You can’t follow football in northern New Jersey without making an official visit to MetLife Stadium. As the season kicks off, fans return to the space (which seats 82,500) to support their teams and be immersed in the experience of an American pastime. The destination is one of a kind as it is the only active stadium to serve as home base for two NFL teams, the New York Giants and the New York Jets. But no matter which team fans support, all agree that watching a game at MetLife is a spectacular way to spend a Sunday. Here’s what you should know as you map out your visit.
(Photo credit: @mlstadium)
How to Prepare
The first step in planning your MetLife experience is buying a ticket. An event calendar is available online, detailing all upcoming happenings at the stadium. Football might be the main draw, but it is certainly not the only attraction. MetLife also hosts concerts, performances, and even offers regular tours of the stadium itself. Tickets are required for all games and shows, though young children may be admitted for free, depending on the particular event. Through the online schedule, you can identify your preferred excursion and get all the necessary entrance info.
With the online calendar, you can also opt to purchase tickets through an affiliated portal powered by Ticketmaster. On-site ticket booths open about three hours before each event starts, and sales tend to close at halftime or intermission. If you’re able to plan ahead, online ordering is perhaps the best bet to ensure you’re organized and ultimately happy with your seat. Scalping, or the resale of tickets at a significant markup, is strictly prohibited on stadium grounds and surrounding roadways. Such activity should be reported when encountered.
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COVID-19 Protocols
This fall, it’s also important to take into consideration the COVID-19 protocols in place before you go. The stadium currently operates at full capacity, and the venue notes that guests assume a health contract simply by entering the premises.
When you come into the stadium, all in your party are confirming that they have not been exposed to the virus and are not experiencing symptoms. While no proof of vaccination or negative covid test is required at this time, visitors are asked to stay home if they feel unwell. Masks, too, are encouraged in all shared areas regardless of vaccination status. Be sure to check the site frequently, as these regulations are shifting regularly.
How to Get There
The Train
On game day, you’ll need to have a transportation plan. Meadowlands Rail Station is a half-mile walk from the stadium, so taking the train in is an excellent way to beat the traffic. Note that travelers from farther out (on the Montclair-Boonton Line or Morris and Essex Line, for example) will need to transfer at Secaucus Junction. A round trip from Secaucus will cost $4.50 in addition to the cost of a ticket from your origin station.
(Photo credit: @mlstadium)
The Hoboken Line
A direct line also leaves from Hoboken Terminal, costing $8.50 for a round trip. Hobokenites might consider driving or using a rideshare service, as MetLife is roughly 15 minutes away by car. A designated rideshare zone is set up specifically for those moving by Uber or Lyft. However, on big event days the traffic can be significant so plan accordingly.
Driving
For those arriving by personal car, tailgating is popular. Parking passes are pre-sold by NFL teams or can be purchased online. While pricing varies by game, a spot can cost $25 to $35 for a typical car. Larger vehicles, like buses, can cost from $75 to $150. All tailgating should be confined to the parking space purchased, so make sure your spread is contained by your car. You’re welcome to bring a picnic and can even grill in certain areas, though all waste must be properly disposed of as you enter the game. To prevent fire hazards, coals from a grill should be discarded in the designated containers provided at each parking lot.
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Inside the Stadium
Once inside, more fun awaits. MetLife features a number of strategically placed, state-of-the-art viewing screens to keep guests abreast of all of the action no matter where you sit. Fans will be treated to trivia games and animated shorts displayed on these boards while their team is huddling.
(Photo credit: @mlstadium)
Where to Eat
Concession stands line the halls, so you’re never too far from a hotdog or chicken tenders when you get peckish. Adult and non-alcoholic beverages can also be purchased at certain vendors, and free wifi is available throughout the stadium as an additional perk. Forgot your Giants jersey? No problem. NFL merchandise is sold on-site in case you want to add team colors to your ensemble.
After a brief hiatus, fall football traditions can finally make a comeback. With the right game day plan, your party can enjoy MetLife’s space while staying safe and on schedule.
Keep up to speed with everything MetLife here, the Giants here, and the Jets here. 
