Ever wondered how far a dedicated fan would go to see their favorite team play, especially when that means crossing state lines between two iconic NFL stadiums? Whether you're a Buffalo Bills die-hard eyeing a game at MetLife, or a New York Giants/Jets fan planning a pilgrimage to Highmark Stadium, understanding the journey is the first step in making it happen. So, let's dive deep into the logistics of traveling between Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, NY, and MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ!
How Far is Highmark Stadium from MetLife Stadium? A Comprehensive Guide to Your Game Day Journey
The journey between Highmark Stadium, home of the Buffalo Bills, and MetLife Stadium, shared by the New York Giants and New York Jets, is a significant one. These two iconic NFL venues are separated by a considerable distance, requiring careful planning for any fan looking to make the trip.
 |
| How Far Is Highmark Stadium From Metlife Stadium |
Step 1: Let's pinpoint the exact distance!
Before we even think about modes of transport or packing your lucky jersey, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: how far are we talking?
Highmark Stadium is located at 1 Bills Dr, Orchard Park, NY 14127. MetLife Stadium is located at 1 MetLife Stadium Dr, East Rutherford, NJ 07073.
The straight-line distance, often referred to as "as the crow flies," is significantly less than the actual driving distance. For practical purposes, when considering travel, we always look at the road distance.
The approximate driving distance between Highmark Stadium and MetLife Stadium ranges from 350 to 370 miles (560 to 600 kilometers), depending on the specific route taken.
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
This isn't a quick hop across town! You're looking at a journey that spans across a good portion of New York State and into New Jersey, potentially even touching parts of Pennsylvania.
Step 2: Charting Your Course: Driving Directions & Time
For most fans, driving will be the primary mode of transportation due to its flexibility and the ability to carry tailgating essentials. Be prepared for a substantial road trip!
Sub-heading: Estimated Driving Time
Under normal traffic conditions, the drive from Highmark Stadium to MetLife Stadium can take anywhere from 5 hours and 30 minutes to 7 hours. This estimate can fluctuate significantly based on several factors:
- Traffic: Heavy traffic, especially around major metropolitan areas like Syracuse, Binghamton, and particularly the New York City metro area (including the approach to MetLife Stadium), can add hours to your travel time.
- Time of Day/Week: Traveling during peak rush hours, Friday afternoons, or Sunday mornings (especially before a game) will almost certainly result in longer travel times. Conversely, driving late at night or very early in the morning might offer a smoother journey.
- Weather Conditions: Snow, ice, heavy rain, or fog, especially during football season, can drastically impact driving conditions and safety, leading to much slower speeds.
- Rest Stops and Breaks: Don't forget to factor in time for gas, food, and stretching your legs! It's highly recommended to take breaks on a drive of this length.
Sub-heading: Common Driving Routes
There are a few main arteries you'll likely use for this journey. Google Maps or your preferred GPS will typically suggest the fastest route based on real-time traffic, but here's a general idea:
- Route 1 (Via I-86 E / NY-17 E and I-81 S / I-380 S / I-80 E): This route often involves heading south from Orchard Park on I-390 S, then connecting to I-86 E (which becomes NY-17 E). You'll then typically merge onto I-81 S, which connects to I-380 S/I-84 E, eventually leading to I-80 E into New Jersey. This route is approximately 358 miles and can take around 6 hours.
- Route 2 (Via I-90 E and I-81 S / I-380 S / I-80 E): This option involves heading north from Highmark Stadium to connect with I-90 E (New York State Thruway). You'll then typically take I-81 S towards Binghamton, connecting to I-380 S/I-84 E and finally I-80 E into New Jersey. This route is slightly longer at around 397 miles, and can take closer to 6 hours and 5 minutes.
- Route 3 (Via I-86 E / NY-17 E and I-87 S): This route involves taking I-86 E (NY-17 E) for a significant portion of the journey and then connecting to I-87 S (New York State Thruway) towards New York City, eventually leading to I-287 S and then NJ-17 S or Paterson Plank Road to MetLife Stadium. This route is roughly 362 miles and can take around 6 hours. Be aware of potential tolls on I-87 and I-287.
