Going to a game or concert at MetLife Stadium is an exciting experience, but navigating transportation can sometimes feel like a puzzle. Fear not! NJ Transit offers a remarkably efficient and often the most convenient way to get directly to the stadium. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey to your event.
Your Ultimate Guide to Reaching MetLife Stadium via NJ Transit
Step 1: Are You Ready for a Seamless Journey?
Before we dive into the specifics, let's get you set up for success! Have you already checked the MetLife Stadium website for your specific event's details? It's crucial to confirm if NJ Transit is operating its special Meadowlands Rail Service for your event, as this service is typically provided for events with anticipated attendance above 50,000 (like major NFL games, large concerts, and big soccer matches). Knowing this upfront will shape your travel plan. If the rail service isn't running, don't worry, we'll cover bus options too!
Step 2: Planning Your Route – Train or Bus?
NJ Transit offers two primary public transportation options to MetLife Stadium: train service (the most popular and generally fastest for major events) and bus service.
Sub-heading: The Train Advantage: Meadowlands Rail Service
For most large-scale events, the Meadowlands Rail Service is your best bet. It delivers you directly to the front door of MetLife Stadium!
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
- How it works: You'll take an NJ Transit train from your originating station to Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to a special shuttle train that takes you directly to the Meadowlands Rail Station, right next to MetLife Stadium.
- Travel Time: The shuttle train from Secaucus Junction to the Sports Complex station is approximately 10 minutes.
- Service Hours: Rail service typically commences approximately 3.5 hours prior to the event's start time and concludes about 1 hour after the event ends. For major events like the FIFA Club World Cup, rail service might operate even longer, sometimes starting 4 hours prior and running up to 3 hours after. Always check the specific event schedule on NJ Transit's website.
Sub-heading: Bus Alternatives: When Trains Aren't Running or for Smaller Events
While the train is preferred, bus service is also available, especially for smaller events or if you prefer a direct bus route.
- Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express: This is a popular option for major events, running from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in New York City directly to the MetLife Sports Complex.
- Service Hours: The 351 bus service usually begins 2.5 hours prior to the start of a game and continues to run until 0.5 hours after the start of a game. It then operates for approximately 1 hour following the conclusion of the event.
- Drop-off/Pick-up: The 351 bus drops off and picks up near Parking Lot K at the Sports Complex.
- NJ Transit Bus Route 353: This route also serves the Meadowlands Sports Complex, often connecting from Secaucus Junction. This might be a good option for smaller events where the special rail shuttle isn't operating, or as a supplement to rail service after large events.
Step 3: Purchasing Your Tickets – Go Cashless!
The easiest and most recommended way to purchase your NJ Transit tickets is through their official mobile app. This allows for cashless transactions, avoiding lines at ticket vending machines (TVMs) and ticket offices.
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Mobile App (Highly Recommended):
- Download the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App: Available for free on Apple Store and Google Play.
- Create an account and enter your payment information.
- Select "Buy Tickets," then choose "Rail" or "Bus" depending on your chosen mode.
- For Rail: Select your originating station and your destination. For MetLife Stadium, your destination for train service will be "Meadowlands Station."
- For Bus (e.g., 351 Express): Select "Bus" and then choose "351 Meadowlands Express" or the specific NJ Transit bus route.
- Purchase Round-Trip Tickets in Advance: This is highly advised to avoid delays and the additional $5 surcharge for purchasing tickets on board the train.
- Activate Your Ticket: Activate your ticket on the app just before boarding and show it to the conductor or bus driver.
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Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) & Ticket Offices:
- If you prefer not to use the app, you can purchase tickets from TVMs or ticket offices at most major NJ Transit stations, including Penn Station New York and Secaucus Junction.
- Again, purchase your round-trip tickets to "Meadowlands Station" (for train) or your specific bus route in advance.
Step 4: Making the Journey – Step-by-Step
Sub-heading: Traveling by Train to MetLife Stadium
- Get to Your Originating NJ Transit Rail Station: This could be anywhere on the NJ Transit rail network.
- If you're coming from New York City: Head to New York Penn Station (32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues). Take any NJ Transit train that stops at Secaucus Junction. Departure boards will typically display "SEC" for trains stopping at Secaucus.
- If you're coming from Hoboken: Take any Main, Bergen County, Pascack Valley, or Port Jervis Line train to Secaucus and transfer.
- Arrive at Secaucus Junction: This is your critical transfer point.
- Transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line: Follow the signs for the "Meadowlands Rail Line" within Secaucus Junction. This dedicated shuttle train will take you directly to the stadium. During peak times before and after events, these trains run frequently (often every 10-20 minutes, or even on a load-and-go basis).
