Are you ready for game day at MetLife Stadium? Whether you're a die-hard Giants fan, a loyal Jets supporter, or just attending a fantastic event, getting to MetLife Stadium can be an adventure in itself. Fear not, fellow enthusiast! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your journey to the stadium is as smooth as a perfect touchdown pass.
Navigating Your Way to MetLife Stadium on Game Day
Getting to MetLife Stadium requires a bit of planning, especially on game day when thousands of other fans have the same destination in mind. But with a little preparation, you can avoid stress and get right to enjoying the excitement.
Step 1: Choosing Your Transportation Method
The very first thing you need to do is decide how you want to get to MetLife Stadium. This choice will significantly impact your planning. Do you prefer the convenience of your own car, the eco-friendliness and efficiency of public transport, or the door-to-door service of a rideshare? Each option has its pros and cons, and knowing them upfront will help you make the best decision for your game day experience.
Sub-heading: Public Transportation: The Stress-Free Champion
For many, public transportation is the most recommended and cost-effective way to reach MetLife Stadium, especially if you're coming from New York City or other parts of New Jersey. It allows you to avoid traffic, parking fees, and the headache of navigating crowded lots.
Sub-heading: Driving: The Tailgater's Dream (with caveats)
If you're planning a full-on tailgate experience, driving is likely your preferred method. However, it comes with the need for pre-paid parking permits and the understanding that traffic will be a significant factor.
Sub-heading: Rideshare/Taxi: The Convenient (but Potentially Pricey) Option
Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, or traditional taxis, offer direct service to the stadium. This can be great for smaller groups or those who don't want to deal with parking, but be prepared for potential surge pricing and longer wait times after the event.
Step 2: Mastering Public Transportation
If you've opted for public transport, you've made a wise choice for a smoother arrival. The key is to understand the NJ TRANSIT system.
Sub-heading: Taking the Train with NJ TRANSIT
The fastest and most cost-effective way by far to reach MetLife Stadium by public transport is via NJ TRANSIT trains.
- Get to Secaucus Junction: Your primary goal is to reach Secaucus Junction.
- From Penn Station New York (NYC): If you're coming from New York City, head to Penn Station New York (located at 32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues). From there, take any NJ TRANSIT train that goes to Secaucus Junction. These trains are frequent.
- From other NJ TRANSIT lines: If you're starting elsewhere in New Jersey, consult the NJ TRANSIT website or app for the best route to Secaucus Junction. Many lines connect directly or with a single transfer to Secaucus.
- Transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line: Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to a dedicated shuttle train on the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line that takes you directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station, which is just a short walk from MetLife Stadium.
- Rail service typically operates approximately five hours before kickoff and up to three hours after the game concludes. During peak periods before the game, trains run every 10-20 minutes.
- Important Tip: Purchase a round-trip ticket in advance to avoid long lines after the game! You can use the NJ TRANSIT mobile app for a seamless experience.
Sub-heading: Taking the Bus with NJ TRANSIT
While trains are generally preferred, bus service is also available and often supplements rail service, especially after events, to maximize capacity.
- 351 Meadowlands Express: Coach USA operates the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service, providing direct, round-trip transportation from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City to the MetLife Sports Complex.
- Buses typically depart from the South Wing, on the third floor of the Port Authority Bus Terminal at Gates 411-414, or from a street-level departure area on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues, depending on the event. Always check the specific event schedule for departure information.
- The fare is typically $18.00 for a round trip. It's highly recommended to buy your tickets online in advance for priority boarding. You can also purchase tickets at the Port Authority South Wing (windows 11-15) or, for the return trip, at MetLife Stadium (cash only, exact fare required).
- The trip normally takes about 20 minutes each way, subject to traffic and weather conditions.
- Buses will depart from the stadium after the event concludes, with the last bus usually leaving one hour after the event ends.
- Note: Alcoholic beverages are NOT allowed on the buses.
Step 3: Driving and Parking at MetLife Stadium
If you're driving, get ready for a different kind of game day strategy.
Sub-heading: Pre-paid Parking Permits: Your Golden Ticket
On NFL game days, a pre-paid parking permit is required for all vehicles entering the Sports Complex.
