Are you planning a trip from the Bronx to MetLife Stadium for an epic game, a thrilling concert, or maybe even a monster truck rally? Fantastic! You've come to the right place. Getting to MetLife Stadium from the Bronx, while crossing state lines, is definitely achievable, and with a little planning, it can be a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Let's dive into all the details, from the actual distance to the best ways to get there, whether you're driving, taking public transit, or opting for a ride-share.
The Distance Demystified: How Far is MetLife Stadium from the Bronx?
MetLife Stadium, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is not a stone's throw from the Bronx, but it's also not an epic cross-country trek. Generally, the distance from various parts of the Bronx to MetLife Stadium is approximately 14-18 miles (22-29 kilometers).
However, this is just a straight-line distance. The actual travel time and distance will vary significantly depending on:
- Your exact starting point in the Bronx: The Bronx is a large borough, and navigating its streets to get to major highways or public transport hubs will add to your journey.
- The specific route you take: There are multiple ways to approach the stadium, each with its own traffic patterns.
- Time of day and week: Rush hour traffic, especially around the George Washington Bridge (GWB) and in and out of the Meadowlands Sports Complex, can dramatically increase travel times.
- Day of the event: Game days, concerts, and other major events at MetLife Stadium mean significantly more traffic and potentially longer public transport queues.
Now, let's explore your options!
Step 1: Assess Your Travel Style and Priorities
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of routes, think about what matters most to you:
- Cost-effectiveness: Are you on a tight budget and looking for the cheapest way to go?
- Speed: Is getting there as fast as possible your top priority, even if it costs a bit more?
- Convenience: Do you prefer a straightforward trip with minimal transfers, even if it means a slightly longer journey?
- Flexibility: Do you need to leave and return on your own schedule, or are you comfortable with fixed public transport timings?
- Group size: Are you traveling solo, with a small group, or a large party? This will influence vehicle choice and cost.
Once you have a general idea of your preferences, you can choose the best method from the detailed options below.
Step 2: Driving to MetLife Stadium from the Bronx
Driving offers the most flexibility, but it comes with its own challenges, especially on event days.
Sub-heading: Estimated Driving Time & Distance
- Distance: Approximately 14-18 miles (22-29 km)
- Time (without traffic): Around 20-35 minutes
- Time (with typical traffic, non-event day): 45 minutes to 1.5 hours
- Time (with heavy event traffic): 1.5 hours to 3+ hours (seriously, it can get backed up!)
Sub-heading: The Route - Navigating the George Washington Bridge
The primary driving route from the Bronx to MetLife Stadium involves crossing the George Washington Bridge (GWB) into New Jersey. Here's a general breakdown:
- Getting to the GWB: Depending on your exact location in the Bronx, you'll typically take the Cross Bronx Expressway (I-95 S) to the George Washington Bridge. Be prepared for potential congestion on the Cross Bronx, especially during peak hours.
- Crossing the GWB: This is a toll bridge, so have your E-ZPass ready or be prepared for cashless tolling (billed to your license plate). The GWB can be a major choke point, so check traffic conditions before you leave.
- Into New Jersey: Once across the GWB, you'll typically merge onto I-95 South (New Jersey Turnpike).
- Approaching MetLife Stadium: From I-95 S, you'll want to take specific exits for the Meadowlands Sports Complex.
- From I-95 S (New Jersey Turnpike Western Spur): Look for Exit 16W or 18W, which provide direct access to the Sports Complex parking areas. Be aware that the Western Spur (19W) near the Meadowlands complex is often an E-ZPass ONLY roadway.
- From I-95 S (New Jersey Turnpike Eastern Spur): If the Western Spur is congested, you might use the Eastern Spur (Exit 16E) and then take Route 3 West, which also provides direct access to the Sports Complex.
Sub-heading: Parking at MetLife Stadium
Parking at MetLife Stadium, especially for NFL games, requires pre-purchased parking permits.
- Pre-paid Permits: For NFL games, you must have a parking pass in advance. These are usually purchased through Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange. Passes are typically categorized as "Platinum" or "Gold" and grant access to designated lots. Display your hang tag or printed barcode/QR code clearly.
- Without Pre-paid Permits (NFL games): If you don't have a pre-paid permit for an NFL game, there might be off-site parking options available, often at 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073, for a fee (cash/credit accepted). Shuttle service is typically provided from these lots to the stadium.
- Non-NFL Events: For concerts and other non-NFL events, pre-paid permits are often not required, and parking is payable upon arrival. However, it's always best to check the specific event page on the MetLife Stadium website for the most up-to-date parking information.
