The Ultimate Guide to Parking at MetLife Stadium: Your Stress-Free Game Day & Event Experience!
Are you ready to cheer on your favorite team, sing along to your beloved artist, or experience an unforgettable event at MetLife Stadium? Fantastic! But before you get swept up in the excitement, let's tackle one crucial aspect of your visit: parking. Navigating the parking situation at a massive venue like MetLife Stadium can seem daunting, but with this comprehensive, step-by-step guide, you'll be a parking pro in no time.
Let's dive in and ensure your arrival is as smooth as a perfect touchdown pass!
Step 1: Know Your Event Type – It Makes a Huge Difference!
This is the absolute first thing you need to clarify, as parking rules and requirements vary significantly based on the event.
Sub-heading: NFL Games (New York Giants & New York Jets)
Pre-paid parking permits are mandatory for all vehicles entering the Sports Complex on NFL game days. You absolutely cannot just show up and pay at the gate for these events. This is a critical distinction that can save you a lot of headache.
These permits are usually purchased in advance through the team's official channels or Ticketmaster's NFL Ticket Exchange. More on this in Step 2.
Sub-heading: Non-NFL Events (Concerts, Other Sporting Events, etc.)
Good news! For most non-NFL events, pre-paid parking permits are generally not required. Parking is typically available and payable upon arrival.
However, it's always a good idea to check the specific event page or the "Know Before You Go" document provided by MetLife Stadium for your particular event, as exceptions or special arrangements can occur.
Step 2: Securing Your Parking Spot: Pre-Purchase or Pay On-Site?
Once you know your event type, you'll know how to proceed with acquiring your parking.
Sub-heading: For NFL Game Days – The Pre-Paid Permit Process
Where to Buy:
Team Websites/Ticketmaster: The primary way to get your NFL parking pass is through the official team websites (New York Giants or New York Jets) or via the Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange. When you select your game, look for options to "Show Parking Tickets."
Parking Pass Tiers: You'll often see "Platinum" and "Gold" permits.
Gold permits typically allow access to lots like B, D, J, K, L, M, P, Deck A, and other lots near American Dream.
Platinum permits generally grant access to Lots E, F, or G, which are often closer to the stadium.
Important Note: The numbers on these permits are for informational purposes only and do not guarantee a reserved spot in a specific lot. It's first-come, first-served within your designated permit type.
Displaying Your Permit:
Before You Arrive: Have your parking pass ready for display before you reach the lot entrance. This speeds up the entry process for everyone.
Types of Permits:
Hang Tag Parking Permits: Display these from your rearview mirror or on your dashboard.
Barcode Parking Permits: Print these and display them on your dashboard.
QR Code Parking Permits: Display these on your mobile device upon entry. No need to print these. Ensure your screen brightness is high for easy scanning.
One Car, One Spot Policy: Your parking permit entitles you to one parking space for your vehicle and tailgate setup. Adjacent parking spaces cannot be used for additional tailgating equipment (grills, chairs, tents, etc.). Stadium staff actively enforces this. If you have multiple permits, you cannot use them to claim extra spaces for tailgating.
Sub-heading: For Non-NFL Events – On-Site Payment & American Dream Options
Payment Upon Arrival: For most concerts and other events, you can pay for parking directly at the lot entrance.
Cash and Credit Card Accepted: MetLife Stadium parking lots generally accept both cash and credit cards.
American Dream Parking: The American Dream complex, conveniently located across from MetLife Stadium, also offers parking for events.
Pre-Pay or On-Site: You can often pre-pay for parking in American Dream Lots 26, 27, and 28, or pay by credit card upon arrival. Cash is typically not accepted on-site at American Dream lots for event parking.
Rates: Parking rates vary by event type. As of early 2025, typical rates are around $75 for Jets games, $60 for Giants games, and $40 for concerts or other events at MetLife Stadium when parking at American Dream.
Parking Decks: American Dream also has parking decks (e.g., Deck A) that are accessible for event parking. Note that trucks, trailers, buses, and other oversized vehicles are generally not permitted in enclosed parking decks.
Step 3: Timing is Everything: When to Arrive for Parking
Don't underestimate the power of arriving early, especially for popular events!
Sub-heading: Parking Lot Opening Times
General Rule: MetLife Stadium parking lots typically open 5 hours prior to the start of an event.
Closing Time: Lots generally close 2 hours after the conclusion of an event.
Always Confirm: Lot opening times can vary. Always check the specific event page or the "Know Before You Go" document for the most accurate information for your event.
Early Birds: Arriving earlier than the stated opening time will not grant you early entry and you may be directed to leave the roadways.
