Unraveling MetLife Stadium Parking Costs: Your Ultimate Guide!
Hey there, fellow event-goer! Are you gearing up for an unforgettable experience at MetLife Stadium – perhaps a thrilling NFL game, a sold-out concert, or a captivating live event? Fantastic! But before you start planning your tailgate or perfecting your singing voice, let's tackle a crucial question that often leaves even the most seasoned attendees scratching their heads: "How much is event parking at MetLife Stadium?"
It's not always a straightforward answer, as parking costs can fluctuate based on the type of event, whether you pre-purchase, and even the specific lot you choose. But don't fret! This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about MetLife Stadium parking fees, helping you budget wisely and arrive stress-free.
Step 1: Identify Your Event Type – It's Not One Size Fits All!
First things first, what kind of event are you attending? This is arguably the most important factor in determining your parking cost. MetLife Stadium categorizes events differently, and each category comes with its own pricing structure.
Sub-heading: NFL Games (New York Jets & New York Giants)
If you're heading to a gridiron showdown, brace yourself for some of the higher parking rates. NFL game day parking is typically pre-paid and often requires a permit.
- New York Jets Game Days: Expect to pay up to $75 per vehicle. These passes are often available through Ticketmaster or the NFL Ticket Exchange. Look for "GOLD" or "PLATINUM" passes, which designate different lot access.
- New York Giants Game Days: Parking can be up to $60 per vehicle. Similar to Jets games, pre-paid passes are the norm.
Important Note: For NFL games, a pre-paid parking permit is required for all vehicles entering the Sports Complex. You usually cannot just show up and pay cash at the gate for these events.
Sub-heading: Concerts and Other Major Events
Attending a concert, a major international soccer match, or another large-scale event? The parking rates here tend to be a bit more standardized and often allow for on-site payment.
- Concerts and Other Events: Generally, parking is around $40 per vehicle. This can be paid by credit card upon arrival at designated lots like Lots 26 and 27, or you can pre-reserve through services like ParkMobile.
Sub-heading: American Dream Mall Adjacent Parking (with a Catch!)
American Dream, located conveniently across the street, offers its own parking. While their standard rates are lower ($5 per vehicle for visits over 15 minutes), they implement event rates for MetLife Stadium attendees.
- Event Rate at American Dream: If you park at American Dream and are attending a MetLife Stadium event, and you exit after the event ends, you'll be charged the MetLife Stadium event rate. For concerts and other events, this will likely be the $40 rate.
- American Dream Attraction Validation: Here's a neat trick! If you visit an American Dream attraction and show your ticket confirmation to validate your parking at their admissions, your parking fee can be reduced to $5 (plus tax). This is a great option if you plan to spend some time at American Dream before or after the event.
Step 2: Choose Your Purchase Method – Plan Ahead for Savings and Convenience!
Once you know the general cost for your event type, consider how you'll secure your parking.
Sub-heading: Pre-Paid Parking Passes (Highly Recommended for NFL!)
For NFL games, pre-paid passes are practically a necessity. They guarantee your spot and often streamline entry into the parking lots.
- Where to Buy:
- Ticketmaster: Often the primary vendor for pre-paid NFL parking passes. Search for "Jets Parking" or "Giants Parking" for the specific game.
- NFL Ticket Exchange: Another reliable source for official resale of parking passes.
- Team Websites: The official New York Jets and New York Giants websites will also direct you to their preferred parking purchase platforms.
- Third-Party Resale Sites (with caution): Sites like SeatGeek or Vivid Seats may have parking passes available, but always exercise caution and check seller legitimacy. Prices can vary wildly on these platforms.
Sub-heading: On-Site Payment (Common for Concerts/Events)
For many concerts and non-NFL events, you can pay directly at the parking lot entrance.
- Payment Methods: Credit card and digital wallet payments are widely accepted at most MetLife Stadium parking gates. Cash is generally not accepted on-site.
- Availability: While usually available, on-site parking can fill up, especially for popular events. Arriving early is always a good idea.
Sub-heading: Parking Apps (ParkMobile, SpotHero)
Modern technology to the rescue! Parking apps are a fantastic way to find, compare, and reserve parking in advance, sometimes even at a discount.
- ParkMobile: A frequently used app for MetLife Stadium parking. You can reserve specific lots (like Lots 26 and 27 at American Dream) and pay directly through the app.
- SpotHero: Another popular app that allows you to search for available parking spots near MetLife Stadium, compare prices, and book in advance.
Step 3: Factor in the "When" – Timing is Everything!
The time you arrive can also influence your parking experience and, in some cases, the cost.
Sub-heading: Lot Opening Times
- NFL Games: Parking lots typically open 5 hours prior to kickoff.
- Concerts/Events: Lots usually open 3-4 hours prior to the event start.
Arriving earlier than these times will generally not grant you access to the Sports Complex and you may be directed away from the roadways.
