New York City's Times Square and New Jersey's MetLife Stadium are two iconic, yet geographically distinct, locations. Times Square, the dazzling heart of Manhattan, is a bustling hub of entertainment, theater, and tourism. MetLife Stadium, on the other hand, is a massive sports and entertainment complex nestled in the Meadowlands of East Rutherford, New Jersey, home to the NFL's New York Giants and Jets, as well as a popular venue for concerts and major events. So, how far apart are they, and more importantly, how do you get from one to the other?
While the direct distance isn't vast, usually around 8 to 10 miles depending on the exact starting point in Times Square and the route taken, traversing the Hudson River and navigating the metropolitan area requires a bit of planning. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various transportation options, ensuring you arrive at MetLife Stadium ready to enjoy your event!
Your Journey Begins: Times Square to MetLife Stadium
Ready to leave the bright lights of Times Square behind and head to the electrifying atmosphere of MetLife Stadium? Excellent! Let's break down your travel options step-by-step.
Step 1: Assess Your Priorities – Time, Cost, and Convenience
Before you even think about which bus or train to catch, consider what matters most to you for this trip:
- Speed: Are you in a hurry to catch the kickoff or the opening act?
- Budget: Are you looking for the most economical way to travel, even if it takes a bit longer?
- Ease of Travel: Do you prefer a straightforward, one-seat ride, or are you comfortable with transfers?
- Group Size: Are you traveling solo, with a partner, or with a large group? This can influence your best option.
Once you have a general idea of your priorities, you can dive into the specifics of each transportation method.
Step 2: Choosing Your Mode of Transport
There are several reliable ways to get from Times Square to MetLife Stadium, each with its own advantages.
Option A: Public Transportation - The Most Common Choice
Public transit is often the most cost-effective and, for many, the most efficient way to get to MetLife Stadium from Times Square, especially on event days when traffic can be heavy. This typically involves a combination of subway and NJ Transit rail or bus.
Sub-Step 2A.1: Getting to Port Authority Bus Terminal or Penn Station
Times Square is incredibly well-connected by subway. Your first move will be to get to either the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) or New York Penn Station.
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To Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT):
- Many subway lines serve the Times Square-42nd Street station, which is directly connected to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. You can take the 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W, A, C, E, or 7 trains to this station. Simply follow the signs within the subway station for the Port Authority Bus Terminal. It's often just a short indoor walk.
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To New York Penn Station:
- From Times Square, the easiest way to Penn Station is to take the 1, 2, or 3 subway lines from the Times Square-42nd Street station southbound to 34th Street-Penn Station. This is typically just one or two stops and a very quick ride.
Sub-Step 2A.2: From PABT (Bus Option - Coach USA's 351 Meadowlands Express)
If you're going by bus, the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express is your dedicated service for events.
- Locating the Bus: Head to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (200, 625 8th Ave, New York, NY 10018). Look for signs for the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service. On event days, there will usually be clear signage and staff directing passengers.
- Ticket Purchase: Purchase your round-trip ticket in advance at a ticket window or vending machine inside the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Do not wait to buy on the bus. A round-trip ticket is usually around $14.
- Boarding the Bus: Buses typically depart from the lower level of the terminal, but always check the departure boards for the correct gate number, as it can change.
- Travel Time: This is a direct service designed for event travel, so the ride is relatively quick, often around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Drop-off/Pick-up: The bus drops you off and picks you up near Parking Lot K at MetLife Stadium.
Sub-Step 2A.3: From Penn Station (Train Option - NJ Transit Rail)
The train is a popular and reliable option, especially for larger events.
- Locating NJ Transit: At New York Penn Station (34th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues, New York, NY 10001), follow signs for NJ Transit trains.
- Ticket Purchase: Purchase a round-trip joint ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" at an NJ Transit ticket vending machine or ticket window. You cannot purchase this joint ticket on the TrainTime app. If you already have an MTA ticket to Manhattan, or are a Metro-North rider, you'll need to buy a separate round-trip NJ Transit ticket from Penn Station to the Meadowlands. Purchase your return ticket at the same time to avoid lines after the event! The round-trip fare from Penn Station to the Meadowlands is typically around $11.
- Train to Secaucus Junction: Take any NJ Transit train that stops at Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. These trains are often marked with "SEC" on the departure boards. Secaucus Junction is usually the first stop after leaving Penn Station. This ride is approximately 10 minutes.
- Transfer at Secaucus Junction: At Secaucus Junction, you'll need to transfer to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line. Follow the signs upstairs to the mezzanine, and then down to the lower level (Tracks E-H) for the shuttle train to MetLife Stadium. You may need to show your ticket to staff at the gates.
- Train to MetLife Stadium: The shuttle train from Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station is a very short ride, roughly 10 minutes. The station is right at the stadium!
- Event Day Service: NJ Transit typically runs frequent service (every 10-20 minutes) for about 3.5 hours before an event and for about an hour after. Always check the official NJ Transit website for specific schedules for your event date.
Option B: Rideshare Services (Uber/Lyft)
For those prioritizing convenience and a direct ride, rideshare services are an option.
- Booking a Ride: Open your preferred rideshare app (Uber or Lyft) and set your destination as "MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ."
- Pickup Location: In Times Square, finding a good pickup spot can be tricky due to heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Try to move a block or two away from the busiest intersections to a less congested street for an easier pickup.
