Embarking on a journey from Queens to MetLife Stadium can seem like a daunting task, especially if you're not familiar with the intricate web of New York City's public transportation. But fear not! This comprehensive, step-by-step guide will transform you into a seasoned traveler, ready to conquer the path to your favorite events at MetLife.
So, ready to unravel the mystery of getting from Queens to MetLife Stadium? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Pinpointing Your Starting Point in Queens
Before we even think about MetLife, the first crucial step is to identify your exact starting location in Queens. Queens is a vast borough, and your departure point will dictate the most efficient route. Are you near a subway station, a Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station, or primarily reliant on buses? Knowing this will be your compass for the journey ahead.
- Consider using a mapping app (like Google Maps or Apple Maps) to get a precise fix on your current address. This will be invaluable for planning your initial leg of the trip.
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| How To Get To Metlife From Queens |
Step 2: The Gateway to Manhattan – Your First Leg
The vast majority of routes from Queens to MetLife Stadium will involve a trip through Manhattan. Your goal here is to reach either Penn Station or the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
Option A: The Subway – Your Underground Express
The New York City Subway system is often the most cost-effective and direct way to get from many parts of Queens to Manhattan.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
- Identify Your Subway Line: Look for the closest subway station to your location. Many lines in Queens (like the E, F, M, R, 7, N, W, J, Z, A, C) will eventually connect you to midtown Manhattan.
- Head Towards Midtown:
- For Penn Station (for NJ Transit trains): Look for lines that go to 34th Street-Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) and then transfer, or direct lines to 34th Street-Penn Station (A, C, E). The A, C, or E lines are generally the most direct to Penn Station.
- For Port Authority Bus Terminal (for NJ Transit buses): Look for lines that go to Times Square-42nd Street (1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W, S) or direct lines to Port Authority (A, C, E, 7). The A, C, or E lines are excellent choices as they stop directly at Port Authority.
- Navigating the Subway: Purchase a MetroCard (if you don't already have one) at any subway station. Follow the signs carefully, pay attention to the train line letters/numbers and the direction (e.g., "Uptown & The Bronx" or "Downtown & Brooklyn").
Option B: The LIRR – A Faster Commute for Some
If you are located near an LIRR station in Queens (such as Jamaica, Flushing-Main Street, Woodside, or Forest Hills), this can be a very efficient way to reach Penn Station.
- Choose Your LIRR Line: Most LIRR lines from Queens terminate at Penn Station.
- Purchase Your Ticket: You can buy LIRR tickets at the station from ticket machines or windows. Consider purchasing a round-trip ticket to save time later.
- Board the Train: Locate your platform and board the train. The journey to Penn Station is typically quick.
Step 3: From Manhattan to MetLife – The Final Stretch
Once you've successfully navigated to either Penn Station or the Port Authority Bus Terminal, you're on the home stretch to MetLife Stadium!
Option A: NJ Transit Train from Penn Station (Recommended for Ease)
This is generally the most straightforward and popular option, especially on event days.
- Locate NJ Transit: Within Penn Station, follow the signs for NJ Transit. This is different from Amtrak or Long Island Rail Road.
- Purchase Your Ticket: You will need to purchase a separate NJ Transit ticket. You can buy tickets at the NJ Transit ticket machines or windows. Your destination is "Meadowlands Sports Complex." It's highly recommended to buy a round-trip ticket to avoid lines after the event.
- Find Your Train: Look for trains heading to Secaucus Junction. All trains going to MetLife Stadium will first stop at Secaucus Junction.
- Transfer at Secaucus Junction: This is a crucial step. At Secaucus Junction, you will transfer to a special train that goes directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex (MetLife Stadium). Signs will be plentiful, and staff are usually on hand to guide you. The transfer is typically very quick and easy.
- Arrive at MetLife: The train will drop you off right at the stadium!
Option B: NJ Transit Bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal
While less common for stadium events than the train, the bus is a viable option, particularly if you are closer to Port Authority or prefer bus travel.
Tip: Bookmark this post to revisit later.
- Locate NJ Transit Buses: Within the Port Authority Bus Terminal, find the NJ Transit section.
