Going to MetLife Stadium for a game or concert? Excellent choice! While driving can be a hassle with traffic and parking, taking the train is often the smartest and most stress-free option. Let's dive into how you can make your journey to MetLife Stadium by train a smooth and enjoyable one.
Step 1: Are You Ready for a Seamless Journey?
First things first, are you prepared to ditch the traffic jams and parking woes for a relaxing train ride straight to the stadium's doorstep? If your answer is a resounding yes, then you're on the right track! Public transportation, especially the train, is often the most efficient and cost-effective way to get to MetLife Stadium, particularly for large events.
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| Can You Take The Train To Metlife Stadium |
Step 2: Understanding the NJ TRANSIT System
The primary way to reach MetLife Stadium by train is through NJ TRANSIT, New Jersey's statewide public transportation system. NJ TRANSIT offers a dedicated rail line that takes you directly to the stadium for major events.
The Meadowlands Rail Line
For events with an anticipated attendance above 50,000, NJ TRANSIT operates the Meadowlands Rail Service. This service takes you right to the front door of MetLife Stadium. This is your golden ticket to avoiding the pre- and post-event traffic nightmares.
Secaucus Junction: The Hub
Most of NJ TRANSIT's rail system connects at the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. This is a critical transfer point for virtually all train routes heading to the Meadowlands. Think of it as the central nervous system for getting to the stadium by rail. From Secaucus Junction, the travel time to the Sports Complex station is approximately 10 minutes.
Step 3: Planning Your Route to Secaucus Junction
Your journey begins by getting to Secaucus Junction. Depending on your starting location, there are several ways to do this.
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
Sub-heading: From New York City (NYC)
For those coming from the Big Apple, the most common and efficient route is from New York Penn Station.
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Head to New York Penn Station: Located at 32nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues in Manhattan.
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Board an NJ TRANSIT Train to Secaucus Junction: Many NJ TRANSIT lines pass through Secaucus Junction, including the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, and others. The fastest and most cost-effective way from NYC Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is generally via an NJ Transit train. The approximate travel time from New York Penn Station to Secaucus Junction is around 10-15 minutes.
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Transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line: Once at Secaucus Junction, you'll transfer to the special Meadowlands Rail Line. Follow the signs; they're usually very clear, especially on event days.
Sub-heading: From Other Parts of New Jersey
If you're starting within New Jersey, you'll also likely connect through Secaucus Junction.
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Main/Bergen County Line
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Montclair-Boonton Line
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Morris & Essex Line
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Northeast Corridor
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North Jersey Coast Line
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Raritan Valley Line
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Pascack Valley Line
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Port Jervis Line
All these lines can get you to Secaucus Junction, where you'll then transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line. Check the NJ TRANSIT website or app for specific schedules and connections from your local station.
Sub-heading: From Connecticut or Upstate New York
For those venturing from further afield, like Connecticut or Upstate New York:
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Take Metro-North to Grand Central Terminal: First, take a Metro-North train to Grand Central Terminal in NYC.
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Subway to Penn Station: From Grand Central, take the subway (e.g., the S shuttle to Times Square, then the 1, 2, 3 lines downtown, or the 7 train to Times Square and then walk) to New York Penn Station.
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NJ TRANSIT to Secaucus Junction: Follow the steps for traveling from New York City Penn Station mentioned above.
Step 4: Purchasing Your Train Tickets ️
This is a crucial step! Always purchase a round-trip ticket to MetLife Stadium in advance. This saves you time and often avoids a $5 surcharge for buying tickets on board the train if a ticket agent or vending machine was available at your boarding station.
Sub-heading: Where to Buy Tickets
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NJ TRANSIT Mobile App (MyTix®): This is arguably the most convenient option. Download the free NJ TRANSIT Mobile App on your smartphone (available on Apple Store and Google Play). You can purchase and display your tickets directly on your device.
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Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Available at most NJ TRANSIT stations, including New York Penn Station and Secaucus Junction.
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Ticket Windows: At major stations like New York Penn Station, you can purchase tickets from a ticket agent.
Sub-heading: Fares
QuickTip: Return to sections that felt unclear.
The fare will vary depending on your origin station. As of mid-2025, a round-trip adult fare from New York Penn Station to MetLife Stadium (via Secaucus Junction) is approximately $12.60. From Secaucus Junction directly to the Sports Complex, a round-trip fare is about $5.10. Reduced fares are available for children (ages 5-11), seniors (62+), and people with disabilities. On weekends and holidays, up to two children (ages 5-11) can ride free with a paying adult.
Step 5: Understanding Event-Specific Service
It's vital to remember that the Meadowlands Rail Service is not a regularly scheduled daily service. It operates specifically for large-scale events like NFL games, major concerts, and other events with high anticipated attendance.
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Check the Event Schedule: Always verify that train service will be operating for the specific event you are attending. Check the MetLife Stadium website's transportation section or the NJ TRANSIT website (
njtransit.com/metlifestadium -
Service Commencement and End: Typically, rail service begins approximately 3.5 hours prior to the event's start time (kick-off or concert start) and ends one hour after the conclusion of the event. Be aware that for some events, like the FIFA Club World Cup, service might begin even earlier (e.g., 5 hours prior).
