Attending an event at MetLife Stadium when you're starting from Grand Central Terminal in NYC can seem like a logistical puzzle, but fear not! With a little planning, it's a straightforward and relatively quick journey using public transportation. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, ensuring you arrive at MetLife ready for the action.
Your Grand Central to MetLife Stadium Adventure: A Step-by-Step Guide
First off, let's get you in the right mindset! Are you ready to ditch the traffic and parking woes and embrace the convenience of New York and New Jersey's excellent public transit systems? Fantastic! This guide is tailored for you.
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| How To Get To Metlife From Grand Central |
Step 1: Navigating Grand Central Terminal – Your Starting Point
Grand Central Terminal is a majestic hub, but it can be a little overwhelming if you're not used to it. Your primary goal here is to get to a subway line that will take you to Times Square-42nd Street, which is a crucial transfer point for your journey to MetLife Stadium.
Sub-heading: Finding Your Subway Line
- Option A: The S (Shuttle) Train. This is arguably the easiest and quickest option. The S train runs directly between Grand Central-42nd Street and Times Square-42nd Street.
- How to find it: Follow the signs for the "Shuttle" or "S train" within Grand Central. It's a very short ride, often taking only a couple of minutes.
- Option B: The 7 Train. The 7 train also goes from Grand Central-42nd Street to Times Square-42nd Street.
- How to find it: Look for signs directing you to the 7 train platform. It's also a quick ride.
Sub-heading: MetroCard Essentials
Before you board, ensure you have a valid MetroCard. You can purchase or refill one at vending machines located throughout Grand Central Terminal. Consider getting a loaded card for round-trip travel to save time on your return.
Tip: Revisit challenging parts.
Step 2: The Times Square-42nd Street Transfer – Gateway to New Jersey
Once you arrive at Times Square-42nd Street, you'll need to transfer to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. This is where your journey truly begins to shift from NYC to New Jersey.
Sub-heading: Walking to Port Authority Bus Terminal
- From the subway platform: Follow the abundant signs directing you to the "Port Authority Bus Terminal." The walk is well-marked and mostly indoors, taking just a few minutes. You'll typically exit the subway system and then follow a pedestrian tunnel or street-level signs to the bus terminal entrance.
- Keep an eye out: Times Square is a busy area! Stay aware of your surroundings and the flow of pedestrian traffic.
Step 3: From Port Authority to MetLife Stadium – The Final Leg
The Port Authority Bus Terminal is a major transportation hub. From here, you have two primary public transit options to reach MetLife Stadium: the bus (most common) or a combination of train and shuttle (for larger events).
Option A: The Direct Bus (Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express) - Recommended for Most Events
This is often the most convenient and direct way to get to MetLife Stadium from Port Authority.
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
- Finding the bus: Look for signs for the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus. These buses typically depart from the South Wing, third floor, at Gates 411-414, or sometimes from a street-level departure area on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues, depending on the event. Always check the Coach USA website (
coachusa.com/351-meadowlands-express - Ticket Purchase:
- Online in advance: Highly recommended! You can purchase round-trip tickets on the Coach USA website under the "ROUND-TRIP" tab. This often grants you priority boarding.
- At Port Authority: You can also purchase tickets at ticket windows (11-15) in the South Wing, main floor. Exact cash fare ($18 round-trip) may be required if paying directly on the bus for the return journey from the stadium.
- Travel Time: The bus ride typically takes around 20-30 minutes, subject to traffic.
- Drop-off at MetLife: The 351 bus drops you off in Lot K near the Quest Diagnostics Performance Center, which is a short walk to the stadium.
Option B: The Train and Shuttle Connection (NJ Transit) - Best for Large Events
For major events with anticipated attendance above 50,000 (like NFL games or large concerts), NJ Transit often runs special Meadowlands Rail Service. This is a great, often faster, option when available.
- Getting to Penn Station: Since you started at Grand Central, you'll need to get to New York Penn Station first.
- From Times Square-42nd Street, you can take the 1, 2, 3, A, C, or E subway lines directly to Penn Station (34th Street-Penn Station). This is another quick subway ride.
