Absolutely, you can take a train to MetLife Stadium! It's often the most convenient and stress-free way to get to major events, especially if you're coming from New York City or other parts of New Jersey. No need to worry about traffic jams or expensive parking. Let's dive into how you can make your journey to MetLife Stadium by train a breeze!
Your Comprehensive Guide to Taking a Train to MetLife Stadium
Planning your trip to MetLife Stadium for a game, concert, or other event can be daunting, but public transportation, particularly the train, offers a fantastic solution. NJ TRANSIT provides direct rail service right to the stadium's doorstep, making it a popular choice for attendees.
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| Can U Take A Train To Metlife Stadium |
Step 1: Are You Ready for an Adventure? (Pre-Trip Planning) ️
Before you even think about stepping foot on a train, some quick planning will save you a lot of hassle.
Understanding Event-Specific Service
First and foremost, it's crucial to know that NJ TRANSIT's Meadowlands Rail Service typically operates for events with an anticipated attendance of 50,000 or more people. This includes most NFL games, major concerts, and large-scale events. Always check the official MetLife Stadium website or NJ TRANSIT's Meadowlands page for event-specific schedules and service advisories before you travel. There might be instances where bus service is offered instead of train service, especially for smaller events.
Ticket Tactic: Buy in Advance! ️
This is perhaps the most important tip. Purchase your round-trip tickets in advance! You can do this at:
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Ticket Windows: Available at major stations.
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Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Located at most stations.
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NJ TRANSIT Mobile App: Downloadable from the Apple App Store or Google Play, this app allows for convenient digital ticket purchases. Using the app can be a real time-saver, especially on busy event days.
Why buy in advance? Because you'll avoid the additional $5.00 surcharge if you purchase your ticket aboard the train (if allowed at all), and you'll save valuable time by skipping lines at the station on event day.
QuickTip: Stop and think when you learn something new.
Check the Schedule ⏰
While the Meadowlands Rail Service is designed for events, train times can vary. Always confirm the specific train schedule for your event on the NJ TRANSIT website. Rail service usually begins approximately 3.5 hours prior to kick-off or an event and continues for about one hour after the game or event concludes.
Step 2: Getting to Secaucus Junction – Your Gateway to MetLife ️
The Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction is the central hub for connecting to MetLife Stadium by train. Almost all NJ TRANSIT rail lines converge here, making it accessible from various points in New Jersey and New York City.
From New York City (NYC Penn Station)
If you're coming from New York City, your journey will begin at New York Penn Station (located at 32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues).
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Board any NJ TRANSIT train heading to Secaucus Junction. These trains are usually marked with "SEC." Secaucus Junction is the first stop after leaving Penn Station.
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The travel time from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is very short, typically around 10-15 minutes.
From Other NJ TRANSIT Lines
If you're starting your journey from another part of New Jersey, you'll take your usual NJ TRANSIT train line (e.g., Main-Bergen County Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Morris & Essex Line, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Pascack Valley Line, or Port Jervis Line) and travel to Secaucus Junction. Once there, you'll transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line.
From Metro-North (Connecticut & Upstate NY)
Riders from Connecticut or upstate New York can take select Metro-North trains from the New Haven line to Grand Central Terminal in NYC. From Grand Central, you'll need to take the subway (the S shuttle or the 7 train are common choices) to New York Penn Station. From there, follow the steps mentioned above to get to Secaucus Junction.
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Step 3: The Final Leg – Secaucus to the Stadium!
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, the process is straightforward.
Transferring to the Meadowlands Rail Line
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After arriving at Secaucus Junction, you'll head upstairs to the mezzanine level.
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Be prepared to show your rail ticket to the staff at the gates before proceeding to the lower level.
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Trains on the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line (yes, it has a naming rights deal!) to the stadium typically leave from Tracks E-H on the lower level. Look for clear signage and listen for announcements.
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The direct shuttle train from Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station is a quick ride, usually taking only about 10-13 minutes.
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The Meadowlands Sports Complex station delivers you directly to the front door of MetLife Stadium!
Step 4: Arriving and Departing – A Few Tips!
At the Stadium
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The Meadowlands Sports Complex station is designed for easy access to MetLife Stadium, as well as the Meadowlands Racetrack and American Dream mall.
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When it's time to leave, the train station is conveniently located near the MetLife or Verizon Gates of the stadium.
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Be aware that lines for the return train can be long after a major event, but NJ TRANSIT is generally efficient at moving people through. Just be patient and follow the crowd!
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You must have a valid ticket to board the train from Meadowlands to Secaucus Junction for your return trip.
Alternative: Bus from Secaucus Junction
On special occasions, NJ TRANSIT might offer bus service between Secaucus Junction and MetLife Stadium. If this option is available, NJ TRANSIT staff will be on hand to direct you to the designated bus boarding areas. This is less common for major events that typically use the train, but it's good to be aware of.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Tip: Check back if you skimmed too fast.
How to buy train tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can buy train tickets for MetLife Stadium events through the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App, at ticket vending machines (TVMs) at any NJ TRANSIT station, or at ticket windows at major terminals. Always purchase a round-trip ticket in advance to avoid surcharges and save time.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC Penn Station by train?
From NYC Penn Station, take any NJ TRANSIT train to Secaucus Junction. Once at Secaucus Junction, transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle train directly to the MetLife Sports Complex station.
How to transfer at Secaucus Junction for MetLife Stadium?
At Secaucus Junction, proceed to the mezzanine level, show your ticket to staff, and then go downstairs to Tracks E-H to board the Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle train to the stadium.
How to find the MetLife Stadium train schedule?
The most reliable place to find the MetLife Stadium train schedule for a specific event is the official NJ TRANSIT website's Meadowlands page (
How to know if train service is running to MetLife Stadium?
QuickTip: Take a pause every few paragraphs.
Train service to MetLife Stadium (Meadowlands Rail Service) typically runs for events with an anticipated attendance of 50,000 or more. Always check the official MetLife Stadium or NJ TRANSIT websites for confirmation on event days.
How to get back from MetLife Stadium by train?
After an event, head to the Meadowlands Sports Complex train station, located near the MetLife or Verizon Gates, and board the Meadowlands Rail Line train back to Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus Junction, you can connect to your desired NJ TRANSIT line.
How to save money on train fare to MetLife Stadium?
The best way to save money is to buy a round-trip ticket in advance (via the app or TVM) to avoid the $5 on-board surcharge. If you're traveling with children, seniors, or have a disability, check NJ TRANSIT's specific discount policies.
How to use the NJ TRANSIT app for MetLife Stadium tickets?
Download the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App, create an account, select your origin and destination (e.g., "New York Penn Station" to "Meadowlands Sports Complex"), choose round-trip, and purchase your ticket. Activate your ticket just before boarding.
How to avoid crowds when taking the train to MetLife Stadium?
While complete avoidance of crowds is difficult for major events, arriving earlier than necessary (as soon as train service begins, typically 3.5 hours before an event) can help you avoid the initial rush. Similarly, consider waiting a little while after the event ends before heading to the train station, if feasible.
How to travel from MetLife Stadium to Hoboken by train?
From MetLife Stadium, take the Meadowlands Rail Line to Secaucus Junction, and then transfer to an NJ TRANSIT train bound for Hoboken Terminal. Some Meadowlands Rail Line trains might offer limited direct service to Hoboken, but a transfer at Secaucus is the more common route.
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