- Purchase Your Ticket: Purchase a ticket to the "Meadowlands Sports Complex." Again, buying a round-trip ticket is advisable.
- Find Your Gate: Look for the gate number for buses heading to the Meadowlands Sports Complex. These are usually special event buses on game/event days.
- Board the Bus: The bus will take you directly to MetLife Stadium. Be aware that traffic can impact bus travel times, especially on event days.
Step 4: Returning Home – The Reverse Journey
Getting back to Queens from MetLife Stadium is essentially the reverse of your journey.
From MetLife Stadium to Manhattan:
- Take the special NJ Transit train from MetLife Stadium back to Secaucus Junction.
- At Secaucus Junction, transfer to an NJ Transit train heading to New York Penn Station.
- Alternatively, if you took the bus, board the NJ Transit bus back to Port Authority Bus Terminal.
From Manhattan back to Queens:
- From Penn Station: Take the A, C, or E subway lines directly to your desired station in Queens, or transfer to other lines as needed. You can also take the LIRR back to your station in Queens.
- From Port Authority Bus Terminal: Take the appropriate subway line (A, C, E, 7, N, Q, R, W, S) to connect to your desired line in Queens.
Important Tips for a Smooth Journey:
- Check Event Schedules: Always double-check the kick-off or start time of your event. Arrive early to account for travel delays and security checks.
- Purchase Round-Trip Tickets: This will save you significant time and hassle after the event when crowds are at their peak.
- Use Apps: NJ Transit, MTA, and Google Maps apps are your best friends. They provide real-time updates on schedules, delays, and alternative routes.
- Dress Comfortably: You'll be doing a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Stay Hydrated: Especially on warm days, bring water for your journey.
- Be Aware of Peak Times: Subway and train lines will be much busier during rush hour and immediately before/after major events.
- Plan for Contingencies: Have a backup plan in mind in case of unexpected delays or service disruptions.
- Keep your MetroCard and NJ Transit tickets easily accessible. You'll need them frequently!
- Don't Be Afraid to Ask: If you're lost or unsure, ask an MTA or NJ Transit employee for assistance. They are there to help!
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to buy a MetroCard for the NYC subway?
You can buy a MetroCard at any subway station from vending machines (cash or card) or at station booths (cash only).
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How to know which subway line to take from Queens to Penn Station?
Generally, the A, C, and E lines go directly to 34th Street-Penn Station. You can also use a mapping app to find the most efficient route from your specific location.
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can purchase NJ Transit tickets at machines or ticket windows in Penn Station (New York) or Port Authority Bus Terminal, or through the NJ Transit mobile app.
Tip: Focus more on ideas, less on words.
How to transfer at Secaucus Junction for MetLife Stadium?
At Secaucus Junction, follow the signs for the "Meadowlands Sports Complex" shuttle train. It's a quick and easy transfer on a dedicated track.
How to get to MetLife Stadium if I'm coming from North Queens (e.g., Astoria, Flushing)?
From North Queens, you'll likely take the 7, N, or W train to Manhattan and then transfer to a train (A, C, E) for Penn Station or walk to Port Authority.
How to avoid rush hour crowds when traveling to MetLife?
Try to travel outside of typical morning (7-9 AM) and evening (4-7 PM) rush hours, and arrive well in advance of the event start time.
How to check for delays on NJ Transit or the NYC Subway?
Download the official NJ Transit app and the MTA (NYC Subway) app, or check their websites for real-time service advisories and delays.
QuickTip: If you skimmed, go back for detail.
How to get back to Queens after a late-night event at MetLife?
NJ Transit will run special trains for a period after events. From Penn Station, the NYC subway (A, C, E) operates 24/7, or you can take the LIRR if it's still running.
How to find the Port Authority Bus Terminal from Times Square?
The Port Authority Bus Terminal is located at 625 8th Avenue, between 40th and 42nd Streets, just a short walk west of Times Square.
How to pay for the LIRR from Queens to Penn Station?
You can buy LIRR tickets at station vending machines, ticket windows, or use the LIRR TrainTime app for mobile ticketing.
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