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Step 6: The Journey to the Stadium ️
Once you've made it to Secaucus Junction and have your ticket for the Meadowlands Rail Line:
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Follow the Signs: On event days, Secaucus Junction will be bustling, and there will be clear signage and NJ TRANSIT personnel guiding you to the correct platform for the Meadowlands-bound train.
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Board the Train: These trains are typically shuttle services, making a direct, quick trip to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station.
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Arrival at MetLife Stadium: The Meadowlands Sports Complex station is literally steps away from MetLife Stadium. You'll exit the train and be right at the stadium's entrance.
Step 7: The Return Journey ↩️
Leaving the stadium is just as straightforward, but with one important tip:
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Have Your Ticket Ready: You must have a ticket to board the train from Meadowlands back to Secaucus Junction. If you purchased a round-trip ticket, you're all set.
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Follow the Crowd: After the event, simply head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station. There will be plenty of people heading the same way.
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Transfer at Secaucus Junction: From Secaucus Junction, you can connect back to your original NJ TRANSIT line to your home station or New York Penn Station.
Step 8: Accessibility and Other Considerations ♿
NJ TRANSIT is generally accessible, but it's always good to be informed.
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Accessible Stations and Trains: Most NJ TRANSIT stations and trains are equipped to handle passengers with disabilities, including ramps and accessible restrooms.
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Drop-off Areas: For those with disabilities or limited mobility, there are dedicated drop-off areas at the stadium (e.g., Lot C, adjacent to the Verizon Gate) if you are being dropped off by car.
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Alternative Bus Service: On special occasions, NJ TRANSIT might offer bus service between Secaucus Junction and MetLife Stadium if rail service isn't running or as an alternative. There is also the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus service from Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC for major events.
Step 9: Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip ✨
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Arrive Early: Especially for popular events, trains can get crowded. Arriving a bit earlier than you think necessary can save you stress.
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Check for Service Alerts: Before you leave, check the NJ TRANSIT website or app for any service advisories, delays, or changes due to weather or other issues.
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Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks: Depending on your travel time, you might appreciate having water and a snack, especially if you're traveling during peak hours.
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Charge Your Phone: Essential for your e-ticket on the MyTix app and for checking schedules.
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Know Your Way Home: Briefly familiarize yourself with the return trip schedule from Secaucus Junction to your final destination.
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to buy NJ Transit tickets to MetLife Stadium?
You can buy NJ Transit tickets via the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App (MyTix®), at Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) at stations, or from ticket windows at major terminals like New York Penn Station. It's recommended to purchase a round-trip ticket in advance.
How to get to MetLife Stadium from NYC Penn Station by train?
From NYC Penn Station, take any NJ TRANSIT train that stops at Secaucus Junction. At Secaucus Junction, transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Line, which provides direct service to MetLife Stadium on event days.
How to find the Meadowlands Rail Line schedule for MetLife Stadium events?
The Meadowlands Rail Line service is event-specific. Always check the MetLife Stadium website's transportation section or the NJ TRANSIT website (
How to know if the train service to MetLife Stadium is running for an event?
The train service (Meadowlands Rail Line) to MetLife Stadium primarily runs for large events with anticipated attendance over 50,000. Always confirm service availability on the official MetLife Stadium or NJ TRANSIT websites for your specific event.
How to transfer at Secaucus Junction for MetLife Stadium?
Upon arrival at Secaucus Junction, follow the clear signage and directions from NJ TRANSIT staff to locate the platform for the Meadowlands-bound train. It's a quick and straightforward transfer.
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
How to calculate the cost of a train ticket to MetLife Stadium?
Fares depend on your origin. A round-trip adult ticket from New York Penn Station to MetLife Stadium (via Secaucus Junction) is approximately $12.60. From Secaucus Junction to the Sports Complex, a round-trip is about $5.10. Check the NJ Transit app or website for exact fares from your starting point.
How to ensure a smooth return journey from MetLife Stadium by train?
Always purchase a round-trip ticket before your initial departure. After the event, simply head back to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station and board the train back to Secaucus Junction for your connection.
How to use the NJ Transit Mobile App for MetLife Stadium tickets?
Download the free NJ TRANSIT Mobile App, create an account, select "Buy Tickets," choose "Train," and input your origin and destination (e.g., New York Penn Station to Meadowlands Sports Complex). Activate your ticket before boarding.
How to get to MetLife Stadium if Meadowlands Rail Line isn't running?
If the Meadowlands Rail Line isn't operating for a smaller event, NJ TRANSIT sometimes offers bus service from Secaucus Junction. Alternatively, the Coach USA 351 Meadowlands Express bus runs from Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC for major events.
How to find out about accessibility features for train travel to MetLife Stadium?
Most NJ TRANSIT trains and stations are accessible. For specific information on accessibility features, it's best to consult the NJ TRANSIT website or contact their customer service. MetLife Stadium also has dedicated accessible drop-off areas.
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