Attending an event at MetLife Stadium when you're visiting from Manhattan can feel a bit daunting, but it's actually quite straightforward with NJ Transit's excellent train service. Forget the traffic, the parking woes, and the stress of driving in a new city. The train is your best friend for a smooth and efficient trip!
So, are you ready to conquer the journey to MetLife Stadium by train? Let's get started!
Your Comprehensive Guide to Getting to MetLife Stadium from Manhattan by Train
This guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you arrive at your event relaxed and ready to enjoy!
Step 1: Your Starting Point - NYC Penn Station
Are you at NYC Penn Station already, or heading there? This is your primary gateway to MetLife Stadium via the train. Located in the heart of Manhattan at 34th Street and 7th/8th Avenues, it's easily accessible by numerous subway lines, buses, and taxis.
A. Getting to Penn Station:
Subway: Many subway lines connect directly to Penn Station (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 lines). Look for signs pointing to "Penn Station" or "34th Street-Penn Station."
Bus: Several M-buses stop near Penn Station.
Taxi/Rideshare: A convenient option if you're not far, but factor in Manhattan traffic, especially during peak hours.
Step 2: Purchasing Your NJ Transit Ticket
This is a crucial step! Do not wait until the last minute to buy your ticket, especially on event days. Lines can be long!
A. Ticket Options:
Round-Trip Ticket: Always purchase a round-trip ticket to Meadowlands Station. This saves you time and hassle after the event.
Where to Buy:
NJ Transit Ticket Machines: These are located throughout Penn Station. They are usually yellow or red and quite user-friendly. Select "Buy a Ticket," then "Meadowlands Station" as your destination.
NJ Transit Mobile App: This is arguably the easiest and most convenient option. Download the official NJ Transit Mobile App (available on Apple App Store and Google Play). You can purchase and activate your ticket directly on your phone. This eliminates the need for physical tickets and allows for quick scanning at fare gates. Be sure your phone is charged!
Ticket Windows: If you prefer human interaction or have questions, there are ticket windows available, but be prepared for potential lines.
B. Understanding Your Ticket and Fare:
The fare from New York Penn Station to Meadowlands Station (via Secaucus Junction) typically costs around $12-$13 for a round trip for an adult. Child, senior, and disabled fares are reduced.
Your ticket will be valid for the entire journey, including the transfer at Secaucus Junction.
Step 3: Boarding Your Train to Secaucus Junction
Now that you have your ticket, it's time to head to the tracks!
A. Finding Your Train:
From Penn Station, you'll be looking for any NJ Transit train that stops at Secaucus Junction (SEC).
Look for the departure boards: These electronic signs will display the train number, destination, and track number. Your destination will often show as "SEC" or a longer route that includes "Secaucus Junction."
Common Lines to Secaucus Junction: You can take trains on the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Morris & Essex Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Main-Bergen County Line, or Pascack Valley Line – as long as they are going to Secaucus Junction.
B. Boarding the Train:
Once your track is announced, head down and board the train. Find a seat and make yourself comfortable. The ride to Secaucus Junction is usually quite short, often around 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: The Transfer at Secaucus Junction
This is the only transfer point you'll need to worry about. Secaucus Junction is a major interchange station, and it's designed to make transfers to MetLife Stadium seamless.
A. Arriving at Secaucus Junction:
When your train arrives at Secaucus Junction, everyone will typically get off. Follow the crowd!
You'll need to go up an escalator or stairs to the upper level of the station.
B. Connecting to the Meadowlands Rail Line:
On the upper level, you'll see clear signs for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Sports Complex." This is the dedicated shuttle train that takes you directly to MetLife Stadium.
Head to the designated platform for the Meadowlands Rail Line.
Important Note: You must have a valid ticket to board the train from Meadowlands to Secaucus Junction for your return trip. Your initial round-trip ticket covers this.
