Want to catch a game or a concert at MetLife Stadium and looking for the most convenient way to get there from Long Island? Forget the stress of driving, traffic, and expensive parking! The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) combined with a quick connecting bus is your ultimate solution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every single step of the journey, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Your Ultimate Guide to Taking the LIRR to MetLife Stadium
Ready to ditch the driving hassle and experience a stress-free journey to MetLife Stadium? Let's dive into how to leverage the LIRR for a fantastic event day!
Step 1: Embarking on Your Journey - Planning & Ticketing
So, you've got your MetLife event tickets, and now you're thinking, "How do I actually get there?" Great question! This is where your adventure begins.
First things first, you need to decide which LIRR station is most convenient for you. Are you coming from Hicksville, Babylon, Port Washington, or somewhere else on Long Island? Knowing your starting point is crucial for planning your route and purchasing the correct ticket.
Next, you'll need to figure out your train schedule. For events at MetLife Stadium, especially on weekends or evenings, the LIRR often runs special schedules or has increased service. It's always a good idea to check the official MTA LIRR website or use their TrainTime app for the most up-to-date schedule information. Look for trains heading to New York Penn Station. Penn Station is your crucial transfer point.
Once you have your starting station and a general idea of your desired travel time, it's time to get your tickets.
Purchasing Your LIRR Ticket: You have several convenient options for buying LIRR tickets:
Ticket Machines: These are available at almost all LIRR stations. They are user-friendly and allow you to select your destination (New York Penn Station) and ticket type (one-way, round-trip, peak, off-peak).
Ticket Windows: At larger stations, you can purchase tickets directly from a ticket agent. This is helpful if you have questions or need assistance.
MTA TrainTime App: This is by far the easiest and most recommended method. Download the app on your smartphone, set up an account, and you can purchase mobile tickets directly from your phone. Simply activate the ticket when you're ready to board.
OMNY (Tap to Pay): While OMNY is widely used for NYC subway and bus fares, it is not currently accepted for LIRR fares. Stick to the methods above for your LIRR ticket.
Pro Tip: Always purchase a round-trip ticket if you plan on returning the same day. It's usually more cost-effective than two one-way tickets. Also, consider purchasing your return ticket in advance to avoid long lines after the event.
Step 2: The LIRR Ride to New York Penn Station
You've got your ticket, you're at your chosen LIRR station, and the anticipation for your MetLife event is building!
When your train arrives, listen for announcements regarding the destination. Confirm it's heading to New York Penn Station. Find an available seat, settle in, and enjoy the ride. The LIRR journey offers a comfortable way to relax before the excitement of the stadium.
During your ride, you can:
Catch up on emails or social media.
Read a book or listen to a podcast.
Simply enjoy the scenery as you make your way towards Manhattan.
The journey time will vary depending on your starting LIRR station. For example, a trip from Jamaica to Penn Station is relatively short, while a trip from the easternmost parts of Long Island will be longer.
Step 3: Navigating New York Penn Station - The Crucial Transfer
Welcome to the bustling hub of New York Penn Station! This is where you'll make your transfer to continue your journey to MetLife. Penn Station can be a bit overwhelming, especially during peak hours, but don't worry, we'll guide you through it.
Once you exit your LIRR train, follow the signs for "NJ Transit" or "Secaucus Junction." NJ Transit is the commuter rail service that will take you to Secaucus Junction, which is the direct transfer point for the MetLife Stadium Shuttle.
Finding NJ Transit Tracks: NJ Transit usually departs from tracks on the lower level of Penn Station. Follow the clear signage. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask a Penn Station employee or another commuter. Many people will be heading in the same direction on event days!
Purchasing Your NJ Transit Ticket: You'll need a separate ticket for NJ Transit.
Ticket Machines: Look for NJ Transit ticket machines within Penn Station. Select "Secaucus Junction" as your destination. You'll want to purchase a round-trip ticket to Secaucus Junction.
Ticket Windows: NJ Transit also has ticket windows if you prefer a human interaction.
NJ Transit Mobile App: Similar to the LIRR app, NJ Transit has its own app where you can purchase mobile tickets. This is often the quickest option.
Important Note: You cannot use your LIRR ticket for NJ Transit, nor can you use OMNY for NJ Transit. Make sure you have a valid NJ Transit ticket before boarding your train. Conductors regularly check tickets.
