Hey there, fellow adventurer! Are you ready to conquer the concrete jungle and make your way to the grand MetLife Stadium for an unforgettable event? Whether it's to cheer on your favorite team, sing along with a legendary band, or witness an epic spectacle, getting there from New York Penn Station is a common quest. Fear not, because this comprehensive, step-by-step guide will ensure your journey is as smooth as a perfectly executed touchdown pass! Let's get you to the action!
The Most Popular and Recommended Route: NJ Transit Rail
When it comes to getting to MetLife Stadium from Penn Station, NJ Transit rail is hands down the most efficient and widely used option, especially for major events. It's a two-part journey, but remarkably straightforward.
Step 1: Navigate New York Penn Station and Purchase Your Ticket
So, you've arrived at New York Penn Station. It's a bustling hub, but don't be intimidated!
- Finding NJ Transit: Head towards the NJ Transit concourse. You'll see clear signage pointing the way. NJ Transit trains typically depart from tracks 1 through 12, though this can vary. Look for the large departure boards.
- Ticket to Ride: This is a crucial step. You need to purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands". Do not just buy a ticket to Secaucus Junction, as the Meadowlands portion is a separate line.
- Ticket Machines: The easiest way to purchase your ticket is at one of the NJ Transit ticket vending machines located throughout the concourse. They are user-friendly and accept cash and credit/debit cards.
- Ticket Windows: If you prefer, you can also purchase tickets at a staffed ticket window.
- NJ Transit Mobile App: For ultimate convenience, download the NJ Transit Mobile App. You can purchase your "Meadowlands" round-trip ticket directly on your phone and activate it just before boarding. This is often the quickest way to avoid lines!
- Cost and Time-Saving Tip: A round-trip adult fare from New York Penn Station to Meadowlands is approximately $12.60. Child, senior, and disabled fares are around $5.60. Always purchase your round-trip ticket before boarding the train to avoid a $5 surcharge on board!
Step 2: Board Your Train to Secaucus Junction
Once you have your ticket, it's time to board your first train.
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- Locate Your Train: Check the departure boards for the next NJ Transit train that stops at Secaucus Junction. These trains will be clearly marked with "SEC" next to the line name. Most lines from Penn Station, including the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, and Morris & Essex Line, will stop at Secaucus Junction.
- Boarding the Train: Head to the designated track and board the train. The ride from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is incredibly quick, usually taking only about 10-15 minutes. It's often the first stop after leaving Penn Station.
Step 3: Transfer to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line at Secaucus Junction
Secaucus Junction is the critical transfer point. This station is designed for seamless transfers.
- Follow the Signs: Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll need to go upstairs to the mezzanine level. There will be clear signage directing you to the "BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line" or "MetLife Stadium."
- Ticket Inspection: Be prepared to show your rail ticket to the staff at the gates on the mezzanine level.
- Board the Shuttle Train: The trains to MetLife Stadium (Meadowlands Rail Line) depart from Tracks E-H on the lower level. These are special shuttle trains that run directly to the stadium on event days.
- Frequency: On event days, these shuttle trains typically run frequently, often every 10-20 minutes, starting several hours before an event. After the event, they run on a "load and go" basis for up to 3 hours or until the last customers depart.
- Arrival at MetLife Stadium: The ride from Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Station (MetLife Stadium) is very short, usually around 15 minutes. You'll disembark right at the stadium complex.
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| How Do You Get To Metlife Stadium From Penn Station |
Alternative Option: Coach USA Bus (from Port Authority Bus Terminal)
While NJ Transit rail is generally preferred, especially for large events, the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus is another viable option, particularly if you are closer to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in Midtown Manhattan.
Step 1: Make Your Way to Port Authority Bus Terminal
If you choose the bus, you'll need to get to the Port Authority Bus Terminal, located at 625 8th Avenue (between 40th and 42nd Streets) in Midtown Manhattan. It's a short walk or subway ride from Penn Station.
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Step 2: Purchase Your Coach USA Ticket
- Locate Ticket Sales: Head to the South Wing of the Port Authority Bus Terminal, main floor (windows 11-15) to purchase your ticket for the 351 Meadowlands Express.
- Online Purchase: You can also purchase round-trip tickets online through the Coach USA website under the "ROUND-TRIP" tab. This is recommended to secure your spot and potentially get a reserved time.
