You've just experienced the thrill of a live event at MetLife Stadium, whether it was a heart-pounding NFL game, an electrifying concert, or a captivating show. The crowd roars, the lights dim, and suddenly, it's time to head home. But wait! Navigating the exit from a massive venue like MetLife Stadium can be a challenge, and if you're not prepared, it can turn an amazing evening into a stressful ordeal.
Don't let the post-event rush ruin your memories! Are you ready to learn the secrets to a smooth, stress-free departure from MetLife Stadium? Let's get you out of there efficiently, no matter how you arrived!
Your Ultimate Guide to Leaving MetLife Stadium
Exiting MetLife Stadium requires a strategic approach. The sheer volume of people leaving at once means you need a plan, whether you're driving, taking public transport, or using rideshares.
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| How To Leave Metlife Stadium |
Step 1: Prepare for Departure Before the Event Ends
The key to a smooth exit starts before the final whistle or encore. Proactive planning is your best friend when it comes to avoiding the chaos.
Sub-heading 1.1: Pre-Exit Essentials
- Charge Your Devices: This cannot be stressed enough. Your phone is your lifeline for rideshare apps, mobile tickets, navigation, and contacting your group. A portable charger is a game-changer.
- Designate a Meeting Point: If you're with a group, pick a clear, easily identifiable meeting spot outside the stadium, away from immediate exits. Consider a landmark in the parking lot or a specific sign.
- Review Your Transportation Plan: Double-check your chosen mode of transport and its specific instructions for departure.
- Hydrate and Use Restrooms: Long lines are common after events. Take care of these needs before the mass exodus begins.
- Beat the Rush (Optional but Recommended): For those who prioritize a quick exit over seeing the very last second of an event, consider leaving a few minutes before the official end. For concerts, this might mean when the artist gets into a "flying car" or before the final encore. For games, it could be with a minute or two left in a blowout. Even a 5-10 minute head start can make a significant difference.
Sub-heading 1.2: Know Your Gates and Exits
Familiarize yourself with the stadium layout. Note which gate you entered through and which exit leads most directly to your chosen mode of transportation. MetLife Stadium has multiple gates (e.g., HCLTech, Verizon, Moody's, MetLife, Bud Light). Knowing which one is closest to your car, bus stop, or train station will save you precious time and confusion.
Step 2: Navigating the Stadium Interior for Exit
Once the event concludes, the immediate goal is to get out of the stadium itself and into the surrounding complex.
QuickTip: Pause to connect ideas in your mind.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Stairwell vs. Escalator Debate
- Escalators for Speed (Usually): Generally, escalators can be faster for descending, as long as there isn't a massive bottleneck.
- Stairwells for Control: If escalators are jammed, or if you prefer a steady pace, stairwells can be a good option. However, be prepared for many steps, especially from upper levels. Some TikTok users recommend taking escalators down rather than ramps for a faster exit from the 300s sections.
Sub-heading 2.2: Follow Signage and Staff Directions
MetLife Stadium staff are trained to manage post-event crowds. Pay attention to their directions and the numerous signs guiding you towards exits and specific transportation hubs. Don't try to forge your own path; it often leads to dead ends or more congestion.
Step 3: Leaving by Car (Pre-paid Parking)
Driving yourself offers the most flexibility, but also the most potential for traffic. Pre-paid parking is mandatory for most major events.
Sub-heading 3.1: Locating Your Vehicle
- Remember Your Lot and Row: Before the event, take a photo of your parking lot number and row. This seemingly small detail will be invaluable in the dark and chaotic post-event environment.
- Follow the Exiting Traffic Flow: Stadium staff and temporary signage will direct traffic out of the lots. Be patient and follow their instructions. They are trying to move thousands of cars as efficiently as possible.