- Arrive at Meadowlands Rail Station: You're there! The station is just steps away from MetLife Stadium.
Sub-heading: Traveling by Bus to MetLife Stadium
- Head to Your Bus Origin:
- For Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express: Go to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in New York City. Look for the designated gates for the 351 service.
- For NJ Transit Bus 353 (if applicable): Check the NJ Transit website or app for the specific route and stops. You may need to connect from another bus or train line.
- Board the Bus: Have your mobile ticket activated or a physical ticket ready.
- Enjoy the Ride: The bus will take you directly to the MetLife Sports Complex.
Step 5: Returning Home – The Post-Event Plan
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
The return journey can be just as busy, so plan ahead!
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Sub-heading: Post-Event Train Travel
- Head Back to Meadowlands Rail Station: After the event, make your way back to the Meadowlands Rail Station.
- Board the Shuttle Train to Secaucus Junction: Trains will operate frequently on a "load-and-go" basis until crowds dissipate. Be prepared for potential queues, especially after very large events.
- Connect at Secaucus Junction: Once at Secaucus Junction, check the departure boards for trains going to your final destination (e.g., New York Penn Station, Hoboken, or other NJ Transit lines).
- Important Note for Late-Night Events: Always check the final train connection times from Secaucus Junction to your desired destination. You don't want to miss the last train! Buses may also be available to supplement rail service from MetLife Stadium to Secaucus Junction.
Sub-heading: Post-Event Bus Travel
- Locate Your Bus Pick-up: For the Coach USA 351, return to the designated pick-up area near Parking Lot K. For other NJ Transit buses, confirm your pick-up location.
- Board the Bus: Buses will operate for a limited time after the event.
- Return to Your Origin: The bus will take you back to your starting point (e.g., Port Authority Bus Terminal).
Step 6: Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Check NJ Transit's Website/App for Real-Time Updates: Always check for service alerts, schedule changes, and event-specific information on the NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/meadowlands njtransit.com/metlifestadium - Arrive Early: Public transportation to major events can get crowded. Arriving well in advance will help you avoid the rush and find your way more easily.
- Know the Stadium's Policies: Be aware of MetLife Stadium's bag policy (clear bags are generally required), prohibited items, and food/drink policies to avoid delays at security.
- Stay Hydrated: Especially during warm weather, bring an empty, reusable water bottle (20 oz. or less) to fill inside the stadium, or bring factory-sealed bottled water (20 oz. or less).
- Customer Ambassadors: For large events, NJ Transit often deploys customer ambassadors in bright orange jerseys at key locations (like Penn Station and Secaucus Junction) to assist travelers. Don't hesitate to ask them for help!
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying your event at MetLife Stadium without the stress of driving and parking!
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| How To Get To Metlife Via Nj Transit |
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about getting to MetLife Stadium via NJ Transit, with quick answers:
How to confirm if Meadowlands Rail Service is running for my event?
QuickTip: Revisit key lines for better recall.
- Check the official MetLife Stadium website's "Transportation" section or the NJ Transit website (
njtransit.com/metlifestadium
How to buy NJ Transit tickets to MetLife Stadium?
- The easiest way is via the NJ Transit Mobile App. Alternatively, you can purchase round-trip tickets from ticket vending machines or ticket offices at NJ Transit stations.
How to get from New York Penn Station to MetLife Stadium?
- Take any NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station that stops at Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the special Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle train to MetLife Stadium.
How to get from Hoboken to MetLife Stadium?
- Take any Main, Bergen County, Pascack Valley, or Port Jervis Line train to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle train.
How to find the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus at Port Authority?
- Consult the information screens or ask a staff member at the Port Authority Bus Terminal for the specific gate number for the 351 Meadowlands Express service.
How to avoid surcharges on NJ Transit tickets?
Tip: Don’t rush — enjoy the read.
- Purchase your round-trip tickets in advance using the NJ Transit Mobile App or from a ticket vending machine/ticket office before boarding the train.
How to know the last train time from Secaucus Junction after an event?
- Always check the NJ Transit website or app for the specific event's return schedules, especially for late-night events, to ensure you don't miss your connection.
How to handle crowds at Secaucus Junction after an event?
- Be patient and follow staff directions. Trains operate frequently, and buses may also supplement rail service to move people efficiently.
How to carry bags into MetLife Stadium?
- MetLife Stadium has a clear bag policy. Only clear bags no larger than 12"x6"x12" and small clutches (4.5"x6.5") are permitted, with exceptions for medically necessary items.
How to get accessibility assistance at MetLife Stadium?
- MetLife Stadium offers accessible services including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and elevators. Consult their "Accessible Services" section on the stadium website or ask a stadium staff member upon arrival.
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