Navigating MetLife Stadium: Your Ultimate Guide to Parking Like a Pro!
Are you gearing up for an unforgettable experience at MetLife Stadium – perhaps a thrilling Giants or Jets game, a sensational concert, or an exciting live event? If you're planning to drive, one of the first questions on your mind is undoubtedly, "How many parking spaces does MetLife Stadium have?" And more importantly, how can I secure one and make my arrival and departure as smooth as possible?
Well, you've come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will not only answer that burning question but also walk you through everything you need to know about parking at MetLife Stadium, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable visit. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Discovering the Vastness – How Many Spaces Are We Talking?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of securing your spot, let's address the big question: MetLife Stadium boasts an impressive number of parking spaces!
There are approximately 23,800 parking spaces distributed among 14 lettered lots directly at MetLife Stadium. In addition to this, there are an additional 5,000 parking spaces adjacent to the east side of the stadium, bringing the total to a staggering around 28,800 parking spaces within the MetLife Sports Complex! That's a lot of room for vehicles, but as you'll learn, planning is still key, especially for popular events.
Step 2: Understanding Your Parking Options & Strategies
Knowing the total capacity is great, but understanding the different types of parking and how to access them is crucial.
Sub-heading: NFL Game Day Parking (Pre-Paid Permits are King!)
For NFL games (New York Giants and New York Jets home games), parking operates on a pre-paid permit system. This means you cannot just show up and pay for parking on the day of the game in most of the main lots.
- Pre-purchased Permits: These are typically included with Personal Seat Licenses (PSLs) for season ticket holders, or can be purchased via secondary markets like Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange. These permits are usually categorized as "Gold" or "Platinum," granting access to specific lots.
- Gold Permits: Allow access to lots like B, D, J, K, L, M, P, Deck A, and other lots near American Dream.
- Platinum Permits: Grant access to Lots E, F, or G, which are often closer to the stadium.
- Off-site Parking with Shuttle Service: If you don't have a pre-paid permit for the main lots, there's often an official off-site lot available. For example, at 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073. This lot usually charges a fee (e.g., $55) and provides shuttle service to and from the stadium complex (typically to Lot G). This is a great alternative if you couldn't secure a stadium lot pass.
- Secaucus Junction Park & Ride (Train): A fantastic option to avoid stadium traffic altogether! You can park at the Edison Park Fast lot at the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction (approx. 1,100 spaces). From there, you can take NJ TRANSIT rail service directly to the MetLife Sports Complex. This is a convenient and often more predictable way to arrive.
Sub-heading: Non-NFL Event Parking (Generally Easier!)
For concerts, soccer matches, and other events, the parking situation is generally more straightforward.
- Payment Upon Arrival: For most non-NFL events, pre-paid permits are not required. Parking is typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, and you pay upon arrival.
- Variable Pricing: Parking costs for non-football events can vary, but a common price is around $25 per car. However, for major concerts or high-demand events, prices can be higher (e.g., $40, $50, or even more, especially if pre-purchased through specific vendors or third-party sites). Always check the event-specific "Know Before You Go" information on the MetLife Stadium website.
- American Dream Parking: The American Dream complex, located across from MetLife Stadium, also offers parking, with Lots 26, 27, and 28, and Parking Deck A often available for MetLife Stadium events. These typically require pre-payment or payment upon arrival by credit card (cash often not accepted). Be aware that if you visit American Dream attractions and then attend a MetLife Stadium event, event rates may apply if you exit after the event.
Sub-heading: Accessible Parking (ADA)
MetLife Stadium is committed to providing accessible parking for guests with disabilities.
- Designated Lots: Accessible parking is typically available in Lots E, F, and G.
- Valid Credentials Required: You must have a valid ADA license plate or a state-issued accessible parking hang tag visibly displayed. The owner of the vehicle with the valid credentials must also be in the vehicle.
- Staff Assistance: Traffic and parking staff will direct you to the designated accessible spaces.
- Drop-off Area: A dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is located in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
Step 3: Crucial Tips for a Smooth Parking Experience
Even with thousands of spaces, getting in and out of MetLife Stadium can be a challenge. Here are some pro tips:
- Arrive Early, Always! This cannot be stressed enough. Parking lots typically open 5 hours prior to the start of an event for NFL games and 3-4 hours prior for concerts/other events. Arriving early gives you the best chance to secure your preferred spot and avoid the heaviest traffic.
- Check the "Know Before You Go" Guide: MetLife Stadium publishes specific "Know Before You Go" guides for each major event on their website. Always consult this document for the most up-to-date information on lot opening times, parking capacities, and any special instructions.
