How Do I Get to MetLife Stadium From the Airport?
MetLife Stadium is located in East Rutherford, New Jersey — approximately 10 miles (16 km) from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), 16 miles (26 km) from LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and 25 miles (40 km) from JFK International Airport (JFK).
From Newark Liberty International (EWR) — Recommended
- Total travel time: 30–40 minutes
- Total cost: ~$11 one-way
From JFK International (JFK)
- Total travel time: 90–120 minutes
- Total cost: $20–$35
From LaGuardia (LGA)
- Total travel time: 75–100 minutes
- Total cost: $15–$20
How Do I Get to MetLife Stadium by Public Transit?
The NJ Transit Meadowlands Rail Line runs special match-day service directly to MetLife Stadium from Secaucus Junction. This is the primary public transit option.
| Route | Service | Fare | Frequency (Match Days) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meadowlands Rail Line | Secaucus Jct → MetLife | ~$5 | Every 10–15 min, starting 3 hrs before kickoff |
| NJ Transit Northeast Corridor | Penn Station NYC → Secaucus | ~$5 | Every 10–20 min |
| NJ Transit Main/Bergen Line | Hoboken → Secaucus | ~$4 | Every 15–30 min |
| NY Waterway Ferry + Shuttle | Manhattan → Meadowlands | ~$15 | Match-day specials |
Key stations: Penn Station NYC, Secaucus Junction, Hoboken Terminal.
Post-match trains run for approximately 2 hours after the final whistle. Expect crowded platforms — allow extra time for departure.
Source: NJ Transit (njtransit.com), MTA (mta.info)
How Much Does Rideshare Cost to MetLife Stadium?
| Service | Estimated Cost | Surge Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Uber/Lyft from Newark Airport | $25–$45 | High on match days |
| Uber/Lyft from Midtown Manhattan | $45–$80 | Very High |
| Uber/Lyft from Downtown Jersey City | $25–$40 | Moderate |
Surge pricing warning: Expect 2x–4x surge pricing within 2 hours of kickoff and immediately after the final whistle. Post-match surge can push Manhattan-bound fares above $100.
Pickup/drop-off zones: FIFA will designate rideshare pickup and drop-off areas in the Meadowlands parking complex. Follow signage to Lot G or as directed by staff. Do NOT have your driver attempt to reach the main stadium entrances.
Can I Drive and Park at MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium sits in the Meadowlands Sports Complex with over 28,000 parking spaces. However, parking for FIFA World Cup matches will require a FIFA Parking Pass purchased in advance.
- FIFA Parking Pass: Expected $50–$80 per vehicle (advance purchase required)
- Tailgating: Likely prohibited during FIFA events — check official FIFA policies
- Pre-booking: Purchase through FIFA's official ticketing portal; third-party lots available via SpotHero and ParkWhiz
- Traffic: Allow 60–90 minutes for the last 5 miles on match days. Routes 3 and 120 will experience extreme congestion.
Recommended approach routes: NJ Turnpike to Route 120 (from the south), Route 3 East (from Route 46/I-80), or Route 17 South (from the north).
Are There Shuttle Services to MetLife Stadium?
- FIFA/Host City Shuttle: Expected match-day shuttles from designated park-and-ride locations across northern New Jersey and Manhattan. Routes and schedules will be published on the FIFA World Cup 2026 website.
- NJ Transit Bus Shuttles: Special express bus service from Port Authority Bus Terminal (Manhattan) to MetLife on match days.
- Hotel Shuttles: Major hotels in Times Square, Newark, and Jersey City area are expected to offer paid shuttle packages.
Is MetLife Stadium Accessible for Wheelchair Users and Fans With Disabilities?
MetLife Stadium is fully ADA-compliant with accessible seating throughout all levels.
- Wheelchair-accessible parking: Available in lots closest to stadium entrances — request when purchasing FIFA Parking Pass
- Accessible transit: NJ Transit trains and stations on the Meadowlands Rail Line are wheelchair accessible. Elevators available at Secaucus Junction.
- Stadium access: All gates have accessible entry lanes. Elevators serve all concourse levels.
- Companion seating: Available adjacent to all wheelchair-accessible locations
- Sensory rooms: MetLife Stadium offers sensory-inclusive spaces
- Service animals: Permitted in all areas of the stadium
Contact FIFA's Accessibility Services hotline (to be published) or MetLife Stadium Guest Services at (201) 559-1515 for specific accommodation requests.
What Are the Insider Tips for Getting to MetLife Stadium?
- Arrive at least 2.5 hours early. Gates open 3 hours before kickoff for World Cup matches. The Meadowlands area has limited pre-game options, so enter early and enjoy the atmosphere inside.
- Take NJ Transit, not your car. The Meadowlands Rail Line is purpose-built for events and avoids all road congestion.
- Book rideshare before you need it. Schedule your return ride at halftime or during the 80th minute to avoid the worst surge.
- Stay in Jersey City or Hoboken for shorter, cheaper transit and rideshare to the stadium compared to Manhattan.
- Bring a portable phone charger. Cell service gets strained with 80,000+ fans; you will need your phone for tickets, transit apps, and rideshare.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes. The walk from transit to your gate can be 15–20 minutes through the parking complex.