- From Penn Station to Secaucus Junction: At Penn Station, look for the NJ TRANSIT concourse. Board any NJ TRANSIT train marked with "SEC" (for Secaucus Junction). Secaucus Junction is the first stop after leaving Penn Station and takes approximately 10 minutes.
- Transfer at Secaucus Junction: Once you arrive at Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction, head upstairs to the mezzanine. You'll need to transfer to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle train, which departs from Tracks E-H on the lower level.
- Ticket Purchase:
- Purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" through the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App or at ticket machines at your origin station (Penn Station).
- The joint ticket from Penn Station to Meadowlands is generally around $12.60 round-trip for adults.
- Important: You must have a ticket to board the train from Meadowlands back to Secaucus Junction.
- Travel Time: The entire train journey from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium (including the transfer at Secaucus) typically takes around 30-40 minutes.
- Drop-off at MetLife: The Meadowlands Rail Station is just steps away from MetLife Stadium.
Step 4: Arriving at MetLife Stadium and Enjoying Your Event!
Once you're at MetLife Stadium, simply follow the signs to your gate or designated area. Remember to factor in time for security checks and finding your way around the stadium.
Sub-heading: Important Considerations
- Check Event-Specific Transportation: Always, always, always check the official MetLife Stadium website or the event organizer's website for transportation advisories specific to your event. Large events often have enhanced or modified service.
- Allow Extra Time: Especially for major events, expect crowds and potential delays. Arrive early! NJ Transit train service typically begins 3.5-5 hours before an event, and the 351 bus begins 2.5-3 hours prior.
- Return Journey: For your return, buses and trains will run for a period after the event concludes (typically 1-3 hours). Be prepared for crowds and potentially longer waits. Having your round-trip ticket purchased in advance is a huge time-saver.
- Mobile Apps: Download the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App and consider the Moovit app for real-time directions and updates.
- Stay Hydrated and Comfortable: Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you anticipate walking.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check for event-specific transportation schedules for MetLife Stadium?
You should always check the official MetLife Stadium website (metlifestadium.com) under their "Plan Your Visit" or "Public Transportation" sections, as well as the NJ Transit website (njtransit.com) and Coach USA website (
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
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How to purchase NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can purchase round-trip tickets to "Meadowlands" via the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App, at ticket vending machines at NJ Transit stations (like New York Penn Station), or at ticket offices at major terminals.
How to purchase Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus tickets?
You can buy tickets online in advance through the Coach USA website (
How to know if NJ Transit train service to MetLife Stadium is running for my event?
NJ Transit typically operates special Meadowlands Rail Service for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000. Check the NJ Transit website or the MetLife Stadium website for specific announcements related to your event.
Tip: Highlight sentences that answer your questions.
How to get from Times Square to Port Authority Bus Terminal?
From Times Square-42nd Street subway station, simply follow the signs that clearly direct you to the "Port Authority Bus Terminal." It's a short, well-marked walk.
How to deal with large crowds when returning from MetLife Stadium?
Be prepared for crowds and potential waits. Having your return ticket pre-purchased is key. Consider leaving a few minutes before the event officially ends if you want to beat the biggest rush, or be patient and enjoy the post-event atmosphere.
How to find accessible transportation options for MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium is ADA compliant. Accessible parking is available in Lots F and G with a valid state-issued accessible parking tag. A dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is in Lot C. Accessible elevators and restrooms are also available throughout the stadium. Check the MetLife Stadium website's "Accessible Services" section for full details.
How to avoid traffic delays when traveling to MetLife Stadium?
Public transportation is the best way to avoid traffic delays and parking hassles. The train and bus services are designed to get you to and from the stadium efficiently, even with heavy event traffic.
How to use a MetroCard for subway travel in NYC?
You can purchase a new MetroCard or add value to an existing one at vending machines in any subway station. Swipe your MetroCard at the turnstile to enter the subway system.
How to plan my trip from Grand Central to MetLife Stadium using a mobile app?
Download popular transit apps like Moovit or the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App. These apps provide real-time directions, schedules, and service alerts, making your journey much smoother.
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