Are you planning a trip to MetLife Stadium and wondering if you can get there on foot? It's a common question, especially for those looking to avoid the hassle of driving and parking. While you can't exactly "walk to" MetLife Stadium from just anywhere in the surrounding area due to major roadways, you absolutely can walk to it from specific public transportation drop-off points, which is a major convenience for event-goers.
This guide will break down exactly how you can navigate your way to MetLife Stadium on foot after using public transit, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Let's get started!
Step 1: Understanding the Layout and Your Starting Point
Before you even think about putting one foot in front of the other, it's crucial to understand MetLife Stadium's location. It's situated within the Meadowlands Sports Complex in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This complex is a sprawling area with major highways like Route 3 and the New Jersey Turnpike surrounding it. This means randomly walking from an arbitrary point in East Rutherford is generally not feasible or safe due to the lack of pedestrian-friendly pathways across these busy roads.
 |
| Can You Walk To Metlife Stadium |
Your Key Starting Point: The Meadowlands Rail Station
The primary and safest pedestrian access to MetLife Stadium is from the Meadowlands Rail Station. This station is specifically designed to shuttle fans directly to the Sports Complex, and it drops you off just a short walk from the stadium gates.
So, the first and most important step in "walking to MetLife Stadium" is actually getting to the Meadowlands Rail Station via NJ Transit.
Step 2: Getting to Meadowlands Rail Station via NJ Transit
This is where your journey truly begins. NJ Transit offers convenient and direct service to the Meadowlands Rail Station for major events at MetLife Stadium.
Sub-heading: By Train ️
The most recommended and efficient way to reach the Meadowlands Rail Station is by train.
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
-
Head to Secaucus Junction: Most NJ Transit rail lines connect at the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. This is your main transfer hub. You can get to Secaucus Junction from various points in New Jersey and even from New York City (via Penn Station New York).
-
From New York Penn Station: Take any NJ Transit train that stops at Secaucus Junction. This is generally a quick and direct ride.
-
From other NJ Transit lines: Check the NJ Transit website or app for the best route to Secaucus Junction from your starting point. Many lines, including the Main-Bergen County Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Morris & Essex Line, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Pascack Valley Line, and Port Jervis Line, connect here.
-
-
Transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line: Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to a special shuttle train that goes directly to the Meadowlands Rail Station.
-
Follow the Signs: Secaucus Junction is well-signposted for connections to the Meadowlands. Just follow the crowds! Trains to the Meadowlands typically depart from the lower level.
-
Service Frequency: For large events, these shuttle trains run frequently (often every 10-20 minutes) starting about 3.5 hours before the event.
-
Sub-heading: By Bus
While the train is generally preferred, Coach USA also provides express bus service for major events.
-
From Port Authority Bus Terminal (NYC): Coach USA operates the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service directly from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City to the MetLife Sports Complex.
-
Drop-off Location: The bus usually drops off and picks up in Lot K, near the Quest Diagnostics Performance Center. From here, you will have a short walk to the stadium.
-
Check Schedules: Bus service typically begins 2.5 hours before a game and runs until 30 minutes after kick-off, and for about an hour after the event ends. Always check the latest schedules on the Coach USA website.
-
Step 3: The Walk from Meadowlands Rail Station to MetLife Stadium ♀️️
This is the "walking" part of your journey! The good news is that the Meadowlands Rail Station is designed for easy pedestrian access to the stadium.
Sub-heading: Short and Sweet
The walk from the Meadowlands Rail Station to MetLife Stadium is very short, typically only a few minutes. You'll essentially be stepping off the train and right into the Sports Complex, with the stadium clearly in sight.
Sub-heading: Navigating the Pedestrian Path ️
-
Exit the Station: Once your train arrives at the Meadowlands Rail Station, simply exit the station. You'll find yourself within the MetLife Sports Complex.
-
Follow the Crowds and Signs: On event days, there will be a large number of people heading in the same direction – towards the stadium! Just follow the flow of traffic and look for clear directional signage.