- American Dream Parking: The American Dream complex, located right across from MetLife Stadium, also offers parking. Lots 26 and 27 are often open for stadium events, typically requiring pre-pay (credit card upon arrival, no cash onsite). They also have specific rates for NFL game days and other events. A useful tip: if you visit an American Dream attraction and validate your parking ticket at admissions, your parking fee can be significantly reduced!
- Tailgating: Tailgating is a popular activity at MetLife. Be aware of the stadium's policies regarding space usage (one parking space per permit, no using adjacent spaces for tailgating unless you have multiple permits).
Sub-heading: Tolls and Costs for Driving
- George Washington Bridge: Expect tolls (E-ZPass is highly recommended).
- New Jersey Turnpike: Portions of the Turnpike are also tolled.
- Parking: As mentioned, parking can range from $40-$75 for events, or more if you opt for premium lots or last-minute off-site parking.
Step 3: Public Transportation: The Stress-Free Alternative
For many, public transportation is the most convenient and often most cost-effective way to get to MetLife Stadium from the Bronx, especially on event days when traffic and parking can be a nightmare. There isn't a single direct route, but rather a combination of subway, train, and/or bus.
Sub-heading: Option A: Subway + Train (NJ Transit)
This is generally considered one of the best and most reliable public transport options.
-
Bronx to NYC Penn Station:
- From anywhere in the Bronx, you'll need to take an MTA subway line (e.g., 2, 4, 5, 6, D, B depending on your starting point) to a station that connects you to New York Penn Station (34th Street - Penn Station). This will involve transferring to a subway line that directly serves Penn Station (e.g., A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 lines).
- Travel Time: This portion can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour+, depending on your starting point in the Bronx and subway transfers.
- Cost: Standard MTA subway fare (currently $2.90 per ride).
-
NYC Penn Station to Secaucus Junction (NJ Transit):
- At New York Penn Station, you'll board an NJ Transit train. Look for any NJ Transit train that stops at Frank R. Lautenberg Secaucus Upper Level (often just called Secaucus Junction). Many lines, including the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, and Morris & Essex Line, will make this stop.
- Travel Time: This leg typically takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Cost: A round-trip fare from New York Penn Station to Meadowlands Rail Station (which includes the transfer at Secaucus) is usually around $12-$13 for adults. Purchase your round-trip tickets in advance from ticket windows, vending machines, or the NJ Transit Mobile App.
-
Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Sports Complex Station:
- At Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to a special shuttle train that runs directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station, which is just steps away from MetLife Stadium. These shuttle trains typically only run on event days with anticipated attendance above 50,000.
- Travel Time: This short shuttle ride takes approximately 10 minutes.
- Frequency: On event days, these shuttle trains run frequently (e.g., every 10-15 minutes), especially before and after the event.
Sub-heading: Option B: Subway + Bus (Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express)
This is another viable option, particularly if you are closer to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in Manhattan.
-
Bronx to Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT):
- Similar to the train option, you'll take an MTA subway line from the Bronx to a station that allows for a transfer to lines serving the Port Authority Bus Terminal (42nd Street - Port Authority Bus Terminal). The A, C, E, N, Q, R, W, S, 1, 2, 3, 7 lines all have connections to PABT.
- Travel Time: Again, this can range from 30 minutes to over an hour.
- Cost: Standard MTA subway fare.
-
Port Authority Bus Terminal to MetLife Sports Complex (Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express):
- From the PABT, look for the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus service. This bus provides direct service to the MetLife Sports Complex for NFL games and other large events.
- Important Note: The 351 bus typically begins service 2.5 hours before an event and continues until 30 minutes after the event starts. For the return trip, it usually runs for about an hour after the event concludes.
- Travel Time: The bus ride itself is advertised as taking around 20 minutes, subject to traffic and weather conditions. On event days, this can be longer.
- Cost: A round-trip ticket for the 351 bus is usually around $18.00, and a one-way ticket is about $9.00. You can purchase tickets online or at the Port Authority South Wing (windows 11-15). Exact fare is often required if paying on the bus.
Sub-heading: Total Public Transport Time & Cost Estimates:
- Subway + Train:
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours (including transfers and waiting).
- Total Cost: Around $15-$18 round trip (MTA subway + NJ Transit).
- Subway + Bus:
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2.5 hours (including transfers and waiting).
- Total Cost: Around $24-$27 round trip (MTA subway + Coach USA bus).
Step 4: Taxi/Rideshare from the Bronx to MetLife Stadium
For the ultimate convenience and door-to-door service, a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is an option.
Sub-heading: Estimated Time & Cost
- Time: Similar to driving yourself, around 20-35 minutes without traffic, and 1.5-3+ hours with heavy event traffic.
- Cost: This can be the most expensive option.
