Alright, are you ready to conquer the journey from the bustling heart of New York City to the epic MetLife Stadium in New Jersey? Whether you're heading to a thundering football game, a sensational concert, or any other electrifying event, navigating the path can seem a bit daunting. But fear not! This comprehensive guide will arm you with all the knowledge you need to make your trip to MetLife Stadium smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Let's get started on your adventure!
The Ultimate Guide: Getting from New York City to MetLife Stadium
MetLife Stadium, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is a world-class venue, but it's not directly connected to NYC's subway system. This means a bit of planning is required. We'll break down the best options for you.
Step 1: Identify Your Event and Time – The Crucial First Move!
Before you even think about tickets or transit, the absolute first step is to know exactly when your event starts and what kind of event it is. This will dictate which transportation methods are available and how frequently they run.
- Is it an NFL game or a major concert? These typically have dedicated NJ Transit train service directly to the stadium.
- Is it a smaller event or an off-peak time? You might need to rely more on bus services or a combination of options.
- What time does the event begin? Factor in travel time, potential delays, and time to get through security and find your seats. Don't underestimate this!
Knowing these details upfront will save you a lot of hassle and ensure you don't miss a minute of the action!
Step 2: Choose Your Weapon – Train, Bus, or Ride-Share/Taxi?
You have a few primary options for getting to MetLife Stadium from NYC. Each has its pros and cons regarding cost, speed, and convenience.
Sub-heading: Option A: The NJ Transit Train – Often the Fastest and Most Reliable for Major Events
For most major events at MetLife Stadium, the NJ Transit train service is your best bet. It's designed specifically to handle large crowds efficiently.
Step 2A.1: Head to Penn Station New York
Your journey by train begins at Penn Station New York, located at 32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues in Manhattan. This is a major transportation hub, accessible by multiple NYC subway lines (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3) and PATH trains.
- Pro Tip: Arrive early, especially for sold-out events. Penn Station can get incredibly crowded.
Step 2A.2: Board a Train to Secaucus Junction
From Penn Station, you'll need to take any NJ Transit train that stops at Secaucus Junction. Look for trains marked with "SEC" or check the departure boards for destinations like:
- Main-Bergen County Line
- Montclair-Boonton Line
- Morris & Essex Line
- Northeast Corridor
- North Jersey Coast Line
- Pascack Valley Line
- Port Jervis Line
The ride to Secaucus Junction is typically very quick, around 10-15 minutes.
Step 2A.3: Transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line (also known simply as the Meadowlands Rail Line). This is a dedicated shuttle train that runs directly to the Meadowlands Rail Station, which is just a short walk from MetLife Stadium.
- Important Note: For major events, this shuttle train runs frequently (every 10-20 minutes, sometimes more often). After the event, trains run on a "load and go" basis for up to 3 hours.
Step 2A.4: Ticket Talk – Don't Get Caught Without One!
- Purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" before you board your first train. You can do this at ticket machines at Penn Station or via the NJ Transit Mobile App.
- Why round-trip? It includes your transfer at Secaucus Junction and saves you the hassle of buying a ticket for the return trip, which is mandatory to board the train from Meadowlands back to Secaucus.
- Estimated Cost: A round-trip adult ticket from New York Penn Station to Meadowlands is approximately $12.60.
Sub-heading: Option B: The Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express Bus – Direct and Convenient for Many
If you prefer a direct bus service, the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express is a popular choice, especially for major events.
Step 2B.1: Head to the Port Authority Bus Terminal
The Coach USA 351 departs from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT), located at 625 8th Avenue between W 40th St and W 42nd St in Midtown Manhattan.
Step 2B.2: Board the 351 Meadowlands Express
Look for the designated boarding area for the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express. These buses offer direct service to MetLife Stadium.
- Travel Time: The bus ride can vary significantly depending on traffic, but typically ranges from 20 minutes to over an hour.
Step 2B.3: Ticket Information
- Purchase your bus ticket directly from Coach USA. You can often buy them at the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
- Estimated Cost: Bus fares typically range from $7-$15 for a one-way trip, so a round-trip ticket will be double that. Some sources indicate a round-trip can be around $15.
Sub-heading: Option C: Ride-Share (Uber/Lyft) or Taxi – Convenience at a Price
For ultimate door-to-door convenience, especially if you're in a group, ride-share services or a taxi are viable options.
Step 2C.1: Hail Your Ride
Simply use your preferred ride-share app (Uber, Lyft) or hail a yellow cab from anywhere in NYC.
Step 2C.2: Destination: MetLife Stadium
Input "MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ" as your destination.
- Traffic Warning! Be prepared for significant traffic delays, especially closer to event start times and immediately after events. This can dramatically increase your travel time and the cost of your ride.
- Surge Pricing: Ride-share services are notorious for surge pricing during peak demand (before and after events), making them considerably more expensive than public transit.
- Designated Drop-Off/Pick-Up: MetLife Stadium has designated drop-off and pick-up areas between parking lots D and E. Follow signage and instructions from traffic personnel.