C. The Final Leg of the Journey:
Board the Meadowlands-bound train. The ride from Secaucus Junction to the MetLife Stadium Sports Complex station is incredibly quick, typically less than 10 minutes.
You'll be dropped off right at the front door of MetLife Stadium!
Step 5: Returning to Manhattan
Getting back is just as easy!
A. From MetLife Stadium to Secaucus Junction:
After the event, head back to the MetLife Stadium Sports Complex train station. Follow signs for "Secaucus Junction."
Trains will run frequently on a load-and-go basis after major events until crowds dissipate.
Be prepared for crowds, but NJ Transit is highly efficient at managing post-event departures.
B. From Secaucus Junction to NYC Penn Station:
Once you arrive back at Secaucus Junction, head up to the main concourse.
Look for the departure boards for trains heading to New York Penn Station. Most trains from Secaucus Junction will eventually go to NYC Penn Station.
Board your train, and you'll be back in Manhattan in about 10-15 minutes.
Important Considerations & Tips:
Event Day Service: NJ Transit only operates the Meadowlands Rail Service for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000. Always check the NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/metlifestadium www.metlifestadium.com Arrive Early: Especially for popular events, trains can get crowded. Arriving earlier gives you more time to navigate Penn Station, purchase tickets, and ensure a comfortable ride.
Mobile App is Your Friend: Seriously, download and use the NJ Transit mobile app. It makes the entire ticketing process so much smoother.
Stay Informed: Follow NJ Transit on social media (Twitter: @NJTRANSIT) or check their website for real-time service alerts, especially on event days.
Bag Policy: Be aware of MetLife Stadium's bag policy before you go to avoid any issues at security.
Connectivity: While riding, you might experience spotty cell service in some tunnels. Don't rely solely on online maps during your transit.
Alternative if Train Service Isn't Running: If for some reason train service isn't operating for a smaller event, Coach USA offers the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from Port Authority Bus Terminal (42nd Street and 8th Avenue) directly to MetLife Stadium. This is a good backup to be aware of.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to purchase NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can purchase NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium (destination: Meadowlands Station) at ticket vending machines in Penn Station, at ticket windows, or most conveniently, through the official NJ Transit Mobile App.
How to find the right train at NYC Penn Station for MetLife Stadium?
At NYC Penn Station, look for departure boards that indicate trains going to "Secaucus Junction" (often abbreviated as "SEC"). Any train bound for Secaucus Junction will work, as you'll transfer there to the dedicated Meadowlands Rail Line.
How to transfer at Secaucus Junction to get to MetLife Stadium?
At Secaucus Junction, exit your initial train, go up to the main concourse, and follow the clear signage for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Sports Complex" to board the shuttle train directly to MetLife Stadium.
How to know if train service is running to MetLife Stadium for my event?
Always check the official NJ Transit website (
How to avoid long lines for tickets on event days?
To avoid long lines, purchase your round-trip ticket in advance using the NJ Transit Mobile App or by buying it from a ticket machine well before your event's scheduled start time.
How long does the train journey take from Manhattan to MetLife Stadium?
The total train journey from NYC Penn Station to MetLife Stadium, including the transfer at Secaucus Junction, typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on wait times for connecting trains.
How to use the NJ Transit Mobile App for tickets?
Download the NJ Transit Mobile App, create an account, select "Buy Tickets," choose your origin (e.g., New York Penn Station) and destination (Meadowlands Station), select round-trip, and activate your ticket when you're ready to board.
How to find the train back to Manhattan after an event?
After an event, head back to the MetLife Stadium Sports Complex station and board a train to Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus Junction, follow the departure boards to find a train heading to New York Penn Station.
How much does a round-trip train ticket cost from Manhattan to MetLife Stadium?
A round-trip train ticket from New York Penn Station to Meadowlands Station usually costs approximately $12-$13 for an adult.
How to get to MetLife Stadium if train service is not available?
If train service is not available for a specific event (e.g., smaller events), an alternative is the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus service, which departs from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan.
