So, you're planning a trip to the New York metropolitan area and looking to catch a game or concert at both MetLife Stadium and Yankee Stadium? Fantastic! You're in for a double dose of iconic American sporting and entertainment venues. But a common question that pops up for many first-timers is: "How far is MetLife Stadium from Yankee Stadium?" Let's break it down, because while they're in the same general region, they're not exactly next door neighbors, and navigating between them requires a bit of planning.
The Short Answer: Not as Far as You Might Think (But Not a Walk in the Park Either!)
MetLife Stadium, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and Yankee Stadium, situated in the Bronx, New York, are separated by the Hudson River and a fair bit of urban landscape. The actual driving distance between them is roughly 11 to 13 miles, depending on the exact route you take and traffic conditions.
However, "how far" isn't just about miles; it's about travel time and ease of transit. This is where the New York/New Jersey area's complex transportation network comes into play.
Your Ultimate Guide to Traveling Between MetLife Stadium and Yankee Stadium
Getting from one stadium to the other can range from a quick hop to a multi-leg journey, depending on your chosen mode of transport and the ever-present NYC traffic. Let's explore your options.
Step 1: Consider Your Priorities – What's Most Important to YOU?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of routes, let's ask ourselves a crucial question: What matters most for your journey?
- Speed? If you're pressed for time or trying to catch back-to-back events, a taxi or private car service might be your best bet, despite the cost.
- Cost-effectiveness? Public transport will almost always be the most budget-friendly option.
- Convenience and comfort? Private car services offer door-to-door comfort, while public transit might involve transfers and walking.
- Flexibility? Driving your own car or a rental offers the most flexibility, but comes with the challenge of parking and tolls.
Once you have a sense of your priorities, you can pick the best option for your specific needs.
Step 2: Driving – The Most Direct (but Potentially Tricky) Route
Driving between MetLife Stadium and Yankee Stadium is the most direct in terms of mileage, typically taking around 20-30 minutes in ideal traffic conditions. However, this is New York City and New Jersey, so "ideal traffic" is often a fantasy! During peak hours, game days, or concert nights, this travel time can easily swell to 45 minutes, an hour, or even more.
Sub-heading: Route Overview
The most common driving route involves using major highways and bridges. You'll likely utilize the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) and cross the George Washington Bridge to enter Manhattan, then head north into the Bronx.
Sub-heading: Important Considerations for Drivers
- Tolls: Be prepared for tolls, especially when crossing bridges like the George Washington Bridge. An E-ZPass is highly recommended to save time and sometimes money.
- Parking: Both stadiums have significant parking facilities, but they come at a cost and can fill up quickly on event days. Pre-booking parking is often a smart move. Be aware that parking at MetLife Stadium can be pricey, and at Yankee Stadium, parking garages are available but also expensive.
- Traffic: This cannot be stressed enough. Traffic in the NYC metropolitan area is notoriously heavy, especially during rush hour and around major events. Always factor in significant buffer time. Use real-time navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze for the most up-to-date traffic information.
- GPS Address:
- MetLife Stadium: 1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
- Yankee Stadium: 1 E 161st St, Bronx, NY 10451
Step 3: Public Transportation – The Economical and Often Reliable Choice
Public transportation is a popular way to travel in the NYC area, and it's generally more affordable than driving or taking a taxi. However, it often involves multiple transfers and can take longer. The average travel time by public transport is around 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Sub-heading: Option A: Bus and Subway (Most Common)
This is a frequently recommended route for its balance of cost and efficiency.
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From MetLife Stadium to Port Authority Bus Terminal (NYC):
- Take an NJ Transit bus (like the 160 or 161) from the MetLife Sports Complex (specific stops vary, check signs) directly to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. This leg typically takes around 20-30 minutes, but can be longer in traffic.
- Tip: On event days, NJ Transit often runs special express buses from the stadium. Look for signs or ask stadium staff.
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From Port Authority Bus Terminal to Yankee Stadium:
- Once at Port Authority, walk a few blocks (or take a short subway ride) to a subway station that serves the D train or 4 train.
- Take the D train or 4 train northbound to the 161st Street-Yankee Stadium station. This subway ride usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
- Yankee Stadium is right outside the subway exit.
Sub-heading: Option B: Train and Subway (Less Direct, but an Option)
This route is also viable, especially if you're coming from other parts of New Jersey.
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From MetLife Stadium to Secaucus Junction (NJ):
- On event days, NJ Transit's Meadowlands Rail Line operates special services between MetLife Stadium and Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. This is a very quick 10-minute train ride.
- Note: This rail service generally runs for major events with anticipated attendance over 50,000, so check the schedule in advance if you're relying on it.
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From Secaucus Junction to New York Penn Station (NYC):
- From Secaucus Junction, take an NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan. This is a quick 10-15 minute ride.
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From New York Penn Station to Yankee Stadium:
- At Penn Station, transfer to the subway. Take the 1, 2, or 3 train northbound to Times Square-42nd Street, then transfer to the D train or 4 train northbound to 161st Street-Yankee Stadium. This subway portion can take 20-30 minutes.
Sub-heading: Essential Public Transport Tips
- NJ Transit and MTA: You'll be using two different transit systems: NJ Transit (for New Jersey buses and trains) and MTA (for NYC subways and buses).
- Fares: You'll need to purchase separate tickets or use different payment methods for each system. For NJ Transit, you can buy tickets at vending machines or use their mobile app. For NYC subways, you can use a MetroCard or the OMNY tap-to-pay system (with a contactless credit/debit card or mobile wallet).