Sub-heading: Why Arriving Early is Key
Traffic Avoidance: The closer it gets to event start time, the more congested the roadways and parking lots become. Arriving early helps you bypass the worst of the traffic.
Better Parking Spots: You'll have a better chance of securing a more convenient parking spot closer to your stadium entrance if you arrive early.
Tailgating: If you plan to tailgate (more on that below!), early arrival is essential to give you ample time to set up and enjoy.
Step 4: Understanding Parking Lot Assignments and Circulation
Once you're on the Sports Complex, understanding the layout helps.
Sub-heading: Directed Parking
Traffic and Parking staff will direct you to available spaces. You won't typically choose your specific lot, especially for NFL games where your permit tier guides you to a general area.
Guests with tickets in specific seating areas may be directed to lots closest to their entry gate.
Sub-heading: No Inter-Lot Circulation
Once you are in a parking lot, circulation between different lots is generally not permitted. Plan your entry point carefully if you have specific preferences, but be prepared to follow the directions of parking staff.
Step 5: Special Parking Considerations: Accessibility, Oversized Vehicles, and Drop-offs
MetLife Stadium strives to accommodate all guests.
Sub-heading: Accessible Parking (ADA Parking)
Requirements: Guests requiring accessible parking must have a valid ADA license plate or hang tag. The owner of the vehicle with the valid plate or tag must be in the vehicle. Registrations and IDs will be checked.
Location: Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G. Traffic and Parking staff will direct you to these designated spaces.
Drop-off Area: A dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is located in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
Sub-heading: Oversized Vehicles (Trucks, Trailers, Buses, RVs)
Designated Parking: Charter bus parking is located in Parking Lot L.
Curbside Parking: Trucks, trailers, and other oversized vehicles (not including buses) may be directed to park along the curbs in the parking lots so they don't occupy multiple lined parking spaces. Arrive early to find suitable curb-side parking.
Parking Decks: Oversized vehicles are generally not permitted to park in enclosed parking decks (like those at American Dream).
Sub-heading: Taxi, Limousine, and Ride-Share Drop-off/Pick-up
Designated Area: The designated area for all drop-offs and pick-ups is located between parking lots D and E. There is curb space along the roadway for safe drop-offs and pick-ups.
No Charge: There is no charge to access this drop-off/pick-up area.
Limousines with Permits: If a limousine or taxi driver has a pre-paid parking permit, the vehicle may enter the Sports Complex after paying an additional fee, but it generally won't be permitted to park in striped parking spaces if it occupies more than one spot. They will be directed to park along a curb or in a location that doesn't block traffic, and the driver must remain with the car.
Step 6: Tailgating at MetLife Stadium: Rules and Best Practices
Tailgating is a beloved tradition at MetLife Stadium, but there are important rules to follow.
Sub-heading: The "One Car = One Space" Rule
Tailgating is permitted in most MetLife Sports Complex parking lots, but it is strictly limited to the lined parking space occupied by your vehicle and the area directly behind or in front of it.
Do not use adjacent parking spaces for grills, chairs, tents, or other tailgating setups. This is heavily enforced by stadium tailgate patrol.
If you have a large party, consider arriving very early and utilizing paved areas on the islands between parking lots, which may offer more space, but still adhere to the one-car, one-space policy within marked stalls.
Sub-heading: Prohibited Items and Activities
Open Fires: Open fires are not permitted.
Grills: Grills are allowed, but they must be elevated and used at a safe distance from vehicles and other property.
Charcoal Disposal: Do not discard hot coals near vehicles or in plastic waste receptacles. Use the designated large, orange "hot charcoal" bins located on islands/plazas between the parking lots. Do not put trash in hot coal bins or hot ashes in trash cans.
Deep Fryers: Deep fryers or any oil-based cooking/frying are prohibited.
Sound Systems: Sound systems must not exceed 65 decibels and should be faced towards your vehicle to avoid disturbing others.
Commercial Activity: Unauthorized commercial activity or selling access to tailgate parties is strictly prohibited.
Overnight Parking: Overnight parking is not permitted on the MetLife Sports Complex.
Illegal Parking: Parking outside the Sports Complex on roadways, medians, or breakdown lanes is prohibited and will result in tickets and/or towing.
Sub-heading: What to Bring (and What to Leave at Home)
Recommended: Small, portable grills (propane, natural gas, or electric), coolers, chairs, tables (within your space), a fire extinguisher (Class 2A-10B:C recommended if grilling).
Not Permitted: Tents or canopies exceeding an 8' x 8' footprint, vehicles over 18' long or 8' wide in lined spaces (these should park along curbs), drones, model aircraft, kites.
