Are you ready for an adventure from the charming streets of Hoboken to the roaring crowds of MetLife Stadium? Whether you're heading to a thrilling football game, a blockbuster concert, or another exciting event, getting to MetLife Stadium from Hoboken can be a breeze if you know the right steps. Let's dive into all the ways you can make this journey, ensuring you arrive ready to enjoy the show!
Your Ultimate Guide: Getting to MetLife Stadium from Hoboken
Getting to MetLife Stadium from Hoboken offers several convenient options, ranging from public transportation to driving yourself. Each method has its pros and cons, so let's explore them in detail to help you choose the best route for your game day or concert experience.
Step 1: Assess Your Priorities - Time, Cost, and Convenience
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of routes, let's take a moment to consider what's most important to you.
Are you on a tight budget and don't mind a longer journey? Public transportation might be your best bet.
Are you in a rush and willing to pay for speed and directness? Driving or a rideshare could be ideal.
Are you looking for a balance of cost and efficiency? A combination of options might work perfectly.
Thinking about these factors upfront will help you navigate the choices effectively!
Step 2: Public Transportation - The Eco-Friendly and Often Stress-Free Option
Public transportation is a popular choice for MetLife Stadium events, especially to avoid traffic and parking hassles. The key player here is NJ Transit.
Sub-heading: Option A: The Train (The Most Recommended Public Transit Route)
This is generally the most straightforward and reliable public transit option for major events at MetLife Stadium.
Get to Hoboken Terminal: Start your journey at the iconic Hoboken Terminal. This is a major transportation hub in Hoboken, accessible from anywhere in the city via walking, local buses, or rideshare.
Take the NJ Transit Train to Secaucus Junction: From Hoboken Terminal, you'll need to take an NJ Transit train that goes to the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. Many lines operate from Hoboken that connect to Secaucus Junction, including the Main-Bergen County Line. It's crucial to ensure your train is heading to Secaucus Junction. The ride to Secaucus Junction is relatively short, usually around 10-15 minutes.
Pro Tip: Look for trains displaying "Secaucus" or consult the NJ Transit app/website for specific schedules, especially on event days.
Transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line: At Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to the special Meadowlands Rail Line. This shuttle service is specifically designed to transport fans directly to MetLife Stadium. The train station at MetLife Stadium is literally at the stadium's doorstep, making it incredibly convenient.
Frequency: On event days with anticipated attendance above 50,000, NJ Transit operates this shuttle frequently, typically starting 3.5 hours before the event and ending 1 hour after.
Important Note: For smaller events, train service might not be available, or bus alternatives might be provided from Secaucus Junction. Always check the MetLife Stadium or NJ Transit website for event-specific transportation details.
Arrive at MetLife Stadium Station: Enjoy the quick, approximately 10-minute ride from Secaucus Junction directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station. From there, it's a short walk to the stadium entrance.
Sub-heading: Option B: The Bus (An Alternative for Some Scenarios)
While the train is generally preferred, bus routes can also get you close to MetLife Stadium, though they often involve more transfers or longer travel times.
NJ Transit Local Buses to a Connecting Hub: You might take a local NJ Transit bus from Hoboken to a connecting hub like Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in NYC, or a location closer to the stadium such as Secaucus.
Example Route (might involve multiple transfers): Take a bus like the 64 from Hoboken Terminal to Lincoln Harbor, then transfer to the 156 bus to Port Authority Bus Terminal, and finally take the 160 bus to Stadium Lot G-17. This route can take around 45 minutes to an hour.
Coach USA's 351 Meadowlands Express: For major events, Coach USA offers the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in New York City directly to the MetLife Sports Complex.
Getting to PABT from Hoboken: You would first need to take the PATH train from Hoboken Terminal to 33rd Street in NYC, then walk to PABT.
Direct Service: The 351 bus is a direct, door-to-door service, making it convenient once you're at PABT.
Schedule: This bus service typically starts 2.5 hours before an event and continues for about 1 hour after the event concludes.
Cost: A round-trip ticket is usually around $18.
Step 3: Driving - The Direct, But Potentially Congested, Route
If you prefer the flexibility of your own vehicle, driving is certainly an option. However, be prepared for potential traffic and parking challenges, especially on event days.
Plan Your Route: MetLife Stadium is located at 1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073.
From Hoboken, you'll generally head west. Common routes involve taking the NJ-495 W (Lincoln Tunnel approach) to NJ-3 W, or utilizing local roads to connect to major highways like US-1 N/US-9 N to NJ-3 W.
One common route: Head west on Newark St from Hoboken, which turns into Observer Hwy. You can then connect to Paterson Plank Rd, which leads to the Sports Complex area. Alternatively, access NJ-495 W and then NJ-3 W.
GPS is your best friend here. Use Google Maps, Waze, or your preferred GPS app for real-time traffic updates.
Pre-paid Parking Permits (Highly Recommended for NFL Games/Major Events): For NFL games and other large events, a pre-paid parking permit is often required for all vehicles entering the Sports Complex.
Purchase in Advance: It's highly recommended to purchase your parking permit online well in advance of the event.
