So, you're planning a trip to MetLife Stadium from Newark, NJ, perhaps for an electrifying football game, a blockbuster concert, or a thrilling live event? Excellent choice! MetLife Stadium is a premier venue, and getting there from Newark is a common journey for many. Let's break down exactly how far it is and, more importantly, how to get there with ease!
The Essential Question: How Far is MetLife Stadium from Newark, NJ?
MetLife Stadium is located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, within the sprawling Meadowlands Sports Complex. When you're starting from Newark, NJ, you're looking at a relatively short and manageable distance.
- The approximate driving distance between Newark, NJ, and MetLife Stadium is about 10-15 miles.
- The exact distance can vary slightly depending on your specific starting point within Newark and the route you take. For instance, if you're starting from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), it's roughly 13-17 miles.
Now, let's get you there!
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Reaching MetLife Stadium from Newark, NJ
This guide will cover various transportation methods, their estimated times, and costs, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs, budget, and desired level of convenience.
Step 1: Define Your Starting Point in Newark
Before we dive into routes, let's pinpoint where you are in Newark. Are you:
- At Newark Penn Station (NPS)? This is a major transportation hub, ideal for public transit.
- At Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)? Many visitors arrive here and need direct routes.
- Somewhere else in Newark (e.g., downtown, a specific neighborhood)? Knowing your general area will help you decide on the best initial steps.
Got it? Great! Let's move on to your travel options.
Step 2: Choosing Your Mode of Transportation
You have several excellent choices, each with its own advantages.
Option A: Public Transportation (Train - Highly Recommended!)
For many, especially on event days, public transportation is the most efficient and stress-free way to get to MetLife Stadium. NJ Transit offers direct rail service for most major events.
Sub-Step 2.A.1: Getting to Secaucus Junction
The key to public transit to MetLife Stadium is Secaucus Junction (Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction). This is the transfer point for the dedicated Meadowlands Rail Line.
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From Newark Penn Station (NPS):
- Take any NJ Transit train (Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Raritan Valley Line, or even some Morris & Essex Line trains) heading towards New York Penn Station.
- Your destination is Secaucus Junction. The ride from Newark Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is typically around 7-15 minutes.
- Cost: Expect to pay around $3-$5 for this leg.
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From Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR):
- Take the AirTrain Newark from your terminal to the Newark Liberty International Airport Train Station.
- From there, board any NJ Transit train heading towards New York Penn Station.
- Your destination is Secaucus Junction. The total journey from EWR to Secaucus Junction (including AirTrain) is usually around 20-30 minutes.
- Cost: The AirTrain fare combined with the train ticket can range from $14-$17.
Sub-Step 2.A.2: The Meadowlands Rail Line
Once you're at Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line.
- This special rail service typically operates for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000, delivering guests directly to the front door of MetLife Stadium.
- Trains to the Meadowlands depart from the lower level of Secaucus Junction.
- The travel time between Secaucus Junction and the Sports Complex station is approximately 10 minutes.
- Cost: A round-trip fare from Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Sports Complex is around $5.10.
Sub-Step 2.A.3: Important Tips for Public Transit
- Purchase Round-Trip Tickets in Advance! This is crucial to avoid lines and the additional $5.00 charge for purchasing tickets on board the train. You can buy them at ticket windows, vending machines, or via the NJ Transit Mobile App (highly recommended for convenience!). Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
- Check Event Schedules: The Meadowlands Rail Service only operates for specific large events. Always check the MetLife Stadium website or NJ Transit's website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands - Familiarize Yourself with Secaucus Junction: It's a busy station, especially on event days. Follow signs for the Meadowlands Rail Line to ensure a smooth transfer.
Option B: Driving (Car - Most Flexible, but be Mindful of Traffic/Parking)
If you prefer the flexibility of driving, it's definitely an option.
Sub-Step 2.B.1: Estimated Driving Time
- The drive from Newark to MetLife Stadium typically takes 15-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
- However, on event days, traffic can be significantly heavier, especially as you get closer to the stadium. Factor in at least 45 minutes to over an hour during peak event travel times.
Sub-Step 2.B.2: Directions
MetLife Stadium is well-situated near major roadways. Here are general directions:
- From Central Newark: Your most direct route will likely involve taking I-95 North (New Jersey Turnpike).
- Take I-95 North (New Jersey Turnpike) to Exit 16W for NJ Route 3 West towards Secaucus/Rutherford/Sports Complex.
- Follow signs for the Sports Complex.
- From Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR):
- Head north from the airport.
