Oh, you're looking to catch a Giants game at MetLife Stadium? Fantastic choice! The roar of the crowd, the smell of the concessions, the thrill of live NFL action – there's nothing quite like it. But getting there, especially if you're not from the immediate area, can feel a bit daunting. Don't worry, I'm here to be your ultimate game-day travel guide! Let's break it down step-by-step so you can focus on cheering on the G-Men!
Your Ultimate Guide to Getting to MetLife Stadium for a Giants Game
MetLife Stadium is located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, part of the Meadowlands Sports Complex. While it's just a stone's throw from New York City, navigating the transit can be tricky if you don't know the ropes. This guide will cover all the popular options, from public transportation to driving and ride-sharing, ensuring you arrive ready for kickoff!
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| How To Get To Metlife For Giants Game |
Step 1: Determine Your Starting Point and Priorities
Before we dive into specific routes, let's think about where you're coming from and what's most important to you for your journey.
- Are you coming from New York City (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, etc.)? This will heavily influence your public transit options.
- Are you driving from New Jersey or further afield? Parking and traffic become key considerations.
- Is cost your top priority, or is convenience? Public transit is generally more economical, while ride-shares offer door-to-door service at a higher price.
- Are you traveling solo, with family, or a large group? This can impact your choice of transportation.
- Do you want to tailgate? If so, driving is likely your best bet.
Once you have a good sense of these, you can pick the best path forward!
Step 2: Public Transportation - The Savvy Fan's Choice
For many, especially those coming from New York City, public transportation is the most efficient and often cheapest way to get to MetLife Stadium for a Giants game. NJ Transit is your best friend here.
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
Sub-heading: NJ Transit Train Service
This is widely considered the fastest and most cost-effective option from NYC.
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Getting to Secaucus Junction:
- From New York Penn Station (NYC): Head to NJ Transit concourse at Penn Station (32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues). Take any NJ Transit train marked "SEC" to Secaucus Junction. This is typically the first stop after leaving Penn Station. Many lines will take you here, including the Main-Bergen County Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Morris & Essex Line, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Pascack Valley Line, or Port Jervis Line.
- From Long Island (LIRR): Take the LIRR to Penn Station, then follow the directions above for connecting to Secaucus Junction via NJ Transit. You can often buy a joint ticket to "Meadowlands station" at LIRR ticket machines, which includes the NJ Transit portion.
- From Upstate NY/Connecticut (Metro-North): Take Metro-North to Grand Central Terminal, then ride the subway (typically the S, 1, 2, 3, A, C, or E lines) to Penn Station. From there, connect to NJ Transit as described above.
- From other NJ Transit Lines: Many NJ Transit rail lines directly connect to Secaucus Junction. Consult the NJ Transit Trip Planner for your specific starting point.
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Transferring to the Meadowlands Rail Line:
- Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, head upstairs to the mezzanine and show your rail ticket to the staff at the gates.
- Then, go to the lower level where trains on the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line depart from Tracks E-H. This shuttle train provides direct service to the Meadowlands Rail Station, which is just steps away from MetLife Stadium.
- Frequency: For major events like Giants games, service typically begins approximately 4 hours before the event, with trains running every 10-20 minutes. During the game, trains run hourly, and after the game, they operate on a "load and go" basis for up to 3 hours or until the last fans depart.
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Ticket Purchase:
- Crucial Tip: Always buy a round-trip ticket in advance! You can purchase tickets via the NJ Transit Mobile App, at ticket vending machines, or at ticket offices at major terminals. Buying on board can incur an additional $5 charge.
- When purchasing, select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
- Important Note: You must have a ticket to board the train from Meadowlands back to Secaucus Junction.
Sub-heading: Coach USA Bus Service (351 Meadowlands Express)
This is a good alternative, especially if you're starting directly from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC.
- Departure Point: The 351 Meadowlands Express bus departs from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City. The exact gate may vary by event, but it's typically in the South Wing, on the third floor at Gates 411, 412, 413, 414, or from a street-level departure area on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues. Always check the Coach USA website for the specific event's departure location.
- Service: This is a direct, door-to-door round-trip service to the MetLife Sports Complex. The trip normally takes about 20 minutes, subject to traffic.
- Ticket Purchase:
- Round-trip tickets are generally $18. Online purchase is highly recommended for priority boarding.
- Tickets can also be purchased inside the Port Authority South Wing (main floor, windows 11-15).
