Get ready, BeyHive! The queen is coming to MetLife Stadium, and you do not want to miss this experience. But before you can sing your heart out to "Cuff It" or get lost in the magic of "Halo," you need to figure out how to get there. MetLife Stadium, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, can be a bit of a maze if you're not prepared, especially with thousands of fellow fans all heading to the same destination. But fear not, I'm here to provide you with a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to ensure your journey to see Beyoncé is as smooth as her vocals.
Your Ultimate Guide: Getting to MetLife Stadium for Beyoncé!
Let's dive right in and get you concert-ready!
Step 1: Confirm Your Concert Details and Arrival Time!
Alright, future concert-goer, the very first thing you need to do is double-check your ticket information. When is the show? What time do the doors open? Is there an opening act? Beyoncé concerts are legendary for their energy, and you'll want to be there for every moment.
Check your ticket: Confirm the date and official show start time.
Plan your arrival: MetLife Stadium recommends arriving early, especially for major events like a Beyoncé concert. Parking lots typically open five hours prior to the event, and gates open earlier than the main show. This gives you ample time to navigate traffic (if driving), get through security, grab some merch, and find your seats without feeling rushed.
Consider pre-show activities: The area around MetLife Stadium, particularly the American Dream megamall just steps away, offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. If you plan to make a day of it, factor in extra time!
Step 2: Choose Your Transportation Method: The Great Debate!
This is where the real planning begins. MetLife Stadium offers several ways to get there, each with its pros and cons. Your best option will depend on where you're coming from, your budget, and your tolerance for crowds.
Sub-heading: Option A: Public Transportation – The Eco-Friendly & Often Most Efficient Way!
For many, especially those coming from New York City or surrounding New Jersey areas, public transportation is the recommended and often most cost-effective choice to avoid traffic and parking woes.
Sub-sub-heading: The NJ TRANSIT Rail Service (Highly Recommended for NYC & NJ Travelers)
This is arguably the easiest way if you're coming from NYC or connecting via NJ Transit's extensive network.
From New York Penn Station (NYC):
Take an NJ TRANSIT train from New York Penn Station (located at 32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues) to Secaucus Junction. This is a quick and frequent ride.
At Secaucus Junction, transfer to a special shuttle train to Meadowlands Station. This shuttle delivers you directly to the front door of MetLife Stadium.
Travel Time: The ride from Secaucus Junction to the Sports Complex (Meadowlands Station) is approximately 10 minutes. The entire journey from New York Penn Station can take around 30-45 minutes, depending on connections.
Tickets: Purchase your round-trip tickets in advance to avoid lines and an additional $5 on-board charge. You can buy them at Ticket Windows, Ticket Vending Machines, or through the free NJ TRANSIT Mobile App (highly recommended for convenience). The round-trip fare from New York Penn Station to the Sports Complex is typically around $11.
Service Hours: Rail service usually commences approximately 3.5 hours prior to the event and ends one hour after the game or event concludes. Always check the official NJ Transit website for event-specific schedules.
From Other NJ Transit Rail Lines:
If you're on the Main/Bergen County, Montclair-Boonton, Morris & Essex, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast, Raritan Valley, Pascack Valley, or Port Jervis lines, you'll generally connect at Secaucus Junction and then transfer to the Meadowlands shuttle train as described above.
Metro-North (for CT/Upstate NY Travelers):
If you're coming from parts of New York or Connecticut served by Metro-North, take select Metro-North trains to Grand Central Station in NYC.
From Grand Central, you'll need to take the subway to New York Penn Station.
Once at Penn Station, follow the steps above for the NJ TRANSIT rail service to MetLife Stadium.
Sub-sub-heading: Bus Services
Buses can be a good alternative, particularly if you prefer a direct route from certain locations.
Coach USA's 351 Meadowlands Express (from Port Authority Bus Terminal, NYC):
Coach USA operates the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in New York City to the MetLife Sports Complex for NFL games and other large events.
Service Hours: The 351 bus service typically begins 2.5 hours prior to the event and runs until 0.5 hours after the event starts. It remains operational for approximately one hour following the conclusion of the event.
Drop-off/Pick-up: At the Sports Complex, the drop-off and pick-up point is usually near Parking Lot K.
Tickets: A round-trip ticket generally costs around $14, and a one-way ticket is $7.
Check
www.351express.com
NJ Transit Local Bus Service:
Some NJ Transit local bus routes, such as the Nos. 2, 78, 124, 129, 329, and 353, serve Secaucus Junction, where you can connect to the Meadowlands train shuttle for major events.