- How to get one: You can often purchase a pre-paid permit via the Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange. Look for "Show Parking Tickets" after choosing your game. Permits are usually labeled "Platinum" or "Gold."
- Gold permits grant access to Gold Lots (Lots B, D, J, K, L, M, P, Deck A, and lots near American Dream).
- Platinum permits allow access to Platinum Lots (Lots E, F, or G).
- Displaying your permit: Have your parking pass ready for display BEFORE you get to the lot entrance. Hang Tag Parking Permits should be hung from the rearview mirror or placed on the dashboard. Barcode Parking Permits must be printed and displayed. QR Code Parking Permits can be displayed on your mobile device.
- Important: The numbers on permits are for informational purposes only and do not guarantee a reserved spot in a specific lot.
- Tailgating Rules: Your permit entitles you to one parking space for your vehicle and tailgate setup. Adjacent spaces cannot be used for grills, chairs, or tents, even if you have multiple permits.
Sub-heading: Parking Without a Pre-Paid Permit
If you don't have a pre-paid permit for an NFL game, you can park at an off-site lot located at 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073.
- This lot is open for both Giants and Jets home games.
- The cost is typically $55 (cash/credit card accepted).
- Shuttle service is provided to and from Lot G on the Stadium Complex.
Sub-heading: American Dream Parking
American Dream, located across the street from MetLife Stadium, offers parking in Lots 26 and 27 for events.
- These lots are pre-pay only. You can pay by credit card upon arrival or show your pre-paid parking pass (if you have one for the Jets or Giants).
- Parking rates vary: up to $75 for Jets games, up to $60 for Giants games, and $40 for concerts/other events.
- Tip: If you visit an American Dream attraction, showing your ticket confirmation can reduce your parking fee to $5 (plus tax) for over three hours of parking.
Sub-heading: Park and Ride (Train)
For NFL games, if you don't have a stadium parking permit but still want to drive part of the way, consider parking at the Edison Park Fast parking lot at the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction (675 New Country Road, Secaucus NJ).
- This 1,100-space lot is open 24 hours/day.
- From there, you can take the Meadowlands rail service to MetLife Sports Complex. Ensure rail service is running for your event.
Sub-heading: Drop-off and Pick-up Areas (Taxis/Limousines/Rideshares)
The designated drop-off and pick-up area for all vehicles (including rideshares and taxis) is located between parking lots D and E. There is curb space for safe drop-offs and pick-ups. There is no charge to access this area.
Step 4: Utilizing Rideshare Services (Uber/Lyft)
Rideshare services can be very convenient, but it's crucial to understand how they work on game day.
- Designated Rideshare Zone: There is a specific designated rideshare zone in Lot E, adjacent to both the Verizon Gate and the Walk Bridge. This is where you'll be dropped off and picked up.
- Be Prepared for Surges: Be advised that rideshare surge pricing is often in effect after games, and larger crowds will result in significantly longer wait times (potentially over an hour) and considerably higher prices than what you paid to get to the stadium.
- Charge Your Phone: Ensure your phone is fully charged if you plan to rely on rideshare services for your return trip. A dead phone means no ride!
- Consider Alternatives for Departure: Given the potential for high prices and long waits after the game, you may want to strongly consider using NJ TRANSIT for your return trip, especially if you're heading back to NYC.
Step 5: Arrival at MetLife Stadium: What to Expect
Once you've arrived at the Sports Complex, there are a few important things to keep in mind for entry.
Sub-heading: Security Screening
All guests and their possessions will be subject to a courteous screening prior to entering the Stadium. This can include a search of your person and bags, and vehicles may also be subject to search (including by canine units). Refusal to allow a search will result in denial of entry.
Sub-heading: Bag Policy: Clear is Key!
MetLife Stadium has a strict clear bag policy.
- You are permitted to carry:
- Clear bags that are 12" x 6" x 12" or less in size (one per person).
- Small non-clear purses/handbags (clutch-type bags) that are 4.5" x 6.5" or less in size (one per person).
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc or similar).
- Exceptions: Medically necessary items are allowed after proper inspection at a designated gate.
