Attending an event at MetLife Stadium is an unforgettable experience, but getting there can sometimes feel like a puzzle. One of the most convenient and stress-free ways to reach the stadium is by using NJ Transit. But the burning question remains: how much is NJ Transit to MetLife? This comprehensive guide will break down the costs, routes, and tips to make your journey smooth and affordable.
Getting to MetLife Stadium with NJ Transit: Your Ultimate Guide
Are you ready to enjoy a game or concert at MetLife Stadium without the headache of traffic and parking? Let's dive into how NJ Transit can be your best friend for an easy and affordable trip!
Step 1: Determine Your Starting Point – Where Are You Coming From?
The cost of your NJ Transit ticket to MetLife Stadium largely depends on where your journey begins. NJ Transit's fare system is based on "zones" for buses and "origin and destination" for trains. Understanding your starting point is the first crucial step in calculating your fare.
-
Are you coming from within New Jersey? Your fare will be calculated based on the number of zones you cross for buses, or the specific origin and destination for trains.
-
Are you traveling from New York City (e.g., Penn Station, Port Authority Bus Terminal)? These are common starting points, and NJ Transit offers direct or easily transferable services.
-
Are you coming from a more distant location or another state? You'll likely need to connect to an NJ Transit hub.
Step 2: Understand the Primary Routes to MetLife Stadium
MetLife Stadium is primarily served by two main NJ Transit options for major events:
-
The Meadowlands Rail Line (Train): This is the most popular and often recommended option for large events. It provides direct shuttle service from Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station, which is just steps from the stadium.
-
Bus Services: While trains are preferred for major events, some local bus routes serve the general Meadowlands area, and special event buses (like the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express from Port Authority Bus Terminal) are often available for larger events.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Meadowlands Rail Line - Your Express Ticket
The Meadowlands Rail Line is a dedicated shuttle that runs specifically for major events at MetLife Stadium. You must first get to Secaucus Junction (Frank R. Lautenberg Station) to access this line. Most NJ Transit rail lines connect to Secaucus Junction, including:
-
Northeast Corridor
-
North Jersey Coast Line
-
Morris & Essex Line
-
Montclair-Boonton Line
-
Main/Bergen County Line
-
Pascack Valley Line
-
Raritan Valley Line
-
Port Jervis Line (via Metro-North)
Once at Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line. This short, direct ride takes approximately 10 minutes.
Tip: Share one insight from this post with a friend.
Sub-heading 2.2: Bus Options for MetLife Stadium
While the train is the star for big events, bus services can also be an option:
-
Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express: This bus provides direct service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City to MetLife Stadium for major events.
-
Local NJ Transit Buses: Some local NJ Transit bus routes, like the No. 703, serve the general Meadowlands area, including the Meadowlands Racetrack and American Dream. However, for large stadium events, the 703 may not enter the Sports Complex property directly during peak times. The Nos. 85, 703, and 772 also serve American Dream, which is walkable to MetLife.
Step 3: Calculating Your Fare - How Much Will It Cost?
This is where the "how much" question gets answered! NJ Transit fares are dynamic, depending on your origin. Here's a general breakdown:
Sub-heading 3.1: Train Fares to MetLife Stadium
For most train journeys to MetLife Stadium, you'll essentially be paying for two legs of your trip:
-
Your initial train ride to Secaucus Junction.
-
The Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium.
NJ Transit typically offers a round-trip ticket option directly to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" from your originating station, which includes the transfer at Secaucus Junction. This is usually the most convenient way to purchase your ticket.
-
From New York Penn Station to Meadowlands Sports Complex (via Secaucus Junction):
-
Estimated Round-Trip Adult Fare: $12.60
-
Estimated Round-Trip Child (5-11), Senior (62+), or Disabled Fare: $5.60
-
-
From Hoboken Terminal to Meadowlands Sports Complex (via Secaucus Junction):
-
Estimated Round-Trip Adult Fare: $9.70
-
Estimated Round-Trip Child (5-11), Senior (62+), or Disabled Fare: $4.30
-
-
From Newark Penn Station to Meadowlands Sports Complex (via Secaucus Junction):
-
Estimated Round-Trip Adult Fare: $9.70
-
Estimated Round-Trip Child (5-11), Senior (62+), or Disabled Fare: $4.30
-
-
From Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Sports Complex (the shuttle fare):
-
Estimated Round-Trip Adult Fare: $5.10
-
Estimated Round-Trip Child (5-11), Senior (62+), or Disabled Fare: $2.40
-
Important Note: Fares are subject to change. Always check the official NJ Transit website (njtransit.com) or the NJ Transit Mobile App for the most up-to-date fare information based on your specific origin.
Sub-heading 3.2: Bus Fares to MetLife Stadium
Bus fares vary based on the number of zones traveled.
-
Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express (from Port Authority Bus Terminal):
-
Estimated One-Way Fare: $7-$55 (This wide range suggests varying services or fare types; always confirm for your specific trip).
-
A round-trip ticket is highly recommended.
