Attending an event at MetLife Stadium? Whether it's a thrilling NFL game, a sold-out concert, or a captivating live show, securing parking is key to a smooth experience. And if you're aiming for convenience and proximity, Gold Parking is often your best bet. But how exactly do you navigate your way to these coveted spots? Let's break it down, step by step, to ensure your trip to MetLife is golden from start to finish!
Your Ultimate Guide to Gold Parking at MetLife Stadium
Getting to Gold Parking at MetLife Stadium involves a few crucial steps, from planning ahead to navigating the complex. Don't worry, we'll guide you through each one with all the details you need.
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| How To Get To Gold Parking Metlife |
Step 1: Are You Ready for Game Day (or Event Day) Glory? (Pre-Event Preparation)
First things first, before you even think about hitting the road, have you secured your Gold Parking pass? This is the absolute most critical step, especially for NFL games. For NFL events, parking permits are required for all vehicles entering the Sports Complex. For non-NFL events, pre-paid permits are often not required, and parking is available and payable upon arrival, though pre-purchasing is still recommended for ease.
Sub-heading: Understanding Gold vs. Platinum Parking
MetLife Stadium typically designates parking into two main categories for NFL events:
- Gold Permits: These grants access to "Gold" Lots, which include Lots B, D, J, K, L, M, P, Deck A, and all lots near American Dream. These are generally the more widely available pre-paid parking options.
- Platinum Permits: These offer access to "Platinum" Lots, typically Lots E, F, or G. These are often reserved for Club and Suite season ticket holders.
Sub-heading: How to Acquire Your Gold Parking Pass
- For NFL Games:
- The primary method is via the Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange. When selecting your game, look for the "Show Parking Tickets" option. Passes will be labeled "Platinum" or "Gold."
- Season ticket holders often receive parking permits as part of their package. Check your season ticket mailing for your hang tags or print-at-home options.
- For New York Jets games, you can also search for "Jets Parking" on Ticketmaster.
- Important Note: The numbers on the permits are for informational purposes only and do not guarantee a reserved spot in a specific lot. It just grants access to any Gold Lot.
- For Non-NFL Events (Concerts, other sports, etc.):
- Pre-paid parking may be available through the event's ticketing platform (e.g., Ticketmaster) or directly through the American Dream website if you plan to park in their associated lots (Lots 26, 27, 28, or Deck A).
- If pre-paid isn't available, parking is generally payable upon arrival with a credit card (cash is often not accepted on-site).
Sub-heading: Displaying Your Permit
Once you have your pass, make sure it's ready!
QuickTip: Stop and think when you learn something new.
- Hang Tag Permits: Display them at all times, either hung from the rear-view mirror or placed on the dashboard.
- Barcode Parking Permits: Print them and display them on the dashboard.
- QR Code Parking Permits: Have them ready on your mobile device for scanning upon entry.
Step 2: Charting Your Course (Navigation to MetLife Stadium)
MetLife Stadium is located at 1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073. It's easily accessible by major roadways.
Sub-heading: General Directions to MetLife Stadium
- From the George Washington Bridge: Take the New Jersey Turnpike South, then the Turnpike's western spur to Exit 16W or 18W. These exits provide direct access to the Sports Complex.
- From New York City and points east (via Lincoln Tunnel): Follow signs for Route 3 West. Take Route 3 West to the Sports Complex.
- Traveling North on the New Jersey Turnpike: Follow the Western Spur (Sports Complex to Exit 16W), which provides direct access. If congested, use the eastern turnpike spur (Lincoln Tunnel) to Exit 16E, then take Route 3 West.
- Traveling South on the New Jersey Turnpike: Follow the Western Spur (Meadowlands Complex/Carlstadt to Exit 19W). Note: This is an EZ Pass ONLY roadway. No cash lanes.
- Traveling South on the Garden State Parkway: Take Exit 163 (Route 17). Follow Route 17 to Paterson Plank Road, then Paterson Plank Road east to the Sports Complex.
- Traveling North on the Garden State Parkway: Take Exit 153A (Route 3). Follow Route 3 East to the Sports Complex.
- From the West (I-80): Merge onto I-80 East, then continue onto US-46 East. Make a slight right at NJ-3 East and follow signs to the Sports Complex.
- From the East (I-80): Merge onto I-80 West, proceed to Route 17 South to Paterson Plank Road, and follow signs to the Sports Complex.
- From West I-78: Take I-78 East (Express) toward Newark, then Exit onto I-95 North. Take Exit 16W for NJ Route 3 toward Secaucus/Rutherford/Sports Complex.
Sub-heading: Understanding Gold Lot Locations
Once you're on the MetLife Sports Complex roadways, signage will guide you. Remember, a Gold permit allows access to Lots B, D, J, K, L, M, P, Deck A, and all lots near American Dream. Traffic and parking staff will direct you to an available Gold lot.
- Key areas for Gold Parking: The lots closer to the American Dream mall (Lots 26, 27, 28, Deck A) are considered Gold Lots. Other Gold Lots are located throughout the complex. While your permit doesn't guarantee a specific spot, follow the directions of the parking attendants; they are there to help streamline the process.