Step 2C.3: Estimated Cost
- Taxi: A taxi ride can cost anywhere from $40-$60, not including tolls and tip.
- Ride-Share: This is highly variable due to surge pricing, but expect it to be in a similar range or even higher during peak times.
Step 3: The Return Journey – Getting Back to NYC
Getting back to New York City after an event at MetLife Stadium requires similar planning.
Sub-heading: Returning by NJ Transit Train
- Head back to Meadowlands Rail Station.
- Have your return ticket ready! You must have a ticket to board the train from Meadowlands to Secaucus Junction.
- Trains run on a "load and go" basis for up to 3 hours after the event, meaning they depart as soon as they're full.
- At Secaucus Junction, transfer back to an NJ Transit train heading to Penn Station New York.
Sub-heading: Returning by Coach USA Bus
- Locate the bus pick-up area. This will generally be the same area where you were dropped off or clearly marked for departures.
- Be prepared for queues, as many people will be taking the bus back to NYC.
Sub-heading: Returning by Ride-Share/Taxi
- Expect long wait times and high surge pricing immediately after an event.
- It's advisable to pre-book a private car service if you want a guaranteed ride and fixed price, though this will be the most expensive option. Otherwise, be patient with ride-share apps or consider walking a bit further from the stadium to avoid the immediate post-event rush.
Step 4: Beyond the Transport – Crucial Tips for a Smooth Experience
Now that you know how to get there, here are some invaluable tips to enhance your MetLife Stadium experience:
- Check the Event Schedule: Always verify the event start time and any specific transportation advisories on the official MetLife Stadium website or NJ Transit's Meadowlands page.
- Purchase Tickets in Advance: Whether it's train tickets or event tickets, buying in advance saves time and often money. The NJ Transit Mobile App is highly recommended for train fares.
- Arrive Early: This cannot be stressed enough, especially for major events. Arriving early gives you time to navigate transit, find your gate, grab food, and soak in the atmosphere without rushing.
- Dress for the Weather: MetLife Stadium is an outdoor venue. Check the forecast and dress accordingly (layers are always a good idea).
- Stadium Bag Policy: Be aware of MetLife Stadium's clear bag policy. Only specific types and sizes of bags are allowed. Check their official website before you go to avoid delays at security.
- Stay Hydrated: Especially during warmer months, staying hydrated is crucial.
- Cash/Credit Cards: Have both on hand for various purchases, though most vendors accept cards.
- Connectivity: Cell service can be spotty with large crowds. Consider downloading your tickets and transit apps beforehand.
- Know Your Exit Strategy: Before the event ends, have a rough idea of how you plan to get back to NYC. This will reduce stress when the masses start to leave.
- Accessibility: MetLife Stadium is accessible for guests with disabilities, offering accessible parking (with valid tags), ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Mobility assistance is also available from Guest Services.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip:
How to: Get the cheapest tickets to MetLife Stadium events?
Look for tickets on official vendor sites like Ticketmaster, AXS, and the NFL Ticket Exchange. Also, check secondary markets like StubHub or SeatGeek, but be mindful of inflated prices, especially closer to the event. Always compare prices.
How to: Avoid traffic getting to MetLife Stadium?
The best way to avoid traffic is to use public transportation (NJ Transit train or Coach USA bus) instead of driving or taking a taxi/ride-share, especially for large events.
How to: Find the train schedule for MetLife Stadium?
Visit the official NJ Transit website (
How to: Know if train service is running to MetLife Stadium?
NJ Transit typically runs dedicated train service for major events at MetLife Stadium. Always check the official NJ Transit website or the MetLife Stadium event page for confirmation. If it's a smaller event, train service might not be offered.
How to: Purchase NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can buy tickets at vending machines in NJ Transit stations (like Penn Station New York) or use the NJ Transit Mobile App on your smartphone. Select "Meadowlands" as your destination for a round-trip ticket.
How to: Get from Times Square to MetLife Stadium?
From Times Square, you can easily walk to Penn Station (about 10-15 minutes) for the NJ Transit train, or to Port Authority Bus Terminal (just a few blocks away) for the Coach USA 351 bus.
How to: Park at MetLife Stadium if driving?
On NFL game days, a pre-paid parking permit is required. For non-NFL events, parking is usually available and payable upon arrival. You can also park at the Edison Park Fast lot at Secaucus Junction and take the train shuttle. Check the MetLife Stadium parking website for specific event details and to purchase permits.
How to: Find a ride-share pick-up spot at MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium has a designated drop-off and pick-up area for ride-share services and taxis, typically located between parking lots D and E. Follow signage and instructions from stadium staff.
How to: Access MetLife Stadium with accessibility needs?
MetLife Stadium offers accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Guests with limited mobility can request wheelchair assistance at the gates. Check the "Accessible Services" section on the MetLife Stadium website for full details.
How to: Determine if I need to transfer trains to get to MetLife Stadium?
Yes, if you're coming from New York Penn Station (or most other NJ Transit lines), you will always need to transfer at Secaucus Junction to the dedicated Meadowlands Rail Line for MetLife Stadium.
