Heading to MetLife Stadium for a game, concert, or another exciting event? Forget the traffic nightmares and exorbitant parking fees! Taking the train is hands down one of the most efficient, cost-effective, and surprisingly enjoyable ways to get there. Whether you're coming from the heart of New York City or various points in New Jersey, NJ Transit's Meadowlands Rail Line makes it a breeze.
Ready to embark on a stress-free journey to your next MetLife Stadium experience? Let's dive in!
Your Ultimate Guide: Getting to MetLife Stadium by Train
Step 1: Identify Your Starting Point (And Why It Matters!)
This first step is crucial because your initial journey will depend on where you're beginning your adventure. Are you in New York City, or are you coming from a different part of New Jersey?
- Coming from New York City (NYC): Your primary hub will be New York Penn Station. This is the busiest train station in North America and serves as a major gateway to New Jersey.
- Coming from New Jersey: You'll likely connect to the MetLife Stadium line via Secaucus Junction. Many NJ Transit lines converge here, making it a central transfer point.
Step 2: Navigate to Your Primary Transfer Hub
Once you know your starting point, it's time to get to your designated hub.
Sub-heading: From New York City (NYC Penn Station)
If you're starting in NYC, your goal is to reach New York Penn Station.
- By Subway: Numerous NYC Subway lines (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3) all connect directly to Penn Station. Consult your subway map or a transit app to find the most convenient line from your location.
- By PATH Train: If you're coming from parts of Lower Manhattan or Jersey City/Hoboken, the PATH train offers direct service to 33rd Street, which is just a short walk to Penn Station. However, be aware that PATH trains do NOT go directly to Secaucus Junction or MetLife Stadium. You'll still need to transfer to NJ Transit at Penn Station.
- By LIRR or Metro-North: If you're coming from Long Island or areas north of NYC served by Metro-North (like parts of Connecticut or Upstate New York), you'll take your respective train line to Grand Central Terminal. From Grand Central, you'll need to take the subway (S, 7) to Times Square-42nd Street, and then transfer to a subway line that goes to Penn Station (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3). Alternatively, some Metro-North lines (Port Jervis, Pascack Valley) offer direct service to Secaucus Junction, which can be a more direct route. Always check the MTA and NJ Transit websites for specific event-day schedules.
Sub-heading: From New Jersey (Various NJ Transit Lines)
If you're already in New Jersey, your route will involve connecting to Secaucus Junction.
- NJ Transit operates a comprehensive rail network. Most major lines, including the Main-Bergen County Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Morris & Essex Line, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Pascack Valley Line, and Port Jervis Line, all have direct service or easy connections to Secaucus Junction.
- Use the NJ Transit Trip Planner (available on their website or mobile app) to determine the best route and schedule from your specific New Jersey station.
Step 3: The Crucial Transfer at Secaucus Junction
Secaucus Junction is the gateway to MetLife Stadium. This is where all NJ Transit rail lines connect to the specialized Meadowlands Rail Line.
- Once you arrive at Secaucus Junction, follow the signs for the Meadowlands Rail Line (also sometimes branded as the BetMGM Meadowlands Rail Line).
- This transfer is typically very straightforward. You'll likely head up to the mezzanine level and then down to a different set of tracks (usually Tracks E-H on the lower level) for the shuttle train to MetLife Stadium.
- Important Note: The Meadowlands Rail Line only operates on days with major events at MetLife Stadium (typically events with anticipated attendance above 50,000, like NFL games and large concerts). Always verify that train service is operating for your specific event. Check the NJ Transit website or social media for event-specific schedules.
Step 4: The Short Ride to Meadowlands Rail Station
Once you're on the Meadowlands Rail Line, it's a quick and direct ride to the stadium.
- The travel time between Secaucus Junction and the Meadowlands Rail Station is approximately 10-13 minutes.
- The Meadowlands Rail Station is located just steps away from MetLife Stadium, making for a very convenient arrival.
Step 5: Purchasing Your Train Tickets
This is a vital step! Always purchase your round-trip tickets BEFORE you board the train, especially if you are traveling from New York Penn Station. Failure to do so can result in an additional $5 surcharge if purchased on board, if a ticket agent is even available.
Sub-heading: Ticket Options
- NJ Transit Mobile App: This is highly recommended for convenience. Download the free NJ Transit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. You can purchase tickets directly on your phone and activate them just before boarding.
- Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): These are available at most major NJ Transit stations, including New York Penn Station and Secaucus Junction. Look for machines that allow you to select "Meadowlands" as your destination.
- Ticket Windows: At major terminals like New York Penn Station, you'll find ticket windows where you can purchase your tickets from a human agent.
Sub-heading: Important Ticket Tips
- Buy Round-Trip: Always buy a round-trip ticket to "Meadowlands" (or "Meadowlands Sports Complex"). This includes your transfer at Secaucus Junction.