- Expect anywhere from $65-$80 or more for a one-way trip, especially during surge pricing (high demand during events).
- Tolls will be added to the fare.
- Return trips can be particularly challenging after an event due to high demand and potential difficulty getting a car.
Sub-heading: Things to Consider with Taxis/Rideshares:
- Traffic: You'll still be subject to the same traffic congestion as private cars.
- Drop-off/Pick-up Zones: MetLife Stadium has designated areas for taxi and rideshare drop-offs and pick-ups (typically between parking lots D and E). These areas can become very crowded after events.
- Surge Pricing: Be prepared for significantly higher fares during peak event times.
- Availability: Finding a rideshare immediately after a major event can be difficult and lead to long waits.
Step 5: Making Your Decision and Planning Ahead
Now that you have all the information, it's time to make your choice!
Sub-heading: Key Considerations for Your Trip:
- Check Event Schedules: Always confirm the exact start time of your event. This helps you plan your departure to avoid missing anything.
- Traffic Updates: Before you leave, check real-time traffic updates using apps like Google Maps or Waze, especially if you plan to drive or take a taxi/rideshare.
- Public Transit Alerts: Check the MTA and NJ Transit websites for any service changes, delays, or special event schedules.
- Purchase Tickets in Advance: For public transit, buying your round-trip NJ Transit ticket in advance (especially via the app) saves time and hassle. For NFL games, pre-purchasing parking is essential.
- Arrive Early: Regardless of your chosen method, arriving early is always a good strategy for MetLife Stadium events. This allows for buffer time for unexpected delays, navigating parking/public transport, and getting through security.
- Dress for Comfort & Weather: You'll likely be doing some walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
- Food & Drink: While there are plenty of concessions at the stadium, consider bringing a small, permissible snack or non-alcoholic beverage for your journey, especially if using public transport.
- Stay Hydrated: Especially important on hot days!
- Cash/Small Bills: Handy for smaller purchases or if a payment system goes down.
- Chargers: Keep your phone charged, especially if relying on ticketing apps or navigation.
By following these steps and considering your personal preferences, your trip from the Bronx to MetLife Stadium can be a smooth and enjoyable part of your event experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related "How to" questions with quick answers to help you further plan your trip to MetLife Stadium from the Bronx:
How to check real-time traffic from the Bronx to MetLife Stadium?
You can check real-time traffic using navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze on your smartphone. Simply enter "MetLife Stadium" as your destination from your current Bronx location.
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can buy NJ Transit tickets from ticket vending machines at train stations, ticket windows at major hubs like NYC Penn Station, or conveniently through the NJ Transit Mobile App (recommended for ease and avoiding queues). Be sure to select "Meadowlands Rail Station" as your destination from NYC Penn Station for a round-trip ticket.
How to find the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus at Port Authority?
The Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus typically departs from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in New York City. Check the signs and departure boards at PABT for the exact gate number, usually found in the South Wing.
How to save money on parking at MetLife Stadium?
To save money on parking, consider carpooling with friends to split costs, looking into the American Dream parking options (especially if you plan to visit an attraction there), or utilizing public transportation which eliminates parking fees entirely.
How to avoid George Washington Bridge tolls?
It is not possible to completely avoid tolls when driving from the Bronx to MetLife Stadium via the George Washington Bridge, as it is a toll bridge. However, having an E-ZPass can make the process smoother and sometimes offers a slight discount compared to cashless billing.
How to get to MetLife Stadium if NJ Transit shuttle trains aren't running?
If special event shuttle trains to MetLife Stadium are not running (this is rare for major events but can happen for smaller ones), you would likely rely on the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus from Port Authority, or utilize taxi/rideshare services. Always check NJ Transit's website for event-specific service advisories.
How to navigate MetLife Stadium once I arrive?
MetLife Stadium is well-signed. Look for signs directing you to specific gates, seating sections, and amenities. You can also download the official MetLife Stadium app for maps and wayfinding.
How to get back to the Bronx from MetLife Stadium after an event?
For public transport, follow the same steps in reverse: take the NJ Transit shuttle train back to Secaucus Junction, then an NJ Transit train to NYC Penn Station, and finally the subway back into the Bronx. If using the Coach USA bus, return to the designated pick-up area. If driving or using rideshare, expect heavy outbound traffic.
How to check for MetLife Stadium event-specific transportation information?
Always visit the official MetLife Stadium website (
How to know if I need a pre-paid parking permit for MetLife Stadium?
For NFL games, you almost always need a pre-paid parking permit. For most non-NFL events (concerts, other sports), pre-paid permits are generally not required, and parking is paid upon arrival. Always verify this on the specific event page on the MetLife Stadium website before you leave.