Hey there, Long Islanders! Are you ready to catch a game, a concert, or a special event at MetLife Stadium? While it might seem like a trek from the island, getting to MetLife without the headache of driving and parking is absolutely possible with a little planning. Let's break down the best ways to get you there, step by step!
Getting to MetLife from Long Island: Your Ultimate Guide
MetLife Stadium, home to the NFL's New York Giants and New York Jets, and a premier venue for major concerts and events, is located in East Rutherford, New Jersey. While driving is an option, traffic and parking can be a significant hassle and expense, especially on event days. Public transportation, while involving a transfer, often proves to be the most efficient and stress-free way to reach the stadium.
Step 1: Choose Your Public Transportation Adventure
Before you even leave your couch, let's decide on your primary mode of public transport. The most common and recommended way involves a combination of the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and NJ Transit.
A. The LIRR + NJ Transit Train Route: The Recommended Path
This is generally the most reliable and popular option for getting from Long Island to MetLife Stadium by public transport. It involves taking the LIRR to New York Penn Station, then transferring to NJ Transit.
B. The LIRR + Subway + Bus Route: An Alternative for Some
While less common for direct stadium access, this route might be considered by some if they prefer buses for the final leg or are coming from a specific part of Long Island that connects well to NYC's subway and bus network. This typically involves LIRR to Penn Station, then subway to Port Authority Bus Terminal, and finally a Coach USA bus to MetLife.
C. Driving: The "Last Resort" Option (with strong caveats)
If public transport absolutely isn't feasible for you, driving is an option, but be prepared for heavy traffic, potential tolls, and expensive, pre-paid parking. We'll touch on this briefly, but it's highly discouraged for major events.
Step 2: Navigating the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) Segment
Once you've picked your preferred method, it's time to get going!
A. Getting to Penn Station via LIRR
Find Your Nearest LIRR Station: Long Island has numerous LIRR stations. Use the MTA's website (mta.info) or their TrainTime app to find the station closest to you.
Check Schedules and Fares: Look up the LIRR schedule for trains heading to New York Penn Station. Pay attention to peak and off-peak fares, as peak hours (typically weekday mornings arriving in NYC and weekday evenings departing NYC) will be more expensive.
Purchasing Your LIRR Ticket:
MTA TrainTime App: This is the most convenient way. You can purchase e-tickets directly on your phone.
Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Available at all LIRR stations.
Ticket Windows: Available at larger LIRR stations during operational hours.
Important Note: For the LIRR + NJ Transit train route to MetLife, the MTA and NJ Transit sometimes offer a joint ticket to "Meadowlands Station." Look for this option at LIRR ticket machines under "destination." This joint ticket covers both your LIRR ride to Penn Station and the NJ Transit portion to MetLife. This is often the most cost-effective and convenient way to buy tickets. If a joint ticket isn't available for your specific event or origin, you'll buy a regular LIRR ticket to Penn Station.
Boarding Your Train: Board the LIRR train heading towards New York Penn Station.
Travel Time: The duration of your LIRR ride will vary significantly depending on your originating station on Long Island. It can range from approximately 30 minutes to over an hour.
Step 3: The Crucial Transfer at New York Penn Station
This is where many first-timers can get a bit disoriented, but don't worry, it's quite straightforward with these tips.
A. Locating the NJ Transit Concourse
Arriving at Penn Station: Once you disembark your LIRR train at New York Penn Station, you'll be on a platform.
Follow the Signs: Look for signs directing you to "NJ Transit" or "New Jersey Transit." These signs are typically abundant and easy to follow. You'll likely need to go up an escalator or stairs to the main concourse level.
The NJ Transit Concourse: The NJ Transit area is a distinct section of Penn Station. It can be quite busy, especially on event days.
B. Purchasing Your NJ Transit Ticket (if you don't have a joint ticket)
Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): There are many NJ Transit TVMs within their concourse. Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
NJ Transit Mobile App: Download the NJ Transit app for easy mobile ticketing. This is highly recommended to avoid lines at ticket machines.
Ticket Windows: Available at the main NJ Transit ticket office.