- Off-Peak vs. Peak: Travel times on public transport can vary depending on the time of day and how crowded trains/buses are.
- Check Schedules: Always check the official websites for NJ Transit (njtransit.com) and MTA (mta.info) for the most up-to-date schedules, service alerts, and fare information, especially on event days.
Step 4: Taxi/Rideshare – The Convenient (but Priciest) Option
For maximum convenience, a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) is your go-to. It offers door-to-door service and avoids the complexities of public transit transfers or finding parking.
Sub-heading: Cost and Time
- Cost: A taxi or rideshare from MetLife Stadium to Yankee Stadium will typically cost between $55 and $70, excluding tolls and potential surge pricing during peak demand (like after a game).
- Time: Travel time by taxi or rideshare is similar to driving your own car – around 20-30 minutes in ideal conditions, but subject to significant delays during heavy traffic.
Sub-heading: Important Considerations for Taxis/Rideshares
- Surge Pricing: Be very mindful of surge pricing, especially right after a major event at either stadium. This can dramatically increase the cost.
- Pickup Points: Familiarize yourself with designated taxi and rideshare pickup areas at both stadiums, as they can be different from general drop-off points, especially on event days.
- Demand: Expect high demand and potentially longer wait times for rideshares immediately following events.
Step 5: Private Car Service – The Luxury and Stress-Free Choice
If budget isn't a primary concern and you prioritize comfort, convenience, and a guaranteed ride, a private car service (like those offered by MySedan or GO Airlink NYC) is an excellent option.
Sub-heading: Benefits
- Pre-booked: Your car will be waiting for you, eliminating wait times.
- Professional Drivers: Experienced drivers who know the best routes.
- Comfort: Often newer, more spacious vehicles.
- Group Options: Many services offer SUVs, vans, or even minibuses for larger groups.
Sub-heading: Cost
Private car services will be the most expensive option, but the price can be justified by the peace of mind and luxury experience, especially for those traveling with luggage or on a tight schedule. Rates will vary depending on the vehicle type and distance, but expect them to be higher than a standard taxi.
Conclusion: Making Your Stadium Hopping Adventure a Success!
The distance between MetLife Stadium and Yankee Stadium is manageable, but the journey itself requires some thought. Whether you opt for the independence of driving, the efficiency of public transport, or the comfort of a private ride, planning ahead is key. Always check real-time traffic and transit updates on the day of your travel, especially if you're attending a game or concert, as conditions can change rapidly.
With a little preparation, you'll be cheering on your favorite teams or rocking out to your favorite bands at both iconic venues with ease! Enjoy your New York sports and entertainment experience!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to calculate the exact driving distance between MetLife Stadium and Yankee Stadium?
You can calculate the exact driving distance by using online mapping services like Google Maps or Waze and entering the full addresses for both stadiums (MetLife Stadium: 1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073; Yankee Stadium: 1 E 161st St, Bronx, NY 10451). The distance usually falls between 11 and 13 miles.
How to find the cheapest way to get from MetLife Stadium to Yankee Stadium?
The cheapest way is typically by combining NJ Transit bus service to Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC, followed by a NYC subway (MTA) ride to Yankee Stadium. This combination usually costs around $10-$15 per person, not including tolls for the bus.
How to get from MetLife Stadium to Yankee Stadium using only public transport?
You would take an NJ Transit bus (e.g., 160 or 161) from MetLife Stadium to Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC. From Port Authority, walk a few blocks to a subway station (e.g., 42 St-Bryant Park) and take the D or 4 train northbound to 161st Street-Yankee Stadium.
How to avoid traffic when traveling between MetLife Stadium and Yankee Stadium?
To minimize traffic delays, public transportation (especially the subway portions) is often your best bet, as it avoids road congestion. If driving, try to travel during off-peak hours, avoid rush hour (typically 6-9 AM and 4-7 PM on weekdays), and use real-time traffic apps.
How to get a taxi from MetLife Stadium to Yankee Stadium?
You can usually find taxis at designated taxi stands outside MetLife Stadium on event days. Alternatively, you can use a rideshare app (Uber/Lyft) to request a ride from your location at the stadium.
How to get from Yankee Stadium to MetLife Stadium by train?
There's no direct train. From Yankee Stadium, take the subway (D or 4 train) to New York Penn Station. From Penn Station, take an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction, and then on event days, connect to the Meadowlands Rail Line to MetLife Stadium.
How to know if there's special event transportation between the stadiums?
Both MetLife Stadium and NJ Transit, as well as Yankee Stadium and MTA, often announce special event transportation schedules on their official websites. It's highly recommended to check these sources in the days leading up to your planned travel.
How to estimate the travel time from Yankee Stadium to MetLife Stadium by car?
By car, the travel time is typically 17-25 minutes in light traffic. However, during peak hours or on event days, this can easily extend to 45 minutes to over an hour due to congestion, especially around the George Washington Bridge.
How to book a private car service for travel between MetLife Stadium and Yankee Stadium?
You can book a private car service online through company websites like MySedan or GO Airlink NYC, or by calling their customer service. It's advisable to book in advance, especially for event days.
How to pay for public transportation when traveling between MetLife Stadium and Yankee Stadium?
For NJ Transit (buses/trains to/from MetLife Stadium), you can use their mobile app, ticket vending machines, or purchase paper tickets. For NYC MTA (subways), you can use a MetroCard (purchased at subway stations) or the OMNY tap-to-pay system with a contactless credit/debit card or mobile wallet.
