Oh, heading to MetLife Stadium from the bustling heart of Manhattan? That's an adventure in itself! Don't worry, whether you're catching a thrilling NFL game, a sold-out concert, or a special event, getting to the Meadowlands Sports Complex is absolutely doable, and I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Let's make sure your journey is as smooth as a perfectly executed touchdown pass!
Your Ultimate Guide: Getting from Manhattan to MetLife Stadium
Navigating from the concrete jungle of Manhattan to the expansive MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, requires a bit of planning, but with the right information, you'll be there in no time. We'll cover the most popular and efficient ways to get there, along with some key tips to make your trip stress-free.
Step 1: Choosing Your Transportation Adventure – What's Your Vibe?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's figure out your preferred mode of travel. Are you looking for the most economical route, the quickest one, or the one that offers the most comfort?
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
- The Public Transit Champion: If you're a fan of efficiency, avoiding traffic, and saving some bucks, public transportation (train and/or bus) is your best bet. It's often the most recommended option, especially for major events.
- The Road Warrior: Got a car, or planning to rent one? Driving offers flexibility, but be prepared for potential traffic and parking considerations.
- The Comfort Seeker: For those who prioritize convenience and a direct ride, taxis and rideshares are always an option, though they come with a higher price tag.
Once you've decided, let's get into the specifics!
Step 2: Mastering Public Transportation – The Most Popular Choice
Public transport is generally the easiest and most reliable way to get to MetLife Stadium from Manhattan, especially on event days when dedicated services are ramped up.
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
Sub-heading: Option A: The NJ Transit Train (Recommended for Events!)
This is often the go-to for events at MetLife Stadium. It's relatively quick and avoids road traffic.
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Step 2a.1: Get to Penn Station, New York (NYP).
- No matter where you are in Manhattan, your first mission is to reach New York Penn Station. This major transportation hub is located at 34th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues.
- You can easily get there via MTA Subway (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 lines), various NYC local buses, or a taxi/rideshare.
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Step 2a.2: Board an NJ Transit Train to Secaucus Junction.
- From Penn Station, look for NJ Transit trains. You'll need to take any NJ Transit train that makes a stop at Frank R. Lautenberg Secaucus Junction (often simply called Secaucus Junction).
- Departure boards at Penn Station will typically indicate "SEC" next to the train listings that stop there. Common lines include the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Morris & Essex Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Main-Bergen County Line, Pascack Valley Line, or Port Jervis Line.
- Travel Tip: Purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" at a ticket vending machine or ticket window at Penn Station. This will cover both legs of your journey, including the shuttle from Secaucus. Do this before you board to avoid an additional onboard charge! The cost is generally around $12-$13 round-trip. You can also use the NJ Transit Mobile App for seamless ticket purchasing.
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Step 2a.3: Transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line at Secaucus Junction.
- Secaucus Junction is usually the first stop after leaving Penn Station. Once you arrive, head upstairs to the mezzanine level.
- Follow the clear signage for the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line. This is a dedicated shuttle train that runs directly to the stadium for most major events.
- Trains to the stadium typically depart from Tracks E-H on the lower level.
- Event Day Note: On event days, these shuttle trains run frequently (often every 10-20 minutes, or even "load and go" during peak times) and the ride is very short, usually just a few minutes. NJ Transit staff will be on hand to guide you.
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Step 2a.4: Arrive at Meadowlands Sports Complex Station.
- The Meadowlands Sports Complex Station is literally steps away from MetLife Stadium. You'll exit the train and be right at the complex.
- Total Travel Time: Expect this entire train journey to take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on connections and your initial location in Manhattan.
Sub-heading: Option B: The Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express Bus
This is a direct bus service that can be a great alternative, especially if you prefer a single mode of transport.
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
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Step 2b.1: Head to Port Authority Bus Terminal.
- The Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) is located between 8th and 9th Avenues, from 40th to 42nd Streets in Midtown Manhattan.
- It's easily accessible via MTA Subway (A, C, E, N, Q, R, W, S, 1, 2, 3, 7 lines), local buses, or taxi/rideshare.
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Step 2b.2: Find the 351 Meadowlands Express Bus.
- The Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus service operates directly from PABT to MetLife Stadium for most major events.
- Departure gates for this service can vary by event, but they are typically located in the South Wing, on the third floor, at Gates 411-414, or from a street-level departure area on 41st Street between 8th and 9th Avenues. Always check the Coach USA website or signage at PABT for the specific event you're attending.
- Ticket Purchase: You can purchase round-trip tickets for the 351 Express online via the Coach USA/Megabus website (look under the "ROUND-TRIP" tab) or at the Port Authority South Wing, main floor (windows 11-15). It's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially for popular events, as they can sell out or have limited availability for walk-ups. The fare is typically around $18 for a round-trip.
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Step 2b.3: Enjoy the Direct Ride.
- The bus ride is direct and generally takes about 20-30 minutes, though this is highly subject to traffic conditions.
- The bus will drop you off at the stadium complex, usually near Stadium Lot G-17.
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Step 2b.4: Return Trip.
- After the event, buses will depart from the stadium back to Port Authority. Be aware that there can be significant wait times for buses after a major event concludes, as many people will be leaving at once. Buses usually run on a load-and-go basis for a period after the event.
Step 3: Driving to MetLife Stadium – For Those Who Prefer Their Own Wheels
Driving offers convenience for some, especially if you're coming with a group or have specific needs. However, it comes with the challenges of New York/New Jersey traffic and parking costs.
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Step 3a: Navigate from Manhattan to New Jersey.
- Your primary route from Manhattan will involve taking either the Lincoln Tunnel or the George Washington Bridge.
- Via Lincoln Tunnel: Take the Lincoln Tunnel and follow signs for Route 3 West. Route 3 West will lead you directly to the Sports Complex exits.