- Return trip tickets can sometimes be purchased at the Meadowlands Stadium itself, but only in cash and exact fare may be required.
- Note: Tickets bought online are valid for 365 days but can only be used on dates indicated on the Coach USA "Upcoming Events" list.
Step 3: Driving - For the Tailgaters and Road Trippers
If you're planning to tailgate, or simply prefer the flexibility of your own vehicle, driving is certainly an option. However, be prepared for traffic and parking costs.
Sub-heading: Directions to MetLife Stadium
The stadium's address for GPS is: 1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073.
Tip: Every word counts — don’t skip too much.
- From the George Washington Bridge: Take the George Washington Bridge to the New Jersey Turnpike South. Take the Turnpike's western spur to one of the Sports Complex's exits, 16W or 18W. These provide direct access to the parking areas.
- From New York City (Lincoln Tunnel): Take the Lincoln Tunnel and follow signs for Route 3 West. Take Route 3 West directly to the Sports Complex.
- Traveling North on the New Jersey Turnpike: Follow the Western Spur (Sports Complex to Exit 16W), which provides direct access to Sports Complex parking. If congested, use the Eastern Turnpike Spur (Lincoln Tunnel) to Exit 16E to 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 are available.
- From the Garden State Parkway (Southbound): Take Exit 163 (Route 17). Follow Route 17 to Paterson Plank Road. Take Paterson Plank Road East to the Sports Complex.
- From the Garden State Parkway (Northbound): Take Exit 153A (Route 3). Follow Route 3 East to the Sports Complex.
Sub-heading: Parking at MetLife Stadium
Parking is a significant aspect of driving to a Giants game.
- Parking Permits are REQUIRED: For NFL game days, you must have a pre-paid parking permit to enter the Sports Complex.
- How to Get a Permit:
- Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange: This is the most common way to purchase a pre-paid permit. After selecting your game, look for "Show Parking Tickets." Permits are typically labeled "Platinum" or "Gold."
- "GOLD" permits allow access to any "Gold" Lot (Lots B, D, J, K, L, M, P, Deck A, and lots near American Dream).
- "PLATINUM" permits allow access to any "Platinum" Lot (Lots E, F, or G).
- Giants Account Manager: If you're a season ticket holder or purchased a suite, your parking passes will be uploaded to your online Giants Account Manager. You may need to print these passes in advance as they need to be scanned upon entry.
- Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange: This is the most common way to purchase a pre-paid permit. After selecting your game, look for "Show Parking Tickets." Permits are typically labeled "Platinum" or "Gold."
- No Pre-Paid Permit? Off-Site Parking: If you don't have a pre-paid permit, there's an off-site lot at 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073. Parking here costs $55 (cash/credit accepted). Shuttle service is provided to and from Lot G on the Stadium Complex.
- Parking Lot Hours: Parking lots typically open 5 hours prior to kickoff and close 2 hours after the event concludes. Arriving earlier than the opening time is not permitted.
- Tailgating Rules: Your parking permit entitles you to one parking space for your vehicle and tailgate setup. Adjacent spaces cannot be used for grills, chairs, tents, etc., even if you have multiple permits.
- Accessible Parking: Available in Lots E, F, and G for vehicles with a valid ADA license plate or hang tag. The owner of the vehicle must be present.
Step 4: Rideshare and Taxis - Convenience at a Cost
For door-to-door convenience, rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) and traditional taxis are an option, though they can be more expensive than public transit, especially with surge pricing during peak times.
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- Designated Drop-off/Pick-up: MetLife Stadium has designated areas for drop-offs and pick-ups for rideshares and taxis. This is typically located between parking lots D and E, with curb space for safe access. There is no charge to access this drop-off/pick-up area.
- Planning Ahead: For ride-shares, you can often reserve a ride in advance (up to 90 days out with Uber). This can help with predictability, though surge pricing might still apply.
- Post-Game Waits: Be aware that after a game, there can be significant wait times (potentially up to two hours) for rideshare services due to high demand. Surge pricing is also very common. Factor this into your departure plans.
- From Airports:
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): Uber estimates a 26-minute trip, costing around $38 (UberX) to $73 (Uber Black). Taxis are typically $60-$75 and take about 20 minutes.
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA): Uber estimates a 48-minute trip, costing around $92 (UberX) to $136 (Uber Black).
