Parking at major sporting and entertainment venues like MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey can be a challenge, especially for big events that draw large crowds. With a capacity of over 80,000, parking is at a premium for New York Giants and New York Jets games, as well as concerts and other events held at the stadium throughout the year.
While parking passes provide guaranteed access to the stadium lots, they can be expensive and sometimes difficult to obtain. This leaves many visitors wondering if it’s possible to park at MetLife Stadium without an advance parking pass and what other options may exist.
Parking at MetLife Stadium Without a Pass
MetLife Stadium does have limited parking available in certain lots on a first come, first served basis without a prepaid parking pass. However, the number of spaces available for drive-up parking is extremely limited compared to the total number of parking spots at the stadium.
Parking in the MetLife Stadium lots without a prepaid parking pass is very risky for major events like NFL games that will sell out the parking facilities. While you may get lucky, there is a high probability you could end up missing part of the event or not finding parking at all if you try to park at the stadium without a pass.
Blue Lot
The Blue Lot at MetLife Stadium is the primary cash parking lot available without a prepaid pass. There are approximately 1,000 spaces in this lot that are sold on a first come, first served basis.
On game days, the Blue Lot typically opens 5 hours before kickoff. Spaces are $30-60 per vehicle depending on the event. Rates tend to be at the higher end for major events like NFL games where demand exceeds supply.
Keep in mind that while 1,000 spaces may sound like a lot, it’s barely over 1% of the total parking capacity at MetLife Stadium. If you don’t arrive extremely early, it’s unlikely you’ll get a spot in the Blue Lot, especially for big NFL games.
Other Stadium Lots
In very limited cases, sections of other MetLife Stadium lots may open for cash parking without a pass once the Blue Lot is full. This is extremely rare and only done on a case-by-case basis for certain events.
Do not count on other MetLife Stadium lots beyond the Blue Lot being available without a parking pass. Specific policies vary by event, but most stadium lots are prepaid parking only.
Alternatives for Parking Without a Pass
While parking at MetLife Stadium without a pass is very difficult, there are some other options in the area to consider:
Off-Site Parking Lots
Several private parking lots and businesses surrounding MetLife Stadium offer event parking, typically ranging from $20-40 per vehicle. Many of these lots are within walking distance or provide shuttle services to the stadium.
Parking in private off-site lots is generally cash-only and first come, first served. Availability is hit or miss, with high demand forcing most to fill up hours before big events.
Public Transportation
Public transportation can be a convenient way to get to MetLife Stadium without dealing with parking. Options include:
- NJ Transit Trains – Service to Meadowlands Station near the stadium
- Coach USA Bus – Direct service to stadium from Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC
- NJ Transit Buses – Local bus routes with stops at MetLife Stadium
Fares vary by route and distance traveled. Allow extra time as trains and buses will be crowded before and after events.
Rideshare Services
Using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft is another parking alternative. Drop-off and pick-up zones are designated at the stadium.
Prices fluctuate based on demand, but expect surcharges after major events. Travel time can be delayed due to traffic leaving the venue.
Off-Site Resident Parking
Some residents who live near MetLife Stadium offer event parking on their property, usually ranging from $20-40 per vehicle. This option requires more research to find available spaces.
Keep in mind residential parking is still limited and high demand results in most spots booking up well in advance of NFL games and concerts.
Policies for Parking at MetLife Stadium
If you do manage to park at MetLife Stadium without a pass, either in the Blue Lot or any other cash lots that may open, be sure to note the venue’s parking policies:
- Parking gates open generally 4-5 hours prior to the event start time.
- Parking staff will direct you to a space – do not self-park.
- Vehicles left overnight are subject to towing at owner’s expense.
- MetLife Stadium is not responsible for theft or damage to vehicles.
- Tailgating is only permitted in designated areas with proper credentials.
- Alcohol consumption is prohibited in MetLife Stadium parking lots.
Keep in mind that policies are subject to change at management’s discretion, especially for major events that draw large crowds.
Conclusion
Parking without an advance pass at MetLife Stadium is extremely limited and not guaranteed. The 1,000 cash parking spaces in the Blue Lot typically sell out hours before kickoff. Other stadium lots only occasionally open for drive-up parking.
To ensure you have parking, your best option is to purchase a pass in advance. Other alternatives like off-site private lots, public transportation, rideshares or residential parking can be used but have challenges like limited availability.
If you do attempt to park at MetLife without a pass, aim to arrive 4-5 hours early and have backup options planned in case you are unable to find parking.
Parking Option | Availability Without Pass | Cost |
---|---|---|
MetLife Stadium Blue Lot | Limited (1,000 spaces) | $30-60 per vehicle |
Other Stadium Lots | Extremely Rare | Varies |
Off-Site Private Lots | Limited | $20-40 per vehicle |
Public Transportation | Available | Varies by route |
Rideshare Services | Available | Dynamic pricing |
Off-Site Resident Parking | Very Limited | $20-40 per vehicle |