Step 7: Alternative Transportation & Off-Site Parking Options
If driving directly to MetLife Stadium isn't your preference, or if parking passes are scarce, consider these alternatives.
Sub-heading: Park and Ride (Train)
Secaucus Junction: The Edison Park Fast parking lot at the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction is an excellent option. It's located off Exit 15X on the eastern extension of the NJ Turnpike (675 New Country Road, Secaucus NJ).
NJ Transit Rail Service: From Secaucus Junction, you can take NJ TRANSIT rail service directly to the MetLife Sports Complex. Always check that rail service is running for your specific event.
Parking Lot Hours: This parking lot is open 24 hours/day. Reservations are recommended.
Sub-heading: Off-Site Parking for NFL Guests Without Pre-Paid Permits
For NFL games, if you don't have a pre-paid permit, there's an off-site lot at 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073.
Cost & Shuttle: This lot typically costs around $55 (cash/credit accepted) and offers shuttle service to and from Lot G on the Stadium Complex. It's open for both Giants and Jets home games.
Sub-heading: Ride-Sharing and Public Transit
Utilize ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) or public transportation (NJ Transit buses) as a convenient way to get to and from the stadium without worrying about parking. Remember the designated drop-off/pick-up area between Lots D and E.
Step 8: Departure Strategy: Exiting the Parking Lots
The departure can be just as challenging as the arrival.
Sub-heading: Patience is Key
Expect delays when exiting the parking lots, especially after large events. Thousands of vehicles are trying to leave simultaneously.
Consider staying a bit longer in the stadium or enjoying a post-event meal at a nearby establishment to let some of the traffic clear out.
Sub-heading: Follow Directions
Follow the instructions of traffic and parking personnel. They are there to direct the flow of vehicles as efficiently as possible.
Roadways will be configured for outbound traffic, and attempting to go against the flow or take shortcuts will only cause more congestion and frustration.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find MetLife Stadium parking directions?
You can find directions by entering "1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073" into your GPS or by checking the official MetLife Stadium website's "Directions" page, which provides detailed routes from various major highways and bridges.
How to purchase a pre-paid parking pass for MetLife Stadium NFL games?
Pre-paid parking passes for NFL games are typically purchased through the New York Giants or New York Jets official websites or via the Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange when you buy your game tickets. Look for options to "Show Parking Tickets" or "Add Parking."
How to know when MetLife Stadium parking lots open?
MetLife Stadium parking lots generally open 5 hours prior to the start of an event. However, it's crucial to check the specific event page or the "Know Before You Go" document on the MetLife Stadium website for exact opening times, as they can vary.
How to pay for parking at MetLife Stadium for non-NFL events?
For most non-NFL events (concerts, etc.), pre-paid parking permits are not required. You can typically pay upon arrival at the parking lot entrance using either cash or credit card. American Dream lots (26, 27, 28, Deck A) usually accept credit cards only on-site for event parking.
How to find accessible parking at MetLife Stadium?
Accessible parking for guests with disabilities is available in Lots E, F, and G. You must display a valid ADA license plate or hang tag, and the owner of the vehicle with the tag must be present. Parking staff will direct you to these spaces.
How to handle tailgating rules at MetLife Stadium?
Tailgating is permitted in most lots, but it's limited to the space occupied by your vehicle ("one car = one space" policy). Open fires, deep fryers, and commercial activities are prohibited. Grills are allowed but must be elevated, and hot coals must be disposed of in designated bins.
How to get to MetLife Stadium without driving?
You can utilize the Park and Ride option by parking at the Edison Park Fast lot at Secaucus Junction and taking NJ TRANSIT rail service to the Sports Complex. Alternatively, you can use ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) or public transportation (NJ Transit buses) to the designated drop-off/pick-up area.
How to manage mobile parking passes for MetLife Stadium events?
If you have a mobile parking pass (often for NFL games), download it to your mobile wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Wallet) before arriving. Ensure your phone's screen brightness is set to high for easy scanning by the parking attendant. Screenshots are generally not accepted.
How to avoid traffic when leaving MetLife Stadium?
Patience is key for departure. Consider staying a bit longer at the stadium or finding a nearby establishment for a post-event meal to let the initial rush of traffic subside. Always follow the directions of traffic and parking staff for the most efficient exit routes.
How to find alternative parking if MetLife Stadium lots are full or I don't have a pre-paid pass for an NFL game?
For NFL games without a pre-paid permit, you can often park at the off-site lot at 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073, which offers a shuttle to the stadium. For any event, American Dream's Lots 26, 27, 28, and Deck A are also viable options, often available for on-site payment (credit card only for American Dream).