Hey there, fellow event-goer! Are you planning a trip to MetLife Stadium for an epic game, a mind-blowing concert, or a thrilling event? Getting to and from such a massive venue can seem daunting, but fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey. Let's get you ready for an unforgettable experience!
Your Ultimate Guide: Getting To and From MetLife Stadium
MetLife Stadium, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is a premier destination for sports and entertainment. Home to the NFL's New York Giants and New York Jets, it also hosts a myriad of other major events. Navigating to and from this bustling complex requires a bit of planning, but with the right information, you'll be a pro in no time.
Step 1: Choosing Your Transportation Method – What's Your Vibe?
Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let's figure out what kind of travel experience you're looking for. Are you all about efficiency and avoiding traffic, or do you prefer the convenience of your own vehicle? Your choice will largely dictate your journey!
- Public Transportation Aficionado? If you're looking to avoid parking fees and traffic jams, NJ TRANSIT is your best friend.
- Driving Maverick? For those who prefer the flexibility of their own car, parking options are available, but be prepared for potential congestion.
- Rideshare/Taxi Enthusiast? A convenient door-to-door option, but be mindful of surge pricing and wait times.
- Group Guru? Consider charter services for a hassle-free group experience.
Once you've got a general idea, let's explore each option in detail.
Step 2: Mastering Public Transportation – The Smart & Stress-Free Way
For many events, especially major ones, public transportation is often the fastest and most cost-effective way to get to MetLife Stadium. NJ TRANSIT offers dedicated services designed to get you there efficiently.
Sub-heading: By Train (NJ TRANSIT Rail Service)
This is widely considered the best and most reliable option for major events.
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Getting to Secaucus Junction:
- From New York Penn Station (NYC): Take any NJ TRANSIT train marked with "SEC" to Secaucus Junction. This is a direct and frequent service.
- From Other NJ TRANSIT Lines: If you're coming from other parts of New Jersey, connect to Secaucus Junction via the Main/Bergen County Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Morris & Essex Line, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Pascack Valley Line, or Port Jervis Line.
- Travel Tip: Purchase your round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" directly. This ticket covers both legs of your journey (to Secaucus Junction and then to Meadowlands Station). You can buy tickets via the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App or at ticket machines at the stations. Buying a round-trip ticket beforehand saves you money and hassle!
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From Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Station:
- Once at Secaucus Junction, transfer to the special BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line (also known as the Meadowlands Rail Service). This shuttle train provides direct service to the Meadowlands Rail Station, which is just steps away from MetLife Stadium.
- Frequency: For large events, service usually begins approximately 4 hours before the event, with trains running every 10-20 minutes. During the event, trains might run hourly. After the event, trains run on a "load and go" basis for up to 3 hours, or until the last customers depart.
- Look for help: NJ TRANSIT ambassadors are often on hand at Secaucus Junction to direct you to the correct platform for the Meadowlands shuttle.
Sub-heading: By Bus (Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express)
If you prefer a direct bus ride from New York City, Coach USA offers the 351 Meadowlands Express.
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Departure from Port Authority Bus Terminal (NYC):
- Buses typically depart from the South Wing, on the third floor of the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City (Gates 411, 412, 413, 414) or from a street-level departure area on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues, depending on the event. Always check the Coach USA website for specific event departure locations and times.
- Tickets: Purchase your round-trip ticket online under the "ROUND-TRIP" tab or at the Port Authority South Wing (windows 11-15). The fare is typically low.
- Travel Time: The trip normally takes about 20 minutes, subject to traffic and weather conditions.
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Return from MetLife Stadium:
- The 351 Meadowlands Express Bus can be boarded next to parking lot K of the MetLife Stadium for your return trip.
- Buses will depart from the stadium after the event concludes, with the last bus usually leaving one hour after the event ends.
- Important: Alcoholic beverages are NOT allowed on these buses.
Sub-heading: Other NJ TRANSIT Bus Routes (with caveats)
While the 351 Meadowlands Express is the primary bus service, some local NJ TRANSIT bus routes serve areas near the complex:
- Bus Route 703: Provides local service near the MetLife Sports Complex. However, on days of major events, Route 703 will not enter the Sports Complex property beginning two hours before the event and continuing until one hour after it ends. During this time, it operates along Paterson Plank Road, making stops upon request.
