MetLife Stadium Parking Tips in New Jersey

This guide has the ultimate Metlife Stadium parking tips to help you find the right spot at the next New York Giants, New York Jets game, or any concerts you attend. As you plan your visit to the Meadowlands Sports Complex, it’s essential to consider parking options to ensure a smooth experience. Let us help you find parking spots and facilities in several ways:

• official lots
• cheaper third-party parking options
• free parking
• handicap parking near Metlife Stadium
• public transit
• specific tips that are unique to the Metlife Stadium

If you’ve been to any NFL games in New Jersey or any other events recently, comment below and provide your own tips for others!

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Before we go into all of the details about Metlife Parking tips, you should learn and understand the area around the stadium:

Official MetLife Stadium Parking Options

Platinum Parking

Platinum parking is reserved for season ticket holders of suite and seats. Many of these seats come with pre-assigned parking in one of the platinum lots: E, F and G. Unless you have one of these premier seats, you cannot park in these lots.

Gold Parking

For a spot closest to the Metlife Sports Complex with a regular ticket, you’ll want to buy a GOLD pass off of Ticketmaster before the game. A gold permit allows you to park in lots B, D, and Deck A on the east side and lots K, J, L, M, P, on the west, plus any American Dream parking space. A gold parking pass does not guarantee a reserved spot, so you must still arrive early.

The closest gold Metlife Stadium parking lot to the stadium entrance are lots B and D, which are east of the stadium.

Gold Metlife Stadium parking passes can cost $60 or more per game.

Metlife Stadium Handicap Parking

MetLife Stadium is committed to providing accessible parking options for visitors with disabilities. ADA parking is available in parking lot C near the Verizon gate on the stadium’s south side.

To use ADA parking, you must have a valid state-issued disability card or plate showing. Pricing for ADA parking is typically the same as general parking, and spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

When to Arrive

You can arrive at the stadium five hours before kickoff or event time. This is when all of the Metlife Stadium parking lots and toll plazas will have workers in them.

Most lots are typically open for two hours past the end of the game.

Tailgating

Tailgating is a popular pre-event activity for many MetLife Stadium visitors. Designated tailgating lots allow fans to enjoy food, drinks, and games before the event.

To maintain a safe and enjoyable experience, MetLife Stadium enforces strict tailgating rules and regulations. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these rules before arriving at the stadium.

The designated lots for tailgating at Metlife Stadium are Lots E, F, G, and J. You can set up your own food and hang-out spot here on a first-serve basis.

Unofficial Parking Lots Near Metlife Stadium

Private Parking Lots

In addition to the official MetLife Stadium parking lots, several off-site private parking lots are available in the surrounding area. These lots may offer cheaper parking rates but are usually farther from the stadium.

Use the SpotHero widget below to find a great off-site lot for your next visit to the area. These parking passes are 100% guaranteed.

Researching and comparing nearby private lots’ pricing, distance, and availability is crucial before deciding on an off-site parking option.

Street Parking

Although street parking near MetLife Stadium is limited, you might find a few free or cheap spots if you search. Most of these spots are gone long before game time, so don’t waste your time arriving late. Be aware of parking restrictions and posted signs to avoid fines and towing.

Finding a street parking spot is more challenging during high-demand events, so you should have an alternative plan. You will pay a premium if you wait until you arrive before you buy any parking passes.

Park-and-Ride

Park-and-ride facilities are another off-site parking option for MetLife Stadium visitors. These lots offer parking spaces and convenient public transportation connections to the stadium.

Using park-and-ride can save you time and money while reducing congestion around the stadium. Plus, the cost will always be less than parking close to the stadium. Another advantage is that traffic will be dispersed when you return to your vehicle after the game.

Metlife Stadium Events

Use the table below to buy tickets to the New York Jets, New York Giants, or other events at the stadium.

Underneath this table are tips for getting free parking at Metlife Stadium and specific tips you should know about parking nearby in New York City and New Jersey.

Free Parking at Metlife Stadium

Free parking close to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is limited. Most parking in the vicinity is controlled by the stadium or privately owned. I’ve tried my luck with street parking in nearby residential or commercial areas before, but have gotten a ticket for not observing posted parking signs. I only got a fine, but I’ve heard about other people getting towed for trying to do this!

