Parking at MetLife Stadium can be a significant part of your event budget, and the costs vary depending on the type of event, how you book, and even which team is playing if it's an NFL game. Let's break down everything you need to know to navigate MetLife Stadium parking like a pro!
Your Ultimate Guide to Parking at MetLife Stadium
Are you planning to attend a thrilling NFL game, a dazzling concert, or another exciting event at MetLife Stadium? If so, figuring out parking is likely high on your list of priorities. Nobody wants to miss kickoff or the opening act because they're stuck in a parking labyrinth! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything, from understanding the pricing structure to finding the best parking options, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Step 1: Identify Your Event Type and Date – This is Crucial!
Before you even think about parking prices, the most important first step is to know exactly what event you're attending and on what date. Why is this so important? Because parking prices and availability at MetLife Stadium vary wildly depending on whether it's an NFL game, a major concert, or another special event.
- NFL Games (Giants/Jets): These typically have the highest parking fees and often require pre-paid permits. The demand is massive, and prices reflect that.
- Concerts and Other Events: While still significant, parking for concerts or other events might be slightly less expensive than NFL games, and sometimes you can pay upon arrival.
- American Dream Mall Parking: If you're visiting the American Dream Mall next door, standard parking rates apply, but these change to event rates if there's a MetLife Stadium event.
Once you know your event, you can proceed to the next steps to get the most accurate parking information.
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Step 2: Understand the General Parking Cost Structure
MetLife Stadium parking isn't a one-size-fits-all fee. Here's a general breakdown of what you can expect:
- NFL Game Day Parking:
- Pre-paid Permits (Highly Recommended for NFL): For NFL games, pre-paid parking permits are often required to enter the main stadium lots. These are usually categorized as "Gold" or "Platinum" lots.
- For the New York Giants, pre-paid parking can be around $60 per vehicle.
- For the New York Jets, pre-paid parking can be up to $75 per vehicle.
- Season ticket holders often have options for season-long parking permits at a reduced per-game rate (e.g., $450-$550 for the season).
- Off-site Parking (No Pre-paid Permit): If you don't have a pre-paid permit for an NFL game, you might be directed to off-site lots, such as the one at 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ. The cost for these can be around $55 (cash/credit accepted), and shuttle service is typically provided to the stadium complex.
- Pre-paid Permits (Highly Recommended for NFL): For NFL games, pre-paid parking permits are often required to enter the main stadium lots. These are usually categorized as "Gold" or "Platinum" lots.
- Concerts and Other Events:
- Parking for non-NFL events is generally around $40 per vehicle.
- For these events, pre-paid permits are often not required, and parking is available and payable upon arrival, though pre-booking is still a good idea.
- American Dream Mall Parking (Event Days):
- If you choose to park at the American Dream Mall for a MetLife event, event rates apply. These can be similar to stadium rates, potentially up to $75 for Jets games, $60 for Giants games, and $40 for concerts/other events. Be aware that if you visit an American Dream attraction and show your ticket, your parking fee might be reduced to around $5 (plus tax), but this is specifically for mall visitors, not necessarily stadium-goers unless you're combining the two.
Step 3: Explore Your Parking Booking Options
There are several ways to secure your parking spot, each with its own advantages.
- Sub-heading: Official Stadium Parking via Ticketmaster/NFL Ticket Exchange
- For NFL games, the primary way to get a parking pass for the main stadium lots (Gold and Platinum) is through Ticketmaster or the NFL Ticket Exchange. After selecting your game tickets, look for the option to "Show Parking Tickets." These passes are essential for direct stadium access. It's crucial to purchase these in advance, especially for high-demand games.
- Sub-heading: Third-Party Parking Apps and Websites
- Websites and apps like ParkWhiz, SpotHero, and Vivid Seats often offer pre-paid parking options for MetLife Stadium events. These platforms allow you to compare prices and locations of various lots, both on-site and off-site. You can often save money by booking in advance through these services, sometimes up to 50% off standard rates.
- Pro Tip: Check these sites regularly as event dates approach, as prices can fluctuate, and new spots might become available.
- Websites and apps like ParkWhiz, SpotHero, and Vivid Seats often offer pre-paid parking options for MetLife Stadium events. These platforms allow you to compare prices and locations of various lots, both on-site and off-site. You can often save money by booking in advance through these services, sometimes up to 50% off standard rates.
- Sub-heading: American Dream Mall Parking
- The American Dream Mall offers convenient parking for select MetLife Stadium events in Lots 26, 27, and 28, and Parking Deck A. These are available for pre-pay only, either through ParkMobile or by credit card upon arrival. No cash is accepted on-site for these lots. This can be a good option if you want to combine your event with a visit to the mall, or if stadium lots are full.