Parking Lot Openings: Parking lots typically open 5 hours prior to the event and close 2 hours after. Arriving too early might mean you're turned away from the complex.
Accessible Parking: Available in Lots E, F, and G for vehicles with valid ADA license plates or hang tags.
Alternative Parking (and Shuttle): If you don't have a pre-paid parking permit, or wish to avoid the immediate stadium traffic, you can consider:
Edison Park Fast at Secaucus Junction: This parking lot (located off Exit 15X on the NJ Turnpike) offers over 1,100 spaces. From here, you can take the Meadowlands rail service (as described in Step 2A) to the stadium. Always confirm rail service availability for your event.
Off-site Lots with Shuttles: Some private lots in the surrounding areas, like Redd's Meadowlands, offer parking with shuttle service to the stadium. Check their websites for event-specific pricing and schedules.
Traffic Considerations: Be prepared for heavy traffic, especially as you approach the stadium on event days. Allow plenty of extra time for your journey.
Step 4: Rideshare Services (Uber/Lyft) - The Convenient, But Potentially Pricey, Option
Rideshare services offer door-to-door convenience, but they come with their own set of considerations.
Book Your Ride: Use your preferred rideshare app (Uber, Lyft, etc.) to request a ride from your Hoboken location to MetLife Stadium.
Designated Drop-off/Pick-up Areas: MetLife Stadium has designated drop-off and pick-up areas, typically located between parking lots D and E. Your driver should follow stadium signage to these areas.
Surge Pricing and Post-Event Challenges:
Be aware of surge pricing, especially around event start and end times. The cost can significantly increase during these peak periods.
Getting a rideshare after a major event can be challenging. There will be high demand, long waits, and potentially even higher surge pricing. Some users suggest taking the train to Secaucus Junction after an event and then calling a rideshare from there to avoid the worst of the stadium congestion and pricing.
Step 5: Know Before You Go - Essential Stadium Policies
No matter how you get there, a smooth stadium experience also depends on knowing the rules!
Sub-heading: Clear Bag Policy
MetLife Stadium strictly enforces a clear bag policy to enhance security.
Permitted Bags:
Clear bags that are 12" x 6" x 12" or smaller (one per person).
Small non-clear clutch-type purses/handbags that are 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller (one per person).
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc or similar).
Prohibited Bags: Any non-clear bag exceeding 4.5" x 6.5" including backpacks, fanny packs, diaper bags, camera cases, etc.
Exceptions: Medically necessary items are allowed after inspection at a designated gate.
Sub-heading: Food and Drink Policy
You can bring some food and non-alcoholic beverages into MetLife Stadium.
Food: Must be contained in a clear plastic bag.
Drinks: Factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks that are 20 oz. or less in size. Reusable water bottles (plastic or aluminum) are permitted but must be empty upon entry.
Prohibited: Alcohol, glass bottles, coolers of any kind, thermoses, or ice chests.
Step 6: Enjoy the Event!
You've made it! Now that you've successfully navigated the journey from Hoboken to MetLife Stadium, it's time to immerse yourself in the excitement. Have a fantastic time!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common questions about getting to MetLife Stadium from Hoboken, with quick answers:
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Hoboken by train?
Take an NJ Transit train from Hoboken Terminal to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line directly to MetLife Stadium.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Hoboken by bus?
You can take multiple NJ Transit buses with transfers (e.g., 64 to Lincoln Harbor, 156 to Port Authority Bus Terminal, then 160 to Stadium Lot G-17), or for major events, take the PATH to PABT and then the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express.
How to drive to MetLife Stadium from Hoboken?
Head west from Hoboken via routes like NJ-495 W to NJ-3 W, or local roads connecting to US-1 N/US-9 N to NJ-3 W. Use GPS for real-time traffic and directions.
How to pre-purchase parking for MetLife Stadium?
For NFL games and many large events, pre-paid parking permits are required and can be purchased online through the official MetLife Stadium website or Ticketmaster.
How to avoid traffic when going to MetLife Stadium from Hoboken?
The best way to avoid traffic is to use NJ Transit train service, as it delivers you directly to the stadium without navigating congested roads.
How to use a rideshare service to MetLife Stadium from Hoboken?
Book an Uber or Lyft to the stadium's designated drop-off area (typically between Lots D and E). Be aware of surge pricing, especially after events.
How to get back to Hoboken from MetLife Stadium after an event?
After an event, take the Meadowlands Rail Line back to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to an NJ Transit train back to Hoboken Terminal. Expect lines and potential waits.
How to know if the Meadowlands Rail Line is running for an event?
Always check the MetLife Stadium official website or the NJ Transit website for event-specific transportation schedules, as rail service may only operate for larger events.
How to bring food and drinks into MetLife Stadium?
Food must be in a clear plastic bag. Factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less) are allowed. Empty reusable water bottles are also permitted.
How to know what bags are allowed in MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium enforces a clear bag policy: clear bags 12"x6"x12" or smaller, or small clutch-type bags 4.5"x6.5" or smaller are permitted. All other non-clear bags are generally prohibited.