Are you planning a trip to MetLife Stadium for a game, concert, or another exciting event? Getting there efficiently is key to enjoying your experience, and the train from Secaucus Junction is often the best way to do it. You're in luck, because this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this short but crucial train ride!
How Long is the Train from Secaucus to MetLife? Your Essential Guide to a Seamless Journey
The short answer? The train ride from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium is remarkably quick, typically taking 10 to 15 minutes. However, there's more to know than just the travel time to ensure a smooth journey. This comprehensive guide will cover everything from understanding the service to purchasing tickets and navigating the stations.
Step 1: Understanding the Meadowlands Rail Line – Is it Always Running?
Before you even think about buying a ticket, it's crucial to understand that the train service to MetLife Stadium (known as the Meadowlands Rail Line) is not a daily commuter line. Instead, it operates specifically for major events at MetLife Stadium, such as:
- NFL Games: New York Giants and New York Jets home games.
- Concerts: Large-scale musical performances.
- Other Big Events: Major sporting events, special shows, etc., where a significant number of attendees are expected.
Why is this important? Because if you're planning to visit MetLife Stadium on a day without a major event, the train service won't be running, and you'll need to explore alternative transportation options.
- How to Check: Always verify the schedule on the NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands
Step 2: Getting to Secaucus Junction: Your Hub for MetLife
Secaucus Junction (officially the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction) is a major transportation hub for NJ Transit. Most of NJ Transit's rail lines connect here, making it an ideal transfer point for those traveling from various parts of New Jersey or New York City.
Sub-heading: Arriving from New York Penn Station
If you're coming from New York Penn Station (NYC), this is your most common route:
- Board any NJ Transit train marked with "SEC" on the departure boards. These trains are bound for Secaucus Junction.
- The ride from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is usually about 10-15 minutes itself.
- Secaucus Junction is the first stop after leaving Penn Station.
Sub-heading: Arriving from Other NJ Transit Lines
If you're starting your journey from other parts of New Jersey, you'll likely connect to Secaucus Junction via one of these lines:
- Main/Bergen County Line
- Montclair-Boonton Line
- Morris & Essex Line
- Northeast Corridor
- North Jersey Coast Line
- Pascack Valley Line
- Raritan Valley Line
- Port Jervis Line
Your specific travel time to Secaucus Junction will vary depending on your starting station. Always use the NJ Transit Trip Planner on their website or app to get precise times and connections.
Step 3: Navigating Secaucus Junction for the Meadowlands Train
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll need to transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line. Don't worry, it's designed to be straightforward, especially on event days.
- Go Upstairs to the Mezzanine: Follow the signs to the upper level of the station.
- Ticket Check: Be prepared to show your rail ticket to the staff at the fare gates. Your "Meadowlands" ticket (more on this in Step 4) covers this transfer.
- Head to the Lower Level (Tracks E-H): The trains to MetLife Stadium depart from the lower level of Secaucus Junction, specifically from Tracks E-H. There will be numerous signs and NJ Transit personnel directing you. On event days, you'll also notice a large crowd heading in the same direction, so it's hard to get lost!
- Pro Tip: Listen for announcements! NJ Transit makes frequent announcements about the Meadowlands-bound trains on event days.
Step 4: Purchasing Your Ticket: Don't Get Caught Without One!
This is a critical step. You must have a valid ticket to board the train.
Sub-heading: What Kind of Ticket Do I Need?
You'll need a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands". It's important to select "Meadowlands" as your final destination, even if you're connecting from other lines, as this ticket includes the transfer at Secaucus Junction.
Sub-heading: Where to Buy Tickets
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NJ Transit Mobile App (Recommended!): This is by far the easiest and most convenient way to purchase your ticket. Download the "NJ Transit Mobile App" from your app store. You can buy your ticket in advance and activate it just before boarding. This saves you from waiting in lines at the station.
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Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Available at most NJ Transit stations, including New York Penn Station and Secaucus Junction. Look for the "Meadowlands Sports Complex" option as your destination.