- Bus Routes 85, 703, and 772: Serve American Dream, which is adjacent to MetLife Stadium. You could walk from American Dream to the stadium, but it's a bit of a trek.
Step 3: Driving and Parking – For the Road Warriors
If you prefer the convenience of your own car, driving to MetLife Stadium is an option, but it comes with specific considerations.
Sub-heading: Pre-paid Parking Permits (Highly Recommended for NFL Games)
- Necessity: For NFL game days, parking permits are required for all vehicles entering the Sports Complex.
- Purchasing: You can often purchase pre-paid permits via the Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange. Look for "Platinum" or "Gold" permits.
- "GOLD" permits allow access to Gold Lots (Lots B, D, J, K, L, M, P, Deck A, and all lots near American Dream).
- "PLATINUM" permits allow access to Platinum Lots (Lots E, F, or G).
- Displaying: Have your parking pass ready for display before you get to the lot entrance. Hang Tag Permits should be displayed from the rearview mirror, and Barcode/QR Code Permits on the dashboard or mobile device.
- Tailgating: Your permit entitles you to one parking space for your vehicle and tailgate setup. Adjacent spaces cannot be used for additional tailgating setups, even if you have multiple permits.
Sub-heading: Parking for Guests Without Pre-Paid Permits
- Off-Site Lot: Guests without prepaid permits may park at the off-site lot located at 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073.
- Cost: This lot typically costs around $55 (cash/credit card accepted) for NFL games.
- Shuttle Service: Shuttle service is provided from this off-site lot to Lot G on the Stadium Complex. This is a great alternative if you don't secure a pre-paid pass.
Sub-heading: Accessible Parking
- Designated Lots: Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G with a valid, state-issued accessible parking license plate and/or placard for persons with a disability.
- Staff Guidance: Traffic and parking team members will direct guests to the designated accessible parking spaces.
- Dedicated Drop-off: The dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is in Lot C, located between the Verizon Gate and the HCLTech Gate.
Sub-heading: Park and Ride (Train Option for Drivers)
- For NFL games, if you don't have a stadium parking permit but still want to drive part of the way, consider parking at the Edison ParkFast parking lot located at the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction.
- This lot has 1,100 spaces and is open 24 hours. From there, you can take the Meadowlands rail service to MetLife Sports Complex.
Sub-heading: Charter Bus Parking
- Charter bus parking is located in Parking Lot L. Parking areas typically open five hours before an event begins and shut down two hours after the event.
Step 4: Rideshares and Taxis – Convenience at a Cost
Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) and traditional taxis offer a convenient door-to-door option, but be prepared for potential challenges.
Sub-heading: Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones
- Designated Area: The designated area for all drop-offs and pickups (including rideshares and taxis) is between parking lots D + E. There is curb space along the roadway that provides a safe area.
- No Charge: There is typically no charge to access the drop-off/pick-up area.
Sub-heading: Rideshare Specifics
- Surge Pricing: Be advised that rideshare surge pricing is often in effect after games and major events. This can significantly increase your fare.
- Wait Times: Larger crowds will result in longer than usual wait times for a car to arrive, potentially over an hour.
- Phone Battery: Make sure your phone is fully charged if you plan to use a rideshare service, as you'll need it to request and communicate with your driver.
- Consider Alternatives for Return: Given the potential for high prices and long waits, consider using NJ TRANSIT for your return trip to NYC if possible, especially after a major event.
Sub-heading: Taxis
- While there isn't a specific "taxi stand" like an airport, taxis will utilize the designated drop-off/pick-up zone between Lots D and E.
- Some private car/limo services may also have designated pickup spots or may arrange to meet you at specific locations.
Step 5: Special Considerations and Tips for a Smooth Journey
Beyond the primary transportation methods, here are some crucial tips to enhance your MetLife Stadium experience.
Sub-heading: Arrive Early, Depart Strategically
- This is perhaps the most important piece of advice. Arriving early gives you ample time to navigate traffic, find parking (if driving), get through security, and enjoy the pre-event atmosphere.