The No. 353 route also provides direct bus service to smaller MetLife events from Secaucus Junction.
Always use the NJ Transit Trip Planner on their website for the most accurate and up-to-date local bus information for your starting point.
Sub-heading: Option B: Driving – For Those Who Prefer Their Own Wheels!
If you're coming from nearby areas or simply prefer the convenience of your own car, driving is an option, but be prepared for traffic and potentially high parking fees.
Sub-sub-heading: Directions to MetLife Stadium
Address for GPS: 1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
From the George Washington Bridge: Take the George Washington Bridge to the New Jersey Turnpike South. Take the Turnpike's western spur to either Exit 16W or 18W. These exits provide direct access to the Sports Complex parking areas.
From New York City and points east (via Lincoln Tunnel): Take the Lincoln Tunnel and follow signs for Route 3 West. Take Route 3 West directly to the Sports Complex.
From the New Jersey Turnpike (North or South):
Northbound: Follow the Western Spur (Sports Complex to Exit 16W), which provides direct access. If congested, use the eastern turnpike spur (Lincoln Tunnel) to Exit 16E to take Route 3 West.
Southbound: Follow the Western Spur (Meadowlands Complex/Carlstadt to Exit 19W), which provides direct access. Note: Exit 19W is an EZ Pass ONLY roadway. No cash lanes will be available.
From the Garden State Parkway (North or South):
Southbound: Garden State Parkway South to Exit 163 (Route 17). Follow Route 17 to Paterson Plank Road. Take Paterson Plank Road East to the Sports Complex.
Northbound: Garden State Parkway North to Exit 153A (Route 3). Follow Route 3 East to the Sports Complex.
For detailed turn-by-turn directions, it's always best to use a reliable GPS app like Google Maps.
Sub-sub-heading: Parking at MetLife Stadium
Pre-Paid Parking: For most major concerts, including Beyoncé, pre-paid parking permits are NOT required nor available for purchase unless distributed as part of VIP or Suite Packages. Parking is generally on a first-come, first-served basis.
Parking Fees: For non-NFL events like concerts, car parking typically costs around $40 per vehicle. Buses/RVs are significantly more at $160, and limousines at $100. These prices can change, so always check the MetLife Stadium website for the latest event-specific information.
Lot Opening Times: Parking lots usually open five hours prior to the event start time and close two hours after the event concludes. Arriving earlier will not guarantee entry and you may be directed to leave the roadways.
Accessible Parking: Available in Lots E, F, and G for vehicles with a valid ADA license plate or hang tag. The owner of the vehicle must be present. A dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
Tailgating: Tailgating is often permitted in designated areas at specified times, but always adhere to stadium rules regarding alcohol consumption, grilling, and waste disposal. Unauthorized commercial activity or selling access to tailgate parties is strictly prohibited.
Circulation: Circulation between parking lots is not permitted. Follow the directions of traffic and parking staff.
Vehicle Searches: All vehicles are subject to search by New Jersey State Police. Refusal will result in denied entry.
Sub-heading: Option C: Rideshare Services (Uber/Lyft) & Taxis – Convenience at a Cost!
For those who want door-to-door service without the hassle of driving or public transport routes, rideshares and taxis are viable options.
Sub-sub-heading: Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Designated Zone: MetLife Stadium has a designated rideshare zone, typically located in Lot E, adjacent to both the Verizon Gate and Walk Bridge. Look for signs directing you to this area.
Pre-booking: You can often reserve a ride in advance through apps like Uber, sometimes up to 90 days prior.
Surge Pricing: Be highly aware of surge pricing, especially after the concert. Demand will be incredibly high, leading to significantly inflated prices and potentially very long wait times (over an hour is not uncommon). Ensure your phone is fully charged!
Cost: The cost will vary greatly depending on distance, time of day, and demand. From a major hub like LaGuardia Airport, Uber estimates can be around $92 for UberX.
Sub-sub-heading: Taxis
Traditional taxis are also available. While they might be less prone to "surge pricing" in the same way rideshares are, they will still incur meter charges and potentially higher flat rates for stadium events.
It's advisable to arrange a taxi in advance if possible, or be prepared for potential queues.
Step 3: Navigate the Stadium Area and Enter with Ease!
Once you're close to MetLife Stadium, whether by train, bus, car, or rideshare, there are still a few things to keep in mind for a smooth entry.
Sub-heading: Security and Bag Policy
This is CRUCIAL for a quick entry!
Clear Bag Policy: MetLife Stadium strictly enforces a clear bag policy for most events.