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Ticket Offices: Some larger stations have ticket offices where you can purchase tickets from an agent.
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Important Note: Do NOT try to buy your ticket on the train. There's usually an additional $5 surcharge if you purchase a ticket onboard, and you might hold up the line. Buy it before you board!
Step 5: The Actual Train Ride: Your 10-15 Minute Sprint to the Stadium
Once you're on the Meadowlands Rail Line train, you're just minutes away from the stadium!
- Travel Time: As mentioned, the ride itself is incredibly short, typically 10 to 15 minutes.
- Frequency: On major event days, trains run frequently, often every 10-20 minutes, especially in the hours leading up to an event. During the event, service might be hourly, and after the event, trains run on a "load-and-go" basis to quickly clear the crowds, often every 15 minutes or more frequently until everyone has departed.
- Arrival: The train pulls right up to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station, which is just steps away from MetLife Stadium. You'll see the stadium towering over you as you arrive!
Step 6: The Return Journey: Planning Your Departure
Leaving MetLife Stadium can be just as busy as arriving.
- Head Back to Meadowlands Sports Complex Station: Follow the signs to the train station.
- Load and Go: After events, NJ Transit operates trains on a "load-and-go" basis, meaning trains depart as soon as they are full. This helps manage the large crowds efficiently.
- Transfer at Secaucus Junction: You'll take the train back to Secaucus Junction, where you can then connect to your desired NJ Transit line to your final destination (e.g., New York Penn Station, Hoboken, etc.).
- Check Last Train Times: Especially for evening events, it is crucial to know the schedule for the last connecting trains out of Secaucus Junction to your final destination. Don't get stranded! Check the NJ Transit website or app for these times.
Conclusion: A Speedy and Efficient Trip!
In summary, the train ride from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium is a swift and efficient process, typically taking only 10 to 15 minutes. By understanding how the Meadowlands Rail Line operates, planning your ticket purchase in advance, and knowing the simple transfer process at Secaucus Junction, you can ensure a stress-free journey to and from your event at MetLife Stadium. Enjoy the game or show!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find the exact train schedule for my MetLife Stadium event?
You can find the exact train schedule for your specific event by visiting the official NJ Transit website (
How to buy a train ticket to MetLife Stadium?
You can buy a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" using the NJ Transit Mobile App, at ticket vending machines (TVMs) at any NJ Transit station, or at staffed ticket offices.
How to get to Secaucus Junction from New York Penn Station?
From New York Penn Station, take any NJ Transit train that displays "SEC" (for Secaucus) on the departure board. Secaucus Junction is the first stop, typically a 10-15 minute ride.
How to transfer at Secaucus Junction for the MetLife train?
At Secaucus Junction, go upstairs to the mezzanine, present your ticket at the fare gates, and then proceed to the lower level (Tracks E-H) where the Meadowlands-bound trains depart. Follow the signs and NJ Transit personnel.
How to know if the MetLife train service is running for my event?
The Meadowlands Rail Line only operates for major events. Always check the NJ Transit website or app for event-specific schedules before your trip to confirm service is available.
How to save time when purchasing train tickets?
To save time, download the NJ Transit Mobile App and purchase your round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" in advance. Activate it just before boarding.
How to ensure a smooth return trip from MetLife Stadium?
After the event, head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station. Trains will operate on a "load-and-go" basis back to Secaucus Junction. Be sure to check the last connecting train times from Secaucus Junction to your final destination, especially for late-night events.
How to get assistance if I'm lost at Secaucus Junction?
On event days, NJ Transit staff and volunteers are usually present throughout Secaucus Junction to assist passengers. Don't hesitate to ask them for directions.
How to pay for my train ticket to MetLife Stadium?
You can pay with credit/debit cards or cash at ticket vending machines, or directly through the NJ Transit Mobile App using various payment methods.
How to find alternative transportation if the train isn't running?
If the train service isn't available for your event, consider options like rideshares (Uber/Lyft), taxis, or Coach USA's 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from Port Authority Bus Terminal (though this also typically runs for major events). Always verify these services in advance.