Sub-heading: Tolls to Consider
Yes, you will very likely encounter tolls on this journey, especially if you use major highways like the New York State Thruway (I-90 and I-87) and portions of the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95). An E-ZPass is highly recommended to save time and sometimes money, as cash tolls can be more expensive. Factor these costs into your travel budget.
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
Step 3: Alternative Travel: Exploring Other Options
While driving is popular, it's not your only choice. For those who prefer not to drive or want to avoid parking hassles, public transportation can be a viable, though often multi-leg, option.
Sub-heading: Flying: The Fastest, But Not Always Simplest
- Nearest Airports:
- For Highmark Stadium: Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) is the closest, about a 20-minute drive from the stadium.
- For MetLife Stadium: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is the most convenient, located roughly 30 minutes from MetLife Stadium. LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) are also options in the NYC area, but EWR is generally preferred for MetLife access.
- Flight Time: A direct flight from Buffalo (BUF) to Newark (EWR) is typically around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- The Catch: While flying cuts down on in-transit time significantly, it adds other complexities and costs:
- Airport Travel: You'll need to get to and from both airports, which involves ground transportation (taxis, ride-shares, buses).
- Security and Waiting: Factor in time for airport security, boarding, and potential delays.
- Cost: Flights can be expensive, especially if booked last minute or during peak travel seasons.
- Luggage: Limits on luggage can be a factor if you're bringing a lot of gear.
Sub-heading: Bus & Train: A More Relaxed (But Longer) Journey
Combining bus and train travel is possible, but it will be a significantly longer journey than driving or flying, often requiring multiple transfers. There isn't a direct bus or train service connecting the two stadiums seamlessly.
- Buffalo to NYC: You would typically take a bus service (like Greyhound or Trailways) from Buffalo to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City. This journey can take 7-9 hours or more.
- NYC to MetLife Stadium: From the Port Authority Bus Terminal, Coach USA provides the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service directly to the MetLife Sports Complex for NFL games and other large events. Alternatively, you can take NJ TRANSIT train service from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, and then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Service, which drops you right at the stadium. This entire leg from NYC to MetLife is relatively quick (around 20-30 minutes once on the direct services).
This multi-leg public transport option is generally best suited for those without a car, on a tight budget, or who prefer to let someone else do the driving and navigate traffic.
Step 4: Planning Your Trip: Key Considerations
Now that you understand the distance and travel options, let's look at crucial planning tips to ensure a smooth journey.
 |
Sub-heading: When to Depart
- Driving: For a daytime game, leaving at least 8-10 hours before kickoff is a good rule of thumb, allowing for traffic, tolls, and a buffer for unexpected delays. If you can, travel the day before and stay overnight near MetLife Stadium.
- Flying: Allow ample time for check-in and security at BUF (at least 1-2 hours before your flight). Once you land at EWR, factor in time for disembarking, baggage claim, and ground transportation to the stadium. Aim to arrive in the NYC area at least 3-4 hours before kickoff if you're flying in on game day.
- Public Transport: This option requires the most precise timing. Check bus and train schedules meticulously, paying attention to transfer times and any special event schedules for MetLife Stadium. Plan to leave a full day before the game if possible, or depart extremely early on game day.
Sub-heading: Accommodation
For a stress-free experience, consider staying overnight.
QuickTip: Look for contrasts — they reveal insights.
- Near MetLife Stadium: There are numerous hotels in East Rutherford and nearby towns in New Jersey (Secaucus, Carlstadt) that cater to stadium visitors. Booking in advance, especially for popular games, is highly recommended.
- In NYC: If you want to combine your game trip with sightseeing in New York City, staying in Manhattan or other boroughs is an option, but factor in the additional commute time to MetLife Stadium.
Sub-heading: Parking at MetLife Stadium
If you're driving, parking is a significant consideration. MetLife Stadium has extensive parking lots, but they fill up quickly, and parking passes are often required and can be expensive.
- Pre-purchased Parking: It's highly advisable to purchase your parking pass in advance through the stadium's official channels or secondary markets. This guarantees you a spot and often saves time on game day.
