MetLife Stadium: A Gameday Guide

MetLife Stadium, the esteemed “Home of the New York Jets and Giants,” stands as a modern and prestigious sports and entertainment venue in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Located just a few miles away from New York City it proudly hosts these two iconic NFL franchises. This state-of-the-art stadium was meticulously constructed to replace its predecessor, the old Meadowlands stadium in 2010, with the purpose of delivering an epic gameday experience for NYC area fans. Join us in exploring this great stadium in our post “MetLife Stadium: A Gameday Guide”.

Beyond its role as an NFL stadium, MetLife Stadium has hosted a plethora of big events. It made history by hosting Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014, marking the first outdoor, cold-weather Super Bowl in NFL history. Additionally, the stadium has welcomed renowned musicians and bands including a legendary Taylor Swift and Springsteen series of concerts in the Summer of 23 and will be one of the stadiums hosting the 2026 World Cup (possibly the final), drawing fans from around the world.

MetLife Stadium boasts impressive features, including a seating capacity exceeding 82,000 for NFL games, expandable for special events. The new stadium’s seating bowl is similar in layout to that of Giants Stadium, providing seating for 82,500 people, including 10,005 club seats and approximately 218 luxury suites. This makes it the largest NFL stadium in terms of total seating capacity. The stadium’s seating bowl is thoughtfully raked to eliminate overhangs from the upper decks, ensuring unobstructed views for fans, even allowing them to see the full arc of a 90-foot (30-yard) punt.

The venue incorporates cutting-edge technology, offering high-definition video boards and seamless wireless connectivity. Its diverse culinary options range from classic stadium fare to gourmet dining experiences. Furthermore, the stadium’s spacious parking lots foster a lively pre-game atmosphere, perfect for tailgating. Accessibility is a top priority, with accommodations for all visitors, including those with disabilities.

As you explore MetLife Stadium, be sure to check out our content that covers essential information, including stadium policies, accommodations, transportation, where to stay, and more. Whether you’re a dedicated Giants or Jets fan or headed to a concert or other event, MetLife Stadium promises a solid experience for all who step through its gates.

Tickets to Jets and Giants Games at MetLife Stadium

You can obtain tickets to New York Jets and New York Giants games at MetLife Stadium through various avenues:

• Click Here for New York Giants and New York Jets Tickets through Vivid Seats.
• Official Team Websites: Visit the official websites of the New York Jets and New York Giants. They often sell tickets directly to fans.
• Season Tickets: Consider becoming a season ticket holder for either the New York Jets or the New York Giants. Season ticket holders enjoy various benefits, including priority access to playoff tickets and exclusive events.
• NFL Ticket Exchange: The NFL Ticket Exchange is the league’s official ticket resale marketplace, where fans can buy and sell tickets for games. It offers a safe and reliable way to purchase tickets.
• Local Ticket Outlets: Some local ticket outlets or sports bars may have tick nets available for purchase, especially if you’re in the vicinity of MetLife Stadium.
• Box Office: On game day, you can visit the MetLife Stadium box office for last-minute ticket purchases, although availability may be limited.
• Season Ticket Waiting List: If you’re looking to secure season tickets in the future, consider joining the waiting list. Both teams typically have waiting lists for fans interested in season tickets.
• Official Fan Clubs: Some official fan clubs for the Jets and Giants may offer ticket perks to their members.

Seating Chart For MetLife Stadium

MetLife Stadium boasts a seating capacity of 82,500 for NFL games, ranking it among the NFL’s largest stadiums. During other events, such as concerts, the stadium can be expanded to welcome up to 87,000 attendees. Here is a link to the Seating Chart for MetLife Stadium.

Remember to buy tickets from reputable sources to ensure their authenticity and avoid scams. Be cautious of scalpers and unofficial vendors, especially when purchasing tickets outside the stadium on game day.

A Sports Fans Travel Guide to MetLife Stadium

As you prepare for your visit to the Stadium, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the stadium’s policies to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From bag regulations to tailgating guidelines, understanding these policies is key to making the most of your game day or event. So, before you head to the stadium, let’s delve into the important policies and guidelines that will help you navigate your visit. For an updated and in depth guide to all policies click here.

Bag Policy MetLife Stadium

MetLife Stadium enforces a transparent bag policy for all its events. Guests must adhere to this policy by carrying their personal items in clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed dimensions of 12” x 6” x 12”. Additionally, smaller non-clear purses or handbags, specifically clutch-type bags, measuring 4.5” x 6.5” or smaller are permitted, with a limit of one per person.

To maintain security standards, all bags and other permissible items will undergo multiple screenings before entry into the stadium. It is important to note that the following items are strictly prohibited from being brought into MetLife Stadium: backpacks, duffel bags, coolers, briefcases, fanny packs, cinch bags, luggage of any type, seat cushions, computer bags, camera bags, and any bag exceeding the permissible size limits.