- Joint Tickets (for LIRR/Metro-North riders): If you're coming from Long Island via LIRR or from certain Metro-North lines, you may be able to purchase a joint ticket to "Meadowlands Station" at your origin station's ticket machine or window. This combines your LIRR/Metro-North fare with the NJ Transit portion. These joint tickets are generally not available on the TrainTime app.
- Hold Onto Your Ticket: You'll need your ticket to pass through fare gates at Secaucus Junction and for fare inspection on the train. Do not discard it after your initial scan!
- Plan Ahead: For major events, ticket lines can be long. Purchasing your tickets in advance (especially via the mobile app) will save you significant time and hassle.
Step 6: The Return Journey
Getting back from MetLife Stadium is just as straightforward, but with a few key considerations.
- "Load and Go" Service: After an event, trains from Meadowlands Rail Station to Secaucus Junction typically operate on a "load and go" basis for up to 3 hours, or until the last customers depart. This means trains depart as soon as they are full.
- Supplemental Bus Service: For some events, NJ Transit may also operate supplemental bus service directly back to Secaucus Junction. If you have a valid train ticket, you can usually ride these buses at no additional cost. NJ Transit ambassadors will be on hand to direct you.
- Reverse Your Route: From Secaucus Junction, simply reverse your inbound journey, taking your connecting NJ Transit train back to New York Penn Station or your desired New Jersey destination.
Step 7: Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Check Event Schedules: Always confirm that train service to MetLife Stadium is running for your specific event date and time. NJ Transit typically announces special event schedules on their website and through their "My Transit Alerts" system.
- Allow Extra Time: While the train is efficient, large crowds can mean longer waits for tickets and boarding, especially before and after major events. Plan to arrive early!
- Stay Informed: Sign up for NJ Transit's "My Transit Alerts" via text or email, download their mobile app for real-time updates and push notifications, and follow them on social media (@NJTRANSIT) for the latest service information and advisories.
- Travel Light: While trains offer more space than buses, consider traveling light to make your journey more comfortable, especially in crowded conditions.
- Be Patient: Post-event crowds can be substantial. Remain patient and follow instructions from NJ Transit staff. Everyone is trying to get home!
- Know Your Connections: Familiarize yourself with your transfer points and connecting lines before you travel.
By following these steps and tips, your train journey to MetLife Stadium will be a seamless and stress-free part of your event experience, allowing you to focus on the excitement of the game or concert!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions to further assist you in getting to MetLife Stadium via train:
How to check if train service is available for my event at MetLife Stadium?
Train service to MetLife Stadium (the Meadowlands Rail Line) typically operates only for major events with anticipated attendance over 50,000. You should always check the NJ Transit website (
How to buy train tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can purchase round-trip train tickets to "Meadowlands" via the NJ Transit Mobile App (highly recommended), at ticket vending machines (TVMs) at any NJ Transit station, or at ticket windows at major terminals like New York Penn Station.
How to get from New York Penn Station to MetLife Stadium by train?
From New York Penn Station, take any NJ Transit train marked "SEC" to Secaucus Junction. This is usually the first stop. At Secaucus Junction, transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle train, which goes directly to MetLife Stadium.
How to get from Newark Penn Station to MetLife Stadium by train?
From Newark Penn Station, take any NJ Transit Northeast Corridor Line train to Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus Junction, transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line shuttle train to MetLife Stadium.
How to avoid long lines when buying train tickets to MetLife Stadium?
To avoid long lines, purchase your round-trip tickets in advance using the NJ Transit Mobile App. This allows you to buy and activate tickets directly on your phone, saving you time at the station.
How to know which track to use for the MetLife Stadium train at Secaucus Junction?
At Secaucus Junction, follow the clear overhead signs for the "Meadowlands Rail Line." Trains to MetLife Stadium typically depart from tracks E-H on the lower level of the station. NJ Transit staff are often present to direct passengers during event days.
How to transfer from PATH to NJ Transit for MetLife Stadium?
If you're using the PATH train, take it to the 33rd Street/Herald Square station in Manhattan. From there, it's a very short walk to New York Penn Station, where you can then board an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction. Remember, PATH does not go directly to Secaucus.
How to return from MetLife Stadium to NYC via train after an event?
After the event, head back to the Meadowlands Rail Station. Trains will operate on a "load and go" basis back to Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus Junction, transfer to any NJ Transit train heading back to New York Penn Station.
How to check for delays or service advisories for trains to MetLife Stadium?
Stay updated by subscribing to NJ Transit's "My Transit Alerts" (email or text), checking their official website (
How to get to MetLife Stadium if the direct train service is not running?
If the direct Meadowlands Rail Line train service isn't operating for your event (usually for smaller events), NJ Transit still offers bus routes that can get you close. The Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus runs from Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC to the stadium for many major events. Additionally, NJ Transit bus routes like the 703 provide local service near the complex, though they may have modified routes on event days. Always check alternatives on the NJ Transit website.