- Similarly, planning your departure can save you significant time. Consider staying for a bit after the event to let the initial rush clear, or head straight to your chosen public transport option.
Sub-heading: The MetLife Stadium Clear Bag Policy
- Mandatory Policy: MetLife Stadium enforces a clear bag policy.
- Permitted: Only clear bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" are allowed.
- Small Clutches: Small, non-clear purses/handbags (clutch-type bags) that are 4.5" x 6.5" or less are permitted (one per person).
- Exceptions: Medically necessary items are an exception but will be subject to inspection at a designated gate.
- Prohibited: Any non-clear bag exceeding 4.5” x 6.5” (including backpacks, fanny packs, diaper bags, camera cases, etc.) is not allowed.
- Bag Check: If you bring a prohibited bag, you will have the option to return it to your vehicle or check it at a Bag Check Facility located outside each open gate. There's usually a $5 fee for non-NFL events, but it's complimentary for NFL events.
Sub-heading: Stay Informed – Check Event-Specific Information
- Always check the official MetLife Stadium website or the event organizer's website for the most up-to-date transportation information, parking availability, and specific schedules for your event. Public transport schedules can vary based on the event.
- NJ TRANSIT Mobile App: Download the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App for real-time train and bus schedules, fare information, and even mobile ticketing.
- My Transit Alerts: Sign up for NJ TRANSIT's My Transit Alerts via text messages and emails for the latest service-related information and advisories.
Sub-heading: Accessibility Services
- MetLife Stadium is committed to providing accessible services for guests with disabilities.
- Accessible Parking: Available in Lots E, F, and G (with valid placard/plate).
- Drop-off Area: Dedicated drop-off in Lot C.
- Wheelchair Assistance: Guests with limited mobility can request wheelchair assistance from Accessibility Assistants at the gates.
- Elevators: Available at HCLTech, Verizon, and Moody's entrances, as well as premium seating entrances.
- For further information or assistance, contact MetLife Stadium Guest Services at (201) 559-1515.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - How to...
Here are 10 common questions about getting to and from MetLife Stadium, with quick answers:
How to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC without a car?
The fastest and most cost-effective way is by taking an NJ TRANSIT train from Penn Station New York to Secaucus Junction, then transferring to the shuttle train to Meadowlands Station. Alternatively, take the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal.
How to buy train tickets to MetLife Stadium?
Purchase round-trip tickets to "Meadowlands" via the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App, at ticket vending machines, or ticket offices at major terminals. Ensure you buy a round-trip ticket to avoid additional charges.
How to find parking at MetLife Stadium?
For NFL games, pre-paid parking permits are required. Purchase them via Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange. If you don't have a pre-paid permit, an off-site lot at 20 Murray Hill Parkway offers parking with shuttle service to Lot G.
How to use rideshare services at MetLife Stadium?
Designated drop-off and pick-up for rideshares are between parking lots D and E. Be aware of potential surge pricing and long wait times, especially after events.
How to avoid traffic when going to MetLife Stadium?
Public transportation, particularly the NJ TRANSIT train to Meadowlands Station, is the best way to avoid traffic and parking hassles. Arriving very early if driving can also help.
How to get back to NYC after an event at MetLife Stadium?
Take the NJ TRANSIT shuttle train from Meadowlands Station back to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to a train bound for New York Penn Station. Coach USA 351 buses also depart from the stadium up to an hour after the event.
How to check the train schedule for MetLife Stadium events?
Visit the NJ TRANSIT website, specifically their "Meadowlands" section, or use the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App. Schedules are usually updated closer to event dates.
How to find accessible transportation options for MetLife Stadium?
Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G with a valid placard. A dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is in Lot C. Elevators are available at stadium entrances. Contact Guest Services for assistance.
How to know what bags are allowed inside MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium has a clear bag policy. You can bring clear bags (12"x6"x12" or less) or small non-clear clutches (4.5"x6.5" or less). Medically necessary items are exceptions. Check the official stadium clear bag policy for full details.
How to get a taxi from MetLife Stadium?
Taxis will pick up at the designated drop-off/pick-up area between parking lots D and E. Be prepared for potential high demand and fares after events.