- Take the ramp to US-1/US-9/NJ-21/US-22/NJ Turnpike/I-95/I-78.
- Merge onto I-95 North (New Jersey Turnpike).
- Take Exit 16W for NJ Route 3 West towards Secaucus/Rutherford/Sports Complex.
- Follow signs to the Sports Complex.
Sub-Step 2.B.3: Parking at MetLife Stadium
- Pre-paid parking is highly recommended and often required for vehicles entering the Sports Complex on event days. You can usually purchase parking permits online through the MetLife Stadium or team websites (Giants/Jets).
- Parking lots typically open 5 hours prior to an event and close 2 hours after.
- Consider parking at the Edison Park Fast lot at Secaucus Junction and taking the Meadowlands Rail Service if you don't have a pre-paid stadium parking pass. This lot is open 24 hours and costs around $20 per game.
Option C: Taxi / Rideshare (Convenient, but can be Pricey)
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber or Lyft offer door-to-door convenience.
- Travel Time: Similar to driving, expect 20-40 minutes under normal conditions, but longer with event traffic.
- Cost: Prices can vary significantly based on demand (surge pricing during events is common) and traffic.
- From Newark Penn Station to MetLife Stadium: Expect to pay around $45-$60.
- From Newark Airport (EWR) to MetLife Stadium: Expect to pay around $60-$75 (and potentially more with surge).
- Pick-up/Drop-off: MetLife Stadium has designated rideshare zones (often in Lot E) for safe and organized pick-ups and drop-offs.
Option D: Bus (Less Direct, but an Option)
While the train is generally preferred, bus options exist, though they often involve more transfers.
- From Newark Penn Station:
- You can take NJ Transit local buses (e.g., Route 108 from Newark Penn Station) which might require transfers to other routes that serve the Meadowlands area.
- Travel Time: This option can take 1 hour 20 minutes or more due to transfers.
- Cost: Typically more economical than a taxi, likely in the $2-$15 range depending on transfers.
- From Port Authority Bus Terminal (NYC) - Indirect for Newark but worth noting:
- If you somehow find yourself in NYC first, Coach USA offers the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal directly to MetLife Stadium for NFL games and large events.
- Travel Time: Approximately 25-45 minutes from Port Authority.
- Cost: Round-trip tickets are around $14.
Step 3: Plan for Event Day Logistics!
Regardless of your chosen method, planning ahead is paramount for event days.
- Allow Ample Time: Always assume it will take longer than expected, especially for major games or concerts. Arriving early allows for parking, navigating security, and soaking in the pre-event atmosphere.
- Check Event Specifics: MetLife Stadium's website (
metlifestadium.com - Download Apps: The NJ Transit app for tickets and schedules, and your preferred rideshare app, are incredibly helpful.
- Stay Hydrated and Comfortable: Long travel times or standing in lines can be tiring. Be prepared!
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to getting to MetLife Stadium from Newark, with quick answers:
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Newark Penn Station by train?
Take an NJ Transit train from Newark Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line which goes directly to the stadium.
How to find out if the Meadowlands Rail Line is running for my event?
Check the MetLife Stadium website or the NJ Transit website (
How to purchase train tickets for MetLife Stadium from Newark?
You can buy round-trip tickets at NJ Transit ticket windows, vending machines, or conveniently through the NJ Transit Mobile App.
How to drive to MetLife Stadium from Newark?
Take I-95 North (New Jersey Turnpike) to Exit 16W for NJ Route 3 West, then follow signs for the Sports Complex.
How to get pre-paid parking for MetLife Stadium?
Visit the MetLife Stadium official website or the New York Giants/Jets team websites to purchase parking permits in advance.
How to take a taxi or rideshare from Newark to MetLife Stadium?
Simply request a taxi or use your preferred rideshare app (Uber/Lyft). Be aware of potential surge pricing during events.
How to find the rideshare pick-up/drop-off zone at MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium has designated rideshare zones, often located in Parking Lot E. Follow stadium signage upon arrival.
How to get from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to MetLife Stadium by public transport?
Take the AirTrain to Newark Airport Train Station, then an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction, and finally transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line.
How to estimate the cost of public transportation from Newark to MetLife Stadium?
Expect to pay approximately $8-$10 one-way from Newark Penn Station, and $17-$25 one-way from Newark Liberty International Airport (including AirTrain).
How to ensure a smooth travel experience to MetLife Stadium on event day?
Plan your route in advance, allow ample travel time, purchase tickets/parking ahead, and check the stadium/NJ Transit websites for the latest information.