Oh, you're heading to a concert at MetLife Stadium and wondering about parking? Excellent question! Knowing the parking situation beforehand can make all the difference between a smooth, exciting concert experience and a frustrating, traffic-clogged nightmare. Let's dive deep into everything you need to know about parking at MetLife Stadium for concerts, so you can focus on the music and less on your car!
MetLife Stadium, being one of the largest and busiest venues in the world, sees a massive influx of vehicles for major events like concerts. This means parking requires some planning.
Understanding MetLife Stadium Concert Parking Costs & Logistics
The cost of parking at MetLife Stadium for concerts typically falls in a specific range, but it's crucially important to note that these prices can vary depending on the specific event, demand, and where you choose to park.
Step 1: Get Ready to Rock Your Concert Experience (and Parking Plan!)
Before we even talk about numbers, let's get you in the right mindset! Attending a concert at MetLife Stadium is an experience, and just like picking out your outfit or planning your pre-show dinner, parking requires a strategy. Are you ready to beat the traffic, find the best spot, and save some cash? Let's do this!
Step 2: The All-Important Question: How Much Will It Cost?
For concerts and other non-NFL events at MetLife Stadium, the general parking rate is often around $40 per vehicle. However, this is a base price and can fluctuate.
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Factors Influencing Price:
- Event Popularity: A sold-out stadium for a major artist might see slightly higher prices or more demand for premium spots.
- Pre-Paid vs. On-Site: While it's often preferred to pre-pay (more on that later), some lots might allow on-site payment via credit card, but cash is generally not accepted.
- Third-Party Resellers: If you're buying a pass from a reseller, the price could be significantly higher than the face value. Be cautious and compare.
- American Dream Parking: The American Dream entertainment complex, located across the street, offers its own parking for MetLife events. For concerts, their event rates apply if you exit after the event ends. They typically list their concert parking rate as $40 per vehicle. If you visit an American Dream attraction and validate your ticket, the fee can be reduced to $5 (plus tax), but this rarely applies to actual concert-goers who are typically there for the event duration.
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Key Takeaway: Budget around $40 - $60 for standard concert parking.
Step 3: Navigating Your Options: Official vs. Nearby Parking
You generally have a few primary options when it comes to parking for a MetLife Stadium concert:
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Official MetLife Stadium Lots:
- These are the most convenient, located directly on the Sports Complex grounds.
- For concerts, lots like 26, 27, and 28, and PARKING DECK A at American Dream, are often designated for event parking.
- Opening Times: Parking lots typically open 3-5 hours prior to the event start time. Always double-check the specific event page or "Know Before You Go" document for the precise opening time as it can vary. Arriving earlier than the stated opening time will not grant you entry to the Sports Complex roadways.
- Payment: While historically some non-NFL events allowed on-site payment, current information suggests that pre-payment is often the only option for designated lots like 26 and 27. When on-site payment is available, it's typically credit card only.
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American Dream Parking:
- As mentioned, the American Dream complex has extensive parking. Lots 26, 27, and Deck A are often utilized for MetLife Stadium event parking.
- Be mindful of their pricing structure: If you park at American Dream and are attending a MetLife event, you will be charged the event rate if you exit after the event concludes, regardless of whether you parked in their designated MetLife lots or another American Dream deck.
- Pre-paid event parking passes for American Dream's designated MetLife lots are available through their website.
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Off-Site & Park-and-Ride Options:
- Redd's Meadowlands: This popular spot offers parking and often a shuttle service to the stadium. Parking prices here can vary but are typically in the $16-$55+ range, depending on the event and how early you book. They also offer a shuttle-only option for around $15 if you arrive without a car.
- Edison Park Fast (Secaucus Junction): If you want to avoid stadium traffic entirely, this is a fantastic option. Park at the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction (off Exit 15X on the NJ Turnpike Eastern Extension) and then take the NJ Transit rail service directly to the MetLife Sports Complex. The parking lot is open 24 hours. Confirm rail service is running for your specific event date. This is generally a more affordable parking option, with the added cost of a train ticket.
Step 4: Securing Your Spot: How to Purchase Parking Passes
This is where planning truly pays off!
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Pre-Purchasing Directly:
- MetLife Stadium's Official Site: For many concerts, parking passes may be available directly through the MetLife Stadium website or linked ticketing platforms. Always check the specific event page first.
- American Dream Website: If American Dream is handling the designated concert parking, you can often purchase pre-paid passes directly from their website (look for "Pre-Paid Event Parking Pass"). This process typically involves:
- Selecting your event date.
- Completing the purchase to receive a digital parking pass via email.
- Saving the pass to your Apple or Google Wallet.
- Scanning your pass with the parking attendant upon arrival.
- ParkMobile App: ParkMobile is a common platform used for reserving parking spots at MetLife Stadium and surrounding lots. You can check the app or their website (app.parkmobile.io) for available parking options and prices for your specific concert.
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Third-Party Resale Markets:
- Sites like Vivid Seats or StubHub often list parking passes for MetLife Stadium events. While convenient, be aware that prices can be marked up significantly above face value due to demand. Always compare prices and ensure the seller is reputable.
Step 5: Rules of the Road (and Parking Lot) for Concerts
Don't let excitement lead to an expensive ticket or towed car!
- One Car = One Space: This is a golden rule. Tailgating and setup should be confined to the lined parking space occupied by your vehicle and the area directly in front or behind it. Do not block drive lanes or encroach on other spaces. Stadium tailgate patrol enforces this.
