Getting from the vibrant streets of Philadelphia to the electric atmosphere of MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, can feel like a bit of a journey, but fear not! Whether you're heading to a thrilling Giants or Jets game, a star-studded concert, or another exciting event, this comprehensive guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need for a smooth and stress-free trip.
So, are you ready to embark on your adventure to the Meadowlands? Let's dive in!
Your Ultimate Guide: Philly to MetLife Stadium
There are several ways to make this trip, each with its own advantages. We'll cover the most popular and efficient methods: driving and public transportation.
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| How To Get To Metlife From Philly |
Step 1: Choose Your Travel Method – The Great Debate: Car vs. Transit
Before anything else, you need to decide how you want to get there. This choice will largely depend on your personal preferences, budget, and the number of people in your group.
- Driving: Offers flexibility and directness, especially if you have several people sharing the cost. However, it comes with the challenges of New York/New Jersey traffic and potentially expensive parking.
- Public Transportation: Generally more environmentally friendly and allows you to avoid traffic headaches. It can involve multiple transfers, but it's often more affordable, especially for solo travelers or small groups.
Let's explore each option in detail.
Step 2: Navigating by Car (The Open Road Adventure)
If you prefer the freedom of your own vehicle, here's how to tackle the journey from Philly to MetLife Stadium.
Tip: Use the structure of the text to guide you.
Sub-heading: Getting There: The Route
The drive from Philadelphia to MetLife Stadium is approximately 90-100 miles, depending on your exact starting point in Philly. The most common route involves heading north on the New Jersey Turnpike.
- Start in Philadelphia: From wherever you are in Philadelphia, navigate to I-95 North.
- Merge onto NJ Turnpike North: Continue on I-95 North, which will merge with the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95 N) as you cross into New Jersey.
- Western Spur (for direct access): When you get closer to the Meadowlands Complex, pay close attention to signs. You'll want to take the Western Spur (I-95 N, designated as the "Sports Complex" or "Meadowlands Complex/Carlstadt" spur). This spur provides direct access to the MetLife Sports Complex via Exits 16W or 18W (if northbound).
- Important Note: If the Western Spur is congested, you can also use the Eastern Turnpike Spur (Lincoln Tunnel) to Exit 16E and then take Route 3 West, which also provides direct access.
- Follow Signs to MetLife Stadium: Once off the Turnpike, follow the clear signage for MetLife Stadium and the Sports Complex.
Sub-heading: Parking at MetLife Stadium
Parking at MetLife Stadium for major events like NFL games almost always requires a pre-paid parking permit. It's crucial to secure this in advance.
- Purchase Parking Permits in Advance: For NFL games, you must have a pre-paid parking permit. These are often available through the NFL Ticket Exchange or other authorized ticketing platforms. Look for "Gold" or "Platinum" permits, which dictate your general parking area.
- Display Your Permit Clearly: Whether it's a hang tag or a printed barcode/QR code on your mobile device, ensure your parking permit is clearly displayed before you even reach the lot entrance. This will expedite your entry.
- Arrive Early: Parking lots typically open 5 hours before an event. Arriving early will give you a better chance of finding a desirable spot and avoiding last-minute rushes.
- Off-site Parking Option: If you don't have a pre-paid permit for an NFL game, there's often an off-site lot available at 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073 for a fee (usually $55, cash/credit accepted). Shuttle service is provided from this lot to Lot G on the Stadium Complex.
- Accessible Parking: Guests with disabilities will find designated accessible parking in Lots E, F, and G. Ensure you have a valid ADA license plate or hang tag displayed, and the owner must be in the vehicle.
Step 3: Embracing Public Transportation (The Eco-Friendly Journey)
Public transportation is a popular and often efficient way to get from Philadelphia to MetLife Stadium, allowing you to avoid parking hassles and traffic stress. This involves a multi-leg journey.
Sub-heading: Leg 1: Philly to NYC (Amtrak is Your Best Bet)
The first major leg is getting from Philadelphia to New York City. Amtrak is generally the fastest and most comfortable option.
- Head to Philadelphia's 30th Street Station: This is your primary hub for Amtrak service in Philadelphia.
- Take Amtrak to Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station (NYC): Purchase a ticket for the Amtrak Northeast Regional service to New York's Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station. This is a direct and frequent service. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Tip: Book your Amtrak tickets in advance, especially for popular event days, as prices can fluctuate.
Sub-heading: Leg 2: NYC to Secaucus Junction (NJ Transit's Gateway)
Once you arrive at Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station in New York City, you'll transfer to NJ Transit.
Tip: Read aloud to improve understanding.
- Navigate to the NJ Transit Concourse: Follow signs within Moynihan Train Hall (or the older Penn Station portion) to the NJ Transit concourse.
- Take an NJ Transit Train to Secaucus Junction: Board any NJ Transit train that stops at Secaucus Junction. These trains are often marked with "SEC" on departure boards. Secaucus Junction is typically the first stop after leaving Penn Station. The ride is quick, usually around 10-15 minutes.
- Purchase Tickets: You can buy your NJ Transit ticket at a ticket vending machine or ticket window at Penn Station, or even better, use the NJ Transit Mobile App for convenience. Purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" if available, or two one-way tickets.
