Yes, you can absolutely take a train to MetLife Stadium! It's one of the most convenient and popular ways to get to events there, especially to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
Your Game Day/Concert Adventure Begins: Taking the Train to MetLife Stadium
Ready to cheer on your favorite team or sing along with your beloved artist without the headache of stadium traffic? Taking the train to MetLife Stadium is a fantastic option, offering a smooth and often faster journey directly to the action. Let's get you there!
Step 1: Where Are You Starting From?
First things first, let's figure out your starting point. Are you coming from New York City, a different part of New Jersey, or somewhere else entirely? Knowing your origin will help us pinpoint the best route.
Are you in Manhattan, perhaps near Penn Station? Or maybe you're in a charming New Jersey town like Hoboken or Newark? The beauty of the train system is its interconnectedness, but identifying your starting point is key to a seamless journey.
Step 2: Understanding the Lifeline: NJ Transit
The primary railway service that will get you to MetLife Stadium is NJ Transit. This is New Jersey's public transportation system, and it's well-equipped to handle the large crowds heading to stadium events.
The Main Hub: Secaucus Junction
No matter where you start on the NJ Transit system, almost all routes to MetLife Stadium will involve a transfer at Secaucus Junction. Think of Secaucus Junction as the Grand Central of the NJ Transit system for stadium-goers. It's a modern, multi-level station where you'll switch from your inbound train to a special shuttle train that goes directly to the stadium.
Why Secaucus Junction? It's strategically located and designed to handle the high volume of passengers efficiently. Plus, it's the only station with a direct, dedicated rail line to MetLife Stadium.
Step 3: Mapping Your Route to Secaucus Junction ️
Now, let's connect your starting point to Secaucus Junction.
Option A: From New York City (Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station)
If you're coming from NYC, your journey begins at Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station (also simply known as Penn Station).
Purchase Your Ticket: You'll need an NJ Transit ticket. You can buy this at ticket machines within Penn Station, at ticket windows, or conveniently using the NJ Transit Mobile App (highly recommended for ease!). Make sure your ticket is for "Meadowlands Sports Complex" or "Secaucus Junction" as your destination. If you buy to Secaucus, you'll then need to buy a separate ticket for the shuttle. A direct ticket to Meadowlands Sports Complex covers both legs of the journey.
Find Your Platform: Look for trains heading to New Jersey destinations like "Newark Penn Station," "Trenton," "Long Branch," or "Raritan." All of these lines stop at Secaucus Junction.
Board the Train: Once on the train, it's typically a short, approximately 10-15 minute ride to Secaucus Junction. Listen for announcements or watch the overhead displays for "Secaucus Junction."
Option B: From Various Locations in New Jersey
NJ Transit has several lines throughout New Jersey that connect to Secaucus Junction.
From Northern/Central NJ (e.g., Newark Penn Station, Hoboken Terminal): If you're on the Northeast Corridor (NEC), North Jersey Coast Line (NJCL), Raritan Valley Line (RVL), or MidTown Direct lines (Montclair-Boonton, Morristown, Gladstone), you'll likely have a direct connection or an easy transfer to a train going to Secaucus.
From Newark Penn Station: Take any train heading towards New York Penn Station; they all stop at Secaucus Junction.
From Hoboken Terminal: Take a train on the Main/Bergen County Line or Pascack Valley Line directly to Secaucus Junction.
From Southern NJ: This might involve a longer journey, potentially requiring a bus connection to a major NJ Transit train station (like Newark Penn Station or Trenton Transit Center) and then a train to Secaucus Junction. It's best to consult the NJ Transit trip planner for specific routes.
Using the NJ Transit App:
The NJ Transit Mobile App is your best friend for this journey!
Trip Planner: Enter your starting point and "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination. The app will give you exact train times, platforms, and even tell you which transfers to make.
Ticket Purchase: Buy and activate your tickets directly from your phone. No need to wait in line at a machine!
Step 4: The Final Leg: From Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium ️
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, getting to the stadium is straightforward.
Follow the Signs: As you exit your train at Secaucus Junction, simply follow the prominent signs for "Meadowlands Sports Complex" or "MetLife Stadium." These signs will direct you to a dedicated platform.
Board the Shuttle Train: On event days, NJ Transit runs special shuttle trains directly from Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station, which is right outside MetLife Stadium. These trains run frequently before and after events.
