Navigating from the bustling heart of New York City to the colossal MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, can seem like a daunting task, especially if it's your first time. But fear not! This comprehensive guide will break down exactly how to get to MetLife from Penn Station, making your journey smooth, stress-free, and even enjoyable.
Your Ultimate Guide: Getting from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium
Ready to cheer on your favorite team, sing along to an epic concert, or witness an electrifying event at MetLife Stadium? Excellent! Let's start by figuring out the best way to get you there from the iconic Penn Station in NYC.
 |
| How To Get To Metlife From Penn Station |
Step 1: Choosing Your Transportation Method – Train or Bus?
The good news is you have two primary, reliable options to get from the general vicinity of Penn Station to MetLife Stadium: NJ TRANSIT Train Service or Coach USA Bus Service (351 Meadowlands Express). Each has its advantages, and your choice might depend on the specific event, time of day, and your personal preference.
-
The Train (Recommended for most major events): This is generally the fastest and most efficient way to reach MetLife Stadium, especially for NFL games and large concerts. NJ TRANSIT offers special shuttle train service directly to the Meadowlands Rail Station, which is just steps away from the stadium's entrance.
-
The Bus (A good alternative for certain events/situations): Coach USA operates the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (which is a short walk from Penn Station). This can be a viable option, particularly if the train schedule doesn't align with your needs or for events where dedicated train service might be less frequent.
Let's dive deeper into each method.
Step 2: Conquering the Train Route – Your Seamless Rail Journey
The train route involves a simple two-part journey with NJ TRANSIT.
Tip: Look for examples to make points easier to grasp.
Sub-heading: Part A: Getting to Secaucus Junction
-
Locate NJ TRANSIT at Penn Station (NYC): Penn Station is a massive transportation hub. Look for the signs directing you to NJ TRANSIT trains. They typically depart from tracks on the lower level.
-
Purchase Your Ticket:
-
Highly Recommended: NJ TRANSIT Mobile App: Download the free NJ TRANSIT Mobile App (available on Apple Store and Google Play). This is the easiest and most convenient way to buy and display your ticket.
-
Ticket Vending Machines: These are located throughout Penn Station. Look for the distinctive red and blue NJ TRANSIT machines.
-
Ticket Office: For assistance or if you prefer to speak with someone, there are ticket offices at major terminals.
-
Important Note: Always purchase a round-trip ticket before boarding to avoid an additional $5.00 surcharge. The round-trip adult fare from New York Penn Station to Meadowlands is approximately $12.60.
-
-
Board Your Train to Secaucus Junction: You'll need to take any NJ TRANSIT train that goes to Secaucus Junction. This includes lines like the Main-Bergen County Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Morris & Essex Line, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Pascack Valley Line, or Port Jervis Line. Don't worry, almost all trains departing from Penn Station will make a stop at Secaucus Junction.
-
Travel Time to Secaucus: The ride to Secaucus Junction is remarkably quick, usually around 7-10 minutes.
Sub-heading: Part B: The Final Stretch to MetLife Stadium from Secaucus Junction
-
Transfer at Secaucus Junction: Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll need to transfer to a special shuttle train to the Meadowlands Rail Station.
-
Follow the crowd! For major events, there will be plenty of signage and staff directing you to the correct platform for the Meadowlands-bound trains. It's usually a very straightforward transfer, often just across the platform.
-
-
Board the Meadowlands Shuttle Train: These trains are specifically for MetLife Stadium events.
-
Arrive at Meadowlands Rail Station: The ride from Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Rail Station is extremely short, typically around 10 minutes. You'll be dropped off right at the stadium's doorstep!
-
Event-Specific Train Service: Keep in mind that NJ TRANSIT operates the Meadowlands Rail Service for events with an anticipated attendance above 50,000. Rail service usually begins approximately 3.5 hours prior to kick-off or an event and ends 1 hour after the game or event. Always check the specific NJ TRANSIT schedule for your event date.
Step 3: Navigating the Bus Route – The Coach USA Option
If the train isn't your preferred method or for smaller events, the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus offers a direct route.
-
Head to Port Authority Bus Terminal: Penn Station and Port Authority Bus Terminal are relatively close, about a 10-15 minute walk from each other. If you're coming directly from Penn Station, you'll need to exit onto 8th Avenue and walk north to 42nd Street.
-
Locate the 351 Meadowlands Express:
-
Buses for the 351 Meadowlands Express typically depart from the South Wing, on the third floor of the Port Authority Bus Terminal, at Gates 411, 412, 413, 414, or sometimes from a street-level departure area on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues, depending on the event.
-
Check signage and ask staff for the correct gate for your specific event.
-
-
Purchase Your Bus Ticket:
-
Online (Recommended): Coach USA recommends purchasing tickets online under the "ROUND-TRIP" tab for priority boarding.