-
Direct Access to Gates: The Meadowlands Rail Station is located near the MetLife Gate, between the stadium and Lot B. This provides direct access to various stadium gates, making your entry quick and efficient.
Sub-heading: Safety Considerations for Pedestrians ⚠️
While the designated pedestrian path from the Meadowlands Rail Station is safe, it's crucial to adhere to the following:
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
-
Stay on Designated Paths: Do not attempt to walk on the Sports Complex roadways or cross major highways like Route 120 or Route 3. These are active vehicle roads and are extremely dangerous for pedestrians.
-
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Especially on crowded event days, be mindful of other pedestrians and any event staff directions.
-
Lighting: If attending an evening event, the paths are generally well-lit, but it's always good to be aware of your surroundings.
Step 4: Returning from MetLife Stadium via Public Transit ↩️
 |
Getting back is just as straightforward as getting there, but with a few key considerations.
Sub-heading: Planning Your Departure ⏰
-
Last Train/Bus Times: Crucially, know the last train or bus departure times for your connections, especially if you're heading back to Secaucus Junction or Port Authority. NJ Transit and Coach USA will have their schedules posted, and service will typically continue for a period after the event ends.
-
Crowds: Expect significant crowds immediately after an event. Be patient and follow instructions from staff for boarding trains or buses.
Sub-heading: Boarding at Meadowlands Rail Station or Bus Lot K ️
-
Train: Head back to the Meadowlands Rail Station. You must have a valid ticket to board the train from Meadowlands to Secaucus Junction. Purchase round-trip tickets in advance to avoid delays.
-
Bus: Return to Lot K for the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express service back to Port Authority.
Conclusion: Yes, You Can Walk!
In summary, while you cannot simply "walk to MetLife Stadium" from any random location due to surrounding highways, you absolutely can and should walk to it from the Meadowlands Rail Station. This direct train service connects seamlessly with the wider NJ Transit network, making it a highly convenient and stress-free way to attend events without the worries of driving, traffic, and parking. Enjoy your event!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to get to MetLife Stadium by public transport?
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
The easiest way is to take an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to a direct shuttle train to the Meadowlands Rail Station, which is steps away from MetLife Stadium. Alternatively, Coach USA offers the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC.
How to walk from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium?
While Secaucus Junction is relatively close, it's not recommended to walk the entire distance (approx. 7 miles/11 km) due to the lack of pedestrian-friendly routes across major highways. Instead, take the short 10-minute NJ Transit shuttle train directly from Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Rail Station.
How to purchase train tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can purchase round-trip tickets in advance from any NJ Transit rail ticket vending machine, ticket window, or through the free NJ Transit Mobile App. Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
How to find the Meadowlands Rail Station at MetLife Stadium?
The Meadowlands Rail Station is located directly within the MetLife Sports Complex, between the stadium and Lot B, near the MetLife Gate. It's impossible to miss on event days due to the crowds and signage.
How to return from MetLife Stadium via public transport after an event?
Head back to the Meadowlands Rail Station (for trains) or Lot K (for buses). Be aware of the last departure times and expect crowds. Ensure you have a valid return ticket.
QuickTip: Look for patterns as you read.
How to know if train service is running for an event?
NJ Transit typically operates the Meadowlands Rail Service for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000. Always check the official MetLife Stadium or NJ Transit websites for specific event schedules.
How to find bus pick-up/drop-off for Coach USA at MetLife Stadium?
The Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus service drops off and picks up passengers in Lot K, which is near the Quest Diagnostics Performance Center, accessible from the MetLife Gate.
How to ensure safety while walking to and from the stadium?
Always stick to designated pedestrian walkways and never attempt to walk on the complex roadways or cross major highways. Follow any instructions from stadium or transit staff.
How to get information on event-specific public transport schedules?
Visit the official NJ Transit website (
How to avoid long queues for public transport after an event?
Purchase round-trip tickets in advance. Consider leaving slightly before the event concludes or waiting a little after to let the initial rush subside, if feasible for your connections.
 |
