Yes, you absolutely can get an Uber from MetLife Stadium! Uber is the preferred rideshare partner for events at MetLife Stadium, making it a very viable option for transportation. However, successfully navigating the post-event rush requires a little planning and understanding of the stadium's dedicated rideshare system.
MetLife Stadium is a massive venue, hosting everything from NFL games to major concerts. As such, the outflow of thousands of people simultaneously can create a bit of a logistical challenge for rideshares. But with a few insider tips, you'll be on your way home (or to your next destination!) smoothly.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Ubering from MetLife Stadium
Let's dive into how you can make your Uber experience after an event at MetLife Stadium as seamless as possible. Get ready to put on your planning hat!
Step 1: Get Ready Before the Event Even Ends
"Are you ready to beat the rush? The key to a smooth exit from MetLife Stadium starts before the final whistle blows or the last encore finishes."
Charge Your Phone: This might sound obvious, but it's critically important. You'll need your phone to request the Uber, communicate with your driver, and navigate to the pickup zone. A portable power bank is your best friend here.
Download the Uber App (if you haven't already): Ensure the app is installed and you're logged in. Having your payment method already set up will save valuable time later.
Familiarize Yourself with the Stadium Layout: While you don't need to memorize every gate, having a general idea of where Lot E (the Uber Zone) is in relation to your exit gate will be helpful. Look for signs inside the stadium or check the MetLife Stadium website's A-Z guide for a map.
Consider a Meeting Point (Optional but Recommended): If you're with a group, decide on a specific meeting point outside the stadium, close to the Uber Zone, in case you get separated. Cell service can sometimes be spotty with so many people.
Step 2: Exit the Stadium Strategically
"Now that the event is wrapping up, it's time to make your move!"
Don't Linger Too Long: As soon as the event concludes, start heading towards an exit. The sooner you're out, the better your chances of getting ahead of the largest crowds.
Identify Your Gate: Pay attention to which gate you're exiting from. This will help you orient yourself when heading to the Uber Zone.
Follow Signage for Rideshare/Uber: MetLife Stadium has clear signage directing you to the designated rideshare pickup area. Look for these signs as you exit.
Pro Tip: Don't just blindly follow the crowd. People may be heading to different parking lots, public transport, or other areas. Trust the official signs!
Step 3: Navigating to the Uber Zone
"This is where your pre-planning pays off. The Uber Zone is your ultimate destination."
Head to Lot E: MetLife Stadium has a designated Uber Zone located in Lot E. This is off West Peripheral Road, just outside the Verizon Gate. All rideshare services, including Uber, pick up here.
The Designated Path: The stadium staff and signage will guide you along a specific path to Lot E. It's usually a bit of a walk, often around 15-20 minutes, especially if you're coming from a far side of the stadium.
Be prepared for a walk: Wear comfortable shoes!
Be patient: There will be many other people walking in the same direction.
Look for Uber Staff and Markings: Once you get closer to Lot E, you'll likely see Uber staff or clear markings indicating the official pickup area.
Step 4: Requesting Your Ride in the App
"You've made it to the Uber Zone! Now, let's get that ride."
Open the Uber App: Once you're physically in or very close to Lot E, open your Uber app.
Set Your Destination: Enter your desired drop-off location.
Confirm Your Pickup Location: The app should automatically default your pickup location to the official Uber Zone in Lot E. Double-check to ensure it's correct.
Choose Your Ride Option: Select the Uber service that suits your needs (UberX, UberXL, Uber Black, etc.). Keep in mind that during peak exit times, surge pricing is highly probable.
What is Surge Pricing? Surge pricing is Uber's dynamic pricing mechanism that increases fares during times of high demand to incentivize more drivers to come online. It's common after major events.
Request Your Ride: Tap to request. The app will then connect you with a driver.
Step 5: Connecting with Your Driver
"This is the final, crucial step to getting in your car and on your way."
Communicate with Your Driver: Once matched, your driver will likely text or call you to confirm their exact location within Lot E. Lot E is large, and drivers often specify a row number or a landmark.
Example Text: "I'm in Lot E, row 3, silver Honda Civic."
Match Vehicle Details: Before getting into any car, always verify the driver's name, license plate number, and car model with what's displayed in your Uber app. This is crucial for your safety.
Be Visible: Stand in a well-lit area if possible, and wave to your driver if you spot them. The Uber Zone can be chaotic, so making yourself easily identifiable helps.
Patience is a Virtue: After a major event, there will be thousands of people also trying to get Ubers. Wait times can be significant. Be patient, stay calm, and continue communicating with your driver. If a driver cancels, simply request another.
Important Considerations for Ubering from MetLife Stadium
Timing is Everything: The period immediately following an event is the busiest. If you can, consider waiting 30-60 minutes after an event ends. Grab a bite at a nearby establishment (if available and open) or simply relax for a bit to let the initial rush subside.
Surge Pricing: As mentioned, surge pricing is almost guaranteed after major events. Be prepared for higher fares than usual. You'll see the upfront fare in the app before you confirm your ride, so there are no surprises.
Cell Service & Wi-Fi: While MetLife Stadium generally has good cell service, with tens of thousands of people trying to use their phones simultaneously, network congestion can occur.
Alternative Transportation: If Uber wait times or prices are too high, consider other options:
NJ Transit Train Service: For large events, NJ Transit runs direct train service from the Meadowlands Rail Station (right by the stadium) to Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus, you can connect to NYC Penn Station and other destinations. This is often the most efficient and cost-effective way to get out of the immediate stadium area.
Coach USA Bus Service (Route 351 Meadowlands Express): This bus service operates from Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC directly to the MetLife Sports Complex for NFL games and other large events.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find the Uber pickup zone at MetLife Stadium?
The designated Uber pickup zone at MetLife Stadium is located in Lot E, just outside the Verizon Gate, off West Peripheral Road. Look for clear signage directing you there.
How to avoid high Uber surge pricing after a MetLife Stadium event?
To potentially avoid the highest surge pricing, consider waiting 30-60 minutes after the event ends, or explore public transportation options like the NJ Transit train.
How to contact my Uber driver at MetLife Stadium after requesting a ride?
Once you've requested an Uber, use the in-app chat or call feature to communicate directly with your driver. They will often text you with their specific location within Lot E.
How to verify my Uber driver at MetLife Stadium?
Always match the driver's name, car model, and license plate number with the information displayed in your Uber app before getting into the vehicle.
How to get to MetLife Stadium using public transportation?
You can take NJ Transit trains to Secaucus Junction and then transfer to a direct shuttle train to the Meadowlands Rail Station. Coach USA also offers the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from Port Authority Bus Terminal.
How to drop off someone at MetLife Stadium with Uber?
The designated drop-off area for all rideshare services at MetLife Stadium is also located between parking lots D and E, providing a safe curb space for drop-offs.
How to know if the NJ Transit train is running for an event at MetLife Stadium?
Check the MetLife Stadium website's public transportation section or the NJ Transit website/app for specific event schedules. Train service typically runs for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000.
How to deal with poor cell service when trying to get an Uber at MetLife Stadium?
Try moving to a slightly less congested area within Lot E, or consider using the stadium's Wi-Fi if available, although it can also be strained during peak times. Patience and persistence are key.
How to estimate the cost of an Uber from MetLife Stadium to NYC?
Open the Uber app, set MetLife Stadium as your pickup and your desired NYC destination as your drop-off. The app will provide an upfront price estimate before you confirm your ride.
How to find alternative private car services to and from MetLife Stadium?
Companies like GO Airlink NYC offer private car and shuttle services to MetLife Stadium, which can be pre-booked to avoid surge pricing and long waits.
