So, you're planning a trip from the iconic Grand Central Terminal to the sprawling MetLife Stadium! Whether you're heading to catch a thrilling football game, a blockbuster concert, or a special event, getting there can seem a little daunting if you're not familiar with the New York/New Jersey transit system. But fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.
The Quest: Grand Central to MetLife Stadium
Ready to embark on your adventure? Let's get you from the heart of Manhattan to the excitement of MetLife Stadium!
Step 1: Your Grand Central Starting Point & Initial Metro Moves
Alright, let's kick things off right where you are – Grand Central Terminal! This magnificent Beaux-Arts building is not just a train station; it's a landmark.
Understanding Your Options from Grand Central
From Grand Central, your primary goal is to get to a major transportation hub that offers direct connections to MetLife Stadium. There are two main public transit strategies:
- Option A: The Subway to Bus Route (via Port Authority Bus Terminal): This is often the most straightforward and consistent option for many events. You'll take the subway to Port Authority Bus Terminal, and then a direct bus to MetLife.
- Option B: The Subway to Train Route (via Penn Station and Secaucus Junction): This is ideal for major events like NFL games or large concerts, as NJ Transit often runs special direct trains from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium. This route involves a subway ride to Penn Station, then an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction, and finally a shuttle train to the stadium.
We'll detail both, so you can choose what works best for your specific trip and event!
Step 2: Choosing Your Path: Subway to Port Authority Bus Terminal (for Bus Service)
This is a popular and reliable way to get to MetLife Stadium.
Sub-heading: Navigating the NYC Subway from Grand Central
- Locate the Subway Entrance at Grand Central: Grand Central Terminal has multiple subway entrances. You'll want to find the one for the S (Shuttle) train or the 7 train. Both will take you to Times Square-42nd Street.
- Purchase Your MetroCard/Use OMNY: If you don't already have one, you'll need a MetroCard. You can purchase one at the vending machines in the subway station. Alternatively, you can now use OMNY (One Metro New York) by tapping your contactless credit/debit card or smartphone/wearable at the turnstile. This is incredibly convenient!
- Take the S or 7 Train to Times Sq-42 St:
- S Train (Shuttle): This is a direct, quick ride between Grand Central and Times Square. It's often the easiest.
- 7 Train: The 7 train also stops at Times Square-42nd Street. Make sure you're heading in the correct direction (towards Hudson Yards/34th Street-Hudson Yards).
- Exit at Times Sq-42 St and Walk to Port Authority Bus Terminal: Once you arrive at Times Square-42nd Street, follow the signs for exits leading to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT). It's a short, well-marked walk, typically a block or two west on 42nd Street. Expect it to be bustling!
Sub-heading: Boarding the Express Bus to MetLife Stadium
- Head to the Third Floor (South Wing) of Port Authority Bus Terminal: The special event buses to MetLife Stadium, primarily the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express, typically depart from the third floor, South Wing. Look for clear signage and potentially event-specific directions. Gates 411-414 are common departure points.
- Purchase Your Bus Ticket:
- Online in Advance (Recommended!): Coach USA strongly recommends purchasing your round-trip tickets online beforehand at
coachusa.com/351-meadowlands-express - At the Terminal: You can also purchase tickets at the Port Authority Bus Terminal South Wing, main floor (windows 11-15). Be prepared for potential lines, especially on event days. Note: Exact cash fare may be required if purchasing directly from the driver.
- Online in Advance (Recommended!): Coach USA strongly recommends purchasing your round-trip tickets online beforehand at
- Board the 351 Meadowlands Express Bus: This bus service is direct to MetLife Stadium. Service usually begins about 2.5 to 3 hours before the event starts and continues for a period after.
- Enjoy the Ride! The bus ride typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. You'll be dropped off right in Lot K at MetLife Stadium, a short walk from the entrance.
Step 3: Alternative Path: Subway to Penn Station (for NJ Transit Train Service)
This option is often preferred for its directness once you're on the NJ Transit portion, but it requires coordinating with NJ Transit's event-specific schedules.
Sub-heading: Getting from Grand Central to Penn Station
- Subway Lines to Penn Station: From Grand Central, you have a few subway options to reach Penn Station (located at 34th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues):
- S (Shuttle) to Times Sq-42 St, then 1, 2, 3, A, C, or E trains to 34 St-Penn Station: Take the S shuttle from Grand Central to Times Square-42nd Street. From there, you can transfer to the Downtown 1, 2, or 3 trains, or the Downtown A, C, or E trains, all of which stop at 34th Street-Penn Station. Follow signs carefully!
- 7 train to Times Sq-42 St, then transfer (same as above): Similar to the S train, the 7 train also takes you to Times Square, from where you can transfer to the appropriate lines for Penn Station.
- Walk to Penn Station: Once you exit the subway at 34th Street-Penn Station, follow the clear signage to the NJ Transit Concourse within Penn Station.
Sub-heading: Navigating NJ Transit to Secaucus Junction
- Purchase Your NJ Transit Ticket: At Penn Station, look for NJ Transit ticket vending machines or ticket windows. You'll want to purchase a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex". This is a combined ticket that covers both the train to Secaucus and the shuttle to the stadium. It's crucial to buy this special joint ticket at your origin station, as it's not usually available on board or at Penn Station for the Secaucus-Meadowlands leg.
