So, you're heading to MetLife Stadium from the bustling heart of New York City's Penn Station! Whether it's for a roaring football game, a thrilling concert, or a special event, getting there via public transportation is often the easiest and most efficient way to avoid the notorious traffic and parking woes.
Ready to conquer your journey? Let's dive in!
The Ultimate Guide: Penn Station to MetLife Stadium by Public Transport
There are primarily two excellent public transportation options to get from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium: NJ Transit Rail (the most popular and often recommended choice) and Coach USA Bus Service. We'll break down both in detail.
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| How To Get To Metlife Stadium From Penn Station |
Option 1: The NJ Transit Rail - Your Go-To for Most Events
The train is generally considered the fastest and most convenient way to reach MetLife Stadium for major events, as NJ Transit operates special "Meadowlands Rail Line" services directly to the stadium.
Step 1: Confirm Rail Service for Your Event!
Before you even leave your couch (or bed, or wherever you're reading this!), the absolute first thing you must do is check if NJ Transit is operating rail service for your specific event. Not all events at MetLife Stadium have direct train service.
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
- How to Check: Visit the official NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands
Step 2: Getting to Secaucus Junction from Penn Station
Assuming rail service is available for your event:
- Head to NJ Transit Concourse at Penn Station: New York Penn Station is a massive hub. Follow the signs for "NJ Transit" trains. It's usually located on the lower levels.
- Identify Your Train: Once you're on the NJ Transit concourse, look for departure boards. You'll need to take any NJ Transit train that stops at Secaucus Junction (Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction). These trains will often display "SEC" on their departure boards. Popular lines that go through Secaucus include the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Morris & Essex Line, and Montclair-Boonton Line, among others.
- Travel Tip: Don't worry too much about the specific line name. As long as it says "SEC" and is heading to Secaucus Junction, you're good to go!
- Purchase Your Ticket:
- Recommendation: Always buy a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" in advance! This will save you time and hassle, especially after a crowded event.
- NJ Transit Mobile App: This is by far the easiest and most recommended way to purchase tickets. Download the app, select "Meadowlands" as your destination, and activate your ticket just before boarding. Your mobile ticket will have a barcode for scanning at the fare gates.
- Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Located throughout Penn Station. Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
- Ticket Windows: If you prefer speaking to someone or have specific questions, you can purchase tickets at a ticket window.
- Important Note: Tickets from Meadowlands back to Secaucus Junction must be purchased to board the train. If you didn't buy a round-trip, you'll need to buy one at Meadowlands before your return.
Step 3: Transferring at Secaucus Junction
Secaucus Junction is your transfer point to the direct train to MetLife Stadium.
- Arrive at Secaucus Junction: Secaucus Junction is typically the first stop after leaving Penn Station.
- Follow the Signs for Meadowlands Rail Line: Once you disembark at Secaucus Junction, follow the clear signage for the "BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Meadowlands Sports Complex."
- Head to the Lower Level: The trains to MetLife Stadium typically depart from the lower level of Secaucus Junction (Tracks E-H).
- Scan Your Ticket: You'll need to scan your ticket at the fare gates to access the Meadowlands-bound platforms.
- Board the Shuttle Train: These trains run frequently (especially before and after events) and will take you directly to the Meadowlands Rail Station, which is just steps away from MetLife Stadium.
- Travel Time: The ride from Secaucus Junction to Meadowlands Rail Station is only about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Arriving at MetLife Stadium
You've made it! The Meadowlands Rail Station is conveniently located right next to MetLife Stadium, making for a very short walk to the stadium gates.
Option 2: The Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express Bus
If rail service isn't available for your event, or if you simply prefer a direct bus ride from Manhattan, the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus is your alternative.
Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus.
Step 1: Getting to Port Authority Bus Terminal from Penn Station
The Coach USA 351 bus does not depart directly from Penn Station. You'll need to get to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) first.
- Walk (Approx. 10-15 minutes): Penn Station is located between 7th and 8th Avenues, while Port Authority is between 8th and 9th Avenues, from 40th to 42nd Streets. It's a manageable walk, typically heading north on 8th Avenue.
- Subway (Quickest): You can take the A, C, or E subway lines from Penn Station (34th Street-Penn Station stop) one stop north to 42nd Street-Port Authority Bus Terminal.
Step 2: Finding the Coach USA 351 Bus at Port Authority
Port Authority is another large and busy terminal.