Round-Trip Recommended: Always purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" (or "Meadowlands"). This will save you time and potentially money on the return journey.
Fare Cost: A round-trip ticket from Penn Station to Meadowlands via Secaucus Junction is typically around $12.60 for an adult (as of recent information).
C. Boarding the NJ Transit Train to Secaucus Junction
Finding Your Platform: Once you have your ticket, look for departure boards indicating trains heading to "Secaucus Junction" (often abbreviated as "SEC" on the boards). Many NJ Transit lines stop at Secaucus Junction, so there will be frequent trains.
Platform Level: Trains to Secaucus Junction typically depart from the upper level tracks of the NJ Transit concourse.
Travel Time: The ride from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is very short, usually around 10 minutes.
Step 4: The Final Leg: Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium
This is the last and easiest part of your journey!
A. Transferring at Secaucus Junction
Arriving at Secaucus Junction: You'll arrive on an upper-level platform at Secaucus Junction.
Go Downstairs for Meadowlands Trains: To reach the MetLife Stadium train, you'll need to go down to the lower level tracks. There will be clear signs directing you to the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "MetLife Stadium."
Ticket Check: You'll typically need to scan your ticket at a fare gate or show it to an NJ Transit staff member to access the Meadowlands-bound platforms. This is why having your ticket purchased in advance is crucial.
B. The Meadowlands Rail Line to the Stadium
Special Event Service: On event days (especially for major games or concerts), NJ Transit operates special "Meadowlands Rail Line" shuttle trains directly to MetLife Stadium. These trains are incredibly efficient and designed to handle large crowds.
Service Frequency: Trains run frequently before and after events, often every 10-20 minutes, and on a "load-and-go" basis after an event to clear the stadium quickly.
Direct to the Stadium: The Meadowlands Rail Station is literally steps away from the MetLife Stadium entrance, usually near the MetLife Gate between the stadium and Lot B. This is the beauty of this route – no long walks from distant parking lots!
Travel Time: The ride from Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Sports Complex Station is approximately 10-13 minutes.
Step 5: The Return Journey
Getting back to Long Island is essentially the reverse of your arrival, with a few key considerations.
A. Leaving MetLife Stadium
Follow the Crowds: After the event, simply follow the throngs of people back to the Meadowlands Rail Station.
Load-and-Go Trains: Trains will be running frequently to Secaucus Junction. Be prepared for crowds, but the system is designed to move people efficiently.
Have Your Ticket Ready: You will need your return portion of the NJ Transit ticket to board the train from Meadowlands to Secaucus Junction.
B. Transferring at Secaucus Junction (Return)
Head Upstairs: Once at Secaucus Junction, follow signs to the upper level platforms for trains heading to New York Penn Station.
Check Departure Boards: Confirm the next train to New York Penn Station.
C. LIRR from Penn Station to Long Island
Back at Penn Station: Find the LIRR concourse.
Check LIRR Schedules: Confirm the schedule for trains heading to your specific Long Island station. Weekends and late nights may have reduced service.
Board Your Train: Board your LIRR train back home.
Alternative: LIRR + Subway + Coach USA Bus Route
While generally less direct for MetLife, this is an option:
LIRR to New York Penn Station: (Same as Step 2)
Subway from Penn Station to Port Authority Bus Terminal: From Penn Station, you can take a short subway ride (e.g., A, C, E lines) to the 42nd Street – Port Authority Bus Terminal stop.
Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express Bus: From the Port Authority Bus Terminal, Coach USA operates the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service directly to MetLife Stadium for NFL games and other large events.
Departure Location: Check the Port Authority Bus Terminal for the exact gate.
Ticket Purchase: Purchase your bus ticket before boarding. A round-trip ticket is usually around $14.
Service Schedule: This bus service typically starts 2.5 hours before an event and runs until 30 minutes after the event starts, and then for about an hour after the event concludes.
Drop-off/Pick-up: The bus usually drops off and picks up in Parking Lot K at the Sports Complex.
Consideration: While direct, bus travel can be subject to NYC and New Jersey road traffic, which can sometimes be unpredictable compared to the trains.
