How Close is MetLife Stadium to New York City? Your Ultimate Guide to Getting There!
Hey there, future stadium-goer! Are you planning a trip to MetLife Stadium and wondering just how close it is to the bustling heart of New York City? You're in the right place! While MetLife Stadium proudly hosts the New York Giants and New York Jets, it's actually located across the Hudson River in East Rutherford, New Jersey. But don't let that deter you! It's remarkably accessible from NYC, often a quicker and less stressful journey than navigating within some parts of the city itself.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get from the Big Apple to the Meadowlands Sports Complex with ease. So, buckle up, and let's get you to your game or concert!
The Proximity Factor: Closer Than You Think!
MetLife Stadium is situated approximately 5 to 10 miles west of New York City, depending on your starting point within Manhattan. This translates to a relatively short travel time, often ranging from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on your chosen mode of transportation and, of course, the infamous NYC traffic.
Step 1: Choosing Your Transportation: What's Your Vibe?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's consider your preferences. Are you looking for the fastest way, the cheapest, the most convenient, or perhaps a combination? Knowing your priorities will help you pick the perfect route.
- Public Transit Purist? If you prefer to avoid driving and parking, public transportation is a fantastic option.
- Car King/Queen? For those who love the freedom of their own vehicle, driving is definitely an option, but be prepared for potential tolls and parking fees.
- Ride-Share Enthusiast? Taxis and ride-shares offer door-to-door convenience, but at a higher cost.
Step 2: Public Transportation: Navigating the NJ Transit Network
Public transit is often the most recommended way to get to MetLife Stadium for events, especially large ones, as it bypasses traffic and parking woes. The key is to utilize NJ Transit, New Jersey's public transportation system.
Sub-heading: The Train Journey: Smooth & Efficient
The train is arguably the most popular and efficient public transit option for reaching MetLife Stadium from NYC.
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Start at New York Penn Station: Your journey begins at New York Penn Station (located at 32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues in Manhattan). This is a major hub and easily accessible via various subway lines (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3) or by simply walking if you're in Midtown.
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Take an NJ Transit Train to Secaucus Junction: From Penn Station, you'll board any NJ Transit train that stops at Frank R. Lautenberg Secaucus Junction. These trains are usually marked with "SEC" and Secaucus Junction is the first stop after leaving Penn Station. The ride to Secaucus Junction is typically around 10-15 minutes.
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Transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line Shuttle: Once at Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line. Follow the signs upstairs to the mezzanine, and then down to the lower level (Tracks E-H) where the shuttle trains to Meadowlands Rail Station depart. This direct shuttle train takes you right to the stadium and the ride is very short, usually around 10-15 minutes.
Important Note: For large events, NJ Transit often runs special train services directly to Meadowlands Rail Station. Always check the NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com
Sub-heading: The Bus Option: Direct, But Can Be Subject to Traffic
While trains are generally preferred, buses also offer a direct route.
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Head to Port Authority Bus Terminal: In Manhattan, go to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (located at 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues).
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Board the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express: Look for the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus service. This bus offers direct service from Port Authority to the Meadowlands Sports Complex, including MetLife Stadium. The travel time can be as quick as 20 minutes but is susceptible to traffic, especially during peak hours or event days.
Tip: Purchase your tickets in advance, especially for popular events, as walk-up cash fares might not be accepted, and tickets can sell out. Check the Coach USA/Megabus website for booking information.
Step 3: Driving Your Way: Convenience with Considerations
If you prefer the independence of driving, MetLife Stadium is well-connected to major roadways.
Sub-heading: Key Routes from New York City
- From the Lincoln Tunnel: Take the Lincoln Tunnel and follow signs for Route 3 West. Route 3 West provides direct access to the Sports Complex.
- From the George Washington Bridge: Take the George Washington Bridge to the New Jersey Turnpike South. Take the Turnpike's Western Spur to one of the Sports Complex's exits, 16W or 18W. These exits offer direct access to the parking areas.
- From the Holland Tunnel or Brooklyn-Staten Island Bridge Crossings: Take the New Jersey Turnpike extension to the Turnpike North. Then follow Route 3 West to the Sports Complex.