- Download the NJ Transit app in advance and load a mobile ticket — kiosk lines at Secaucus will be very long.
Transit Comparison: What Is the Best Way to Get to MetLife Stadium?
| Factor | Public Transit | Rideshare | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost (from EWR) | ~$11 | $25–$80 | $50–$80 (parking) + gas |
| Travel Time | 30–40 min | 20–60 min (traffic dependent) | 20–75 min (traffic dependent) |
| Reliability | High (dedicated rail) | Low (surge + traffic) | Low (heavy congestion) |
| Post-Match Exit | 20–40 min wait | 30–60 min wait for pickup | 30–90 min to exit lot |
| Best For | Solo travelers, couples, groups | Small groups, late arrivals | Families with gear, tailgaters |
Our Recommendation
- Solo / Couples / Small Groups: Take NJ Transit. The Meadowlands Rail Line is the most reliable and affordable option.
- Groups of 4+: Rideshare can be cost-competitive when splitting fares, but schedule in advance to avoid post-match surge.
- Families with young children: Driving with a pre-booked FIFA Parking Pass gives flexibility, but arrive very early.
By air
Airport: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Distance to stadium area: 10 miles
Public transit
NJ Transit rail and bus to Meadowlands. NYC subway + shuttle available on match days. JFK and LGA also serve the area.
Rideshare & taxi
Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) operate in New York / New Jersey. Expect surge pricing around match times. Designated pickup/drop-off zones will be established near the stadium.
Driving & parking
If driving, pre-book parking in advance. Stadium lots fill up quickly on match days. Follow FIFA and host committee signage for designated World Cup parking areas.
Match-day tips
- Arrive 2-3 hours before kickoff
- Stadium gates open 3 hours before the match
- Follow FIFA bag policy—clear bags recommended
- Download the FIFA+ app for real-time transportation updates
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct train from Manhattan to MetLife Stadium?
Yes, on match days. NJ Transit runs the Meadowlands Rail Line from Secaucus Junction, which connects directly to Penn Station in Manhattan. The entire trip takes about 30 minutes.
How early should I arrive at MetLife Stadium for the World Cup?
Plan to arrive at the stadium area at least 2–2.5 hours before kickoff. Gates open 3 hours before the match.
Can I take the subway to MetLife Stadium?
Not directly. NYC subway does not reach East Rutherford. You must transfer to NJ Transit at Penn Station to reach MetLife via the Meadowlands Rail Line.
How much is parking at MetLife Stadium for the World Cup?
FIFA Parking Passes are expected to cost $50–$80 per vehicle. Advance purchase is required; no day-of cash parking is anticipated.
Is Uber available at MetLife Stadium after the game?
Yes, but expect significant surge pricing and wait times of 20–45 minutes. Use the designated rideshare pickup zones in the parking complex.
What happens if I miss the last train after the match?
NJ Transit runs trains for approximately 2 hours after the final whistle. If you miss the last train, rideshare or taxi is your only option. Fares will be at surge rates.
Can I bike to MetLife Stadium?
Biking is not recommended. The stadium is surrounded by highway interchanges with no dedicated bike infrastructure.
Are there bag restrictions at MetLife Stadium?
FIFA enforces a clear bag policy for World Cup matches. Bags must be clear plastic and no larger than 12" x 6" x 12". Small clutch purses (4.5" x 6.5") are permitted.
Is MetLife Stadium covered or open-air?
MetLife Stadium is an open-air venue with no roof. Check the weather forecast and prepare for sun, heat, or rain depending on conditions.
Where is the nearest hotel to MetLife Stadium?
The closest hotels are in Secaucus, NJ (3–5 miles) and East Rutherford (1–2 miles). Manhattan hotels are approximately 8–10 miles away. --- *Sources: NJ Transit (njtransit.com), MTA (mta.info), MetLife Stadium (metlifestadium.com), FIFA World Cup 2026 Host City — New York New Jersey. All fares and schedules are estimates subject to change for the FIFA World Cup 2026.*
How do I get from EWR airport to the stadium in New York / New Jersey?
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) sits roughly 10 miles from the venue zone—take rail where available, then FIFA shuttles, hotel buses, or rideshare for the last mile.
Is there public transit to the World Cup stadium in New York / New Jersey?
Transit differs by city; read the Public transit section on this page for New York / New Jersey-specific rail, bus, and gameday detours.
Is there parking at the stadium in New York / New Jersey?
Limited paid parking exists at most venues, yet FIFA prioritizes transit; pre-purchase permits when offered and expect walking distance from lots.
How early should I arrive at the stadium?
Plan to be near the gates two to three hours before kickoff—security lines peak inside the final hour.
Are there shuttle buses to the stadium in New York / New Jersey?
Yes, World Cup host committees usually publish park-and-ride shuttles; bookmark local OC/V organizing sites for live maps.
Can I walk to the stadium from downtown New York / New Jersey?
Only some hosts place the stadium in the CBD—if New York / New Jersey's venue is suburban, expect a train or shuttle leg.
What about accessibility transportation options?
Accessible shuttles, drop zones, and companion seating are mandated—request mobility assistance when you buy tickets or at player/staff entrances.