Ah, the excitement of a game day or a big concert at MetLife Stadium! You're probably envisioning a seamless journey, and that's exactly what we're going to help you achieve. While you can't take Amtrak directly to MetLife Stadium, you can definitely use Amtrak as a vital first leg of your journey, connecting you to the efficient NJ Transit system that delivers you right to the stadium's doorstep.
Let's break down how to make your trip to MetLife Stadium a breeze, combining the comfort of Amtrak with the convenience of local transit.
Step 1: Your Amtrak Adventure Begins!
Ready to start your journey to MetLife Stadium? Your first step is to get yourself to a major Amtrak hub that connects seamlessly with NJ Transit. For most people heading to MetLife Stadium, especially those coming from outside the immediate New York/New Jersey area, New York Penn Station (NYP) or Newark Penn Station (NWK) will be your key connection points.
Choosing Your Amtrak Destination
New York Penn Station (NYP): This is often the most common choice, especially if you're coming from the Northeast Corridor (Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., etc.). NYP is a massive transportation hub, and it offers direct connections to NJ Transit.
Newark Penn Station (NWK): If you're traveling on Amtrak routes that pass through Newark, this can also be a convenient option. Newark Penn Station also has direct NJ Transit connections that will take you towards MetLife Stadium.
Pro Tip: Book your Amtrak tickets well in advance, especially for popular event dates, to secure the best fares and ensure availability. Check the Amtrak website for schedules and pricing.
Step 2: The Crucial Transfer to NJ Transit
Once you arrive at either New York Penn Station or Newark Penn Station, your next move is to switch to NJ Transit. This is the local rail service that will take you directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex.
From New York Penn Station (NYP) to Secaucus Junction
If you arrived at New York Penn Station, you'll need to take an NJ Transit train to Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. This is a quick and frequent ride.
Finding your train: Look for signs directing you to NJ Transit trains. There will be numerous tracks, so be sure to check the departure boards for trains heading to Secaucus Junction. Many lines pass through Secaucus, including the Main/Bergen County Line, Montclair-Boonton Line, Morris & Essex Line, Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Raritan Valley Line, Pascack Valley Line, or Port Jervis Line.
Ticket Purchase: You can purchase your NJ Transit ticket from a ticket vending machine at NYP or use the NJ Transit Mobile App (highly recommended for convenience!). Ensure you select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your final destination, as this will typically include the transfer at Secaucus Junction. A round-trip ticket is usually the most economical option.
From Newark Penn Station (NWK) to Secaucus Junction
If you arrived at Newark Penn Station, your process is similar to NYP. You'll board an NJ Transit train heading to Secaucus Junction.
Train Lines: Look for trains on the Northeast Corridor or North Jersey Coast Line that stop at Secaucus Junction.
Ticket Purchase: Same as above, purchase your ticket to "Meadowlands Sports Complex" either from a vending machine or via the NJ Transit Mobile App.
Important Note on Tickets: Hold onto your NJ Transit ticket! You'll need it to pass through the fare gates at Secaucus Junction.
Step 3: The Final Leg: Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium ️
This is where the magic happens! Secaucus Junction is the gateway to MetLife Stadium.
Connecting to the Meadowlands Rail Line
At Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line. This dedicated shuttle service takes you directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex, where MetLife Stadium is located.
Lower Level: The Meadowlands Rail Line typically departs from the lower level of Secaucus Junction. Follow the signs for "Meadowlands Rail Line" or "Sports Complex."
Frequency: On event days (especially for major events like NFL games or large concerts), NJ Transit runs frequent trains on the Meadowlands Rail Line. Service usually begins approximately 3.5 to 4 hours before the event starts and continues every 10-20 minutes, then hourly during the event, and every 10 minutes after the event ends, running on a "load and go" basis.
Travel Time: The ride from Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station is very quick, usually around 10 minutes.
Arrival at MetLife Stadium
The Meadowlands Rail Station is conveniently located right at the MetLife Sports Complex, near the MetLife Gate, between the stadium and Lot B. You'll be just a short walk away from the stadium entrance!
