Are you ready for an unforgettable experience at MetLife Stadium, whether it's for a roaring concert, a nail-biting football game, or an exciting event? Forget the traffic woes and expensive parking! Taking NJ Transit to MetLife Stadium is hands down one of the most efficient and stress-free ways to get there. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth journey from your starting point right to the stadium's doorstep.
The Ultimate Guide to Getting to MetLife Stadium via NJ Transit
MetLife Stadium, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is a premier sports and entertainment venue. NJ Transit offers excellent public transportation options, primarily through its Meadowlands Rail Service, which provides direct access to the stadium for most large events.
Step 1: Know Your Event & Plan Ahead!
This is the most crucial first step! NJ Transit's service to MetLife Stadium is often event-specific. Rail service, especially the direct shuttle from Secaucus Junction, typically operates only for large events with anticipated attendance above 50,000, such as NFL games and major concerts. For smaller events, you might need to rely on bus routes or other connections.
- Check the Official NJ Transit Website: Before anything else, visit the official NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands metlifestadium.com/plan-your-visit/transportation/ - Identify Your Originating Station: Where are you starting your journey from? This will dictate your initial train or bus route. Common starting points include New York Penn Station, Hoboken Terminal, Newark Penn Station, or various local NJ Transit stations throughout New Jersey.
- Download the NJ Transit Mobile App: Seriously, do this! The app is a game-changer for purchasing tickets, viewing real-time schedules, and getting service alerts. It's available for free on both Apple and Android devices.
Step 2: Purchasing Your NJ Transit Ticket
Buying your ticket in advance is highly recommended to avoid long lines and a potential $5 surcharge if purchased on board the train.
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Mobile App (Highly Recommended): This is the easiest and most convenient method. Select "Meadowlands Station" as your destination. The app will provide digital tickets with a barcode for easy scanning at fare gates.
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Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Located at most NJ Transit stations, TVMs allow you to purchase tickets with cash or credit/debit cards. Ensure you select "Meadowlands Station" as your final destination.
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Ticket Windows: At major stations like New York Penn Station, you can purchase tickets from a manned ticket window.
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Fare Information (Approximate Round-Trip Fares):
- From New York Penn Station: Approximately $11.00 - $12.60
- From Secaucus Junction (shuttle only): Approximately $5.10
- From Hoboken Terminal: Approximately $9.70
- From Newark Penn Station: Approximately $9.70
Please note: Fares are subject to change, so always verify on the NJ Transit website or app. Remember to purchase a round-trip ticket if you plan on returning via NJ Transit.
Step 3: Making Your Way to Secaucus Junction
The Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction is the central hub for all rail service to MetLife Stadium. Almost all NJ Transit rail lines connect here, making it incredibly accessible.
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From New York Penn Station:
- Take any NJ Transit train that stops at Secaucus Junction. These trains are typically marked with "SEC" on the departure boards. Secaucus Junction is usually the first stop after leaving Penn Station. The travel time is approximately 10 minutes.
- Pro Tip: Don't worry about which specific NJ Transit line you're on from Penn Station; as long as it stops at Secaucus, you're good.
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From Other NJ Transit Rail Lines (e.g., Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Morris & Essex Line, Main/Bergen County Line, Pascack Valley Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Raritan Valley Line, Port Jervis Line):
- Take your respective train line to Secaucus Junction. You will transfer at Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Rail Line.
- Listen for announcements on your train, as conductors will often inform passengers about transfers to the Meadowlands.
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From NJ Transit Bus Routes to Secaucus Junction:
- Some NJ Transit bus routes, including Nos. 2, 78, 124, 129, 329, and 353, serve Secaucus Junction. You can connect to the Meadowlands train shuttle from here for major events.
- Consider this option if it's more direct from your location.
Step 4: Connecting to the Meadowlands Rail Line at Secaucus Junction
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, the process is usually very straightforward for major events.
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Follow the Signs: Secaucus Junction is well-signposted for the "Meadowlands Sports Complex" or "MetLife Stadium" trains.
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Head to the Lower Level: The trains for MetLife Stadium typically depart from Tracks E-H on the lower level of Secaucus Junction.
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Scan Your Ticket: You may need to scan your mobile ticket or pass your paper ticket through fare gates to access the platform.
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Board the Shuttle Train: These trains are dedicated shuttle services that run directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station, which is literally steps away from MetLife Stadium.
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Travel Time: The ride from Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station is incredibly quick, usually around 10 minutes.
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Important Note on Scheduling: For major events, the Meadowlands Rail Service often begins approximately 3.5 hours before the event starts and continues running for about 1 hour after the event concludes. During peak periods, trains run frequently, sometimes every 10-20 minutes. Always consult the specific event schedule on the NJ Transit website.