-
At Port Authority: Tickets can also be purchased inside the Port Authority South Wing, main floor (windows 11-15).
-
At the Bus (Exact Fare): You can also pay with exact cash fare ($18.00 round trip) directly to the driver, though online purchase is preferred.
-
Cost: The round-trip fare is approximately $18.00.
-
-
Board the Bus: The 351 bus service usually begins 2.5 hours prior to the start of a game and continues to run until 0.5 hours after the start of a game. Return service runs for approximately 1 hour following the conclusion of the game.
-
Travel Time: The bus ride normally takes about 20 minutes each way, but this is highly subject to traffic and weather conditions. Keep this in mind, especially during peak travel times around events.
-
Arrival at MetLife Stadium: The bus drop-off and pick-up area at the Sports Complex is in Lot K, near the Quest Diagnostics Performance Center. From there, it's a short walk to the stadium entrance.
Step 4: Important Considerations for Your Trip
 |
-
Check Event Schedules: Always confirm the event start time and related transportation schedules (NJ Transit and Coach USA) well in advance. These can vary based on the type and size of the event.
-
Allow Ample Time: Especially for major events, expect crowds and potential delays. Arriving early is always a good strategy to avoid stress.
-
Round-Trip Tickets: Purchase your round-trip tickets before you depart from Penn Station or Port Authority. This saves you time and avoids potential surcharges.
-
Mobile Apps: The NJ TRANSIT Mobile App is incredibly useful for purchasing tickets and checking schedules and alerts on the go.
-
Bag Policy: MetLife Stadium has a strict clear bag policy. Be sure to review it before you go.
-
Clear bags must be 12" x 6" x 12" or less.
-
Small non-clear clutch-type bags (4.5" x 6.5" or less) are permitted.
-
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags are also allowed.
-
No other types of bags (backpacks, fanny packs, camera bags, etc., exceeding the clutch size) are permitted. An exception is made for medically necessary items after inspection.
-
-
Prohibited Items: Familiarize yourself with the list of prohibited items at MetLife Stadium (e.g., umbrellas, strollers, full-sized footballs, laser pointers, professional cameras with long lenses, outside alcohol).
Step 5: Enjoy Your Event!
Once you've successfully navigated your journey to MetLife Stadium, all that's left is to relax, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy your event! Whether it's a thrilling game or a memorable concert, you're now perfectly positioned to have a fantastic time.
QuickTip: Repeat difficult lines until they’re clear.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check NJ Transit train schedules to MetLife Stadium?
You can check NJ Transit train schedules directly on the official NJ Transit website (njtransit.com) or through their mobile app. Look for schedules to "Meadowlands Rail Station" or for specific event train services.
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
NJ Transit tickets can be purchased via the NJ Transit Mobile App, at ticket vending machines located at train stations (like Penn Station), or at ticket offices in major terminals. It's recommended to buy a round-trip ticket in advance.
How to find the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus gate at Port Authority?
The Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express typically departs from the South Wing, on the third floor of the Port Authority Bus Terminal, at Gates 411, 412, 413, 414, or sometimes from a street-level departure area on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues, depending on the event. Always check signage or ask terminal staff for the precise gate for your event.
Tip: Don’t skim past key examples.
How to know if NJ Transit train service is running for a specific MetLife event?
NJ Transit generally operates special train service to MetLife Stadium for events with anticipated attendance over 50,000. You should always check the NJ Transit website (
How to avoid long lines when leaving MetLife Stadium after an event?
To avoid the longest lines, consider leaving just before the event officially ends, especially if you're taking the train. Otherwise, be prepared for a wait as thousands of people will be exiting simultaneously.
How to purchase Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus tickets?
Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus tickets can be purchased online through the Coach USA website (coachusa.com, look for the 351 Meadowlands Express service) or at the Port Authority Bus Terminal ticket windows (South Wing, main floor, windows 11-15).
How to get from Penn Station to Port Authority Bus Terminal?
Tip: Look out for transitions like ‘however’ or ‘but’.
Penn Station and Port Authority Bus Terminal are about a 10-15 minute walk from each other. Exit Penn Station onto 8th Avenue and walk north until you reach 42nd Street, where the Port Authority Bus Terminal is located.
How to know MetLife Stadium's bag policy?
MetLife Stadium has a strict clear bag policy. You can find the full details on the official MetLife Stadium website (
How to find out about parking options at MetLife Stadium if driving is preferred?
While public transit is highly recommended, if you prefer to drive, information on parking at MetLife Stadium can be found on the stadium's official website (
How to find things to do near MetLife Stadium before or after an event?
Near MetLife Stadium, you can explore American Dream (a large entertainment and retail complex with attractions like Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park and DreamWorks Water Park) or the Meadowlands Racetrack. For more options, consider heading back into NYC (easily accessible via NJ Transit from Secaucus Junction) for a vast array of dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences.
 |
