You're heading to MetLife Stadium for a game, concert, or event, and you're probably wondering: just how much will a drink set me back? It's a common question, and a valid one, as stadium prices can often feel like a different universe. Let's dive deep into what you can expect to pay for beverages at MetLife Stadium and how you can manage your spending.
Step 1: Engage Your Inner Budgeter!
Before we even talk numbers, let's get into the right mindset. Are you planning to splurge and enjoy the full stadium experience, or are you looking to be savvy and save some cash? Knowing your budget and priorities is the first and most crucial step in navigating MetLife's drink prices. Will you grab a few beers, or are cocktails more your style? Perhaps you're strictly sticking to water. Your choices directly impact your final bill, so let's think about that before we go any further!
Step 2: Understanding the Landscape – What to Expect for Drink Prices
MetLife Stadium, like most large venues, operates on a premium pricing model. This means you'll generally pay more than you would at your local bar or grocery store.
Sub-heading: The Beer Reality Check
For many, beer is the go-to stadium beverage. In 2023, studies showed the average cost of a 16 oz beer at an NFL game was around $8.81. MetLife Stadium's prices align with or are slightly above this average. You can expect to pay anywhere from $9 to $13 per beer, depending on the brand and size.
- Domestic Lagers (Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light): These typically fall on the lower end of the spectrum, around $9-$10.
- Premium & Craft Beers: If you're looking for something a bit more specialized, like a local craft brew or an import, expect to pay closer to $11-$13. MetLife has been improving its craft beer selection, offering more options beyond the standard domestics.
Sub-heading: Spirits and Cocktails – A Pricier Pour
If your preference leans towards cocktails or spirits, be prepared for a steeper tab. Mixed drinks, depending on the liquor and mixer, can range from $15 to $20 or more. A basic well drink will be on the lower end, while premium liquor or more elaborate concoctions will push the price higher.
Sub-heading: Wine – A Refined Choice with a Corresponding Cost
Wine is also available at MetLife Stadium. A glass of wine will likely cost between $12 and $18, depending on the varietal and pour size.
Sub-heading: Non-Alcoholic Beverages – Still a Premium
Even if you're not drinking alcohol, non-alcoholic beverages come with a stadium markup.
- Soft Drinks/Sodas: Expect to pay around $5-$7 for a fountain soda.
- Bottled Water: A standard bottle of water will likely be in the $4-$6 range.
- Energy Drinks/Juices: These will generally be on the higher end, similar to soft drinks, around $6-$8.
Step 3: Navigating Concessions and Payment Methods
MetLife Stadium has numerous concession stands and portable units throughout all levels.
Sub-heading: Cashless is King
MetLife Stadium is a completely cashless venue for all concession and retail locations. This means you'll need to pay with a debit or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) using tap to pay, chip, or swipe, or mobile payment (Apple Pay, Google Pay).
- Reverse ATMs: If you only bring cash, don't fret! MetLife Stadium provides "Reverse ATMs" on-site. These machines allow you to load your cash onto a prepaid Visa debit card, which you can then use for purchases within the stadium. This service is free of charge to guests. You can find them at MetLife West Hall and sections 118, 128, 149, 220a, 245, 322, and 347.
Sub-heading: Alcohol Sales Cut-off Times
Be aware that alcohol sales have specific cut-off times. For NFL games, all concession stands and portable units in general seating areas stop serving alcohol at the beginning of the third quarter. For non-football events, alcohol cut-off times are determined by MetLife Stadium management, so it's always good to check event-specific policies if available.
Step 4: Smart Strategies to Save Money on Drinks
Now for the good stuff! While stadium prices are high, there are ways to minimize your spending.
Sub-heading: Pre-Game Hydration and Libations
- Tailgating (if applicable): If you're attending an event with a tailgating scene (common for NFL games), this is by far the most effective way to save money on drinks. Bring your own beverages to enjoy before entering the stadium. Just be sure to adhere to all tailgating rules and regulations.
- Eat and Drink Before You Go: Hydrate well and have a drink or two before you even arrive at the stadium. This can help curb the urge to buy as many expensive drinks once inside.
Sub-heading: What You Can Bring In
MetLife Stadium has a specific policy regarding outside food and beverages:
- Factory-Sealed, Non-Alcoholic Drinks: You are permitted to bring in factory-sealed, plastic bottles of water or soft drinks that are 20 oz. or less in size. This is a significant cost-saving opportunity for non-alcoholic beverages!