Sub-heading: Leg 3: Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium (The Final Shuttle)
Secaucus Junction is the critical transfer point for MetLife Stadium.
- Transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line: At Secaucus Junction, you'll need to go to the lower level (Tracks E-H) to catch the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line. This dedicated shuttle train runs directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station, which is just steps from MetLife Stadium.
- Stadium Shuttle Service: The Meadowlands Rail Line typically begins running approximately 3.5 hours before an event and continues until about an hour after. Trains run frequently (every 10-20 minutes) during peak times.
- Check Event-Specific Schedules: Always check the NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands
- Check Event-Specific Schedules: Always check the NJ Transit website (
Step 4: Alternative Public Transportation (Buses from Philly)
While less common for direct MetLife access, bus travel from Philly to NYC is an alternative to Amtrak, and from there you can connect to MetLife.
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- Bus from Philly to Port Authority Bus Terminal (NYC): Companies like Peter Pan Bus Lines and Greyhound offer service from Philadelphia (e.g., 520 N Christopher Columbus Blvd) to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. This journey can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours.
- From Port Authority to MetLife Stadium (Coach USA Bus 351): For major events, Coach USA operates the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service directly from the Port Authority Bus Terminal to the MetLife Sports Complex. This service usually starts 2.5 hours before the event and runs for about an hour after.
- Cost: A round-trip ticket is typically around $14.
- Check Schedules: Verify the 351 bus schedule on the Coach USA website (351express.com) as it's event-dependent.
Step 5: Essential Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
Regardless of your chosen method, these tips will help ensure a seamless experience.
- ***Plan Ahead, Always!***: This is the golden rule. Check schedules, purchase tickets/permits, and review stadium policies well in advance of your travel date, especially for major events.
- Factor in Buffer Time: Traffic, unexpected delays on public transport, and security lines at the stadium can add significant time to your journey. Always leave more time than you think you'll need.
- Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks: Especially for longer journeys or if you're tailgating, having water and some snacks on hand is always a good idea.
- MetLife Stadium Clear Bag Policy: Be aware of the strict clear bag policy at MetLife Stadium. Only clear bags 12" x 6" x 12" or less, or small non-clear clutch-type bags 4.5" x 6.5" or less are permitted. Medically necessary items are an exception after inspection. Leave large bags, backpacks, and coolers in your vehicle or at home.
- Download Relevant Apps: The NJ Transit Mobile App is invaluable for purchasing tickets and checking real-time schedules and service alerts. Parking apps can also be helpful if driving.
- Dress for the Weather and Comfort: MetLife Stadium is an outdoor venue. Check the forecast and dress in layers. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you'll be doing a lot of walking or standing.
- Know Your Gates/Entry Points: Familiarize yourself with the stadium map and your ticketed entry gate to save time upon arrival.
By following these steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to enjoying your event at MetLife Stadium, hassle-free!
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Philadelphia without a car?
The best way to get to MetLife Stadium from Philadelphia without a car is by taking Amtrak from Philadelphia's 30th Street Station to Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station in NYC, then transferring to an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction, and finally taking the dedicated Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle to the stadium.
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
How to purchase train tickets for MetLife Stadium from Philadelphia?
Purchase Amtrak tickets from Philadelphia's 30th Street Station to New York Penn Station online via Amtrak's website or app, or at the station. For NJ Transit, buy a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" via the NJ Transit Mobile App or at a ticket vending machine at Penn Station in NYC.
How to find parking for MetLife Stadium if I don't have a pre-paid permit?
For NFL games, if you don't have a pre-paid permit, you can often park at the off-site lot at 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (for a fee, cash/credit accepted). Shuttle service is provided from this lot to the stadium complex. For non-NFL events, parking is usually available and payable upon arrival.
How to use the NJ Transit Mobile App for MetLife Stadium travel?
Download the NJ Transit Mobile App, create an account, and select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination. You can then purchase and display your tickets directly on your mobile device, which can be scanned at fare gates. The app also provides real-time train and bus status.
How to get from Port Authority Bus Terminal to MetLife Stadium?
For major events at MetLife Stadium, Coach USA operates the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service directly from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan to the MetLife Sports Complex. Check their website (351express.com) for event-specific schedules.
How to transfer at Secaucus Junction for MetLife Stadium?
At Secaucus Junction, you'll need to go to the lower level (Tracks E-H) to board the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line. This is the dedicated shuttle train that takes you directly to the MetLife Sports Complex Station.
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
How to know if the Meadowlands Rail Line is running for my event?
Always check the NJ Transit website (
How to understand MetLife Stadium's clear bag policy?
MetLife Stadium enforces a clear bag policy. You can bring one clear bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" or a small non-clear clutch-type bag no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". Exceptions are made for medically necessary items after inspection. All other bags are prohibited.
How to avoid traffic when driving to MetLife Stadium?
To minimize traffic, aim to arrive very early (when parking lots open, typically 5 hours before the event) or consider using public transportation to avoid driving directly to the stadium. Staying informed about local traffic reports on event day is also beneficial.
How to find accessible parking at MetLife Stadium?
Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G at MetLife Stadium. You must have a valid state-issued accessible parking license plate or hang tag displayed, and the owner of the vehicle must be present. Staff will direct you to designated spaces.
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