Step 3: Arriving and Parking Like a Pro (On-Site Experience)
Timing is crucial. MetLife Stadium parking lots typically open 5 hours prior to the start of an event (e.g., kickoff for NFL games). They generally close 2 hours after the conclusion of the event. Arriving early is highly recommended to avoid congestion and allow for a smooth entry, especially on busy game days.
Sub-heading: Entry Procedures
- Have your parking pass visible and ready. This means having your hang tag displayed, your printed barcode on the dashboard, or your QR code ready on your phone.
- Follow the directions of parking attendants. They are your best resource for finding an available Gold Lot and guiding you to a specific space.
- Be prepared for vehicle searches. NJ State Police may conduct searches, potentially with a canine unit. Refusal to a search will result in denial of entry.
Sub-heading: Parking Guidelines (One Car, One Space!)
- Your parking permit entitles you to one parking space for your vehicle and tailgate setup.
- Adjacent parking spaces may NOT be used for grills, chairs, tents, etc. This "one car, one spot" policy is strictly enforced.
- Tailgating is permitted in designated areas within the Gold Lots, provided you stay within your assigned space. Tailgating is generally not permitted in parking garages or in Lot G (which is a Platinum lot, but good to know).
- No overnight parking is permitted on the MetLife Sports Complex.
- Illegal parking outside the Sports Complex on roadways, medians, or grass is prohibited and will result in ticketing and/or towing.
Step 4: From Parking to the Action (Walking to the Stadium)
Once you've successfully parked in a Gold Lot, it's time to make your way to the stadium!
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
Sub-heading: Navigating the Complex
- MetLife Stadium is well-signed, and you'll see a steady flow of people heading towards the stadium entrances.
- Familiarize yourself with the general layout of the stadium complex. You can often find a map on the MetLife Stadium website or through their mobile app.
- Depending on which Gold Lot you end up in, the walk to the stadium could vary. Lots closer to American Dream might have a slightly longer walk, but it's usually manageable.
Sub-heading: Accessibility Considerations
- If you require accessible parking, note that accessible parking is primarily available in Lots E, F, and G (Platinum Lots) with a valid ADA license plate or hang tag. The owner of the vehicle with the valid plate/tag must be present.
- However, if you have a Gold Pass and accessibility needs, it's best to contact MetLife Stadium Guest Services in advance or upon arrival to inquire about the best option for your specific situation. Traffic and Parking staff will direct guests with disabilities or limited mobility to designated parking spaces or drop-off areas. The dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to navigate the parking at MetLife Stadium and enjoy your event without the added stress of finding a spot. Have an incredible time!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to purchase Gold Parking passes for MetLife Stadium?
Gold parking passes for NFL games can be purchased via the Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange by selecting "Show Parking Tickets" for your desired game. For non-NFL events, check the specific event's ticketing platform or the American Dream website for pre-paid options.
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How to display my Gold Parking permit at MetLife Stadium?
Hang tag permits should be hung from the rear-view mirror or placed on the dashboard. Barcode permits must be printed and displayed on the dashboard. QR code permits should be ready on your mobile device for scanning at the entrance.
How to find my assigned Gold Lot at MetLife Stadium?
Your Gold permit grants access to any Gold Lot (Lots B, D, J, K, L, M, P, Deck A, and lots near American Dream). Parking attendants will direct you to an available Gold lot upon entry to the Sports Complex.
Tip: Keep the flow, don’t jump randomly.
How to know when MetLife Stadium parking lots open?
Parking lots typically open 5 hours prior to the start of an event. It's always best to check the specific event's page or "Know Before You Go" document for confirmed opening times, as they can vary.
How to confirm if tailgating is allowed in Gold Parking lots?
Yes, tailgating is permitted in the Gold Parking lots, provided you adhere to the "one car, one space" policy and do not occupy adjacent parking spots for your setup. Tailgating is generally not allowed in parking garages.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from New York City for Gold Parking?
From NYC, take the Lincoln Tunnel and follow signs for Route 3 West, which leads directly to the Sports Complex. From there, follow signage for Gold Parking.
How to use public transportation if I have Gold Parking but prefer not to drive the whole way?
While you have a parking pass, if you wish to avoid some traffic, you can park at the Edison Park Fast lot at Secaucus Junction (675 New Country Road, Secaucus NJ) and take NJ TRANSIT rail service to the MetLife Sports Complex. This is especially useful for NFL games.
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
How to find accessible parking at MetLife Stadium?
Accessible parking is primarily available in Platinum Lots E, F, and G for guests with a valid ADA license plate or hang tag, and the person with the disability must be in the vehicle. While these are Platinum, parking staff can guide you to the closest accessible drop-off (Lot C) if you have a Gold Pass and limited mobility.
How to avoid being towed or ticketed for parking violations?
Only park within designated parking spaces within the MetLife Sports Complex. Illegal parking on roadways, medians, or grass areas outside the complex is prohibited and will result in ticketing and/or towing.
How to handle lost or stolen Gold Parking permits?
MetLife Stadium states that parking permits will not be replaced if lost, stolen, or destroyed. It's crucial to keep your permit safe once acquired.
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