Traveling from Penn Station, New York City, to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is a common journey for sports fans and concertgoers. While it's not a direct ride, it's a well-established route with clear public transportation options. The total travel time can vary, but generally, you're looking at around 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes by train, including the transfer.
Let's break down how to make this journey efficiently and stress-free!
The Journey to MetLife: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Are you ready to embark on your MetLife adventure?
Before you even leave your current location, it's crucial to understand that public transit to MetLife Stadium primarily relies on NJ Transit trains. This isn't like catching a quick subway ride within NYC; it involves a transfer. So, grab your phone, download the NJ Transit app (it's a lifesaver for tickets and real-time updates!), and let's plan your trip.
Step 2: Getting to Penn Station, NYC
Your journey begins at New York Penn Station, located at 32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues in Manhattan.
- Subway: Numerous NYC subway lines (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3) stop directly at or very close to Penn Station. Plan your subway route using Google Maps or a similar app.
- Bus: NYC buses also serve the Penn Station area.
- Walking/Taxi/Rideshare: Depending on your starting point in Manhattan, these are also viable options.
Step 3: Taking the NJ Transit Train to Secaucus Junction
This is the main leg of your train journey.
- Finding your train: Once you're at Penn Station, look for the large departure boards. You're looking for any NJ Transit train that stops at Secaucus Junction (SEC). Many lines, including the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, and Morris & Essex Line, will make this stop. Don't worry if it's not explicitly labeled "Meadowlands" yet; your first goal is Secaucus.
- Purchasing your ticket:
- NJ Transit Mobile App: This is highly recommended. You can purchase a round-trip ticket from "New York Penn Station" to "Meadowlands" directly on the app. This saves you time waiting in line at ticket machines and allows for easy activation.
- Ticket Vending Machines: Available at Penn Station. Select "Meadowlands" as your destination.
- Ticket Window: Available at major terminals.
- Important: Always purchase your ticket before boarding the train to avoid a possible $5 surcharge.
- Boarding the train: Head to the platform indicated on the departure board. Trains to Secaucus Junction run frequently, especially on event days.
- Travel Time (Penn Station to Secaucus): This segment typically takes about 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Transferring at Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Rail Line
Secaucus Junction is your transfer point. This is where the magic happens for reaching MetLife.
- Arrival at Secaucus: When you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll likely see a large crowd of people heading in the same direction – follow them! NJ Transit staff are also usually present on event days to guide passengers.
- Finding the Meadowlands Rail Line: You'll need to transfer from the upper level platforms (where you arrived) to the lower level platforms for the Meadowlands Rail Line. There are clear signs and escalators/elevators.
- Boarding the Shuttle Train: This special shuttle train runs directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station, which is literally steps away from MetLife Stadium. These trains operate frequently on a "load-and-go" basis during peak times before and after events.
- Travel Time (Secaucus to MetLife): This final leg is very short, usually taking about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Arriving at MetLife Stadium!
Congratulations! You've made it. The Meadowlands Sports Complex Station drops you off right at the stadium complex. You'll be able to see MetLife Stadium from the moment you step off the train.
Total Estimated Travel Time
Factoring in waiting times and transfers, the entire journey from New York Penn Station to MetLife Stadium by train generally takes:
- Average Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes
- During peak event times: While the actual train ride is quick, you might encounter longer waits for the shuttle train at Secaucus Junction or for your initial train at Penn Station due to the sheer volume of people. It's always wise to allow for extra time, especially for major games or concerts.
- After an event: The return journey can sometimes take longer due to crowds waiting to board the trains from MetLife. Be prepared for a bit of a wait, but NJ Transit does a good job of running trains frequently to clear the crowds.
Important Considerations and Tips:
- Check Event Schedules: Always check the MetLife Stadium website (
www.metlifestadium.com www.njtransit.com/meadowlands - Purchase Round-Trip Tickets: Buying a round-trip ticket from "New York Penn Station" to "Meadowlands" in advance (especially via the app) saves you time and ensures you have your return ticket ready. You'll activate one ticket for the way there and one for the way back.
- Mobile App is Your Best Friend: The NJ Transit app provides real-time train status, schedules, and allows for mobile ticketing, making your journey much smoother.
- Follow the Crowd: On event days, there will be thousands of people making the same journey. Don't be afraid to follow the general flow of people, especially at Secaucus Junction.
- Be Patient: While efficient, public transit on event days can be crowded. Patience is key!
- Last Train Times: Be mindful of the last train times, especially if an event runs late. NJ Transit usually extends service for major events, but it's always good to confirm.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to purchase NJ Transit tickets to MetLife Stadium?
You can purchase tickets via the NJ Transit Mobile App (highly recommended), at ticket vending machines in Penn Station, or at ticket windows at major terminals. Select "Meadowlands" as your destination.
How to find the correct train at Penn Station for MetLife?
Look for any NJ Transit train on the departure boards that shows "SEC" (Secaucus Junction) as a stop. All trains that stop at Secaucus Junction will allow you to connect to the Meadowlands Rail Line.
How to transfer from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium?
At Secaucus Junction, follow the signs and crowds to the lower level platforms for the "Meadowlands Rail Line." Shuttle trains run directly from here to the stadium.
How to get back to Penn Station from MetLife Stadium after an event?
Head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station, take the shuttle train to Secaucus Junction, and then transfer to any NJ Transit train heading towards "New York Penn Station" from the upper level platforms.
How to check real-time train schedules for MetLife Stadium events?
Download the NJ Transit Mobile App for real-time departures and schedule information, or visit the "Meadowlands" section of the NJ Transit website (
How to avoid long lines for tickets to MetLife Stadium?
Purchase your round-trip ticket in advance, especially using the NJ Transit Mobile App. This allows you to activate your ticket as you board, bypassing ticket lines.
How to know if there's special train service for a MetLife Stadium event?
NJ Transit typically operates special rail service for events with an expected attendance of 50,000 or more. Always check the official MetLife Stadium website or NJ Transit's "Meadowlands" page for event-specific transportation details.
How to confirm the last train time from MetLife Stadium back to Penn Station?
Check the event-specific rail timetables on the NJ Transit website (
How to get to MetLife Stadium if NJ Transit trains aren't running for a smaller event?
For smaller events where direct train service to the Meadowlands Rail Line isn't active, you might consider taking an NJ Transit bus (like the 351 Meadowlands Express from Port Authority Bus Terminal, or local bus routes like the 703 that stop near the complex) or a rideshare/taxi. Check the MetLife Stadium website for alternative transportation options for your specific event.
How to estimate the total cost of the train ride from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium?
A round-trip adult ticket from New York Penn Station to Meadowlands via NJ Transit is typically around $12.60. Fares can be found on the NJ Transit website or app.