Are you ready for an epic journey from the charming streets of Baltimore to the roaring crowds of MetLife Stadium? Whether you're heading to a concert, a thrilling football game, or another major event, getting there from Baltimore requires a bit of planning. But don't worry, we've got you covered with a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to make your trip as smooth and stress-free as possible!
The Grand Journey: Baltimore to MetLife Stadium
MetLife Stadium, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is a premier destination for large-scale events. From Baltimore, you're looking at a journey of approximately 185-200 miles, which translates to a few hours on the road or rails. Let's break down your options and how to navigate each one.
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| How To Get To Metlife Stadium From Baltimore |
Step 1: Choose Your Adventure – Driving, Train, or Bus?
The first and most crucial step is deciding how you want to travel. Each mode of transportation has its pros and cons regarding cost, time, and convenience. Let's explore them!
Sub-heading: Option A: The Freedom of the Open Road (Driving)
Driving offers the most flexibility, allowing you to set your own schedule and bring as much gear as you need for tailgating or comfort. However, it also comes with potential traffic, tolls, and parking challenges.
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Pros: Flexibility, direct route (if you know it!), ability to carry more items.
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Cons: Traffic congestion, tolls, parking costs, potential for getting lost.
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Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, without significant traffic.
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Estimated Cost: Roughly $30-$50 for gas and tolls, plus parking fees ($40+).
Sub-heading: Option B: The Relaxing Ride (Train)
Taking the train is often a more relaxing option, allowing you to avoid driving stress and traffic. Amtrak offers comfortable service from Baltimore to New Jersey, from which you'll connect to MetLife Stadium via NJ Transit.
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Pros: Avoids traffic, comfortable travel, often drops you closer to transit hubs.
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Cons: Requires transfers, potentially less flexible scheduling, can be more expensive.
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Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, including transfers.
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Estimated Cost: Varies greatly depending on how far in advance you book and the class of service, but expect anywhere from $30-$700+ for Amtrak, plus NJ Transit fares.
QuickTip: Short pauses improve understanding.
Sub-heading: Option C: The Budget-Friendly Bus (Bus)
Buses can be a cost-effective way to travel, especially if you're on a tighter budget. Greyhound and Peter Pan Bus Lines offer routes from Baltimore to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC, from which you can connect to MetLife Stadium.
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Pros: Generally the most affordable option.
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Cons: Longer travel times, multiple transfers, less comfort than a train.
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Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours, including transfers.
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Estimated Cost: Roughly $40-$80 for the bus ticket, plus additional local transit fares.
Step 2: Planning Your Route - The Nitty-Gritty Details
Once you've chosen your preferred mode of transport, it's time to dig into the specifics of your journey.
Sub-heading: For the Drivers: Navigating the Highways
If you're driving, your primary route will involve Interstate 95 North.
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Departing Baltimore: From downtown Baltimore, you'll generally head north on I-95. Be mindful of one-way streets and follow signage carefully to get onto the interstate.
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Tolls, Tolls, Tolls: I-95 North will take you through several toll points in Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey. Consider getting an E-ZPass if you don't already have one, as it will save you time and potentially money on tolls. Some exits in New Jersey may even be EZ Pass ONLY.
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Approaching MetLife Stadium: As you get closer to East Rutherford, New Jersey, you'll need to pay close attention to signage.
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From I-95 North (New Jersey Turnpike): Take the Western Spur (Sports Complex to Exit 16W). This provides direct access to the Sports Complex parking areas. If there's heavy congestion on the Western Spur, you can use the Eastern Turnpike Spur (Lincoln Tunnel) to Exit 16E and then take Route 3 West, which also provides direct access.
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From Route 3 West: Route 3 West directly leads to the Sports Complex.
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Parking at MetLife Stadium: Parking lots typically open five hours prior to the start of an event and close two hours after. Pre-paid parking permits are usually required for NFL games. For non-NFL events (concerts, soccer), pre-paid permits are often not required, and parking can be paid upon arrival. Cars generally cost $40. Follow the directions of the traffic and parking staff to your designated lot. Circulation between parking lots is not permitted.
Sub-heading: For the Train Enthusiasts: A Multi-Leg Journey
Traveling by train involves a few transfers, but the process is quite streamlined for major events.
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Amtrak from Baltimore Penn Station (BAL) to Newark Penn Station (NWK):
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Book your Amtrak ticket in advance. The Northeast Regional service is a common choice and runs frequently.
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The journey from Baltimore Penn Station to Newark Penn Station typically takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes to 2 hours and 45 minutes.
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NJ Transit from Newark Penn Station to Secaucus Junction:
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Once you arrive at Newark Penn Station, you'll need to transfer to an NJ Transit train. Look for trains heading towards Secaucus Junction. This is a very common transfer point for accessing the Meadowlands Sports Complex.
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The trip from Newark Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is usually quite short, around 10-15 minutes.
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NJ Transit from Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Rail Station:
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For major events at MetLife Stadium (like NFL games or large concerts), NJ Transit operates special shuttle train service directly from Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Rail Station. This station is steps away from MetLife Stadium.
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The shuttle ride is usually about 10 minutes.
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Important: You must have a ticket to board the train from Meadowlands to Secaucus Junction for your return trip. Purchase a round-trip ticket to Meadowlands Station from your originating station (Baltimore Penn, if possible through a combined ticket, or Newark Penn for your NJ Transit portion) to avoid delays and surcharges.
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Check the NJ Transit website or app for specific event schedules, as shuttle service times can vary.
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Sub-heading: For the Bus Riders: Budget-Conscious Connections
QuickTip: Note key words you want to remember.
Taking the bus will also involve a couple of transfers.