- Cost: A round-trip ticket for the 351 Meadowlands Express is $18.00.
- Important Note: Exact cash fare is required if purchasing directly from the bus driver at the stadium for your return trip.
Step 3: Board the 351 Meadowlands Express
- Departure Gates: The departure location for the 351 Meadowlands Express can vary by event, but typically buses depart from the South Wing, on the third floor of PABT at Gates 411, 412, 413, or 414. Sometimes, they may also depart from a street-level departure area on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues. Always check the Coach USA website or signage at PABT for the specific departure gate for your event.
- Travel Time: The bus ride typically takes about 20 minutes, though this can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions.
- Arrival at MetLife Stadium: The bus provides direct, door-to-door service to the MetLife Sports Complex, dropping you off near Lot K of the stadium.
Important Considerations for Your Trip
- Plan Ahead, Always! Check the NJ Transit and/or Coach USA websites for specific event schedules, especially for major games or concerts. Train and bus schedules can change, and special service is often added for large events.
- Allow Ample Time: While the actual travel time is relatively short (around 30-60 minutes total for NJ Transit, 20-45 minutes for the bus depending on traffic), factor in time for purchasing tickets, waiting for trains/buses, transfers, and walking to the stadium gates. Aim to arrive at Penn Station at least 90 minutes to 2 hours before the event starts, especially for popular events. Security lines at the stadium can also be long.
- Mobile Ticketing is Your Friend: For NJ Transit, consider using their mobile app to purchase tickets. It saves time and hassle.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for NJ Transit My Transit Alerts or follow them on social media for real-time service updates.
- MetLife Stadium Clear Bag Policy: Be aware of the stadium's clear bag policy. Only clear bags 12" x 6" x 12" or less, or small non-clear clutch-type bags 4.5" x 6.5" or less, are permitted. Exceptions are made for medically necessary items. Do not bring large bags or backpacks, as they will not be allowed inside.
- Re-Entry Policy: MetLife Stadium has a strict "no re-entry" policy. Once you're in, you're in!
- Stadium Gates: You can enter MetLife Stadium at any of the five general admission gates: Moody, MetLife, Verizon, HCLTech, or Bud Light.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about getting to MetLife Stadium from Penn Station:
How to plan my trip to MetLife Stadium for an event? Check the official NJ Transit website or app for specific train schedules to the Meadowlands for your event date. Also, check the MetLife Stadium website for event-specific transportation advisories and bag policies.
How to buy a round-trip ticket to MetLife Stadium? Purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" via NJ Transit ticket machines, ticket windows, or the NJ Transit Mobile App. For Coach USA, buy online or at Port Authority Bus Terminal windows.
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How to find the correct train at Penn Station for MetLife Stadium? Look for NJ Transit trains marked with "SEC" (for Secaucus Junction) on the departure boards in the NJ Transit concourse at Penn Station.
How to transfer effectively at Secaucus Junction? At Secaucus Junction, follow signs upstairs to the mezzanine level, show your ticket, and then go to the lower level (Tracks E-H) to board the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle train to the stadium.
How to know if the shuttle train to MetLife Stadium is running? NJ Transit typically operates the Meadowlands Rail Line for all major events at MetLife Stadium. Check their website or app for the specific event schedule.
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How to get back to Penn Station after an event at MetLife Stadium? Return to Meadowlands Station at the stadium complex and board the shuttle train back to Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus Junction, transfer to any NJ Transit train heading back to New York Penn Station.
How to find the Coach USA bus at Port Authority Bus Terminal for MetLife Stadium? Look for the 351 Meadowlands Express at the South Wing, third floor (Gates 411-414) or sometimes on 41st Street, but always verify the exact gate on the Coach USA website or at PABT.
How to save money on transportation to MetLife Stadium? Public transportation (NJ Transit or Coach USA) is significantly cheaper than taxis, ride-shares, or parking. Always buy round-trip tickets in advance to avoid surcharges.
How to ensure I have a smooth entry into MetLife Stadium? Have your mobile ticket ready on your phone, adhere to the clear bag policy, and arrive early to allow for security screening.
How to check for service advisories or delays for NJ Transit? Subscribe to My Transit Alerts on the NJ Transit website, use their mobile app, or follow their social media channels for real-time updates on service changes.
Enjoy your trip to MetLife Stadium!
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