- Prohibited bags: Any non-clear bag exceeding 4.5” x 6.5” (backpacks, fanny packs, diaper bags, camera cases, etc.) is NOT permitted.
- Bag Check: For bags that exceed the permissible size, you have the option of returning them to your vehicle or checking them at a Bag Check Facility located outside each open gate. There's usually a $5 fee for non-NFL events, but it's complimentary for NFL events.
Sub-heading: Mobile Ticketing
Your ticket must be displayed on your phone to enter the event. Tickets will not be emailed or available to print.
- Pro-Tip: Find your mobile tickets in "My Events" and add them to your phone's wallet in advance. Transfer tickets directly to everyone else in your party before entering the stadium to expedite entry. Have your mobile ticket downloaded before you enter the security line, as cell service can be spotty with large crowds.
Sub-heading: Prohibited Items
Beyond bags, be aware of other prohibited items to avoid issues at the gate:
- Bottles and cans of any type (excluding a factory-sealed plastic bottle of water or soft drink 20 oz or less in size). Reusable water bottles (plastic and aluminum) 20 oz or less are permitted but must be empty upon entry.
- Alcohol of any kind.
- Glass bottles, coolers, thermoses, or ice chests.
- Banners and signs of any size (unless otherwise noted for specific events).
- Umbrellas, strollers, car seats, laser pointers, balls of any kind.
- Drones, model aircraft, kites, and any other remote-controlled or tethered flying objects.
- Cameras with a lens longer than 6" (detachable or non-detachable). Still-photography cameras are permitted if the lens is 6" or less and not in a case. Tripods, monopods, "selfie sticks" are not allowed.
Step 6: Enjoy the Game!
Once you've successfully navigated transportation and security, you're ready to soak in the atmosphere of MetLife Stadium. Find your seat, grab some concessions (remember, only cashless payments are accepted at concession stands!), and cheer on your team!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC without a car?
The best way is by NJ Transit train. Take any train from Penn Station New York to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle directly to the stadium. Alternatively, you can take the 351 Meadowlands Express bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal.
How to buy parking for MetLife Stadium on game day?
For NFL games, you generally need to purchase a pre-paid parking permit in advance, often through Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange. If you don't have one, an off-site lot at 20 Murray Hill Parkway offers parking with a shuttle service.
How to use rideshare services at MetLife Stadium?
Designated rideshare drop-off and pick-up is in Lot E. Be prepared for potential surge pricing and long wait times, especially after the game. It's advisable to have your phone fully charged.
How to get from MetLife Stadium to Secaucus Junction after a game?
Take the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle from Meadowlands Sports Complex Station back to Secaucus Junction. Trains run frequently after events, and bus service also supplements the trains to maximize capacity.
How to know if the MetLife Stadium train is running on game day?
NJ Transit typically operates rail service for events at MetLife Stadium. Always check the official NJ Transit website (njtransit.com) or their mobile app for specific game day schedules and any service advisements before you travel.
How to bring food and drinks into MetLife Stadium?
You can bring food of any kind if it's in a clear plastic bag. Factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz or less) are also permitted. Reusable water bottles (plastic/aluminum, 20 oz or less) are allowed but must be empty upon entry. No glass bottles, cans, or alcohol are allowed.
How to find accessible parking and drop-off at MetLife Stadium?
Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G with a valid state-issued accessible parking license plate or hang tag. The dedicated accessible drop-off area is in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
How to ensure a quick entry into MetLife Stadium?
Have your mobile tickets ready in your phone's wallet (transferring tickets to all party members in advance). Be familiar with the clear bag policy and avoid bringing prohibited items. Arrive early to allow time for security screening.
How to pay for concessions at MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium is a cashless venue. You can pay with debit or credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) using tap to pay, chip, swipe, or mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Reverse ATMs are available to load cash onto a prepaid Visa debit card.
How to check for event-specific transportation updates for MetLife Stadium?
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website (metlifestadium.com) and the NJ Transit website (njtransit.com) for event-specific "Know Before You Go" guides and transportation updates. Social media channels for both are also good sources of real-time information.