Sub-heading 3.2: Strategic Parking Tips for Faster Exit
- Park Near Exits (if possible): If you arrive early, try to park in a lot or a spot that offers a more direct route to the exit roads. Some users recommend Lot 26 (an American Dream lot outside the mall, with a tunnel to the stadium) or parking as close to the exit as possible within your assigned lot (e.g., L17 or F10 for some events).
- Avoid Parking Garages: Multi-story parking garages can often lead to significant delays as cars funnel down ramps. Surface lots generally offer quicker egress.
- Have Your Parking Pass Ready: Keep your pre-paid parking pass easily accessible, as you may need to show it again on exit.
Step 4: Leaving by Public Transportation (NJ Transit Rail & Bus)
Public transportation is often the most efficient way to avoid traffic jams, especially for those heading to NYC.
Sub-heading 4.1: NJ Transit Rail Service
- Head to Meadowlands Rail Station: This station is directly adjacent to MetLife Stadium. Look for clear signage directing you there, especially from the MetLife or Verizon Gates.
- Secaucus Junction is Your Hub: Almost all MetLife Stadium trains connect at Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus, you can transfer to various NJ Transit lines, including service to New York Penn Station.
- Buy Round-Trip Tickets Beforehand: This is crucial! You must have a ticket to board the train from Meadowlands to Secaucus Junction. Purchase round-trip tickets at your origin station, ticket vending machines, or via the NJ Transit Mobile App to avoid an additional $5.00 charge.
- Be Prepared for Lines: While efficient, there will still be lines for trains, especially immediately after major events.
- Train Schedule: Rail service typically commences 3.5 hours before an event and runs for about 1 hour after it concludes. Travel time between Secaucus Junction and the Sports Complex is approximately 10 minutes.
Sub-heading 4.2: Coach USA Bus Service (Route 351 Meadowlands Express)
- Port Authority Bus Terminal (NYC): The 351 Meadowlands Express bus provides direct service between the Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC and MetLife Stadium.
- Pick-up/Drop-off Location: At the Sports Complex, the 351 bus pick-up and drop-off is typically located near Parking Lot K, accessible from the MetLife Gate.
- Purchase Tickets in Advance: As with the train, it's highly recommended to buy your round-trip bus ticket beforehand. A round-trip ticket costs $14.00, and a one-way is $7.00.
- Operating Hours: The 351 bus service usually runs for about an hour after the conclusion of the event.
Step 5: Leaving by Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or Taxi
Rideshares offer convenience but come with their own set of challenges after a major event.
Sub-heading 5.1: Designated Rideshare Zone
- Lot E is Your Destination: For Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services, the designated pick-up and drop-off area is typically in Lot E. There is also a dedicated drop-off area for all vehicles between parking lots D and E. For pick-up after 9 PM, Lots D or K may also be used.
- Follow App Instructions Carefully: Your rideshare app will guide you to the exact pick-up point within Lot E. Be prepared for a short walk from the stadium.
Sub-heading 5.2: Expect Delays and Surge Pricing
- Patience is Key: Do not underestimate the wait times. After a large event, delays for rideshares can easily reach 30 minutes to two hours. Drivers may cancel due to congestion or difficulty reaching the pick-up area.
- Surge Pricing is Inevitable: Rideshare prices will be significantly higher due to demand. Factor this into your budget.
- Taxi Alternative: While perhaps less common, a traditional New York taxi might be an option if rideshares are proving too difficult to secure. Be prepared to negotiate a flat fee, which could be around $60-$80 to NYC.
Sub-heading 5.3: Ensure Your Phone is Charged
Again, this is paramount for rideshare users. You'll need your phone to request the ride, communicate with your driver, and confirm your pick-up.
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
Step 6: Accessible Exiting for Guests with Disabilities
MetLife Stadium is committed to providing accessible services for all guests.
Sub-heading 6.1: Accessible Parking and Drop-off
- Designated Lots: Accessible parking is available in Lots E, F, and G for vehicles with a valid ADA license plate or hang tag.