Moreover, all vehicles entering the MetLife Sports Complex will be subject to inspection, and all bags will be inspected before entering the stadium. It is essential for ticket holders to cooperate with these security measures. Those who refuse to allow their vehicles to be inspected will be denied entry into the Sports Complex, and individuals who decline bag screening or object to having their bags inspected will be denied entry into the stadium. Your cooperation with these policies helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

Water Bottle Policy 

Are you allowed to bring food to MetLife?

You are welcome to bring outside food into MetLife Stadium. However, there is a requirement that all outside food must be carried in a clear bag. Please be aware that all bags and other allowable items will undergo multiple screenings before entering the stadium. Additionally, if you prefer not to bring your own food, MetLife Stadium provides a diverse selection of food concession options available for purchase.

• Factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less) are allowed.
• Reusable water bottles are allowed but must be empty upon entry. All other bottles and cans are prohibited.

Parking at MetLife Stadium

When it comes to parking at MetLife Stadium, a little preparation can go a long way. Here are some expert tips to ensure you have a smooth and hassle-free parking experience:

• Secure Prepaid Parking: To avoid last-minute stress and ensure you have a guaranteed spot on game day, we highly recommend purchasing prepaid parking. You can conveniently obtain your parking pass in advance through Vivid Seats.
• Location Matters: Depending on your ticket’s seating location, you’ll be directed to park in the lots closest to your entry point into the Sports Complex. This efficient arrangement ensures minimal walking and a more convenient experience.
• Embrace Parking Apps: Streamline your parking process with the help of parking apps like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, or ParkMobile. These tools provide real-time information, availability, and even the option to reserve your parking space in advance.
• Buy Online in Advance: Don’t forget that purchasing your parking pass online ahead of time is a must. Failure to do so may result in having to park at a satellite lot at a potentially higher cost.
• Explore Shuttle Services: For added convenience, explore shuttle services that can transport you from nearby parking areas directly to the stadium. Some options even include parking fees and transfer to the venue for a bundled price, which can be a time and money-saving choice.
• Trust the Experts: The Traffic and Parking Staff at MetLife Sports Complex are there to guide you. Always follow their directions to ensure a safe and efficient traffic flow within the area.
• Stay on the Right Side of the Law: Parking illegally on area roadways, medians, grassy areas, or vehicle breakdown lanes is strictly prohibited. Violators may face ticketing or towing, so it’s best to adhere to the rules.

In summary, your MetLife Stadium parking experience can be a breeze by following these recommendations: purchase prepaid parking in advance, heed the guidance of the Traffic and Parking Staff, and consider the convenience of parking apps or shuttle services. With these strategies, you’ll spend less time worrying about parking and more time enjoying the event!

Tailgating at MetLife Stadium

For an unforgettable tailgating experience at MetLife Stadium, it’s essential to be aware of the following policies:

• Tailgating Area Limits: Tailgating should be confined to the lined parking space and the immediate area behind or in front of your vehicle. Blocking drive lanes is strictly prohibited to ensure smooth traffic flow.
• Aerial Devices: Drones, model aircraft, kites, and any other remotely controlled or tethered flying objects are not allowed within the Sports Complex.
• Responsible Alcohol Consumption: Enjoy alcoholic beverages responsibly at all times. Guests showing signs of impairment before entering the stadium will not be granted access and may face legal consequences.
• Tailgating Locations: Unless otherwise indicated, tailgating is permitted in all MetLife Sports Complex parking lots. Please note that grills and heating devices are not allowed in the parking decks.
• Clear Pathways: All tailgating equipment should be set up in front of or behind your vehicle. Keep roadways and additional spaces clear for fellow guests and emergency vehicles.
• Commercial Activities: Individuals and companies are prohibited from selling access to tailgate parties to the general public while on the premises. Unauthorized commercial tailgating and marketing activities are strictly forbidden.
• Arrival Time: MetLife Stadium’s parking lots open five hours before kickoff, so arriving early is a good strategy to secure your spot and enjoy the festivities.
• Grilling: While grilling is allowed in open parking lots, it is not permitted in parking garages.
• Sound Limits: Be mindful of New Jersey’s ordinance limiting speaker usage to a maximum of 65 decibels. If asked to lower your music, it’s to ensure compliance with this regulation.
• Game Time Considerations: Due to potentially long entry lines and security procedures, it’s advisable to conclude your tailgate about an hour before the game to make it to your gate, pass through security, and reach your seat comfortably.
• Post-Game Tailgating: Be prepared for post-game tailgating, as traffic congestion can be significant for up to an hour after the game due to the stadium’s parking lot layout.