Sub-heading: Peak Pricing and Demand
While official pricing is usually set, remember that demand can indirectly affect your choices. If you wait until the last minute, you might be left with fewer, potentially more expensive, options from resale markets or off-site lots.
Step 4: Consider Off-Site and Alternative Parking Options – Beyond the Stadium Gates!
Sometimes, parking directly at MetLife Stadium isn't the only or even the best option.
Sub-heading: Off-Site Parking Lots
- 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073: This is a known off-site lot for NFL games, typically costing around $55 (cash/credit accepted). A shuttle service is usually provided to and from Lot G on the Stadium Complex. This can be a good backup if you don't have a pre-paid permit for NFL games.
- Redd's Meadowlands: This restaurant also offers event parking for MetLife Stadium, with prices for various events ranging from around $16 to $60+ depending on the event and whether it's pre-purchased. They also offer a shuttle service for a separate fee.
Sub-heading: Public Transportation & Park and Ride
For those looking to avoid parking altogether or save on costs, public transportation is a viable alternative.
- NJ Transit Rail Service: For NFL games, you can park at the Edison Park Fast lot at the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction (approx. 675 New Country Road, Secaucus NJ). From there, you can take the Meadowlands rail service directly to MetLife Sports Complex. Parking at Secaucus Junction is separate from MetLife Stadium parking costs.
- NJ Transit Bus Service: Bus #161 (with direct access to Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC) drops off at Redd's parking lot, which is a short walk or shuttle ride to the stadium.
Step 5: Don't Forget the Details – Tips for a Smooth Parking Experience!
- One Car, One Space Policy: MetLife Stadium strictly enforces a "one car, one space" policy. Don't expect to use adjacent spaces for tailgating unless you've purchased additional permits (which is generally not allowed for adjacent spaces for tailgating, but rather for separate vehicles).
- Display Your Permit Clearly: If you have a pre-paid pass, make sure it's prominently displayed (either hung from the rearview mirror or on the dashboard). For QR codes, have your mobile device ready upon entry.
- No Cash Accepted On-Site: MetLife Stadium is a cash-free venue, and this applies to most on-site parking payments as well.
- Oversized Vehicles: Trucks, trailers, buses, and other oversized vehicles have different parking rules and fees (typically around $150). They are generally not permitted in enclosed parking decks.
- Accessible Parking: Available in Lots E, F, and G with a valid state-issued accessible parking license plate or hang tag. The dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
- Vehicle Search: Be aware that vehicles entering the Sports Complex may be subject to search by NJ State Police, including K9 units.
- Overnight Parking Not Permitted: Do not plan to leave your vehicle overnight at MetLife Stadium.
Frequently Asked Questions about MetLife Stadium Parking
Here are 10 common "How to" questions about MetLife Stadium parking, with quick answers:
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How to find the cheapest parking at MetLife Stadium?
- Consider pre-purchasing parking through official apps like ParkMobile, exploring off-site lots like Redd's Meadowlands, or utilizing the American Dream validation trick if you plan to visit an attraction.
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How to pay for parking at MetLife Stadium?
- Primarily by credit card or digital wallet on-site. For NFL games, it's almost exclusively pre-paid permits purchased online. Cash is generally not accepted at the stadium lots.
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How to get a pre-paid parking pass for MetLife Stadium?
- For NFL games, purchase through Ticketmaster, the NFL Ticket Exchange, or official team websites. For other events, check ParkMobile or the event's official page.
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How to avoid traffic when parking at MetLife Stadium?
- Arrive early! Consider utilizing the Meadowlands rail service from Secaucus Junction or off-site lots with shuttle services to bypass immediate stadium traffic.
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How to tailgate at MetLife Stadium parking lots?
- Tailgating is permitted in the designated parking lots, but adhere to the "one car, one space" policy. No occupying adjacent spaces with tents, grills, etc., unless you have separate permits for those vehicles.
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How to park an oversized vehicle at MetLife Stadium?
- Oversized vehicle parking (buses, RVs, etc.) is typically $150 and is only available in MetLife Stadium lots (not enclosed decks). Drivers must remain with the vehicle if it occupies more than one space.
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How to get accessible parking at MetLife Stadium?
- Accessible parking is in Lots E, F, and G for vehicles with a valid state-issued accessible parking license plate or hang tag. The owner must be in the vehicle.
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How to use public transportation to get to MetLife Stadium parking?
- Take the NJ Transit rail service from Secaucus Junction to the MetLife Sports Complex, or NJ Transit bus #161 to Redd's Meadowlands.
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How to know if parking is available for my event at MetLife Stadium?
- Check the official MetLife Stadium event calendar, the American Dream parking website, or apps like ParkMobile and SpotHero for real-time availability.
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How to get dropped off or picked up by a rideshare or taxi at MetLife Stadium?
- The designated rideshare/taxi drop-off and pick-up area is located between parking lots D and E. There is no charge to access this area.
