Ah, the eternal stadium parking dilemma! We've all been there, driving around frantically, hoping to snag a spot. When it comes to MetLife Stadium, planning ahead for parking can save you a lot of stress, time, and potentially, money. So, can you buy a parking pass at MetLife Stadium? The short answer is: it depends on the event, but generally, pre-purchasing is strongly recommended, and often required, especially for NFL games. Let's dive into the details to ensure your visit is as smooth as possible!
Step 1: Determine Your Event Type (and why it matters!)
Before you even think about buying a parking pass, the very first thing you need to identify is what kind of event you're attending. MetLife Stadium hosts a wide variety of events, including:
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NFL Games (New York Giants & New York Jets): These are often the most restrictive when it comes to parking.
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Concerts: Policies can vary based on the performer and promoter.
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Soccer Matches and Other Sporting Events: Similar to concerts, flexibility might exist.
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Other Special Events: Think large-scale gatherings, festivals, or even high school graduations.
Why is this important? Because the rules for purchasing parking passes, and even the availability of on-site payment, can differ significantly between these event types. For NFL games, pre-paid parking permits are almost always required for all vehicles entering the Sports Complex. For non-NFL events, pre-paid parking permits are sometimes available, but parking can also be payable upon arrival in some lots. Always check the specific event page!
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| Can I Buy Parking Pass At Metlife Stadium |
Step 2: Investigate Pre-Purchase Options: Your Best Bet! ️
For most major events at MetLife Stadium, especially NFL games, pre-purchasing your parking pass online is the most reliable and often the only way to guarantee a spot. This ensures you have your parking secured before you even leave home, saving you from potential headaches on event day.
Sub-heading: Official Team and Stadium Websites
If you're attending a Giants or Jets game, your first stop should be the official team websites (giants.com or newyorkjets.com). They often have dedicated sections for ticket and parking management.
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Giants: If you're a suite ticket holder, your complimentary parking passes are typically uploaded to your online Giants Account Manager. You can also purchase additional passes through Ticketmaster via a link on their site.
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Jets: The Jets also utilize their mobile app and account manager for parking passes. You can often print PDF passes from your online account.
Both teams strongly encourage using their official platforms for managing tickets and parking.
Sub-heading: Authorized Ticketing Platforms (e.g., Ticketmaster, ParkWhiz)
Many parking passes for MetLife Stadium events, including NFL games and concerts, are distributed through Ticketmaster or dedicated parking platforms like ParkWhiz.
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Ticketmaster: For NFL games, you can often find pre-paid parking permits listed on the Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange. Look for the "parking" button under your specific game. These passes are usually labeled as "Platinum" or "Gold," indicating different parking zones.
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ParkWhiz: For non-NFL events, ParkWhiz is frequently the official partner for pre-paid parking. It's a convenient way to reserve your spot in advance and often see the prices and availability for various lots.
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ParkMobile: Some parking options near MetLife Stadium, including those offered by American Dream, can be reserved through the ParkMobile app. This is another good option for pre-paying for your spot.
Pro Tip: Always check the official MetLife Stadium website (metlifestadium.com) for direct links to authorized parking vendors for your specific event. This ensures you're buying legitimate passes and getting the most accurate information.
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
Step 3: Understanding Mobile and Printed Passes
MetLife Stadium has largely embraced mobile ticketing, and this extends to parking passes as well.
Sub-heading: Mobile Parking Passes
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For many events, especially NFL games, you'll be able to access your parking pass directly through the official team apps (Giants Mobile App, Jets Mobile App) or through authorized ticketing apps.
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Important: Screenshots of mobile parking passes are typically not permitted for entry as the barcodes can be dynamic and change. Make sure your phone is charged, and your screen brightness is turned up when you approach the attendant.
Sub-heading: Printed PDF Passes
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While mobile is preferred, some platforms (like the Jets Account Manager) still allow you to print a PDF version of your parking pass at home. If this option is available, it's a good backup in case of phone issues.
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Remember: If you choose to print, ensure the barcode is clear and legible for scanning. You'll need to display this prominently as you enter the parking lot.
Step 4: On-Site Purchase (When is it an option?)
For some non-NFL events, you may be able to purchase parking directly upon arrival at the stadium lots. However, this is not guaranteed for all events, and it's generally not recommended for major events like NFL games or popular concerts.
Sub-heading: Cash vs. Credit Card
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If on-site payment is available, credit card payments are often preferred, or even exclusively accepted, at the toll plazas. Some locations, like American Dream's lots (near MetLife Stadium), explicitly state "No cash accepted onsite."
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Always be prepared with a credit or debit card, even if you plan to pay cash, just in case.
Sub-heading: Potential for Higher Prices & Limited Availability
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Be warned: If you wait to purchase parking on event day, you risk higher prices compared to pre-purchasing.
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More importantly, parking could sell out, leaving you scrambling to find alternative (and potentially more expensive or inconvenient) options. This is particularly true for high-demand events.
Step 5: Alternative Parking & Transportation
If on-site stadium parking is sold out, too expensive, or simply not your preference, consider these alternatives:
Tip: Break down complex paragraphs step by step.