Driving from Long Island to MetLife Stadium (with strong warnings!)
If public transportation isn't an option, driving is technically feasible, but prepare for challenges.
Traffic: Expect significant traffic delays, especially closer to the stadium on event days.
Tolls: You will likely encounter tolls on bridges and tunnels (e.g., Midtown Tunnel, Lincoln Tunnel, George Washington Bridge) and potentially on the New Jersey Turnpike.
Parking:
Pre-Paid Parking is Essential: MetLife Stadium parking is almost always pre-paid and permit-only for major events. You cannot just show up and expect to buy parking on-site. Check the official MetLife Stadium website or the event organizer's website for information on how to purchase parking passes in advance.
Cost: Parking passes can be expensive, often ranging from $40-$60 or more.
Parking Lot Location: Familiarize yourself with your assigned parking lot and the best routes to access it.
Post-Event Exodus: Exiting the parking lots after an event can take a very long time, sometimes hours.
Recommendation: If driving is your only option, carpool to split costs and stress, and allow ample extra time for travel and parking.
Key Tips for a Smooth Trip
Plan Ahead: Always check official LIRR and NJ Transit websites (mta.info, njtransit.com) for updated schedules, fares, and any service advisories or disruptions for your specific travel date and event.
Download the Apps: The MTA TrainTime app and the NJ Transit app are invaluable for purchasing tickets, checking schedules, and getting real-time service updates.
Purchase Round-Trip Tickets: Save yourself time and stress by buying your round-trip tickets at your origin station or via the apps.
Allow Ample Time: Especially for major events, trains can be crowded. Give yourself plenty of buffer time to make connections and get to the stadium.
Stay Informed: Follow MTA and NJ Transit on social media (e.g., X/Twitter) for live updates on service.
Pack Light: Security at MetLife Stadium has bag policies. Check the stadium's website for permitted and prohibited items.
Hydrate and Snack: The journey can be long, so bring water and a small snack, especially if you're traveling during peak hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to find the cheapest way to get to MetLife from Long Island?
The cheapest way is often driving if you carpool and share gas/toll/parking costs. For public transit, the LIRR + NJ Transit train option with a joint "Meadowlands" ticket (if available) is usually the most economical public transport choice.
How to purchase joint LIRR and NJ Transit tickets to MetLife Stadium?
When available for events, you can often purchase a combined LIRR/NJ Transit ticket to "Meadowlands" directly from LIRR ticket machines at your originating station on Long Island. This covers both legs of the train journey.
How to ensure train service is running to MetLife Stadium for my event?
Always check the NJ Transit website (
How to avoid long lines for tickets at Penn Station?
Download and use the NJ Transit mobile app to purchase your tickets in advance. This allows you to skip ticket machine lines.
How to know which train to take from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction?
Any NJ Transit train marked with "SEC" on the departure boards will go to Secaucus Junction. There are many lines that stop there.
How to transfer from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium?
At Secaucus Junction, head to the lower level platforms. Look for signs for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "MetLife Stadium." You'll need to pass through a fare gate by scanning your ticket.
How to get to MetLife Stadium if I arrive at Grand Central Terminal on Metro-North?
If you take Metro-North to Grand Central, you'll need to take the subway (e.g., 7 train to Times Square-42nd Street, then a shuttle or walk to Penn Station) to New York Penn Station, and then follow the NJ Transit steps.
How to navigate MetLife Stadium once I arrive by train?
The Meadowlands Rail Station drops you off directly at the stadium's doorstep. Follow the signs and the flow of people to the main entrances. Gates are clearly marked.
How to handle returning home after a late-night event?
Be aware of late-night LIRR and NJ Transit schedules. While NJ Transit runs "load-and-go" trains from MetLife after events, LIRR service might be less frequent after a certain hour. Plan your return journey thoroughly, especially if you need to connect to a specific LIRR branch.
How to find out about MetLife Stadium's bag policy?
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website (metlifestadium.com) for their current bag policy, which can change depending on the event. Typically, clear bags are required, and there are size restrictions.