Enjoy the Short Ride: It's typically a quick 5-10 minute ride. You'll see the stadium getting closer as you approach!
Step 5: Your Return Journey: The Reverse Path ↩️
Getting back is essentially the reverse of your inbound journey.
Head to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station: After the event, make your way back to the same train station outside MetLife Stadium.
Board the Shuttle to Secaucus Junction: Take the shuttle train back to Secaucus Junction. Expect lines, especially right after a major event, but NJ Transit is very efficient at moving crowds.
Find Your Connecting Train at Secaucus: Once at Secaucus Junction, consult the departure boards for trains heading back to your origin (New York Penn Station, Hoboken, Newark Penn Station, etc.). Again, the NJ Transit app is invaluable here for real-time information.
Relax and Head Home: Enjoy your ride back, knowing you bypassed all that traffic!
Important Tips for a Smooth Trip ✨
Buy Round-Trip Tickets! This saves you time and hassle, especially after the event when crowds are large. If you buy via the app, just make sure you select "round trip."
Check the Schedule! Always verify train schedules on the NJ Transit website or app, especially for the last train of the night, as schedules can vary for different events.
Arrive Early! Especially for big games or concerts, trains can get crowded. Arriving a bit earlier gives you more breathing room and ensures you don't miss any of the action.
Listen to Announcements! Pay attention to conductor announcements and station signage for any last-minute changes or directions.
Download the NJ Transit App: Seriously, it's a game-changer for buying tickets and checking schedules.
Consider Off-Peak Travel: If you have flexibility, traveling during off-peak hours (not immediately before or after an event) can mean fewer crowds.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Like with any crowded public transport, be mindful of your belongings.
Taking the train to MetLife Stadium is a convenient, eco-friendly, and often stress-free way to experience events. Enjoy the ride!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can buy NJ Transit tickets at ticket vending machines at any NJ Transit station, at ticket windows, or most conveniently through the NJ Transit Mobile App on your smartphone. Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination for a direct ticket that covers both legs of the journey.
How to get from NYC Penn Station to MetLife Stadium by train?
From NYC Penn Station, take any NJ Transit train heading to New Jersey that stops at Secaucus Junction (e.g., Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line). At Secaucus Junction, transfer to the dedicated shuttle train that goes directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex (MetLife Stadium).
How to use the NJ Transit app for MetLife Stadium?
Download the NJ Transit Mobile App. Use the "Trip Planner" feature by entering your starting location and "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination. For tickets, select "Buy Tickets" and choose "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination for a one-way or round-trip ticket. Activate your ticket before boarding.
How to get back to NYC from MetLife Stadium after an event?
From the Meadowlands Sports Complex station outside MetLife Stadium, take the shuttle train back to Secaucus Junction. At Secaucus Junction, transfer to an NJ Transit train heading to New York Penn Station.
How to find the train platform at Secaucus Junction for MetLife Stadium?
At Secaucus Junction, follow the prominent overhead signs that clearly indicate "Meadowlands Sports Complex" or "MetLife Stadium." These signs will direct you to the dedicated platform for the shuttle train.
How to know the last train time from MetLife Stadium?
Always check the NJ Transit website or the NJ Transit Mobile App for the most up-to-date schedule for your specific event date. NJ Transit typically runs trains for an extended period after events, but it's crucial to know the precise last departure time.
How to avoid crowds when taking the train to MetLife Stadium?
To avoid the largest crowds, try to arrive earlier than necessary, ideally an hour or more before the event starts. Similarly, consider waiting 30-60 minutes after the event ends before heading back to the train station, if your schedule allows.
How to pay for NJ Transit train tickets without cash?
You can pay for NJ Transit tickets using a credit or debit card at ticket machines or by using your smartphone via the NJ Transit Mobile App.
How to find MetLife Stadium from the Meadowlands train station?
The Meadowlands Sports Complex train station is located directly adjacent to MetLife Stadium. Once you exit the train, the stadium is a very short walk (just a few minutes) and is clearly visible.
How to travel with children on NJ Transit to MetLife Stadium?
Children aged 5 and under typically ride free on NJ Transit. For children aged 6-11, there are reduced "Child" fares. Always verify current fare policies on the NJ Transit website. Strollers are generally permitted, though trains can be crowded on event days.