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Bus from Baltimore Downtown Bus Station to Port Authority Bus Terminal (NYC):
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Book your ticket with Greyhound USA or Peter Pan Bus Lines.
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The journey to Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City typically takes 3 to 3.5 hours.
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Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express from Port Authority Bus Terminal to MetLife Sports Complex:
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From Port Authority Bus Terminal, look for the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service operated by Coach USA. This bus provides direct service to the MetLife Sports Complex for NFL games and other large events.
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Buses typically depart from the South Wing, on the third floor of the Port Authority Bus Terminal at Gates 411-415, or from a street-level departure area on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues, depending on the event.
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The trip usually takes around 20 minutes, subject to traffic.
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Buses typically start running 2.5 hours before an event and continue for about an hour after it concludes.
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A round-trip ticket is generally around $18. Exact fare is required if paying with cash on the bus.
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Step 3: Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip
Regardless of your chosen method, a few general tips will enhance your journey.
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Book in Advance: Especially for popular events, train and bus tickets, and even parking permits, can sell out or increase significantly in price closer to the event date. Don't procrastinate!
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Check Event Schedules: Always verify the specific timing for your event and the associated transportation services (e.g., NJ Transit shuttle schedules, bus departure times). MetLife Stadium's website and NJ Transit's website are your best friends here.
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Allow Extra Time: Traffic, unexpected delays, and security checks can add significant time to your journey. Arrive early to avoid missing the start of your event.
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Pack Smart: Be aware of MetLife Stadium's bag policy. Typically, clear bags smaller than 12" x 6" x 12" are permitted. Check the stadium's official website for the most up-to-date policy.
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Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks: Especially for longer journeys, having water and snacks can make a big difference in your comfort.
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Download Mobile Apps: The NJ Transit Mobile App is incredibly useful for purchasing tickets, checking schedules, and getting real-time updates.
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Have Cash and Cards Ready: While many places accept cards, having some cash on hand for small purchases, tolls (if not using E-ZPass), or unexpected needs is always a good idea.
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Plan Your Return: Don't forget to consider your return journey, especially if you're taking public transport. Know the last train or bus departure times.
Step 4: Enjoy the Event!
You've made it! Now that you've navigated the logistics, it's time to soak in the atmosphere, cheer on your favorite team, or sing along to your beloved artists. MetLife Stadium offers a fantastic experience, and your well-planned journey will ensure you arrive ready to enjoy every moment.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Baltimore by train?
To get to MetLife Stadium from Baltimore by train, take Amtrak from Baltimore Penn Station (BAL) to Newark Penn Station (NWK). From Newark Penn Station, transfer to an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction. At Secaucus Junction, transfer to the special NJ Transit shuttle train directly to Meadowlands Rail Station, which is right next to MetLife Stadium.
Tip: Make mental notes as you go.
How to drive to MetLife Stadium from Baltimore?
To drive to MetLife Stadium from Baltimore, take I-95 North. As you approach the Meadowlands, take the New Jersey Turnpike Western Spur to Exit 16W, which offers direct access to the Sports Complex parking. Alternatively, use Exit 16E to Route 3 West.
How to find parking at MetLife Stadium?
To find parking at MetLife Stadium, follow signage upon arrival. Parking lots typically open five hours before an event. For NFL games, pre-paid permits are usually required. For other events, you can often pay upon arrival ($40 for cars). Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G with a valid ADA license plate or hang tag.
How to use public transportation to MetLife Stadium from Baltimore?
To use public transportation to MetLife Stadium from Baltimore, you have two primary options: train (Amtrak to Newark Penn, then NJ Transit to Secaucus Junction, then Meadowlands shuttle) or bus (Greyhound/Peter Pan to Port Authority Bus Terminal, then Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus).
How to buy train tickets from Baltimore to MetLife Stadium?
To buy train tickets from Baltimore to MetLife Stadium, purchase your Amtrak ticket from Baltimore Penn Station (BAL) to Newark Penn Station (NWK) online or at the station. For the NJ Transit portion, you can purchase tickets via the NJ Transit Mobile App or at ticket vending machines/offices at Newark Penn Station or Secaucus Junction, ensuring you buy a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Station" for seamless return travel.
How to take a bus from Baltimore to MetLife Stadium?
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
To take a bus from Baltimore to MetLife Stadium, book a Greyhound or Peter Pan Bus Lines ticket from Baltimore Downtown Bus Station to Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City. From there, board the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus, which provides direct service to the stadium for major events.
How to avoid traffic when going to MetLife Stadium?
To avoid traffic when going to MetLife Stadium, consider taking public transportation (train or bus) instead of driving. If driving, aim to arrive well before the parking lots open (typically 5 hours before an event) or much later, though this risks missing part of the event. Utilize GPS apps with real-time traffic updates.
How to get from Newark Penn Station to MetLife Stadium?
To get from Newark Penn Station to MetLife Stadium, take an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus Junction, transfer to the dedicated NJ Transit shuttle train that goes directly to Meadowlands Rail Station, right at MetLife Stadium.
How to estimate the cost of travel from Baltimore to MetLife Stadium?
To estimate the cost of travel from Baltimore to MetLife Stadium:
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Driving: ~$30-50 for gas/tolls + ~$40 for parking.
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Train (Amtrak + NJ Transit): ~$30-700+ (Amtrak varies greatly) + ~$10-20 for NJ Transit round-trip.
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Bus (Greyhound/Peter Pan + Coach USA): ~$40-80 (intercity bus) + ~$18 (Coach USA round-trip).
How to find event-specific transportation information for MetLife Stadium?
To find event-specific transportation information for MetLife Stadium, always check the official MetLife Stadium website (
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