- One Car = One Space: MetLife Stadium strictly enforces a "one car = one space" policy. This means your tailgating setup must be contained within your single parking space and the area directly in front or behind your vehicle. Do not use adjacent spaces for grills, chairs, or tents.
- Tailgating Rules: If you plan to tailgate, be familiar with the rules. Grills are generally permitted but must be used safely and at a distance from vehicles. Open fires, deep fryers, and commercial tailgating are prohibited. Loud sound systems are also restricted.
- Consider Public Transportation: For many, especially those coming from NYC, public transportation is a highly recommended alternative to driving. NJ TRANSIT rail service directly to the stadium from Secaucus Junction is efficient and avoids traffic entirely. Coach USA also offers bus service from Port Authority.
- Have Your Permit/Payment Ready: For NFL games, have your pre-paid parking permit clearly displayed on your rearview mirror or dashboard. For non-NFL events, have your payment method (credit card often preferred) ready to speed up entry.
- Be Patient and Follow Directions: Traffic flow around the stadium on event days is carefully managed. Follow the directions of police and parking staff, even if it seems counter-intuitive. They are there to keep traffic moving.
- Designate a Driver/Meet-up Spot: If you're going with a group, designate a sober driver. Also, agree on a meet-up spot outside the stadium after the event, as cell service can be spotty with large crowds.
- No Overnight Parking: Overnight parking is strictly prohibited on the MetLife Sports Complex.
- Vehicle Searches: Vehicles entering the Sports Complex are subject to search by NJ State Police, which may include canine units. Refusing a search will result in denial of entry.
Step 4: After the Event – Exiting the Parking Lots
Just as important as arriving is departing smoothly.
- Post-Event Traffic: Expect significant delays when exiting the parking lots, especially after sold-out events. Everyone is leaving at once.
- Patience is Key: Remain patient and follow the directions of traffic personnel. Attempting to navigate around designated routes will likely lead to more frustration.
- Consider Post-Event Activities: If you're not in a rush, consider grabbing a bite to eat or hanging out in the plaza areas (if still open) to let some of the initial traffic dissipate.
- Know Your Exit Route: Familiarize yourself with the general direction of your chosen parking lot and the major roadways leading out of the complex (NJ Turnpike, Garden State Parkway).
By following these steps and tips, your MetLife Stadium parking experience will be far more manageable, allowing you to focus on enjoying the event!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about MetLife Stadium parking, with quick answers:
How to find my parking lot at MetLife Stadium? You will be directed to your assigned or paid-for lot by highway signs, street-level signs, and electronic message signs as you approach the stadium. For NFL games, your pre-paid permit will typically indicate your lot type (Gold or Platinum) and you'll be guided to available spaces within those areas.
How to pay for parking at MetLife Stadium for non-NFL events? For most non-NFL events, parking is paid upon arrival at the lot entrance. Credit cards are generally accepted and preferred; cash may not be.
How to get accessible parking at MetLife Stadium? Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G for guests with valid ADA license plates or hang tags. The vehicle owner with the valid credentials must be present.
How to tailgate legally at MetLife Stadium? Tailgating is permitted in most parking lots, but it must be confined to your single parking space. Grills are allowed (safely and away from vehicles), but open fires, deep fryers, and occupying adjacent spaces for tailgating are prohibited.
How to use public transportation to get to MetLife Stadium? NJ TRANSIT rail service from Secaucus Junction directly to the stadium is a popular option. Coach USA also offers bus service (Route 351) from Port Authority on event days.
How to purchase NFL game day parking permits for MetLife Stadium? NFL game day parking permits are typically pre-paid. They are often included with PSLs or can be purchased on secondary markets like the Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange.
How to find off-site parking for MetLife Stadium events? For NFL games, an official off-site lot (e.g., 20 Murray Hill Parkway) with shuttle service is usually available for those without pre-paid permits. For other events, nearby commercial lots might offer options.
How to know when MetLife Stadium parking lots open? Parking lots typically open 5 hours before NFL games and 3-4 hours before other events. Always check the event-specific "Know Before You Go" guide on the MetLife Stadium website for exact times.
How to avoid traffic when leaving MetLife Stadium? Patience is key, as post-event traffic is common. Consider waiting a while after the event, grabbing food, or using public transportation to bypass significant delays.
How to drop off or pick up guests at MetLife Stadium? There is a designated drop-off/pick-up area located between parking lots D and E for general guests. For guests with disabilities, a dedicated drop-off area is in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.