In summary, MetLife Stadium welcomes and encourages tailgating in nearly all of its parking lots. However, it’s crucial for all guests to adhere to the tailgating policies and parking lot guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Enjoy your time at the stadium, and happy tailgating!

MetLife Stadium Rideshare Pick-up and Drop-off

To ensure a seamless experience when using Uber or Lyft at MetLife Stadium, follow these simple steps:

1. Locate the Designated Zone: The official Uber and Lyft pickup and dropoff zone is situated in Lot E, just beyond the Verizon Gate, accessible via West Peripheral Road. Look for signage to guide you.

2. Request Your Ride: When you’re ready to request your ride, exit the stadium through the Verizon Gate. Head directly to Lot E; this is where your driver will meet you.

3. Utilize the Official Uber Zone: When you order a ride from MetLife Stadium, your pickup location will automatically default to the official Uber Zone. This ensures that you are in the correct spot for your driver to find you quickly and easily.

4. Beware of Surge Pricing: Please be aware that during events, some Uber drivers may camp in the parking lot, waiting for the game to conclude and attempting to charge higher surge fares. To avoid this, it’s advisable to request your ride as soon as you exit the stadium, ensuring you secure a fair price for your trip.

By following these directions, you can effortlessly navigate the Uber and Lyft pickup and dropoff process at MetLife Stadium, making your journey to and from the venue a stress-free experience.

Public Transportation To MetLife Stadium

Navigating your way to MetLife Stadium is pretty easy and public transportation gives you plenty of options. Whether you’re coming from the heart of New York City or other areas, our comprehensive guide provides clear directions and valuable insights on transportation options, parking, and other services to ensure you have a hassle-free experience while getting to and from to the stadium. Here are some choices from both NYC and other areas:

From New York City:

Meadowlands Rail Service: For an ultra-convenient ride to MetLife Stadium, hop on one of the frequent trains departing from Penn Station. These trains will take you to Secaucus Junction, where you can transfer to the Meadowlands Rail Service, which will drop you right at the stadium’s doorstep. Please note that parking at Secaucus Junction costs $20 per game or $160 for the entire season.

NJ Transit: Another great option is taking NJ Transit from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction and then boarding the train bound for MetLife Stadium. The Meadowlands Rail Line seamlessly connects to the Meadowlands Sports Complex, serving guests from New York and New Jersey via connections at Hoboken Terminal and Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. The cost of the train service may vary based on your starting and ending points.

Bus: If you prefer bus travel, you can catch the Line 160 bus departing from Manhattan, which will drop you off at MetLife Stadium. The bus fare ranges from $1 to $5, and the journey takes approximately 14 minutes.

From other areas:

Meadowlands Rail Service: If you’re coming from other regions, the Meadowlands Rail Service remains a convenient choice, delivering you directly to the front entrance of MetLife Stadium. Remember that parking at Secaucus Junction costs $20 per game or $160 for the season.

NJ Transit: Utilize NJ Transit to get to Secaucus Junction and then transfer to the train bound for MetLife Stadium. The Meadowlands Rail Line provides connectivity to the Meadowlands Sports Complex from 11 out of 12 NJ TRANSIT rail lines, offering service from both New York and New Jersey with connections at Hoboken Terminal and Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. The cost of the train service depends on your starting and ending points.

Bus: From various locations in New Jersey, you have the option to take a bus directly to MetLife Stadium. The cost of the bus service will vary based on your specific origin and destination.

In summary, visitors to MetLife Stadium have several transportation options depending on their location. The Meadowlands Rail Service offers direct access, while NJ Transit, buses provide flexibility in terms of pickup and dropoff locations. Choose the mode of transportation that suits your needs best and enjoy your time at the stadium!

Best Places to Eat Near MetLife

1. Victory Sports Bar: A great sports bar adorned with an array of sports memorabilia. It’s the place to catch your favorite games on multiple large-screen TVs while savoring classic bar fare and a diverse selection of craft beers. The vibrant ambiance and friendly staff create the perfect setting for cheering on your team and immersing yourself in the excitement of sports.
2. Yard House: Yard House is a national chain but a solid sports bar and grill that offers an extensive menu with a fusion of American classics and global cuisine. What sets it apart is its remarkable selection of draft beers. The spacious interior boasts a lively bar area and numerous TVs, making it a prime spot for watching games with friends. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or a foodie, Yard House provides a diverse and satisfying experience.
3. Redds Restaurant & Biergarten: Redds offers a unique fusion of German flavors and American sports culture. Its standout feature is the spacious outdoor beer garden, an excellent choice for pre-game gatherings and celebrations. Here, you can relish traditional German dishes, a wide selection of beers, and live music in a welcoming and festive atmosphere.
4. FanDuel Sportsbook: Located at Meadowlands Racetrack, this venue offers an immersive sports betting experience alongside a bar and lounge area. Here, guests can place bets, watch games, and enjoy a variety of food and drink options. It’s the ultimate destination for sports and gaming enthusiasts looking for an electrifying experience.
5. Bergen Social: A laid-back yet stylish sports bar setting with a strong emphasis on quality food and drinks. Its menu features a fusion of American and international cuisines, while the bar serves up craft cocktails, beer, and wine. If you’re seeking a relaxed and contemporary atmosphere to watch sports events with a touch of sophistication, Bergen Social is the place to be.