- Reusable Water Bottles: You can also bring in reusable plastic or aluminum water bottles (20 oz. or less), but they must be empty upon entry. There are water fountains throughout the stadium where you can fill them up for free.
- Food in Clear Plastic Bags: While not drinks, it's worth noting you can bring food of any kind contained in a clear plastic bag. This means you can pack your own snacks to avoid impulse food purchases.
Sub-heading: Limit Your Purchases Inside
- Set a Drink Limit: Decide beforehand how many expensive stadium drinks you're willing to buy and stick to it.
- Alternate with Free Water: Take advantage of the free water fountains to stay hydrated between paid beverages. This helps stretch your budget and also ensures you're not over-consuming alcohol.
- Consider Sharing: If you're with a group, sometimes larger format drinks or buckets might offer a slight per-unit discount, if available. (Though this is rare for individual drinks).
Step 5: Understand the "Why" Behind the Prices
It's easy to get frustrated by high stadium prices, but understanding why they are what they are can help manage expectations.
Sub-heading: Operational Costs are High
Running a massive venue like MetLife Stadium involves immense operational costs, including:
- Staffing: Thousands of employees work during an event, from concessions and security to maintenance and guest services.
- Utilities: Powering and maintaining such a large facility, including lighting, HVAC, and sound systems, is incredibly expensive.
- Logistics & Inventory: Sourcing, transporting, and storing vast quantities of food and beverages requires a significant infrastructure.
- Lease/Mortgage & Maintenance: The stadium itself is a massive investment with ongoing upkeep and improvements.
Sub-heading: Captive Audience
Once you're inside the stadium, you're a "captive audience." You can't simply leave to find cheaper drinks elsewhere and then re-enter (MetLife has a no re-entry policy for most events). This creates a situation where the venue can charge a premium.
Sub-heading: Revenue Generation
Concession sales are a significant revenue stream for stadiums, teams, and event organizers. These revenues contribute to everything from player salaries and team operations to concert production costs and facility upgrades.
Conclusion
Attending an event at MetLife Stadium is an exciting experience, and while drinks can be a considerable expense, understanding the pricing, policies, and strategies can help you enjoy your visit without breaking the bank. Plan ahead, consider bringing permissible outside items, and be mindful of your purchases to make the most of your time at this iconic venue.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to estimate my total drink cost for an event at MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: Multiply the number of drinks you anticipate purchasing by the average cost per drink (e.g., 3 beers x $12 = $36, or 2 cocktails x $18 = $36). Add in any non-alcoholic beverages.
How to find water fountains at MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: MetLife Stadium provides water fountains throughout the venue. Check the stadium's A-Z guide or ask a Guest Services Team Member for specific locations.
How to pay for drinks if I only bring cash to MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: Use the "Reverse ATMs" located throughout the stadium (e.g., MetLife West Hall, sections 118, 128) to convert your cash into a prepaid Visa debit card, which is then usable for purchases.
How to know the alcohol cut-off time for a specific event at MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: For NFL games, alcohol sales stop at the beginning of the third quarter. For other events, the cut-off time is determined by MetLife Stadium management; check the event's specific guidelines or ask a staff member upon entry.
How to save money on non-alcoholic drinks at MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: Bring your own factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less) or an empty reusable water bottle (20 oz. or less) to fill at water fountains.
How to confirm if outside food is allowed at MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: Yes, you can bring food into MetLife Stadium, provided it is contained in a clear plastic bag.
How to avoid long lines at concession stands for drinks at MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: Try to purchase drinks during less busy times, such as before the event officially starts or during breaks in the action, rather than immediately before kickoff or during halftime.
How to ensure I'm getting the best value for an alcoholic drink at MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: Generally, standard domestic beers offer the lowest price per ounce compared to craft beers, spirits, or wines. Opt for these if budget is your primary concern.
How to find out what specific craft beers are offered at MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: While detailed daily menus aren't always available online, you can check unofficial fan forums or social media for recent attendee experiences, or simply explore the concession stands upon arrival.
How to stay hydrated without spending a lot on drinks at MetLife Stadium?
Quick Answer: Focus on bringing in your own permissible factory-sealed water bottles or an empty reusable bottle to fill at the free water fountains frequently.