Key Takeaway: While Amtrak doesn't go directly to MetLife Stadium, it's an excellent way to cover long distances and get you to a major NJ Transit hub. The combination of Amtrak to New York Penn Station or Newark Penn Station, followed by NJ Transit to Secaucus Junction, and then the Meadowlands Rail Line, is the most efficient and stress-free way to reach the stadium by public transport.
Alternative Public Transport Considerations
While the Amtrak-NJ Transit train combination is generally the best for those traveling from afar, here are a couple of other public transport options you might encounter, especially if you're coming from within the NYC area:
Coach USA Bus Service (Route 351)
For NFL games and other large events, Coach USA provides the 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan directly to the MetLife Sports Complex. This can be an option if you prefer bus travel or are starting your journey closer to Port Authority.
PATH to Hoboken Terminal + NJ Transit
If you're in certain parts of NYC and prefer PATH train service, you can take the PATH to Hoboken Terminal. From Hoboken, you can then catch an NJ Transit train that connects to the Meadowlands Rail Line at Secaucus Junction (though transferring at Secaucus is still required for the direct stadium line).
Planning Your Return Journey
Don't forget to plan your return trip! After the event, trains from the Meadowlands Sports Complex to Secaucus Junction will run frequently. From Secaucus, you can easily connect back to your chosen NJ Transit line towards New York Penn Station or Newark Penn Station, and then your Amtrak connection.
Purchase Round-Trip Tickets: Always buy a round-trip ticket for NJ Transit to avoid delays and the additional $5 charge for purchasing on board.
Check Schedules: Especially for evening events, be aware of the last train departures from Secaucus Junction to your connecting station (NYP or NWK) to ensure you don't get stranded.
By following these steps, your journey to MetLife Stadium will be efficient, economical, and most importantly, enjoyable. Now go enjoy the game or concert!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to get to MetLife Stadium from New York City by train?
To get to MetLife Stadium from New York City by train, take an NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station to Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction, then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line which goes directly to the stadium.
How to buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium?
You can buy NJ Transit tickets for MetLife Stadium at ticket vending machines at any NJ Transit station (like New York Penn Station or Newark Penn Station) or conveniently through the free NJ Transit Mobile App. Select "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination.
How to get from Secaucus Junction to MetLife Stadium?
From Secaucus Junction, you take the Meadowlands Rail Line, which is a dedicated shuttle service that delivers you directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex, just steps from MetLife Stadium. The ride is approximately 10 minutes.
How to know if the Meadowlands Rail Line is running?
The Meadowlands Rail Line operates for major events at MetLife Stadium (typically those with anticipated attendance above 50,000). Always check the NJ Transit website (
How much does it cost to take NJ Transit to MetLife Stadium from NYC?
A round-trip adult fare from New York Penn Station to MetLife Stadium (via Secaucus Junction) typically costs around $12.60. Fares can vary slightly, so check the NJ Transit website or app for current pricing.
How long does it take to get to MetLife Stadium by train from NYC?
The total train journey from New York Penn Station to MetLife Stadium, including the transfer at Secaucus Junction, usually takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on connection times.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)?
From Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), take the AirTrain Newark to Newark Airport Railroad Station, then an NJ Transit train to Secaucus Junction, and finally transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line to MetLife Stadium.
How to find train schedules for MetLife Stadium events?
For specific train schedules, use the NJ Transit Trip Planner on their website (njtransit.com) or their mobile app. Enter your origin and "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination for event-day schedules.
How to use the NJ Transit Mobile App for tickets?
Download the NJ Transit Mobile App from your app store. Create an account, link a payment method, then select "Buy Tickets," choose "Rail," and select your origin and "Meadowlands Sports Complex" as your destination. Activate your ticket before boarding.
How to get to MetLife Stadium if the Meadowlands Rail Line isn't running?
If the Meadowlands Rail Line is not operating for a smaller event, NJ Transit may offer bus service from Secaucus Junction, or you could consider Coach USA's 351 Meadowlands Express bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC. Always check the MetLife Stadium and NJ Transit websites for event-specific alternative transportation options.
