Finding parking for New York Jets games at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ can be a bit of a challenge. With over 80,000 fans expected at each game, parking spaces fill up fast. Planning ahead and knowing where to look for legal parking is key to avoiding tickets or getting towed. Here are some of the best options for where to park for New York Jets games.
MetLife Stadium Parking
Parking at MetLife Stadium is very limited and expensive. There are approximately 20,000 parking spaces total, with the majority being premium spots that must be purchased in advance. Prices range from $30-$100 per game. General parking spaces do open up closer to game time but go very quickly. Check the stadium website ahead of time for parking passes.
NJ Transit
Many fans take NJ Transit trains or buses to the stadium on game days. The Meadowlands station is a short walk from MetLife Stadium. Roundtrip rail tickets cost around $20 from New York Penn Station. Taking the train allows you to avoid driving and parking altogether. Make sure to buy tickets in advance online as trains fill up.
Private Lots Nearby
Several large private parking lots operate near MetLife Stadium and offer game day parking. Prices are generally $30-$60 per car. These lots fill up fast so arrive early. Some options are:
- Meadowlands Environment Center – 2 DeKorte Park Plaza, Lyndhurst, NJ
- Meadowlands Racetrack – 50 NJ-120, East Rutherford, NJ
- Meadowlands Plaza – 429 Paterson Plank Rd, Carlstadt, NJ
Residential Street Parking
Parking on residential streets near MetLife Stadium is an option, but check posted parking signs carefully and avoid blocking driveways. Nearby neighborhoods include:
- Carlstadt
- East Rutherford
- Lyndhurst
- Rutherford
- Wood-Ridge
Park at least a few blocks from the stadium to avoid congestion post-game. Do not park illegally as you will likely be ticketed or towed.
Secaucus Junction Station
The Secaucus Junction train station has a large parking garage that allows game day parking for $25 per car. From there you can take a 10 minute train ride to the Meadowlands stop near the stadium for around $5 each way. Get to the station parking early as it reaches capacity fast.
Where to Avoid Parking
Here are some places where you should NOT park for New York Jets games:
- Anywhere labeled “No Parking” with posted signs
- Fire hydrants or bus stops
- Handicap spaces (unless you have a permit)
- MetLife Stadium parking lots without a pass
- Roadways, medians, or on the shoulder of roads
- Private property like office parks or malls
Parking illegally risks getting a costly ticket or even getting your vehicle towed. Only park in legal, approved parking spaces.
When to Arrive
Ideally you should arrive to your chosen parking area at least 2 hours before kickoff. For premium MetLife Stadium parking, arrive 3 hours early or parking may be full. Heavy traffic and highway congestion is common near the stadium on game days. Give yourself plenty of extra time to park and get into the stadium.
Gates open 2 hours prior to kickoff. If running late, aim to be parked at least 1 hour before game time. Any later and you’ll run into major delays trying to get into nearby lots or garages. Those tailgating should try to arrive especially early.
For night games, you can typically arrive slightly later, around 3 hours before kickoff, since less fans arrive early to tailgate compared to afternoon games. Worst game day traffic is typically for 1 pm Sunday games.
Parking Tips
Follow these tips for an easier time parking at Jets games:
- Purchase parking passes well in advance if possible
- Allow plenty of extra time to get to the stadium due to traffic
- Consider taking public transportation like the train to eliminate parking altogether
- Carpool with other fans to reduce number of vehicles needing to park
- Follow posted parking signs and avoid illegal spots
- Have cash on hand in case lots are cash only
- Be prepared to pay $30-$100 for parking based on proximity
FAQ
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about parking for Jets games:
How much does parking at MetLife Stadium cost?
Parking prices at MetLife Stadium range from around $30 for general parking up to $100+ for premium VIP parking. Parking passes often sell out in advance.
Can you pay for parking with credit card?
Many lots accept credit cards, but some are cash only. Having cash on hand is recommended. Stadium lots allow payment by credit card.
Are the parking lots secure?
MetLife Stadium parking lots and nearby private lots have security personnel monitoring vehicles. Do not leave valuables in plain sight.
Are parking passes valid for the whole season?
No, MetLife Stadium parking passes are valid only for the specific game printed on the pass. Separate parking passes must be purchased for each game attended.
How early should you arrive if parking at the stadium?
Aim to arrive at MetLife Stadium parking lots at least 3 hours prior to kickoff to ensure you get a space. Earlier is better for big games or playoffs.
What is the best place to park for tailgating?
MetLife Stadium parking lots are the most tailgating friendly. Buy a Gold or Green VIP Premier parking pass for space to grill and hangout pre-game.
Can you enter parking lots without a game ticket?
No, a valid game ticket is required to enter any official stadium parking lots. Nearby private lots do not require tickets.
Are any lots cash only?
Some private lots are cash only. MetLife Stadium lots accept credit cards. Having $30-$50 cash on hand is recommended just in case.
Are parking costs refundable if the game is cancelled?
In most cases parking fees are non-refundable if the game is cancelled. Check with the specific lot operator for their rainout or cancellation policy.
Parking Map
Here is a map showing the major parking options near MetLife Stadium:
Parking Location | Distance to Stadium | Estimated Cost |
---|---|---|
MetLife Stadium General Parking | 0.5 miles walk | $30-60 |
MetLife Stadium Premium Parking | 0.2 miles walk | $100+ |
Meadowlands Racetrack | 1 mile | $30-40 |
Secaucus Junction Station | 1 mile (train) | $25 (garage) + train fare |
Meadowlands Plaza | 0.7 miles | $40 |
Nearby residential streets | 1+ mile walk | Free |
Conclusion
Parking for New York Jets games requires planning ahead. MetLife Stadium parking passes, nearby private lots, and public transportation like NJ Transit provide the most convenient options. Arrive early, watch for lot signs, and avoid illegal parking to have the best game day experience. Checking traffic reports before heading out and allowing plenty of extra time is highly recommended. With the proper preparation, you can enjoy parking and tailgating before cheering on the Jets.