- Tailgating: MetLife Stadium is a popular tailgating destination, so if that's part of your plan, arrive even earlier to secure a good spot.
- Off-site Parking: Some private lots or businesses in the surrounding area offer parking, often with shuttle services to the stadium. Research these options carefully.
Sub-heading: Budgeting for Your Trip
Don't forget to account for all expenses:
- Fuel Costs: Calculate based on current gas prices and your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
- Tolls: Estimate toll costs (an E-ZPass can often provide discounts).
- Parking: Factor in pre-purchased parking passes or game-day parking fees.
- Food & Beverages: For the road, tailgating, and inside the stadium.
- Tickets: The main event!
- Accommodation: If staying overnight.
- Public Transportation Fares: If applicable.
Step 5: Enjoying the Game Day Experience
Once you've navigated the travel, it's time to soak in the atmosphere! Both Highmark and MetLife offer fantastic game day experiences.
- Arrive Early: No matter your mode of transport, arriving early is key to avoiding stress, finding your way around, enjoying the pre-game festivities, and simply soaking in the excitement.
- Stadium Policies: Familiarize yourself with the stadium's bag policy, prohibited items, and other regulations to ensure a smooth entry.
- Embrace the Atmosphere: Whether you're cheering for the home team or supporting the visitors, the energy of an NFL game is unparalleled. Enjoy the tailgating, the roar of the crowd, and the thrill of live football!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to calculate the exact driving distance between two stadiums?
The most accurate way is to use a reliable online mapping service like Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps, entering the full addresses of both Highmark Stadium (1 Bills Dr, Orchard Park, NY 14127) and MetLife Stadium (1 MetLife Stadium Dr, East Rutherford, NJ 07073). These services will provide real-time distance and estimated travel times.
How to find the cheapest way to travel from Highmark Stadium to MetLife Stadium?
Generally, carpooling and driving yourself is the most cost-effective, assuming you split fuel and toll costs. Public transportation (bus/train combo) can also be economical but takes much longer. Flying is typically the most expensive option.
Tip: Highlight sentences that answer your questions.
How to avoid traffic when driving from Highmark Stadium to MetLife Stadium?
To minimize traffic, aim to travel during off-peak hours: very early mornings, late nights, or mid-day on weekdays (avoiding typical rush hours). For game days, consider arriving the day before or leaving extremely early. Using GPS with real-time traffic updates (like Waze or Google Maps) is crucial.
How to purchase tickets for public transportation to MetLife Stadium?
For NJ TRANSIT train service to MetLife Stadium, you can purchase tickets at ticket windows, ticket vending machines, or through the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App. For Coach USA bus service (Route 351) from Port Authority, purchase tickets from Coach USA.
How to find affordable accommodation near MetLife Stadium?
Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during football season. Look for hotels in East Rutherford, Secaucus, or Carlstadt, NJ. Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com can help you compare prices. Consider staying slightly further out and driving or using public transport to the stadium for potentially lower rates.
How to navigate parking at MetLife Stadium?
The best way is to pre-purchase a parking pass online through the official MetLife Stadium website or a trusted secondary ticket marketplace. Arrive early to ensure you find your designated lot and avoid game-day congestion.
How to find direct flights from Buffalo to the New York City area?
You can search on flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak. Look for flights from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), or LaGuardia Airport (LGA). EWR is generally the most convenient for MetLife Stadium.
How to prepare your car for a long road trip to a stadium?
Before a long drive, ensure your car is in good working order: check tire pressure, oil levels, coolant, and wiper fluid. Pack an emergency kit, including jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight. Have a full tank of gas and plan your fuel stops.
How to find out about tolls on your driving route?
Use online toll calculators like TollGuru or check mapping services like Google Maps, which often indicate toll roads. An E-ZPass transponder is highly recommended for convenience and often lower rates on major toll roads in New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.
How to maximize your game day experience at MetLife Stadium?
Arrive early to enjoy tailgating, explore the stadium grounds, and visit team stores. Familiarize yourself with the stadium's entry policies (e.g., clear bag policy). Stay hydrated, wear comfortable shoes, and most importantly, soak in the electrifying atmosphere of live NFL football!
 |