- Sub-heading: Off-Site Private Lots
- Beyond the official stadium and American Dream lots, there are often private lots in the vicinity that offer parking. These can sometimes be cheaper, but do your research to ensure they are reputable and offer safe, accessible parking with shuttle services if needed. Redd's Meadowlands is an example of a private lot that offers event parking and shuttle services.
Step 4: Consider Alternative Transportation and Strategies
Parking isn't always the only or best option, especially given the traffic and cost.
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- Sub-heading: Public Transportation (Train & Bus)
- NJ Transit Rail Service: For NFL games, a popular option is to park at the Edison Park Fast parking lot at Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction (675 New Country Road, Secaucus NJ) and take the Meadowlands rail service directly to the MetLife Sports Complex. This avoids stadium traffic entirely. The parking lot is open 24 hours/day.
- NJ Transit Bus Service: Bus route 161 (from Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC) drops off near Redd's parking lot, which offers shuttle service to the stadium.
- Public transit is often the most cost-effective and least stressful way to get to and from the stadium, especially for larger events.
- Sub-heading: Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)
- MetLife Stadium has designated drop-off and pick-up areas for ride-sharing services between parking lots D and E. There is no charge to access this area. This can be a good option if you want to avoid parking altogether, but be prepared for potential surge pricing and wait times after events.
- Sub-heading: Carpooling
- "One car, one space" is the general policy at MetLife, so carpooling not only saves you money on parking but also helps reduce traffic congestion and environmental impact. It's a win-win!
- Sub-heading: Arrive Early, Depart Late (or Strategically)
- If you are driving and parking, arriving early gives you the best chance to find your desired spot and enjoy pre-event activities like tailgating. Departing immediately after an event can mean sitting in traffic for a long time. Consider tailgating after the event or grabbing a bite at American Dream Mall to let the initial traffic clear.
Step 5: On Event Day: Important Parking Reminders
- Pre-Paid Permits are Key: For NFL games, have your pre-paid permit readily accessible on your phone or printed out.
- Follow Staff Directions: Parking attendants and NJ State Police will direct traffic and parking. Follow their instructions to ensure a smooth flow.
- Vehicle Searches: Vehicles are subject to search, including by canine units. Refusal of a search will result in denied entry.
- No Overnight Parking: Overnight parking is strictly prohibited on the MetLife Sports Complex.
- Accessibility Parking: Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G for vehicles with valid ADA license plates or hang tags. The owner of the tag must be in the vehicle.
- Drop-off/Pick-up Zone: The dedicated drop-off/pick-up area is between parking lots D and E.
By following these steps and being prepared, you can significantly reduce the stress and cost associated with parking at MetLife Stadium, allowing you to focus on enjoying your event!
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| How Much Is Parking At Metlife Stadium |
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some common questions about MetLife Stadium parking, with quick answers:
How to find the cheapest parking at MetLife Stadium? The cheapest parking often involves pre-booking through third-party apps like ParkWhiz or SpotHero, or utilizing public transport options like the train from Secaucus Junction.
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How to get a pre-paid parking pass for MetLife Stadium? For NFL games, pre-paid passes are typically purchased through Ticketmaster or the NFL Ticket Exchange. For other events, some third-party apps also offer pre-booking.
How to park at American Dream Mall for a MetLife Stadium event? You can park in Lots 26, 27, 28, or Deck A at American Dream. Pre-payment is generally required via ParkMobile or credit card on arrival.
How to get to MetLife Stadium without parking a car? The best way is to use NJ Transit's Meadowlands rail service from Secaucus Junction or consider ride-sharing services to the designated drop-off/pick-up zone.
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How to avoid traffic when leaving MetLife Stadium? Consider staying for a while after the event to let traffic clear, either by tailgating, visiting the American Dream Mall, or enjoying nearby restaurants, or use public transport.
How to know if parking is available upon arrival for an event? For NFL games, it's highly unlikely that general parking will be available upon arrival without a pre-paid pass; you'll likely be directed to off-site lots. For other events, it's more common to pay upon arrival, but it's always best to check the official MetLife Stadium website for your specific event.
How to find accessible parking at MetLife Stadium? Accessible parking is located in Lots E, F, and G, and requires a valid state-issued accessible parking license plate or hang tag, with the owner of the tag present in the vehicle.
How to determine if I need a Gold or Platinum parking pass? Gold passes typically grant access to Lots B, D, J, K, L, M, P, and Deck A. Platinum passes are for Lots E, F, or G. The type you need usually depends on your seating location or preference for proximity.
How to drop off or pick up someone at MetLife Stadium? There is a designated drop-off and pick-up area located between parking lots D and E. There is no charge to access this area.
How to park a charter bus or oversized vehicle at MetLife Stadium? Charter bus parking is typically located in Parking Lot L. Trucks, trailers, and other oversized vehicles are generally not permitted in the enclosed parking deck at American Dream or standard striped spaces.
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