Alright, imagine the roar of the crowd, the anticipation of a big game or an epic concert! You're in the heart of the action in Times Square, but your ultimate destination is MetLife Stadium. Don't worry, navigating from the dazzling lights of Broadway to the grand arena in New Jersey is easier than you might think, especially with a few insider tips. Let's break down how to make your journey smooth and stress-free so you can focus on the main event!
How to Get to MetLife Stadium from Times Square: Your Ultimate Guide
Getting from the bustling energy of Times Square to the sprawling MetLife Stadium requires a little planning, but it's totally achievable using public transportation. Forget the stress of driving and parking in a new city – let's explore the most efficient ways to get you there!
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| How To Get To Metlife Stadium From Times Square |
Step 1: Choosing Your Transportation Method – The Great Debate!
So, you're ready to leave the bright lights of Times Square and head to MetLife. But how will you get there? This is the first, and perhaps most crucial, decision! You have a couple of excellent public transport options, each with its own advantages.
Sub-heading 1.1: The Train-and-Shuttle Combo (NJ Transit Rail)
This is often considered the most reliable and popular option, especially for major events. It involves a short subway ride and two quick train transfers.
Sub-heading 1.2: The Direct Bus (Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express)
For certain events, a direct bus service is available, offering a convenient, single-ride solution. However, its availability and frequency can vary.
Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions for each.
Step 2: The Train-and-Shuttle Combo: Your Iron Horse Journey
QuickTip: Pause when something feels important.
This method offers a fantastic way to experience a bit of the regional transit system and is generally very efficient for large events.
Sub-heading 2.1: Getting from Times Square to Penn Station
Your first mini-journey is from the heart of Times Square to the bustling New York Penn Station.
Option A: The Speedy Subway Ride
Locate the Subway Entrance: From anywhere in Times Square, look for the iconic subway station entrances. The Times Square-42nd Street Station is your primary hub.
Find the Downtown 1, 2, or 3 Train: You'll want to take a downtown-bound 1, 2, or 3 subway train (red line). These trains will take you directly to 34th Street-Penn Station.
Ride for one stop: It's usually just one quick stop! The journey typically takes only 2-5 minutes.
Cost: A single subway ride is currently $2.90. You can use a MetroCard or contactless payment (OMNY) for this.
Option B: The Scenic Walk (Weather Permitting!)
Head South on 7th or 8th Avenue: Penn Station is located between 7th and 8th Avenues, from 31st to 33rd Streets. From Times Square (42nd Street), it's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk south. This is a good option if the weather is nice and you want to see a bit more of the city on foot.
Sub-heading 2.2: From Penn Station (NY) to Secaucus Junction (NJ)
Once you're at New York Penn Station, you'll transfer to an NJ Transit train.
Follow the NJ Transit Signs: Penn Station is a large, multi-level station. Follow the clear signs for "NJ Transit" to find their concourse.
Purchase Your Ticket: This is crucial! Purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" or "Meadowlands" before boarding the train. You can do this at ticket windows or, more conveniently, at the self-service ticket vending machines. You can also use the NJ Transit Mobile App.
Pro Tip: Always buy a round-trip ticket! You'll save yourself time and avoid a potential surcharge for buying on the train.
Board Your Train: Look for trains going to Secaucus Junction. Most NJ Transit lines (Main-Bergen County, Montclair-Boonton, Morris & Essex, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast, Pascack Valley, or Port Jervis lines) will stop at Secaucus Junction. They are often marked with "SEC" to indicate they stop at Secaucus.
Travel Time: The ride to Secaucus Junction is quick, usually around 10-15 minutes.
Sub-heading 2.3: From Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium (Meadowlands Rail Station)
This is your final leg, and it's a dedicated shuttle train.
Transfer at Secaucus Junction: Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll need to transfer trains.
Follow the signs: There will be clear signs directing you to the "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "MetLife Stadium."
Go downstairs: The trains to the Meadowlands often depart from the lower level tracks (E-H).
Board the Shuttle Train: For major events, NJ Transit operates special shuttle trains directly to the Meadowlands Rail Station, which is located right outside MetLife Stadium.
Event-Specific Service: Be aware that the Meadowlands Rail Line typically operates only for major events at the stadium. Check the NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands
Arrive at MetLife Stadium: The shuttle ride from Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Rail Station is very short, usually around 10 minutes. You'll disembark right at the stadium!
Step 3: The Direct Bus Option: Simplicity in a Single Ride
For some events, Coach USA offers a direct bus service, the 351 Meadowlands Express, which can be a very straightforward way to get there.
Sub-heading 3.1: Heading to Port Authority Bus Terminal
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
Times Square is conveniently located very close to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT).
Walk to Port Authority: The PABT is just a short walk (a few blocks west) from Times Square, located between 8th and 9th Avenues and 40th to 42nd Streets.
Easy Access: You can walk directly from Times Square to the PABT in 5-10 minutes.
Sub-heading 3.2: Boarding the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express
Once inside the Port Authority Bus Terminal, find your bus.
Locate Your Gate: The Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express buses typically depart from the South Wing, on the third floor, at Gates 411-414. However, it's always best to check the electronic departure boards or ask PABT staff for the most up-to-date gate information.
