Ever wondered if you can combine your retail therapy with a rocking concert night? You're in luck! American Dream does offer parking options for those attending concerts and events at MetLife Stadium, which is conveniently located directly across the street. However, it's not as simple as parking for a quick shopping trip. There are special rates and procedures to be aware of. Let's dive into everything you need to know to make your concert experience a breeze! ️
Step 1: Confirm American Dream's Event Parking Availability and Rates
Before you even leave your driveway, it's crucial to check the current parking situation and pricing at American Dream for MetLife Stadium events. Prices can fluctuate, and availability is often on a first-come, first-served basis, or may even require pre-payment.
Understanding Event Day Parking at American Dream
American Dream designates specific parking lots, generally Lots 26 and 27, for MetLife Stadium concert and event parking. These are often pre-pay only through platforms like ParkMobile or by credit card upon arrival (no cash accepted on-site for these specific lots).
Standard Parking vs. Event Parking: Don't confuse the regular American Dream parking rates (which are typically $5 per vehicle after the first 15 minutes for general visits) with the special event parking rates.
Concert Parking Rates: For concerts and other non-NFL events, American Dream's event parking can be up to $80 per vehicle. This is significantly higher than their regular daily rate.
Validation Program: Here's a neat trick! If you visit an American Dream attraction (like Nickelodeon Universe, DreamWorks Water Park, etc.) and show your ticket confirmation at admissions, your parking fee for MetLife Stadium event days can be reduced to $5 per vehicle (plus tax). This is a fantastic way to save a considerable amount of money if you plan to arrive early and enjoy some of American Dream's offerings.
Overnight Parking is Not Permitted: Keep in mind that overnight parking at American Dream is strictly prohibited.
Step 2: Planning Your Arrival and Parking Strategy
Once you're aware of the parking rules, it's time to strategize your arrival. MetLife Stadium parking lots typically open five hours prior to the start of an event and close two hours after. This gives you a good window if you plan to arrive early.
Pre-paying for Parking
Highly Recommended: Consider pre-paying for your parking spot through platforms like ParkMobile. This can save you time and hassle on event day, as Lots 26 and 27 are often pre-pay only.
On-site Payment: If pre-paying isn't an option, be prepared to pay by credit card upon arrival at Lots 26 or 27. Cash is generally not accepted for event parking.
Arriving Early and Enjoying American Dream
If you plan to take advantage of the parking validation program, aim to arrive well before the concert starts to allow ample time to enjoy an American Dream attraction.
Finding Your Way: Follow signage for "MetLife Stadium Event Parking" or "Lots 26/27." American Dream is directly across the street from MetLife, making the walk fairly straightforward once you're parked.
Consider the Walk: While American Dream is close, you'll still have a walk to the stadium. Factor this into your timing, especially if you have mobility concerns or are carrying anything.
Step 3: Navigating to MetLife Stadium from American Dream
Once you've parked at American Dream, getting to MetLife Stadium is a short and direct journey.
The Walk to MetLife Stadium
Direct Access: American Dream is literally across the street from MetLife Stadium. Many visitors choose to walk. It's a relatively easy walk.
Follow the Crowd: On concert days, you'll likely see a clear path and many other concert-goers heading in the same direction, making navigation simple.
Safety First: Be mindful of traffic and designated pedestrian crossings.
Alternative Transportation (Limited Options)
While walking is the most common method, it's good to be aware of other potential (though less direct for this specific route) options.
NJ Transit Buses: NJ Transit bus routes like the 703 provide local service near the MetLife Sports Complex and American Dream. However, on major event days, Route 703 may not enter the Sports Complex property directly for a few hours around the event. This is generally more for local commuters than direct concert transport.
No Dedicated Shuttle (Generally): There is generally no dedicated shuttle service directly from American Dream parking lots to MetLife Stadium for concerts. The proximity makes a shuttle largely unnecessary.
Step 4: Post-Concert Departure Strategy
Leaving a concert at MetLife Stadium can be chaotic. Having a plan for your departure will make things much smoother.
Be Patient
Expect Delays: Thousands of people are leaving at once, so expect traffic and delays when exiting American Dream's parking lots.
Consider Post-Concert Activities: If you're not in a rush, consider grabbing a late-night snack or drink at American Dream after the concert to let some of the initial traffic clear out.
Paying for Parking Upon Exit
Pay Stations: American Dream has numerous pay stations throughout its parking decks where you can pay with credit cards or digital wallets. Some also accept cash on the ground floor.
ParkMobile App: If you used the ParkMobile app to pre-pay or manage your parking, you can also use it to pay upon exit by scanning your ticket.
Exit Lane Payments: Credit card or digital wallet payments are also accepted directly at the exit lanes.
FAQ: Your Quick Questions Answered!
How to get the reduced American Dream parking rate for a MetLife concert?
To get the reduced $5 parking rate, you need to purchase a ticket to an American Dream attraction (like Nickelodeon Universe or DreamWorks Water Park) and show your ticket confirmation at admissions to validate your parking ticket.
How to pre-pay for parking at American Dream for a MetLife concert?
You can generally pre-pay for event parking (Lots 26 and 27) through the ParkMobile app or by using a credit card upon arrival.
How to walk from American Dream to MetLife Stadium?
Simply exit American Dream and head across the street towards MetLife Stadium. It's a short, direct walk, and you'll likely see many other concert-goers heading in the same direction.
How to know American Dream's event parking rates in advance?
It's best to check American Dream's official website or their knowledge base for the most up-to-date event parking rates and information before your concert date.
How to find American Dream's event parking lots?
Look for signage directing you to "MetLife Stadium Event Parking" or specifically for Lots 26 and 27 within the American Dream parking complex.
How to pay for parking at American Dream?
You can pay at numerous pay stations throughout the parking decks (credit card, digital wallet, some cash) or directly at the exit lanes (credit card, digital wallet). You can also use the ParkMobile app.
How to avoid MetLife Stadium parking fees entirely?
The only way to avoid parking fees is to use public transportation (like NJ Transit to Secaucus Junction and then a shuttle train/bus to MetLife for major events, or local buses to American Dream and walking) or a ride-share service.
How to find out about MetLife Stadium's official parking?
Visit the official MetLife Stadium website for information on their on-site parking, which also opens five hours before events and can be paid for upon arrival (typically $40 for cars for non-NFL events).
How to use public transportation to MetLife Stadium from American Dream?
While there isn't a direct shuttle, NJ Transit buses (like the 703) service the area. However, for major events, the most common public transit route involves taking a train to Secaucus Junction and then transferring to a dedicated shuttle train to the Meadowlands Rail Station, which is steps from MetLife. This isn't usually the most convenient option if you're starting at American Dream.
How to validate parking at American Dream for the reduced rate?
After parking, visit an American Dream attraction and present your attraction ticket confirmation at their admissions desk to get your parking validated for the reduced $5 rate.