Step 5: Charter Buses and Shuttles - Group Travel Made Easy
If you're traveling with a larger group, a private charter bus or shuttle service can be an excellent, hassle-free option.
- Benefits: Avoids the complexities of coordinating multiple cars, eliminates parking concerns for individuals, and allows the group to travel together and kick off the game-day excitement early.
- Booking: Companies like ETS Airport Shuttle or Gogo Charters offer private charter shuttles to MetLife Stadium. Metro Limousine & Party Bus Service also provides coach and party bus rentals from Long Island and NYC.
- Parking: Charter bus parking is typically located in Parking Lot L at MetLife Stadium.
Step 6: Game Day Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Check Schedules and Alerts: Always, always check the NJ Transit website, Coach USA website, and MetLife Stadium's "Know Before You Go" event page closer to game day for any service advisories, schedule changes, or specific event information. Unexpected strikes or service disruptions can occur.
- Buy Tickets in Advance: This cannot be stressed enough for public transit. It saves you time and often money.
- Arrive Early: No matter your mode of transport, arriving early is crucial to avoid last-minute stress, navigate crowds, and soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
- Dress for the Weather: MetLife Stadium is an outdoor venue. Be prepared for whatever the New Jersey weather throws at you!
- Stadium Bag Policy: Familiarize yourself with the stadium's clear bag policy to avoid delays at security checkpoints.
- Stay Hydrated and Fuelled: Especially if you're tailgating or taking public transit, ensure you have water and snacks.
- Have Your Tickets Ready: MetLife Stadium is a mobile ticketing venue for game tickets. Make sure your tickets are loaded on your phone and accessible before you get to the gates.
- Know Your Exit Strategy: Especially for public transit, know where your return bus stop or train platform is located.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a fantastic Giants game at MetLife Stadium without the stress of travel. Go Giants!
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - How to Get to MetLife for Giants Game
How to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC without a car? The most recommended way is to take an NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line directly to MetLife Stadium. Alternatively, the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus runs directly from the Port Authority Bus Terminal to the stadium.
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium? Purchase round-trip tickets to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" using the NJ Transit Mobile App, ticket vending machines at any NJ Transit station, or at ticket offices in major terminals. Always buy round-trip in advance to avoid extra fees.
How to find parking at MetLife Stadium for a Giants game? For NFL games, you must have a pre-paid parking permit. These are typically purchased via Ticketmaster NFL Ticket Exchange or accessed through your Giants Account Manager. If you don't have a permit, an off-site cash lot at 20 Murray Hill Parkway offers parking with shuttle service.
How to avoid traffic when driving to MetLife Stadium? While avoiding all traffic is impossible on game day, arriving very early (when parking lots open, typically 5 hours before kickoff) is your best strategy. Using GPS and checking live traffic updates on apps like Google Maps or Waze can help you navigate around severe congestion. Consider taking the Western Spur of the NJ Turnpike if possible, but be aware of EZ Pass only sections.
Tip: Watch for summary phrases — they give the gist.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Newark Airport (EWR)? You can take a taxi (approx. 20 mins, $60-75) or use a rideshare service like Uber (approx. 26 mins, $38-$73 for UberX/Black). Public bus options also exist, but often involve transfers and longer travel times.
How to find the rideshare drop-off point at MetLife Stadium? The designated drop-off and pick-up area for rideshares and taxis is located between parking lots D and E at MetLife Stadium. Follow stadium signage for "Passenger Drop-Off/Pick-Up."
How to travel to MetLife Stadium with a large group? For large groups, chartering a private bus or shuttle service is highly recommended. Companies like ETS Airport Shuttle, Gogo Charters, or Metro Limousine & Party Bus Service offer group transportation directly to the stadium.
How to check for public transit schedule changes on game day?
Always check the official NJ Transit website (
How to get from MetLife Stadium back to NYC after a game? For trains, head back to the Meadowlands Rail Station and take the shuttle train to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to an NJ Transit train back to New York Penn Station. For buses, return to the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus boarding area (near parking lot K) for direct service back to Port Authority. Be prepared for queues.
How to tailgate at MetLife Stadium? You need a pre-paid parking permit to enter the Sports Complex. Each permit grants you one parking space for your vehicle and tailgate setup. Remember that adjacent spaces cannot be used for tailgating equipment, even if you have multiple permits for your group. Arrive early to secure a good spot!
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