Step 5: Arriving at MetLife Stadium and Your Return Journey
- Welcome to MetLife! The Meadowlands Sports Complex Station drops you off right at the stadium's entrance, making for an extremely convenient arrival.
- Returning to Secaucus Junction: After the event, head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex Station. Trains will operate on a "load-and-go" basis during peak departure times, running frequently until crowds dissipate.
- Connecting from Secaucus Junction: Once back at Secaucus Junction, consult the departure boards for trains heading to your final destination (e.g., New York Penn Station, Hoboken, or other NJ Transit lines). Be mindful of the last train times for your connecting service, especially for late-night events. NJ Transit strongly urges you to plan this connection in advance.
- Consider Supplemental Bus Service: In some cases, especially after large events, NJ Transit may also operate supplemental bus service from MetLife Stadium directly to Secaucus Junction to help manage crowds and maximize capacity. Look for signs and NJ Transit personnel for guidance on these buses.
Alternative: Coach USA Bus Service (Route 351 Meadowlands Express)
For many major events, Coach USA also offers the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in New York City directly to the MetLife Sports Complex.
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Departure Point: Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in New York City (typically from the bus lanes near 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues).
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Schedule: Bus service usually begins 2.5 hours prior to an event and continues for about 30 minutes after the event's start. Return service operates for approximately 1 hour after the event concludes.
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Drop-off/Pick-up: At the Sports Complex, the 351 bus drops off and picks up near Parking Lot K.
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Fares: A round-trip ticket is approximately $14.00, and a one-way ticket is about $7.00.
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More Info: Visit
www.351express.com -
When to Consider This: This is a good alternative if you are starting directly from the Port Authority Bus Terminal or prefer bus travel over train.
General Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip:
- Arrive Early! Especially for sold-out events, expect crowds. Giving yourself ample time ensures you won't miss any part of the event.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on NJ Transit's social media (e.g., X/Twitter @NJTRANSIT) for real-time service updates and any unexpected delays.
- Have Your Ticket Ready: Whether it's your mobile app or a paper ticket, have it easily accessible for scanning at fare gates and for conductors.
- Mind the Bag Policy: MetLife Stadium has a clear bag policy. Familiarize yourself with it before you leave home to avoid issues at security. Clear bags 12" x 6" x 12" or less, or small non-clear clutch-type bags 4.5" x 6.5" or less are generally permitted. Larger bags, backpacks, etc., are usually prohibited.
- Pack Light: The less you carry, the easier your journey will be.
- Comfortable Shoes: You'll likely be doing a fair bit of walking, so wear comfortable footwear.
- Stay Hydrated: Especially during warmer months or long events, bringing a reusable empty water bottle (20 oz. or less, plastic or aluminum) is a good idea, as you can fill it at water fountains inside the stadium. Factory-sealed bottled water/soft drinks (20 oz. or less) in clear plastic are also generally permitted.
By following these steps, your journey to MetLife Stadium using NJ Transit will be a breeze, allowing you to focus on the excitement of the event itself!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC via NJ Transit? You'll typically take an NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the dedicated Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle directly to MetLife Stadium. Alternatively, for many events, you can take the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus from the Port Authority Bus Terminal directly to the stadium.
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium? The easiest way is through the NJ Transit Mobile App, selecting "Meadowlands Station" as your destination. You can also purchase tickets at ticket vending machines or ticket windows at NJ Transit stations. Always buy a round-trip ticket in advance to avoid surcharges.
How to know if the MetLife Stadium train shuttle is running?
Always check the official NJ Transit website (
How to transfer at Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium? At Secaucus Junction, follow the signs for the "Meadowlands Sports Complex" or "MetLife Stadium" trains. These shuttle trains depart from Tracks E-H on the lower level and provide direct service to the stadium.
How to find NJ Transit train schedules to MetLife Stadium?
Event-specific rail schedules are posted on the NJ Transit website (
How to get from MetLife Stadium back to New York Penn Station? Take the Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle from MetLife Stadium back to Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus, you can then transfer to any NJ Transit train heading towards New York Penn Station.
How to get to MetLife Stadium by bus? For many major events, Coach USA operates the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service directly from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC to the MetLife Sports Complex.
How to save money on NJ Transit fares to MetLife Stadium? Purchase a round-trip ticket in advance, either through the mobile app or at a ticket vending machine/window, to avoid the $5 surcharge for buying on board the train.
How to check MetLife Stadium's bag policy before taking NJ Transit?
Before you leave, check the official MetLife Stadium website (
How to stay updated on NJ Transit service alerts for MetLife Stadium events? Download the NJ Transit Mobile App for push notifications on service alerts, and follow NJ Transit's social media accounts (e.g., @NJTRANSIT on X/Twitter) for real-time updates.
