stadium's bag policy?
Always visit the official MetLife Stadium website (metlifestadium.com) and navigate to their "Plan Your Visit" or "Stadium Policies" section. They strictly enforce a clear bag policy for most events.
How to find out about parking availability and cost at MetLife Stadium?
For most major events, parking permits must be purchased in advance through the event organizer or specific stadium channels. On-site parking without a pre-paid permit is typically unavailable. Information on costs and availability can be found on the stadium's website or the event's ticketing page.
How to travel from outside NYC (e.g., Long Island, Upstate NY) to MetLife Stadium via public transit?
If coming from Long Island, take the LIRR to Penn Station, then follow the NJ Transit train steps. For Metro-North riders (from Upstate NY or Connecticut), take your train to Grand Central Station, then the subway to Penn Station, and then follow the NJ Transit train steps.
How to pay for NJ Transit fares?
You can pay using the NJ Transit Mobile App, ticket vending machines at stations, or at ticket windows. Cash is usually accepted on buses, but exact fare is often required.
How to know the last train or bus departure time from MetLife Stadium?
NJ Transit and Coach USA publish event-specific schedules. For trains, service typically runs for about an hour after the event ends, often on a "load and go" basis. For buses, the 351 Express generally runs for an hour after the event concludes. Always check the most current schedules for your specific event.
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