Step 4: The NJ Transit Ride to Secaucus Junction
Now that you have your NJ Transit ticket, board the next available train heading to Secaucus Junction. These trains run frequently, especially on event days.
The ride from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is very short, typically only one stop and takes about 10-15 minutes. It's a quick hop across the Hudson River.
Step 5: The MetLife Stadium Shuttle from Secaucus Junction
You've made it to Secaucus Junction! This is the final leg of your public transportation journey to MetLife Stadium.
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, follow the signs for "MetLife Stadium" or "Meadowlands Rail Service." You'll be directed to a dedicated platform for the MetLife Stadium Shuttle.
Purchasing Your Shuttle Ticket: You will need a separate ticket for the MetLife Stadium Shuttle.
Ticket Machines: There are ticket machines at Secaucus Junction specifically for the MetLife Stadium service.
NJ Transit Mobile App: You can also purchase a mobile ticket for this shuttle through the NJ Transit app.
Crucial Information: This shuttle service typically begins a few hours before the event starts and runs continuously until roughly an hour or so after the event concludes. The frequency of the trains increases significantly on event days.
Boarding the Shuttle: The shuttle trains are usually marked clearly and are often packed with fellow fans, adding to the pre-event atmosphere! The ride from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium is extremely short, only taking about 10-15 minutes, as it's the very next stop.
Step 6: Arrival at MetLife Stadium & The Return Journey
Congratulations! You've arrived at MetLife Stadium! Step off the train, and you'll be right at the stadium's doorstep, ready to enjoy your event without the headache of parking.
After the event, the process is simply reversed:
Head back to the MetLife Stadium train station.
Board the shuttle train back to Secaucus Junction. (Ensure you have a return ticket for this leg if you didn't buy a round-trip earlier).
From Secaucus Junction, take an NJ Transit train back to New York Penn Station. (Again, have your return ticket ready).
At New York Penn Station, transfer to your LIRR train heading back to your originating station on Long Island. Check the LIRR departure boards carefully for your specific train and track number.
Important Considerations for Your Return Trip:
Crowds: Expect significant crowds when leaving the stadium, especially after major events. Be patient, and follow the directions of stadium and transit staff.
Last Trains: Always be aware of the last LIRR train departure from Penn Station to your desired Long Island destination. Don't miss it! Check the schedules in advance.
Ticket Readiness: Have your return tickets readily accessible to avoid delays.
By following these steps, you'll have a seamless and enjoyable experience getting to and from MetLife Stadium using the convenience of the LIRR and connecting services. Have a fantastic time at your event!
How to FAQs
Here are 10 quick answers to common questions about taking the LIRR to MetLife:
How to find the LIRR schedule to Penn Station? Check the official MTA LIRR website or use the MTA TrainTime app, inputting your starting station and "New York Penn Station" as your destination.
How to buy LIRR tickets? You can purchase LIRR tickets at station machines, ticket windows, or conveniently through the MTA TrainTime app on your smartphone.
How to transfer from LIRR to NJ Transit at Penn Station? Upon arriving at Penn Station, follow signs for "NJ Transit" or "Secaucus Junction" to find the NJ Transit tracks, usually on the lower level.
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for Secaucus Junction? Purchase NJ Transit tickets at machines within Penn Station or using the NJ Transit Mobile App; select "Secaucus Junction" as your destination.
How to get from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium? At Secaucus Junction, follow signs for "MetLife Stadium" or "Meadowlands Rail Service" to board the dedicated shuttle train.
How to buy the MetLife Stadium Shuttle ticket? Tickets for the shuttle can be purchased at ticket machines at Secaucus Junction or via the NJ Transit Mobile App.
How to ensure I don't miss the last LIRR train back to Long Island? Before you leave for your event, always check the last LIRR train departure times from New York Penn Station to your specific Long Island destination.
How to handle crowds at Penn Station and Secaucus Junction on event days? Be patient, follow signage, and listen to announcements from transit staff. Many people will be heading to the same event, so flow with the crowd.
How to save money on LIRR and NJ Transit tickets? Purchase round-trip tickets instead of two one-way tickets, and consider off-peak travel if your schedule allows, as fares are often lower.
How to use my phone for LIRR and NJ Transit tickets? Download the MTA TrainTime app for LIRR tickets and the NJ Transit Mobile App for NJ Transit and MetLife Shuttle tickets. Activate your mobile tickets just before boarding.