-
-
Local NJ Transit Bus Routes (e.g., 703, 85):
-
Estimated One-Way Fare: $1.80 - $6+ depending on zones. These typically aren't direct to the stadium for major events.
-
Tip: Reading in short bursts can keep focus high.
Step 4: Purchasing Your Ticket - Convenience is Key!
NJ Transit offers several convenient ways to buy your tickets:
Sub-heading 4.1: The NJ TRANSIT Mobile App (MyTix®) - Highly Recommended!
-
Download the free NJ TRANSIT Mobile App on your smartphone (available for iOS and Android).
-
Create an account and link your credit/debit card.
-
You can buy and display your tickets directly on your phone. This is incredibly convenient and often saves you time by avoiding lines at ticket machines. Remember to activate your ticket just before boarding!
Sub-heading 4.2: Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs)
-
Most NJ Transit train stations and major bus terminals have TVMs.
-
Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination to purchase a round-trip ticket that includes the Secaucus transfer.
-
TVMs accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards.
Sub-heading 4.3: Ticket Offices
-
At larger stations, there might be ticket offices with agents available to assist you.
-
This is a good option if you have questions or prefer to speak with someone directly.
Sub-heading 4.4: On-Board (Use with Caution!)
-
You can purchase tickets on board trains if a ticket agent or TVM is not available at your boarding station.
-
However, if a TVM or ticket agent IS available, a $5 surcharge will be applied to tickets purchased on board trains.
-
Bus drivers generally do not sell tickets on board, so have your mobile ticket ready or exact cash fare (coins or $1 bills) if using a local bus without the app.
Step 5: Planning Your Trip and Staying Informed
-
Use the NJ Transit Trip Planner: The official NJ Transit website (njtransit.com) and mobile app have excellent trip planners. Enter your origin, destination (MetLife Sports Complex), and desired travel time, and they will provide the best routes, connections, and estimated fares.
-
Check Event-Specific Schedules: For major events at MetLife Stadium (concerts, NFL games, large sporting events), NJ Transit often publishes special schedules for the Meadowlands Rail Line. These schedules typically start service a few hours before the event and run frequently before and after. Always check
njtransit.com/MetLifeStadium -
Stay Connected with Alerts: Download the NJ Transit mobile app and enable push notifications for real-time service alerts, delays, or changes on your specific rail or bus line. You can also follow their social media accounts (e.g., @NJTRANSIT on X/Twitter) for updates.
-
Arrive Early: Especially for major events, train platforms and buses can get very crowded. Give yourself ample time to navigate the stations, purchase tickets, and board.
 |
| How Much Is Nj Transit To Metlife |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
How to find the cheapest NJ Transit fare to MetLife Stadium?
The cheapest way often depends on your starting point. For most, taking the train from Secaucus Junction via the Meadowlands Rail Line is the most direct and cost-effective for major events. Always buy a round-trip ticket to save. For those close to an NJ Transit bus route that serves American Dream (walking distance to MetLife), local bus fares might be slightly cheaper but less direct.
How to buy a round-trip ticket to MetLife Stadium on NJ Transit?
You can purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" using the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App (select your origin and "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination) or at any NJ Transit ticket vending machine.
How to get from New York Penn Station to MetLife Stadium via NJ Transit?
Take any NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station that goes to Secaucus Junction (most lines do). At Secaucus Junction, transfer downstairs to the special Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle to MetLife Sports Complex Station.
How to get from Port Authority Bus Terminal to MetLife Stadium via NJ Transit?
For major events, the most direct bus option is often the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express, which departs from the Port Authority Bus Terminal and goes directly to the stadium. For non-major event days or other options, you might take a local NJ Transit bus to Secaucus Junction and then transfer to a local bus or walk, but this is less common for stadium events.
How to check specific train schedules for MetLife Stadium events?
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
Visit
How to use the NJ Transit Mobile App for MetLife Stadium tickets?
Download the app, create an account, link a payment method, select "Buy Tickets," choose "Rail" (or "Bus" if applicable), select your origin and "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination, choose round-trip, and then activate your ticket when you are ready to board.
How to know if the Meadowlands Rail Line is operating for an event?
The Meadowlands Rail Line operates for most major events at MetLife Stadium, including NFL games, large concerts, and major sporting events. Always confirm service by checking
How to avoid surcharges when buying NJ Transit tickets to MetLife?
Always purchase your ticket before boarding the train if a ticket agent or ticket vending machine is available at your boarding station. Use the NJ Transit Mobile App, a TVM, or a ticket office.
How to find bus routes serving the MetLife Stadium area?
While the train is primary for events, local NJ Transit bus routes like the 703 and 85 serve the general Meadowlands area. Use the NJ Transit Trip Planner and input "MetLife Stadium" or "American Dream" (nearby) as your destination to see available bus routes.
How to get reduced fares for children or seniors to MetLife Stadium?
NJ Transit offers reduced fares for children (ages 5-11), senior citizens (62 years of age or older), and people with disabilities. When purchasing tickets, select the appropriate fare type. On weekends and holidays, up to two children (ages 5-11) can often ride free with a fare-paying adult.
 |