- Dedicated Drop-off: The dedicated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is in Lot C, located between the Verizon Gate and the HCLTech Gate. Traffic and Parking staff will direct you to this area.
Sub-heading 6.2: Wheelchair Assistance and Elevators
- Accessibility Assistants: Guests with limited mobility can request wheelchair assistance from any team member at the gates to be transported to their seat. This service can also be helpful for exiting.
- Elevators and Ramps: Elevators for guests with disabilities are available at the HCLTech, Verizon, and Moody's entrances, as well as premium seating entrances. Code-compliant public ramps are located at the north and south end-zones.
Step 7: Post-Exit Considerations
Once you've left the immediate vicinity of the stadium, there are a few more things to keep in mind.
Sub-heading 7.1: Know Your Route Home
Even if you're taking public transport or a rideshare, having a general understanding of your route can alleviate anxiety. For drivers, anticipate heavy traffic on major roadways like the New Jersey Turnpike and Route 3.
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Sub-heading 7.2: Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
After a large event, there will still be a high volume of people. Stay alert, especially if you're walking to a distant parking lot or a public transport hub.
Sub-heading 7.3: Review Stadium Policies (If Applicable)
If you had any concerns about items you brought in (e.g., clear bag policy, prohibited items), ensure you've complied. Lost and found procedures are typically handled the day after an event.
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10 Related FAQ Questions
How to avoid MetLife Stadium traffic jams?
The best way to avoid traffic jams when leaving MetLife Stadium is to use NJ Transit rail service from Meadowlands Station to Secaucus Junction, or by leaving a few minutes before the event officially ends if driving.
How to find my car in MetLife Stadium parking lots?
To easily find your car, take a photo of your parking lot number and row before entering the stadium. Follow the directional signage and staff instructions in the lots for exiting traffic flow.
How to get to NYC from MetLife Stadium by public transport?
Take an NJ Transit train from Meadowlands Rail Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to a train bound for New York Penn Station. Alternatively, use the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus to Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC.
How to use Uber or Lyft when leaving MetLife Stadium?
Head to the designated rideshare pick-up area in Lot E. Be prepared for significant surge pricing and potentially long wait times (up to 1-2 hours) due to high demand and congestion. Ensure your phone is fully charged.
How to get out of MetLife Stadium quickly?
For the quickest exit, consider leaving before the event officially ends (e.g., 5-10 minutes prior). If driving, aim to park in a lot with a direct exit route or on the ground level rather than a garage. Public transit, particularly the train, is often faster than driving through post-event traffic.
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How to find the train station at MetLife Stadium?
The Meadowlands Rail Station is located directly adjacent to MetLife Stadium. You can typically find clear signage directing you to the station, especially from the MetLife or Verizon Gates.
How to buy train tickets from MetLife Stadium?
It is highly recommended to purchase round-trip NJ Transit tickets in advance from your origin station, ticket vending machines, or through the NJ Transit Mobile App. You must have a ticket to board the train from Meadowlands to Secaucus Junction.
How to get accessible transportation from MetLife Stadium?
Guests with disabilities can utilize accessible parking in Lots E, F, and G with a valid ADA tag, or use the dedicated drop-off/pick-up area in Lot C. Wheelchair assistance and elevators are available within the stadium to aid in exiting.
How to handle lost items when leaving MetLife Stadium?
If you lose an item, contact the MetLife Stadium Guest Services Hotline at 201-559-1515 or visit a Guest Services Booth inside the stadium for assistance. For items lost on NJ Transit, visit their website (njtransit.com), their customer service offices, or call (973) 275-5555.
How to avoid long lines at MetLife Stadium after an event?
The best way to avoid long lines is to leave a few minutes before the event concludes. If this isn't an option, be patient, follow stadium staff directions, and consider public transportation (train) as it moves a high volume of people relatively efficiently compared to personal vehicles in heavy traffic.
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