- Via George Washington Bridge: Take the George Washington Bridge to the New Jersey Turnpike South. Then, take the Turnpike's western spur (Exit 16W or 18W) for direct access to the Sports Complex parking areas.
- Your primary route from Manhattan will involve taking either the Lincoln Tunnel or the George Washington Bridge.
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Step 3b: Follow Signs to the Stadium Complex.
- Once you're on Route 3 West or the NJ Turnpike, follow the numerous signs for the "Sports Complex" or "Meadowlands."
- The official address for GPS is: 1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073.
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Step 3c: Parking at MetLife Stadium.
- Parking Permits: For NFL games, pre-paid parking permits are required and generally purchased in advance through Ticketmaster's NFL Ticket Exchange or other authorized sellers. These permits dictate which lot you'll be directed to (e.g., Gold or Platinum lots).
- Non-NFL Events: For most non-NFL events (concerts, other sporting events), pre-paid permits may not be required, and parking is often available and payable upon arrival. Always check the specific event's information on the MetLife Stadium website for parking details.
- Cost: Parking can be expensive, typically ranging from $40-$60 per car, and more for oversized vehicles.
- Lot Opening Times: Parking lots usually open about 5 hours prior to the start of an event and close 2 hours after. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot and avoid the rush.
- Off-site Parking: For NFL games, if you don't have a pre-paid permit, there might be off-site lots (like 20 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073) with shuttle service to the stadium. Confirm availability and cost beforehand.
- Important Note: Traffic around the stadium before and after events can be extremely heavy. Be prepared for significant delays entering and exiting the parking lots.
Step 4: Taxi, Ride-Share (Uber/Lyft), and Private Car Services – The Convenient but Costly Options
If budget isn't your primary concern and you value door-to-door service, taxis and ride-sharing apps are viable choices.
Tip: Don’t just glance — focus.
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Step 4a: Hail a Taxi or Book a Ride-Share.
- You can easily hail a yellow cab in Manhattan or use apps like Uber or Lyft to request a ride to MetLife Stadium.
- Cost: Expect taxi fares to range from $45-$60+, not including tolls or tip. Ride-share prices can surge dramatically during peak demand (before and after events), potentially reaching much higher amounts.
- Tolls: Be aware that you'll be responsible for bridge/tunnel tolls.
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Step 4b: Designated Drop-off and Pick-up Areas.
- MetLife Stadium has designated drop-off and pick-up areas for taxis, limousines, and ride-share services. This is typically located between Parking Lots D and E. Follow signage upon arrival.
- Post-Event Pick-up: After an event, finding your ride-share or taxi can be chaotic, and wait times can be very long (up to two hours or more during peak exodus). Surge pricing will also be in full effect. Plan accordingly and consider walking a short distance away from the immediate stadium area if allowed, to potentially find a ride more quickly.
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Step 4c: Private Car Services.
- Numerous private car and limousine services offer transportation to MetLife Stadium. This is often the most comfortable and hassle-free option, especially for groups, as they offer pre-arranged pick-up and drop-off times. Research and book these services in advance.
Step 5: Accessibility and Special Needs Transportation
MetLife Stadium is committed to providing accessible transportation options for guests with disabilities.
- Accessible Parking: Valid ADA license plates or hang tags are required for accessible parking. These spaces are typically located in Lots E, F, and G. The owner of the vehicle with the valid tag must be in the vehicle.
- Dedicated Drop-off: There is a dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities in Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate.
- NJ Transit: NJ Transit trains and buses are generally accessible. The Meadowlands Rail Line is designed to be accessible for all passengers.
- Private Services: Many private car services can accommodate guests with special needs, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Inquire about these services when booking.
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| How To Get To The Metlife Stadium From Manhattan |
FAQs: How to Get to MetLife Stadium from Manhattan
Here are 10 common questions about getting to MetLife Stadium from Manhattan, with quick answers:
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How to get to MetLife Stadium from Manhattan by train? Take an NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle directly to MetLife Stadium.
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How to get to MetLife Stadium from Manhattan by bus? Take the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus directly from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in Manhattan to MetLife Stadium.
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How to buy train tickets to MetLife Stadium? Purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" at an NJ Transit ticket vending machine or ticket window at Penn Station, or use the NJ Transit Mobile App.
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How to buy bus tickets to MetLife Stadium? Purchase round-trip tickets for the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express online via the Coach USA/Megabus website or at the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
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How to drive to MetLife Stadium from Manhattan? Take the Lincoln Tunnel to Route 3 West or the George Washington Bridge to the NJ Turnpike South (Western Spur Exits 16W or 18W) and follow signs to the Sports Complex.
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How to find parking at MetLife Stadium? For NFL games, pre-paid parking permits are required and purchased in advance. For most other events, parking is available upon arrival. Check the MetLife Stadium website for event-specific parking details and costs.
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How to use Uber or Lyft to MetLife Stadium? Request a ride-share to "MetLife Stadium." They will drop you off at designated areas (typically between Lots D and E). Be prepared for potential surge pricing and long wait times for pick-up after events.
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How to get back to Manhattan from MetLife Stadium after an event? The easiest options are the NJ Transit train (shuttle to Secaucus, then train to Penn Station) or the Coach USA 351 bus. Both services operate after events, but expect queues.
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How to find accessible transportation to MetLife Stadium? NJ Transit trains and buses are accessible. For driving, accessible parking is available in designated lots (E, F, G) with proper placards, and there's a dedicated drop-off in Lot C. Private car services can also offer accessible vehicles.
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How to avoid traffic when going to MetLife Stadium? Public transportation (especially the NJ Transit train) is the best way to avoid traffic. If driving, arrive very early and be prepared for potential delays.
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