Sub-heading: Parking at MetLife Stadium
MetLife Stadium has extensive parking facilities. However, parking must generally be purchased in advance and can be quite expensive, often ranging from $40-$60 per car, and more for oversized vehicles.
- Arrive Early: On event days, parking lots can fill up quickly, and traffic can be heavy. Arriving well in advance of the event start time is highly recommended.
- Carpool: Consider carpooling to save on parking costs and reduce traffic congestion.
Step 4: Taxi and Ride-Share Services: Door-to-Door, But Pricey
For ultimate convenience, taxis and ride-share services (like Uber and Lyft) are readily available.
- Cost: This is typically the most expensive option. Fares from Midtown Manhattan can range from $45-$70 or more, not including tolls and potential surge pricing during high-demand periods.
- Travel Time: Travel time can be similar to driving your own car, subject to traffic conditions.
- Designated Drop-off/Pick-up: MetLife Stadium usually has designated areas for ride-share and taxi drop-off and pick-up. Be aware that wait times for pick-up can be significant after a large event.
Step 5: Planning Your Return Journey: Don't Get Stranded!
Just as important as getting there is knowing how to get back!
- Public Transit: For train and bus, the return journey largely mirrors the arrival. Purchase round-trip tickets in advance to avoid queues and potential surcharges.
- Driving: Factor in potential traffic delays when exiting the parking lots.
- Ride-Share/Taxi: Be prepared for longer wait times and potentially higher surge pricing after events. Consider walking a short distance away from the immediate stadium area to find a ride more easily, though this isn't always feasible or recommended.
Quick Travel Time Overview (Approximate)
- Train (NJ Transit from Penn Station): ~35-45 minutes (including transfer at Secaucus Junction)
- Bus (Coach USA from Port Authority): ~20 minutes to 1 hour+ (depending on traffic)
- Car (Driving): ~15-30 minutes (without significant traffic, excluding parking time)
- Taxi/Ride-Share: ~15-30 minutes (without significant traffic, excluding wait times)
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Times Square?
You can take the subway from Times Square to Penn Station (1, 2, 3, A, C, E lines) and then follow the NJ Transit train directions to MetLife Stadium via Secaucus Junction. Alternatively, walk to Port Authority Bus Terminal (just a few blocks away) and take the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus.
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can purchase NJ Transit tickets at ticket vending machines or ticket offices at major terminals like New York Penn Station and Secaucus Junction. For convenience, consider using the NJ Transit mobile app or buying a combined LIRR/NJ Transit joint ticket if coming from Long Island.
How to avoid traffic when going to MetLife Stadium?
The best way to avoid traffic is to take the NJ Transit train. It offers dedicated rail lines that bypass road congestion. If driving, aim to arrive very early or much later than peak arrival times.
How to find parking at MetLife Stadium?
Parking at MetLife Stadium is primarily through pre-purchased passes. Check the official MetLife Stadium website for event-specific parking information and to buy your parking pass in advance.
How to get to MetLife Stadium after a late-night event?
NJ Transit typically runs extended train service after major events. However, it's crucial to check the specific event schedule and NJ Transit's website for the last train departure times. Taxis and ride-shares are also available, but expect longer wait times.
How to travel from JFK Airport to MetLife Stadium?
From JFK, you would take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station, then an LIRR train to New York Penn Station. From Penn Station, follow the NJ Transit train directions to MetLife Stadium via Secaucus Junction.
How to travel from Newark Airport (EWR) to MetLife Stadium?
From Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), take the AirTrain Newark to Newark Liberty International Airport Station, then an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction, and finally transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle.
How to get to MetLife Stadium for a specific concert?
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website or the concert promoter's website for specific transportation advisories, as public transport options (especially bus schedules) can be adjusted for large events. NJ Transit often provides special event schedules.
How to get a taxi or ride-share from MetLife Stadium after an event?
There are designated pick-up zones for taxis and ride-shares at MetLife Stadium. Follow signage and directions from stadium staff. Be prepared for long queues and potential surge pricing due to high demand immediately after an event.
How to save money on transportation to MetLife Stadium?
The most cost-effective public transportation is usually the NJ Transit train, especially if you purchase a round-trip ticket. Carpooling if driving can also save on fuel and parking costs. Avoid taxis and ride-shares if budget is a primary concern.