Permitted: Clear bags that are 12" x 6" x 12" or less (one per person).
Permitted: Small non-clear purses/handbags (clutch-type bags) that are 4.5" x 6.5" or less (one per person).
Permitted: One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc or similar).
Exception: Medically necessary items are allowed after proper inspection at a designated gate.
Prohibited Bags: Any non-clear bag exceeding 4.5” x 6.5” (including backpacks, fanny packs, diaper bags, camera/binocular cases, briefcases/computer bags). Seat cushions are also prohibited.
Bag Searches: All guests and their bags will be subject to a search by Safety Services team members prior to entry. Be prepared to open your bags and potentially remove contents.
Prohibited Items: A long list of items are not allowed, including:
Outside alcohol (any kind).
Glass bottles, coolers, thermoses, ice chests.
Banners and signs of any size (unless otherwise noted for specific events).
Umbrellas, strollers, balls of any kind, laser pointers, Frisbees.
Single-purpose video cameras or still-photography cameras with a lens longer than 6" (detachable or non-detachable), tripods, monopods, or "selfie sticks."
Any animal (except service animals).
Food is permitted if contained in a clear plastic bag.
Factory-sealed canned or plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less) are permitted.
Reusable water bottles (plastic and aluminum, 20 oz. or less) are allowed but must be EMPTY upon entry.
Always check the official MetLife Stadium Guest Policies page before you go for the most up-to-date and complete list of prohibited items.
Sub-heading: Finding Your Entrance and Seats
Gates: Refer to your ticket for the recommended gate entry. MetLife Stadium has multiple gates, and knowing yours beforehand can save you time.
Stadium Map: Familiarize yourself with the stadium layout and seating chart online before you arrive. This will help you quickly locate your section, restrooms, and concession stands.
Step 4: Enjoy the Show, and Plan Your Departure!
You've made it! The atmosphere is electric, Beyoncé is about to take the stage, and you're ready for an unforgettable night. But don't forget to think about how you'll get home.
Sub-heading: Post-Concert Departure Strategy
Public Transportation (Recommended): If you arrived by NJ Transit train or Coach USA bus, head directly back to the Meadowlands Station (for trains) or the designated bus pick-up area (Lot K for Coach USA). Expect significant queues for trains and buses, but they are generally efficient at moving large crowds.
Rideshare/Taxi: If you plan to use Uber/Lyft or a taxi, be prepared for extended wait times and high surge pricing. Consider walking a bit further away from the immediate stadium vicinity to a less congested pick-up spot, though this might not always be feasible. Ensure your phone battery is full.
Driving: If you drove, returning to your car will be straightforward, but exiting the parking lots and surrounding roadways will involve heavy traffic. Be patient and follow the instructions of traffic police and staff.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common "How to" questions about getting to MetLife Stadium, with quick answers:
How to avoid traffic going to MetLife Stadium? The best way to avoid traffic is to take the NJ TRANSIT rail service to Meadowlands Station, or use the Coach USA 351 Express Bus.
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium? You can purchase round-trip NJ Transit tickets in advance at ticket windows, vending machines, or most conveniently, through the free NJ TRANSIT Mobile App.
How to find accessible parking at MetLife Stadium? Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G for vehicles with a valid ADA license plate or hang tag. A dedicated drop-off is in Lot C.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from New York City without a car? Take the NJ TRANSIT train from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands shuttle train. Alternatively, take the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal.
How to know when MetLife Stadium parking lots open for a concert? Parking lots typically open five hours prior to the scheduled event start time. Always check the official MetLife Stadium website for event-specific timings.
How to get picked up by Uber or Lyft at MetLife Stadium after a concert? Head to the designated rideshare zone, usually in Lot E. Be prepared for high surge pricing and potentially long wait times.
How to know what items are prohibited at MetLife Stadium? Check the official MetLife Stadium Guest Policies page online. Common prohibited items include large bags (beyond the clear bag policy), outside alcohol, and professional cameras with large lenses.
How to bring water or snacks into MetLife Stadium? Food contained in a clear plastic bag, and factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less) are permitted. Reusable water bottles (20 oz. or less) are allowed but must be empty upon entry.
How to find my seat at MetLife Stadium? Refer to your ticket for your section, row, and seat number. It's helpful to view the stadium's seating chart online before you arrive to familiarize yourself with the layout.
How to make sure my phone battery lasts for rideshare after the concert? Bring a portable power bank or ensure your phone is fully charged before you leave home. High usage for navigation, photos, and communication can quickly drain your battery.