Finding free parking on event days is particularly challenging due to high demand.

One popular tip is to park at the Hilton Meadowlands across Route 3 because there is no paid or valet parking there. However, this is risky if you get caught, and crossing Route 3 on foot is not recommended.

Public Transportation Options

NJ Transit

New Jersey Transit offers train and bus services to MetLife Stadium, providing an excellent alternative to driving and parking. Train service on the Meadowlands Rail Line connects to major stations like New York Penn Station (Manhattan), Secaucus Junction, and Hoboken Terminal (both in Hoboken, New Jersey).

On event days, trains run frequently, starting a few hours before the event and continuing until a few hours after the event ends. NJ Transit bus service also operates to and from MetLife Stadium, with various routes serving the area. Visit the NJ Transit website for specific routes, schedules, and fare information.

Coach USA Bus Service

Coach USA operates a “351 Meadowlands Express” bus service that transports visitors from New York City’s Port Authority Bus Terminal to MetLife Stadium on event days. The service typically starts a few hours before the event and runs until one hour after the event ends.

Tickets can be purchased at the Port Authority Bus Terminal or online in advance. Check the Coach USA website for fares, schedules, and additional details.

All charter buses, like this one, park in lot L west of the stadium and is only five minutes away. You will walk from the bus stop past all of the good tailgating outside Metlife, where the top Jets and Giants fans will be. You will go into the Pepsi gate on the stadium’s west side.

Meadowlands Rail Service

Meadowlands Rail Service, operated by NJ Transit, directly connects Secaucus Junction and MetLife Stadium. This rail service is available for most events and provides an efficient and convenient way to get to and from the stadium.

I recommend parking at the Edison ParkFast free parking lot next to the Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction in Hoboken. From here, you can take the train to the stadium for any Giants or Jets game.

Be sure to consult the Meadowlands Rail Service schedule and fares on the NJ Transit website for your specific event.

Ride-sharing and Taxis

Uber and Lyft

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are popular options to check out. A designated pick-up and drop-off zone is located in lot E, directly south of the stadium.

When using ride-sharing services, be sure to confirm your driver’s identity and vehicle before getting in the car. Also, remember that high demand during events will result in surge pricing or longer wait times.

Taxis

Taxis are another transportation option for MetLife Stadium visitors. Taxi stands are available near the stadium, making catching a cab easily after an event.

Be prepared for potentially long wait times, especially after high-demand events. Knowing the approximate fare and distance to your destination is essential to avoid overpaying for your ride.

MetLife Stadium Parking Tips and Tricks

Arrive Early

One of the best MetLife Stadium parking tips is to arrive early. By getting to the stadium ahead of time, you’ll have a better chance of finding a prime parking spot and avoiding heavy traffic. This also gives you ample time to enjoy pre-event activities like tailgating or exploring the stadium grounds.

Carpooling

Carpooling is an excellent way to save money on parking and reduce congestion around the stadium. By sharing a ride with friends or family, you can split the parking cost and minimize your environmental impact.

Plus, you’ll have the added bonus of enjoying the event with your favorite people.

Using Parking Apps to Reserve Spots

To make your MetLife Stadium parking experience even smoother, consider using parking apps like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, or ParkMobile. These apps allow you to reserve and pay for parking spots in advance, ensuring you have a guaranteed space waiting for you when you arrive at the stadium.

Just make sure to double-check the location, pricing, and restrictions before finalizing your reservation.

Being Aware of Road Closures and Traffic Updates

Before heading to MetLife Stadium, check for any road closures or traffic updates that might impact your trip. Websites like 511NJ.org or local news outlets can provide up-to-date information on traffic conditions, construction, and accidents. You can plan alternate routes if necessary and avoid getting stuck in traffic by staying informed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hopefully this Metlife Stadium parking guide helps you plan your next Giants or Jets game or concert.

By familiarizing yourself with the various parking options, public transportation, and ride-sharing services, you can find the best game day parking for your needs. Remember to arrive early, carpool when possible, use parking apps to reserve spots and stay informed about road closures and traffic updates.

Following these MetLife Stadium parking tips and tricks will prepare you for a stress-free and enjoyable visit to one of the country’s premier sports and entertainment venues.

Frequently Asked Questions About Metlife Stadium Parking (FAQs)