Great Pregame Spots in New York City:

If you’re in search of a place to grab a drink or enjoy a meal in the city before heading to a Giants or Jets game at MetLife Stadium, you’re in luck! There are several fantastic spots conveniently located near train stations in the city, making it easy to fuel up and soak in the pre-game excitement. From sports bars to casual eateries, these nearby options offer a great start to your game day experience.

Tempest Bar NYC: Tempest Bar NYC is conveniently located near the NJ Transit train station to Meadowlands/MetLife Stadium, situated at the intersection of 30th Street and 8th Avenue. This sports bar offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, making it a fantastic spot to catch your favorite games before or after your train journey. With multiple screens and a variety of beverages, Tempest Bar NYC is a great place to enjoy sports and socialize.

Stout: Stout is situated in close proximity to Penn Station, positioned at the corner of 33rd Street and 7th Avenue. This establishment is known for its Irish pub charm and extensive selection of beers on tap. With ample seating and numerous TVs, Stout is the ideal destination for sports enthusiasts looking to watch games and enjoy a hearty meal or a drink before catching their train at Penn Station.

Hair of the Dog: Hair of the Dog is conveniently located near Grand Central Terminal, positioned at 168th East 39th Street. This cozy sports bar provides a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for commuters and locals alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a refreshing beverage, or a place to catch up on the latest sports action, Hair of the Dog near Grand Central Terminal is a welcoming choice for all.

Best Hotels Near MetLife Stadium:

• Springhill Suites by Marriott East Rutherford Meadowlands Carlstadt: Conveniently located near MetLife Stadium, Springhill Suites offers modern accommodations and amenities, making it a great choice for those attending events at the stadium. Guests can expect comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Hampton Inn Carlstadt at the Meadowlands: Just a short distance from MetLife Stadium, the Hampton Inn provides comfortable lodging options and a complimentary hot breakfast. Its proximity to the stadium makes it a preferred choice for sports enthusiasts.
• Meadowlands Plaza Hotel: The Meadowlands Plaza Hotel offers well-appointed rooms and a range of services. It’s an excellent option for those looking for convenience and comfort.
• Hilton Meadowlands: Located a bit further from the stadium, the Hilton Meadowlands offers upscale accommodations and amenities. Its modern design and on-site dining options make it an ideal choice for a comfortable stay.
• Extended Stay America – Meadowlands: East Rutherford: For travelers seeking an extended stay option, this hotel is a convenient choice. It provides well-equipped suites with kitchenettes, making it suitable for longer visits to the area.

Budget Options:

• Red Roof PLUS+ Secaucus Meadowlands – NYC: Red Roof PLUS+: A budget-friendly accommodations not far from MetLife Stadium. Travelers can enjoy comfortable rooms and easy access to the stadium.
• Super 8 by Wyndham North Bergen NJ/NYC Area: A budget-friendly choice located a bit further from the stadium, Super 8 provides essential amenities for a cost-effective stay.
• Howard Johnson by Wyndham Clifton NJ: Another budget-friendly option, Howard Johnson, offers comfortable rooms and a straightforward stay for guests on a budget.

Hotel Options for Fans staying in NYC

For fans opting to stay in the city for a full weekend here are some hotels that are close to Penn Station that will allow you to get over to the game quickly

• The Westin New York at Times Square: Situated in the heart of Times Square, The Westin offers a luxurious stay with proximity to Penn Station and Madison Square Garden. It’s an excellent choice for sports fans looking to explore the city.
• The Roger Hotel: Located in Midtown Manhattan, The Roger Hotel is near Penn Station and Madison Square Garden. It provides stylish accommodations and easy access to sporting events and city attractions.
• The Lexington Hotel, Autograph Collection: Another Midtown Manhattan gem, The Lexington Hotel combines luxury with convenience. Close to Penn Station and Madison Square Garden, it’s an excellent base for sports enthusiasts exploring the city.

These hotels cater to a range of preferences and budgets, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for guests attending events at MetLife Stadium or exploring the vibrant city of New York. Visit their websites or read reviews on travel platforms for more information.

We hoped our post “MetLife Stadium: A Gameday Guide” was helpful. This renowned sports venue boasts a rich history and hosting iconic events like Super Bowls and the upcoming World Cup in 2026. With its modern features, ample seating, and a variety of food options, it offers an unforgettable game day experience.

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