Hey there, excited about heading to MetLife Stadium from NYC? Whether you're catching a Giants or Jets game, a world-class concert, or a special event, getting there from the hustle and bustle of New York City can seem a bit daunting. But don't worry, I've got you covered with a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to make your journey smooth and stress-free!
Ready to dive in and plan your ultimate MetLife adventure? Let's go!
Step 1: Pinpoint Your Starting Point & Event Day Considerations
Before we jump into specific routes, the very first thing you need to consider is where you're starting from in NYC and what kind of event you're attending. Are you leaving from Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, or somewhere else? Is it a major game day, a sold-out concert, or a smaller event? These factors will influence the best transportation method for you.
- NYC Location: Different parts of NYC offer varying levels of accessibility to transit hubs. Knowing your starting point will help us choose the most efficient path.
- Event Type and Time:
- Major Events (NFL games, huge concerts): Expect significantly increased crowds, potential for delays, and special transit services. Always check the official MetLife Stadium and NJ Transit websites for event-specific schedules.
- Smaller Events: Public transportation might be less frequent, so planning ahead is even more crucial.
- Time of Day: Rush hour traffic can heavily impact travel times, especially for bus and car options.
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| How To Get To Metlife From Nyc |
Step 2: Choose Your Transportation Method (The Big Decision!)
There are a few primary ways to get from NYC to MetLife Stadium, each with its own pros and cons. Let's break them down:
Sub-heading: Option A: The Train - Your Most Reliable Public Transit Bet
For most major events, the NJ Transit train system is widely considered the most efficient and least stressful way to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC, especially if you're originating near Penn Station.
Tip: Keep the flow, don’t jump randomly.
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Get to New York Penn Station (NYC):
- From Manhattan: Penn Station is conveniently located at 34th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues. You can get there easily via multiple subway lines (1, 2, 3, A, C, E, N, Q, R, W) or city buses.
- From other boroughs: Use MTA subways or buses to connect to Penn Station. LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) riders can take their train directly to Penn Station. Metro-North riders from the Hudson, Harlem, and New Haven Lines will go to Grand Central Terminal and then take a subway (4, 5, 6, 7, S) to Penn Station.
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Take an NJ Transit Train to Secaucus Junction:
- From Penn Station, look for NJ Transit trains bound for Secaucus Junction (Frank R. Lautenberg Secaucus Upper Level). Most NJ Transit lines stop here, including the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Morris & Essex Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Main-Bergen County Line, Pascack Valley Line, and Port Jervis Line.
- Departure boards at Penn Station will clearly display "SEC" for trains stopping at Secaucus.
- This ride is typically very quick, often just one stop, taking about 10-15 minutes.
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Transfer to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line:
- Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, you'll need to transfer to a dedicated shuttle train that goes directly to MetLife Stadium.
- Head upstairs to the mezzanine level and then down to the lower level where the Meadowlands-bound trains depart (usually from Tracks E-H).
- Follow the signs! NJ Transit staff and ambassadors are usually present to help direct crowds on event days.
- The ride from Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Rail Station (at MetLife Stadium) is approximately 10 minutes.
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Arrive at MetLife Stadium!
- The Meadowlands Rail Station drops you off just steps away from MetLife Stadium.
Sub-heading: Option B: The Bus - A Direct, Event-Specific Route
For a direct approach, especially if you prefer not to deal with train transfers, the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus is a popular choice for major events.
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Head to Port Authority Bus Terminal (NYC):
- Located at 625 8th Avenue in Manhattan, Port Authority is accessible via numerous subway lines (A, C, E, N, Q, R, W, 1, 2, 3, 7, S) and city buses.
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Locate the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express:
- This express bus service typically departs from the South Wing, on the third floor of the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Gates 411, 412, 413, 414 are commonly used. For some events, street-level departures on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues might also occur.
- Important: Check the Coach USA website (specifically the 351 Meadowlands Express page) for event-specific departure information and schedules. They only operate for specific events.
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Board the Bus:
- The bus ride is direct and generally takes about 20-30 minutes, subject to traffic conditions.
- Be aware that traffic can be heavy on event days, so allow ample time.
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Arrive at MetLife Stadium!
- The bus typically drops off passengers directly at the stadium in designated lots (e.g., Lot G-17 or near Lot K).
Sub-heading: Option C: Rideshare/Taxi - Convenience at a Price
If you prioritize speed and door-to-door service, rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft) or a traditional taxi are options.
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Book Your Ride:
- Simply open your preferred rideshare app or hail a taxi from your NYC location.
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Navigate Traffic:
- The biggest factor here is traffic. MetLife Stadium is in East Rutherford, NJ, and getting there from NYC involves crossing bridges or tunnels that can experience significant congestion, especially around event times.
- The trip can take anywhere from 18 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic.
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Designated Drop-off/Pick-up Zones:
- MetLife Stadium has designated rideshare drop-off and pick-up zones (often in Lot E). Follow signage and instructions from stadium personnel.
- Be prepared for surge pricing and long wait times for pick-up after an event. Many sources warn of wait times up to two hours after major events, with significantly higher fares.
Sub-heading: Option D: Driving Your Own Car - Only if Absolutely Necessary
While it offers flexibility, driving your own car to MetLife Stadium from NYC is often discouraged due to traffic, expensive parking, and the general hassle.