- Cost: The cost can vary significantly based on demand (surge pricing during events!), time of day, and traffic. Expect anywhere from $35-$60+, potentially much higher during peak event times.
- Travel Time: Without heavy traffic, the drive can be as quick as 15-25 minutes. However, on event days, traffic around the stadium can add considerable time to your journey, often extending it to 45 minutes or more.
- Drop-off/Pick-up: There are designated rideshare drop-off and pick-up areas at MetLife Stadium. Follow the signs upon arrival.
Option C: Taxi
Similar to rideshare, a traditional yellow cab offers a direct route.
- Hailing a Cab: You can easily hail a yellow cab in Times Square, especially on avenues.
- Cost: Taxi fares will be comparable to rideshare services, likely in the $35-$50 range plus tolls and tip, but again, subject to traffic and potential surcharges for New Jersey destinations.
- Travel Time: Similar to rideshare, travel time is highly dependent on traffic conditions, ranging from 15-25 minutes in clear traffic to 45+ minutes on event days.
- Drop-off/Pick-up: Taxis will also use designated drop-off/pick-up zones at the stadium.
Option D: Driving Your Own Car
While possible, driving from Times Square to MetLife Stadium is often the least recommended option due to traffic, tolls, and parking costs/logistics.
- Route: You'll likely take the Lincoln Tunnel or Holland Tunnel into New Jersey, then connect to major roadways like the NJ Turnpike or Route 3.
- Traffic: Expect significant traffic, especially on event days, both getting to the stadium and leaving.
- Parking: Parking at MetLife Stadium requires a pre-purchased parking permit. You cannot just show up and expect to find parking, especially for major events. Parking passes can be expensive and sell out quickly. Alternatively, some private lots may offer parking further away with shuttle services.
- Cost: Factor in tunnel tolls, gas, and parking fees, which can add up quickly.
- Travel Time: While the raw driving time might be 15-20 minutes without traffic, total travel time including parking and walking to the stadium can easily exceed an hour or more on event days.
Step 3: Event Day Considerations & Tips
Regardless of your chosen method, keep these crucial tips in mind for event days:
- Arrive Early: This cannot be stressed enough! Whether by public transit or car, allow ample extra time to account for crowds, security checks, and unexpected delays.
- Check Schedules: Always verify train and bus schedules on the official NJ Transit or Coach USA websites for your specific event date, as service can be adjusted.
- Tickets in Advance: Purchase all your public transit tickets (especially round-trip) before you travel to avoid long lines at stations. For trains, activate mobile tickets just before boarding.
- Stadium Bag Policy: Be aware of MetLife Stadium's clear bag policy and other prohibited items. Check their official website before you go to avoid delays at security.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast! If it's raining or cold, dress appropriately, especially if you'll be waiting outdoors for transit.
- Connectivity: Cell service can be spotty with large crowds. Download tickets or maps in advance if you rely on your phone.
- Patience is Key: With thousands of people heading to the same destination, expect crowds and be prepared for some waiting. A patient and positive attitude will make your journey much more enjoyable!
How Far is MetLife from Times Square? A Quick Recap
In summary, MetLife Stadium is not directly in New York City, but rather in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The distance from Times Square is approximately 8 to 10 miles by road.
- Driving: Around 15-25 minutes in clear traffic, but much longer on event days.
- Bus (Coach USA 351 Express): Approximately 20-30 minutes direct ride from Port Authority.
- Train (NJ Transit): Roughly 1 hour total travel time including transfers at Secaucus Junction.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about traveling from Times Square to MetLife Stadium:
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Times Square using public transport?
You can take the subway from Times Square to Port Authority Bus Terminal (for the 351 Express bus) or to Penn Station (for NJ Transit trains to Secaucus Junction and then a shuttle to the stadium).
How to take the bus to MetLife Stadium from Times Square?
From Times Square, walk to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (connected to the Times Square-42nd Street subway station). Look for the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus service, purchase a round-trip ticket in advance, and board at the designated gate.
How to take the train to MetLife Stadium from Times Square?
From Times Square, take the subway to New York Penn Station. From Penn Station, take an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction, and then transfer to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle train directly to MetLife Stadium.
How to buy tickets for the MetLife Stadium express bus?
You can buy round-trip tickets for the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus at a ticket window or vending machine inside the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
How to buy train tickets for MetLife Stadium?
Purchase a round-trip joint ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" from an NJ Transit ticket vending machine or ticket window at New York Penn Station or your originating NJ Transit station.
How to find the shuttle train at Secaucus Junction for MetLife Stadium?
At Secaucus Junction, go upstairs to the mezzanine level and then down to the lower level (Tracks E-H). Follow signs for the Meadowlands-bound trains.
How to avoid traffic when going to MetLife Stadium?
Public transportation, especially the NJ Transit train, is generally the best way to avoid traffic delays on event days. Leave early, regardless of your chosen method.
How to find parking at MetLife Stadium?
Parking at MetLife Stadium typically requires a pre-purchased parking permit for specific events. Check the official MetLife Stadium website or event organizer's site for parking information and to purchase permits in advance.
How to get a taxi from Times Square to MetLife Stadium?
You can easily hail a yellow taxi in Times Square. Be aware of potential tolls and increased fares during high-demand times or events.
How to estimate rideshare costs from Times Square to MetLife Stadium?
Use the fare estimator within your rideshare app (Uber, Lyft) by inputting "MetLife Stadium" as your destination. Remember that prices can surge significantly during peak event times.