- Locate the South Wing: The Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express buses typically depart from the South Wing, on the third floor of the Port Authority Bus Terminal, usually from Gates 411, 412, 413, or 414. For some events, they might also depart from a street-level departure area on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues.
- Always Check: It's highly recommended to check the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express website (
coachusa.com/351-meadowlands-express
- Always Check: It's highly recommended to check the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express website (
- Purchase Your Ticket:
- Recommendation: Purchase your round-trip ticket online in advance via the Coach USA website under the "ROUND-TRIP" tab. This often grants priority boarding.
- You can also purchase tickets at the Port Authority South Wing, main floor (windows 11-15).
- Important Note: If you're buying your return ticket at MetLife Stadium, it's often cash-only and exact fare ($18.00) is usually required.
Step 3: Enjoying the Direct Ride to MetLife Stadium
The Coach USA 351 bus offers a direct, door-to-door service to the stadium.
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- Board the Bus: Show your ticket and board the bus.
- Relax on the Ride: The trip normally takes about 20 minutes, though this is subject to traffic and weather conditions.
- Bus Drop-off/Pick-up: The bus will drop you off and pick you up in Lot K near the Quest Diagnostics Performance Center, which can be accessed by exiting from the MetLife Gate.
Step 4: Returning from MetLife Stadium by Bus
- Buses will depart from the stadium after the event concludes and will run for approximately one hour after the event ends. Be mindful of the last bus departure time.
Important Tips for a Smooth Journey:
- Plan Ahead! This cannot be stressed enough. Check NJ Transit and/or Coach USA schedules well in advance of your event date. Schedules often vary for different events.
- Buy Round-Trip Tickets: This is your best bet for a stress-free experience, especially on the return journey when lines can be long.
- Download the Apps: The NJ Transit Mobile App is incredibly useful for purchasing tickets and checking real-time schedules and alerts.
- Arrive Early: Especially for major events, crowds will be significant. Give yourself plenty of extra time to navigate Penn Station, purchase tickets, and make your connections.
- Stay Hydrated & Be Patient: Travel can be tiring, especially with large crowds.
- Check Bag Policy: Familiarize yourself with MetLife Stadium's bag policy before you go to avoid issues at security.
- NJ Transit Ambassadors: For large events, NJ Transit often has ambassadors in brightly colored clothing at Secaucus Junction to help guide passengers. Don't hesitate to ask them for assistance.
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
How to Check NJ Transit Rail Service for My Event?
You can check if NJ Transit is operating special rail service for your event by visiting the official NJ Transit website (
QuickTip: Focus on one paragraph at a time.
How to Buy Tickets for NJ Transit to MetLife Stadium?
The easiest way is to use the NJ Transit Mobile App, selecting "Meadowlands" as your destination and purchasing a round-trip ticket. Alternatively, you can buy round-trip tickets from ticket vending machines or ticket windows at Penn Station.
How to Know Which Train to Take from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction?
At Penn Station, look for any NJ Transit train marked with "SEC" on the departure board. These trains are heading to Secaucus Junction and will be your first leg of the journey.
How to Transfer at Secaucus Junction for MetLife Stadium?
Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, follow the clear signs for the "BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Meadowlands Sports Complex." These trains depart from the lower level (typically Tracks E-H).
How to Find the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express Bus at Port Authority?
The Coach USA 351 buses usually depart from the South Wing, on the third floor of the Port Authority Bus Terminal, at Gates 411-414. Always check the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express website (
Tip: Make mental notes as you go.
How to Purchase Coach USA 351 Bus Tickets?
It's recommended to buy round-trip tickets online in advance from the Coach USA website under the "ROUND-TRIP" tab. You can also purchase them at the Port Authority South Wing ticket windows (11-15).
How to Return to Penn Station from MetLife Stadium by Train?
After the event, head back to the Meadowlands Rail Station and board a train to Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus, you can then transfer to any NJ Transit train heading back to New York Penn Station.
How to Return to Port Authority from MetLife Stadium by Bus?
If you took the Coach USA 351 bus, return to the designated pick-up area in Lot K. Buses will operate for approximately one hour after the event concludes.
How to Avoid Long Lines for Tickets?
Purchase round-trip tickets in advance, either through the NJ Transit Mobile App or the Coach USA website, to minimize waiting times.
How to Get Real-Time Updates on Train or Bus Schedules?
Download the NJ Transit Mobile App for real-time train updates and alerts. For bus service, check the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express website for any service advisories. Following NJ Transit's social media accounts (like @NJTRANSIT on X) can also provide timely information.
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