Sub-heading: Off-site Parking Lots
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There are private parking lots near MetLife Stadium that offer event parking. Some, like American Dream (across the street), provide parking with varying rates based on the event. They often allow pre-payment through platforms like ParkMobile or on-site payment by credit card.
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Always research the specific lot's policies and shuttle availability (if any).
Sub-heading: Public Transportation
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MetLife Stadium is well-served by public transportation, particularly for larger events.
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NJ TRANSIT Rail Service: This is a fantastic option for many. Trains depart from Secaucus Junction and deliver you directly to the stadium. Rail service typically begins about 3.5 hours before an event and runs for about an hour after.
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Coach USA Bus Service (Route 351 Meadowlands Express): This bus service runs from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC directly to the Sports Complex for NFL games and other big events.
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Consider this: It can often be more cost-effective and less stressful than navigating traffic and parking.
Step 6: Accessible Parking (ADA) ♿
MetLife Stadium is committed to providing accessible parking for guests with disabilities.
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Location: Accessible parking is typically available in Lots E, F, and G.
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Requirements: You'll need a valid, state-issued accessible parking license plate or hang tag visible on your vehicle. The owner of the vehicle with the valid license plate or hang tag must be in the vehicle. Registrations and IDs will be checked.
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Drop-off Area: A dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is located in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
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Traffic and parking staff will direct you to the appropriate spaces.
Step 7: Key Considerations for Game Day ⚠️
Once you've secured your parking, keep these in mind for event day:
Sub-heading: Arrive Early!
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Parking lots typically open five (5) hours prior to the start of an event and close two (2) hours after the conclusion.
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Arriving early allows you to beat traffic, find your spot, and enjoy any pre-event festivities or tailgating.
Sub-heading: Follow Staff Directions
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Regardless of your parking pass, always follow the directions of the Traffic and Parking Staff. They are there to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow within the complex.
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Do not rely solely on your GPS once you are approaching the stadium grounds, as traffic patterns and lot access can be altered for events.
Sub-heading: Tailgating Policies
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
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Tailgating is generally permitted in MetLife Sports Complex parking lots, except in parking decks.
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Remember the "One Car = One Space" rule: Your tailgating setup should be limited to the lined parking space and the area directly behind or in front of your vehicle. Adjacent spaces cannot be used for tailgating, even if you have multiple passes.
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Be aware of rules regarding grills, tents, and sound systems.
Sub-heading: Vehicle Searches
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Be aware that vehicles are subject to search by New Jersey State Police, which could include canine units. If you refuse a search, you will not be permitted to enter the Sports Complex.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to pre-purchase a parking pass for a MetLife Stadium NFL game?
You can usually pre-purchase parking passes for NFL games through the official team websites (giants.com or newyorkjets.com) or via Ticketmaster's NFL Ticket Exchange by looking for the "parking" option for your specific game.
How to access my mobile parking pass for MetLife Stadium?
Mobile parking passes are typically accessed through the official team apps (New York Giants Mobile App, New York Jets Mobile App) or the specific ticketing app where you purchased your tickets. Ensure your phone is charged and screen brightness is high for scanning.
How to know if I can buy parking on-site at MetLife Stadium?
For NFL games, pre-paid parking is required. For non-NFL events (concerts, soccer), on-site purchase might be available, but it's not guaranteed. Always check the specific event page on the MetLife Stadium website for details.
How to find accessible parking at MetLife Stadium?
Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G. You'll need a valid, state-issued accessible parking license plate or hang tag, and the owner must be in the vehicle. Traffic staff will direct you.
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
How to print a MetLife Stadium parking pass?
If the option is available, you can usually log into your team's online account manager (e.g., Jets Account Manager) from a web browser and select the option to print your PDF parking pass.
How to find the price of parking at MetLife Stadium?
Parking prices vary by event and whether you pre-purchase or pay on-site (if allowed). Check the official ticketing websites, ParkWhiz, or ParkMobile for current pricing for your specific event. For NFL games, prices are often around $40-$75 for cars, buses/RVs are $160, and limousines are $100.
How to get to MetLife Stadium without driving?
You can use public transportation, specifically the NJ TRANSIT rail service from Secaucus Junction directly to the stadium, or the Coach USA Bus Service (Route 351 Meadowlands Express) from Port Authority in NYC.
How to tell if my MetLife Stadium parking pass is "Platinum" or "Gold"?
Parking passes are often labeled "Platinum" or "Gold" on the Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange or your specific parking permit. These labels correspond to different parking zones within the Sports Complex.
How to tailgate at MetLife Stadium?
Tailgating is permitted in most surface lots (not parking decks) but is limited to one parking space per vehicle. Ensure all equipment (grills, chairs) stays within your designated space. Open fires and deep fryers are prohibited.
How to avoid issues with my MetLife Stadium parking pass on game day?
Pre-purchase your pass, download it to your mobile wallet or print it, arrive early, and follow the directions of traffic and parking staff. Have your pass ready for display as you approach the lot entrance.
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