- Board Any NJ Transit Train to Secaucus Junction: Most NJ Transit lines departing from Penn Station (Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Midtown Direct lines, etc.) make their first stop at Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. These trains are often marked with "SEC".
- Travel to Secaucus Junction: The ride to Secaucus Junction is typically very short, just a few minutes.
Sub-heading: The Final Leg: Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium
- Transfer at Secaucus Junction: Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, head upstairs to the mezzanine level. You'll need to show your rail ticket to staff at the gates.
- Descend to the Lower Level for Meadowlands Rail Line: Trains to MetLife Stadium (on the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line) depart from the lower level (Tracks E-H).
- Board the Shuttle Train to Meadowlands Rail Station: This short shuttle ride takes you directly to the Meadowlands Rail Station, which is just steps away from MetLife Stadium.
- Event-Specific Service: Remember, the Meadowlands Rail Service usually operates only for major events with anticipated attendance over 50,000. Always check the NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands
Step 4: Arriving at MetLife Stadium & Enjoying the Event!
Congratulations, you've made it!
Sub-heading: Finding Your Way Inside
- From the Bus Drop-off: If you took the bus, you'll be in Lot K. Follow the signs and the flow of people towards the stadium entrances. The MetLife Gate is typically easily accessible from here.
- From the Train Station: If you took the train, the Meadowlands Rail Station is directly adjacent to the stadium. You'll exit the station and be right near the MetLife Gate or Verizon Gates.
- Security Checkpoints: Be prepared for security checks at the stadium gates. Have your ticket ready (digital or physical) and remember the stadium's bag policy.
Sub-heading: The Return Journey
- Bus Return: Head back to Lot K for the 351 Meadowlands Express buses. Buses typically run for about an hour after the event ends.
- Train Return: Return to the Meadowlands Rail Station. The shuttle trains will take you back to Secaucus Junction, where you can connect to your train back to New York Penn Station. Be aware of the last train departures, especially if it's a late event!
Key Tips for a Seamless Journey:
- Plan Ahead! Always check the specific event schedule on the MetLife Stadium or NJ Transit websites. Transit schedules, especially for special event trains, can vary.
- Buy Round-Trip Tickets! Whether by bus or train, buying your return ticket in advance will save you time and hassle, especially after a crowded event.
- Download Transit Apps! The MTA app (for NYC subway) and NJ Transit app are invaluable for real-time updates, schedules, and even mobile ticketing.
- Allow Extra Time! Especially on event days, expect crowds and potential delays. Arriving early is always a good idea.
- Cash vs. Card: While OMNY and mobile apps make things easier, it's always wise to have some small bills or change for unexpected situations, especially for bus fares if paying on board.
- Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: New York and New Jersey transit systems are generally safe, but always be mindful of your belongings and surroundings.
- Dress for the Weather: You'll be doing some walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Dress appropriately for the weather, as parts of your journey will be outdoors.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check the latest NJ Transit schedules for MetLife Stadium events?
You can find the most up-to-date special event schedules for MetLife Stadium on the official NJ Transit website (
How to buy a MetroCard for the NYC subway?
You can purchase a MetroCard at any subway station from vending machines. They accept cash, credit, and debit cards.
How to use OMNY for subway travel?
Simply tap your contactless credit/debit card or a compatible smartphone/wearable (with Apple Pay or Google Pay set up) directly on the OMNY reader at the subway turnstile.
How to know if NJ Transit trains will run directly to MetLife Stadium for my event?
NJ Transit typically runs direct train service to MetLife Stadium for major events (usually those with anticipated attendance over 50,000, like NFL games or large concerts). Always verify on the NJ Transit website's Meadowlands section for your specific event.
How to avoid long lines for bus tickets at Port Authority Bus Terminal?
It's highly recommended to purchase your Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus tickets online in advance through the Coach USA website (
How to find the 351 Meadowlands Express bus gate at Port Authority?
The 351 Meadowlands Express buses typically depart from the South Wing, third floor of the Port Authority Bus Terminal, often from Gates 411-414. Look for signs specific to MetLife Stadium events.
How to transfer from the NYC subway to NJ Transit at Penn Station?
After arriving at 34th Street-Penn Station via subway, follow the signs within the station for the NJ Transit Concourse. From there, you'll find the tracks for trains heading to Secaucus Junction.
How to get back to Grand Central from MetLife Stadium after an event?
Simply reverse your chosen route:
- Bus: Take the 351 Meadowlands Express bus back to Port Authority Bus Terminal, then transfer to the S or 7 subway back to Grand Central.
- Train: Take the Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle to Secaucus Junction, then an NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station. From Penn Station, take the appropriate subway (1, 2, 3, A, C, or E) to Times Square, and then the S or 7 shuttle back to Grand Central.
How to check for real-time transit delays or service changes?
Download the MTA app for NYC subway updates and the NJ Transit app for train and bus updates. Both provide real-time service alerts and advisories.
How to find out what items are restricted at MetLife Stadium?
Before you go, always check the official MetLife Stadium website for their most current bag policy and list of prohibited items to ensure a smooth entry.