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Map Your Route:
- Use a GPS navigation app (Google Maps, Waze) to plan your route. Expect to use bridges or tunnels like the Lincoln Tunnel or Holland Tunnel, which have tolls.
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Pre-Purchase Parking (Highly Recommended):
- Parking at MetLife Stadium is limited and can be costly. It is strongly advised to purchase parking passes in advance through the official MetLife Stadium website or Ticketmaster when you buy your event tickets.
- Parking lots usually open several hours before the event.
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Navigate Traffic and Parking:
- Be prepared for heavy traffic on all major routes leading to the stadium on event days.
- Follow signage to your designated parking lot. Staff will direct you to available spaces.
Step 3: Purchase Your Tickets - Don't Get Caught Without One!
This is a crucial step no matter which method you choose.
QuickTip: Short pauses improve understanding.
Sub-heading: For Train (NJ Transit):
- Mobile App: The NJ Transit Mobile App is highly recommended for purchasing tickets. It's convenient and often allows for a smoother experience. Select "Meadowlands" as your destination for a round-trip ticket.
- Ticket Vending Machines: Available at Penn Station and other major NJ Transit stations. Select "Meadowlands" as your destination.
- Ticket Office: Available at major terminals.
- PRO TIP: Always purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" at your originating station (e.g., Penn Station) before boarding. This avoids a $5 surcharge for buying on board and ensures you have a valid ticket for the return journey from Meadowlands to Secaucus Junction. You must have a ticket to board the train from Meadowlands back to Secaucus.
Sub-heading: For Bus (Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express):
- Online in Advance: The best way to secure your spot and sometimes get priority boarding is to purchase round-trip tickets online via the Coach USA website (or Megabus, their partner). Look for the "ROUND-TRIP" tab.
- At Port Authority: Tickets may be available for purchase at the Port Authority Bus Terminal (South Wing, main floor, windows 11-15) on the day of the event, but availability can be limited, especially for popular events.
- Note: Return trip tickets can also sometimes be purchased at MetLife Stadium for cash only (exact fare often required).
Step 4: Plan for Event Day & Enjoy the Journey!
- Check Schedules: Always, always, always check the official NJ Transit and Coach USA websites for event-specific schedules, as departure times and frequency can vary. MetLife Stadium's website also often has transportation information.
- Allow Ample Time: Especially for major events, arrive early! Crowds can be immense, and getting through security lines and to your seat takes time. Factor in potential transit delays.
- Stay Informed: Follow NJ Transit and MetLife Stadium on social media (e.g., X/Twitter) for real-time updates and advisories on event days.
- Travel Light: While there might be space, traveling with minimal bags makes your journey much more comfortable. Be aware of MetLife Stadium's bag policy.
- Charge Your Phone: Essential for mobile tickets, navigation, and staying connected.
- Hydrate and Snack: Especially if you anticipate long waits or travel times.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to a fantastic experience at MetLife Stadium, making the journey part of the adventure!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC using public transport?
You can get to MetLife Stadium from NYC using public transport primarily by taking an NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, and then transferring to the special BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line directly to the stadium. Alternatively, for specific events, the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus provides direct service from Port Authority Bus Terminal.
How to buy train tickets for MetLife Stadium from NYC?
You can buy train tickets for MetLife Stadium using the NJ Transit Mobile App (recommended), ticket vending machines at Penn Station and other major NJ Transit stations, or at ticket offices. Always purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" before boarding.
How to avoid traffic when going to MetLife Stadium from NYC?
To best avoid traffic, the NJ Transit train service is highly recommended as it uses a dedicated rail line to the stadium. If driving or taking a bus, plan to leave very early to get ahead of peak traffic times on event days.
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
How to get from Port Authority Bus Terminal to MetLife Stadium?
From Port Authority Bus Terminal, you can take the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus directly to MetLife Stadium. This service operates for most major events and typically departs from the South Wing, third floor (Gates 411-414).
How to get back to NYC from MetLife Stadium after an event?
To get back to NYC, you'll generally reverse your inbound journey. For trains, take the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line back to Secaucus Junction, and then transfer to any NJ Transit train bound for New York Penn Station. For buses, head to the designated Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express pick-up area outside the stadium.
How to find out specific train/bus schedules for a MetLife Stadium event?
Always check the official NJ Transit website (
How to ensure I have a valid return ticket from MetLife Stadium on NJ Transit?
Purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" when you start your journey at Penn Station (or your initial NJ Transit station). This ensures you have a valid ticket for the shuttle train from Meadowlands back to Secaucus Junction.
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
How to find the rideshare pick-up/drop-off zone at MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium has designated rideshare zones, typically located in Lot E. Follow stadium signage and instructions from event staff for drop-off and pick-up. Be prepared for potential surge pricing and long waits after events.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC if I'm coming from Long Island?
If you're coming from Long Island, take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) directly to New York Penn Station. From Penn Station, follow the steps for taking the NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction and then transferring to the Meadowlands Rail Line.
How to buy parking for MetLife Stadium?
Parking passes for MetLife Stadium are generally purchased in advance through the official MetLife Stadium website or Ticketmaster when you buy your event tickets. It's highly recommended to buy in advance as parking is limited and often more expensive on the day of the event.
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