Purchase Your Ticket: You can purchase round-trip tickets online in advance via the Coach USA website (
coachusa.com/351-meadowlands-express Round-Trip Recommended: Buying a round-trip ticket beforehand is highly recommended for convenience.
Direct to the Stadium: This bus service offers direct transportation to the MetLife Sports Complex.
Travel Time: The direct bus ride usually takes around 20-30 minutes, subject to traffic conditions.
Drop-off Location: Buses typically drop off and pick up passengers in Lot K near the Quest Diagnostics Performance Center at MetLife Stadium.
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Step 4: Planning Your Return Journey: Don't Get Stranded!
Getting to the stadium is only half the battle! It's equally important to know how you'll get back.
Sub-heading 4.1: Returning via NJ Transit Rail
Head Back to Meadowlands Rail Station: After the event, make your way back to the Meadowlands Rail Station, right where you were dropped off.
Purchase Return Ticket (if not already done): If you didn't buy a round-trip ticket, you'll need to purchase a return ticket to Secaucus Junction (or directly to Penn Station if a "Meadowlands" ticket was available). There will be ticket machines at the Meadowlands Rail Station.
Crucial Reminder: You must have a ticket to board the train from Meadowlands to Secaucus Junction.
Board Shuttle to Secaucus: Take the shuttle train back to Secaucus Junction. NJ Transit often operates trains on a "load and go" basis after major events, meaning they depart as soon as they're full.
Transfer at Secaucus: From Secaucus Junction, transfer to any NJ Transit train going to New York Penn Station. These trains will be clearly marked.
Arrive at Penn Station (NY): From Penn Station, you can either take the 1, 2, or 3 subway lines back to Times Square-42nd Street or walk.
Sub-heading 4.2: Returning via Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express Bus
Locate Bus Pickup: The 351 Meadowlands Express buses pick up passengers from the same location they dropped you off (typically Lot K).
Wait in Line: Expect lines for the bus after a major event.
Board the Bus: Have your return ticket ready or exact cash for the fare.
Direct to Port Authority: The bus will take you directly back to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City.
From Port Authority to Times Square: From PABT, it's a short walk back to Times Square.
Step 5: Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip
To ensure your journey is as hassle-free as possible, keep these pointers in mind:
Check Event-Specific Schedules: Always, always check the NJ Transit (
njtransit.com/meadowlands coachusa.com/351-meadowlands-express Purchase Round-Trip Tickets: This cannot be stressed enough! It saves time and potential headaches, especially after a crowded event.
Allow Ample Time: New York City traffic and public transport crowds can be unpredictable. Plan to leave well in advance of your desired arrival time, especially for evening or weekend events. An hour to an hour and a half is a good buffer from Times Square.
Download Mobile Apps: The NJ Transit Mobile App and MTA's app (for subway) can be incredibly helpful for schedules, real-time updates, and even purchasing tickets.
Stay Informed on Event Day: Check for any service advisories or disruptions on the day of your travel. Social media (like NJ Transit's Twitter) can be a good source for real-time updates.
Dress Comfortably and for the Weather: You'll be doing some walking and potentially waiting outdoors.
Pack Light: Security at MetLife Stadium has bag policies. Check the stadium's website for specifics to avoid delays at entry.
Enjoy the Ride!: You're heading to an exciting event! Relax, take in the sights (even if it's just the diverse crowd on the train), and anticipate a great time.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find the subway station in Times Square?
You can find numerous subway entrances scattered throughout Times Square, primarily along Broadway and 7th Avenue, and around 42nd Street. Look for the distinctive green globe lights or "Subway" signs.
How to buy an NJ Transit ticket?
You can purchase NJ Transit tickets at ticket vending machines located in train stations (like New York Penn Station and Secaucus Junction), at ticket windows, or conveniently through the official NJ Transit Mobile App.
How to know if the Meadowlands Rail Line is running for my event?
Always check the NJ Transit website, specifically their "Meadowlands" section (
How to get from Penn Station (NY) to the NJ Transit concourse?
Once inside New York Penn Station, follow the overhead signs that clearly indicate "NJ Transit." The concourse is typically located on a lower level.
How to pay for the NYC Subway?
Tip: Keep the flow, don’t jump randomly.
You can pay for the NYC Subway using a MetroCard (available for purchase at station booths and vending machines) or with contactless payment methods like OMNY (tap your credit card, debit card, or smartphone at the turnstile).
How to find the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus at Port Authority?
The 351 Meadowlands Express buses usually depart from the South Wing, third floor, Gates 411-414 at the Port Authority Bus Terminal. However, always confirm the gate number on the electronic departure boards or with PABT staff on the day of your travel.
How to ensure I get a seat on the return journey from MetLife Stadium?
For both train and bus options, especially after major events, there will be queues. Arrive at the station or bus pickup point as soon as possible after the event ends to secure your spot.
How to check for delays or service changes on NJ Transit?
You can check for real-time service alerts and advisories on the NJ Transit website (
How to get a taxi from Times Square to MetLife Stadium?
While possible, a taxi from Times Square to MetLife Stadium can be quite expensive (estimates range from $35-$50+) and is subject to traffic, making it less predictable than public transport. Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are also options but will vary greatly in price based on demand.
How to find out what events are happening at MetLife Stadium?
You can find the official event schedule for MetLife Stadium on their website:
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