- No Saving Spaces: Arriving early with your entire group is the only way to ensure you park together. Saving spots is not permitted.
- Grills and Open Flames: Grills are generally permitted for tailgating, but only at a safe distance from vehicles. Deep fryers and open fires are strictly prohibited. Dispose of hot coals properly.
- Sound Systems: While tailgating often involves music, sound systems should not exceed 65 decibels (NJ State Ordinance) and should be directed towards your vehicle to avoid disturbing other guests.
- Oversized Vehicles: Trucks, trailers, and other oversized vehicles (not buses) will be directed to park along curbs so they don't take up multiple lined spaces. Arrive early to find such a spot.
- No Overnight Parking: Overnight parking is not permitted on the MetLife Sports Complex.
- Vehicle Searches: Vehicles are subject to search by NJ State Police, including canine units. Refusal of a search will result in denial of entry.
- No Unauthorized Commercial Activity: Selling access to tailgate parties or engaging in other commercial activities on the premises is prohibited.
- Mobile Passes: For some events, mobile parking passes may not be accepted. It's often recommended to print your pre-paid parking pass prior to arrival. Always confirm this detail for your specific event.
Step 6: Accessible Parking (ADA) for Guests with Disabilities
MetLife Stadium is committed to providing accessible parking.
- Requirements: Guests with disabilities must have a valid ADA license plate or a valid ADA hang tag to gain access to the Sports Complex. The owner of the vehicle with the valid license plate or hang tag must be in the vehicle,
and registrations and IDs will be checked. - Location: Accessible parking is typically available in Lots E, F, and G. Traffic and Parking staff will direct you to these designated spaces.
- Drop-Off: There is a dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
- Early Arrival is Key: While not reservable, ADA spots fill up. Arriving at least 2-3 hours before doors open is highly recommended to secure a spot close to the entrance.
Final Parking Pointers for a Seamless Concert Experience:
- Arrive Early, Always: Regardless of how you plan to park, arriving early is the best way to beat traffic, secure your desired spot, and enjoy any pre-show festivities.
- Check the Event Page: The MetLife Stadium official website's event page for your specific concert is your ultimate source for the most up-to-date parking information, including opening times and any unique policies.
- Carpool if Possible: Not only does it save on parking costs, but it also reduces traffic congestion and is more environmentally friendly.
- Have Your Pass Ready: Whether printed or on your phone (if accepted), have your parking pass easily accessible to show attendants.
- Be Patient: With thousands of people attending concerts, traffic and parking lot navigation can be slow. Maintain a calm demeanor and follow directions from parking staff.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to navigate the parking situation at MetLife Stadium for your next concert, ensuring a smooth arrival and departure so you can focus on the unforgettable live music!
10 Related FAQ Questions (How To's with Quick Answers):
How to find the cheapest parking at MetLife Stadium for concerts? The cheapest official parking is typically MetLife Stadium's designated lots if available for on-site payment (around $40). Off-site options like the Edison Park Fast at Secaucus Junction (plus NJ Transit train fare) or Redd's Meadowlands (prices vary) might offer more competitive rates.
How to pre-pay for MetLife Stadium concert parking? You can usually pre-pay through the American Dream website (for their designated lots), the ParkMobile app/website, or sometimes directly via the MetLife Stadium event page or linked ticketing vendors.
How to get ADA parking at MetLife Stadium for a concert? Display a valid state-issued ADA license plate or hang tag, and ensure the owner of the tag is in the vehicle. Accessible parking is generally directed to Lots E, F, and G. Arrive early as these spots fill up.
How to know if tailgating is allowed for a specific concert at MetLife Stadium? Generally, tailgating is permitted in most MetLife Sports Complex parking lots for concerts, provided you adhere to the "one car = one space" rule and other safety guidelines. Always check the MetLife Stadium "Tailgating Policy" on their website, and if there are specific restrictions for your concert, they will be noted on the event page.
How to avoid traffic when going to a MetLife Stadium concert? Arrive very early (3-5 hours before event start), carpool, or consider the Park & Ride option from Secaucus Junction via NJ Transit train.
How to pay for parking on-site at MetLife Stadium for concerts? If on-site payment is accepted for your concert (less common now for pre-designated lots), it will almost always be credit card only. Cash is typically not accepted.
How to find alternative parking near MetLife Stadium for concerts? Look into private lots in the surrounding East Rutherford area, such as Redd's Meadowlands, which often provide parking and shuttle services. ParkMobile is also a good resource for finding and reserving off-site lots.
How to know the exact parking lot opening times for a MetLife Stadium concert? Always refer to the official MetLife Stadium website's specific event page for your concert, or check the "Know Before You Go" document that the stadium often publishes closer to the event date.
How to ensure my large vehicle or RV can park at MetLife Stadium for a concert? Trucks, trailers, and other oversized vehicles (not buses) are typically directed to park along curbs in the parking lots to avoid taking up multiple lined spaces. RV parking specific policies should be checked on the MetLife Stadium website, as dedicated RV parking may be limited or require special permits.
How to get a refund for a pre-paid MetLife Stadium parking pass? Generally, pre-paid event parking passes for MetLife Stadium are non-refundable and non-transferable to other dates. Check the terms and conditions of your purchase platform (e.g., American Dream, ParkMobile, or the specific ticketing vendor) for their exact policy.