FIFA World Cup 2026 — How to Get to MetLife Stadium
Complete transit guide from NYC to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ | Final, Semifinal, and Group Stage Matches
Stadium Information
Stadium
MetLife Stadium
Capacity
82,500
Location
East Rutherford, NJ
Matches
Final, Semifinal, Groups
Step-by-Step Transit Directions
Step 1: Start from Your Location in NYC
Head to the nearest MTA subway station. If you're in Manhattan, you can get to Penn Station from almost any subway line. The MTA has good coverage across all five boroughs.
Step 2: Take MTA Subway to Penn Station (34th Street)
Head to Penn Station (serves A, C, E lines from the west side). From other boroughs, connect through major hubs like Union Square (N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, 6) or Jamaica Station (E, J, Z). Time to Penn Station: 10-30 minutes depending on origin.
Step 3: Navigate to NJ Transit Bus Terminal
Exit the MTA subway and look for signage to the NJ Transit bus concourse. It's located below Penn Station on the lower level. Ask an MTA employee if you need directions—it's clearly marked.
Step 4: Find Bus 380 to MetLife Stadium
Look for the gate labeled for Bus 380 (Direct to MetLife Stadium). On match days, NJ Transit significantly increases service. The bus runs from roughly 5 AM until after stadium events end. Check the departure board for your specific match time.
Step 5: Purchase Your Bus Ticket
One-way fare is approximately $15 USD (cash or card accepted). NJ Transit also offers 10-trip passes ($140) if you're attending multiple matches. Tickets are sold at window counters in the bus terminal.
Step 6: Board Bus 380 — Direct to MetLife Stadium
Bus 380 is the most direct route from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium. Travel time is approximately 45 minutes direct. The bus drops you right at the stadium entrance parking area. Avoid rush hour (4-6 PM) for smoother travel.
Step 7: Arrive at MetLife Stadium
Exit the bus and follow signage to the main stadium gates. The walk from the bus drop-off to the main entrance is roughly 5-10 minutes. Stadium gates typically open 3 hours before kickoff. Have your ticket and ID ready.
Transit Map — NYC to MetLife Stadium
Your Location (e.g., Times Square, Grand Central, Brooklyn, Queens)
↓
MTA Subway Line
10-30 minutes (varies by origin)
↓
PENN STATION
(Manhattan, 34th Street)
Manhattan & A, C, E Lines
↓
NJ Transit Bus Concourse
(Below Penn Station)
↓
NJ Transit Bus 380
Direct to Stadium
45 minutes (no transfers)
↓
METLIFE STADIUM 🏟️
East Rutherford, NJFare Information & Payment Options
Single Trip (Bus 380)
$15 USD
One-way from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium. Valid for same day travel.
10-Trip Pass
$140 USD
Great for multiple matches. Savings: ~$10 per trip vs. single fares.
Round Trip Estimate
$30 USD
Plan for return journey. Most people take return Bus 380 after matches.
Payment Methods
Cash/Card
NJ Transit accepts both at ticket windows. Cards also work on buses themselves.
Practical Tips for Match Day
⏰
Arrival Time
Plan to arrive 2-3 hours before kickoff. This gives time for security checks, parking, and getting to your seat.
🎫
Tickets & ID
Bring your match ticket (printed or digital) and a valid government ID (passport, driver's license, etc.).
👜
What to Bring
Small clear bag approved by venue, sunscreen (even in June), water bottle (empty), and cash for concessions.
🚫
What NOT to Bring
No glass bottles, cans, large bags, weapons, or outside alcohol. Check MetLife Stadium's official bag policy before arriving.
🌡️
Weather in June
June temperatures in NJ average 75-85°F (24-29°C). It can be humid. Dress in layers; bring a light jacket in case of evening temperature drops.
📱
Connectivity
MetLife Stadium has cellular service, but networks get congested during matches. Download tickets and directions before arrival.
🚌
Return Bus After Match
After the match, expect a 30-45 minute wait at the bus stop. Bus 380 operates late into the evening on match days. Buses fill up quickly, so be patient.
💰
Concessions & Food
Stadium food is expensive. Eat before arriving or pack snacks. ATMs are available but expect long lines. Bring cash to avoid delays.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule at MetLife Stadium
| Date | Round | Kickoff (EST) |
|---|---|---|
| June 11, 2026 | Group Stage | 8:00 PM |
| June 18, 2026 | Group Stage | 8:00 PM |
| June 27, 2026 | Group Stage | 8:00 PM |
| July 5, 2026 | Semifinal | 8:00 PM |
| July 19, 2026 | FINAL | 8:00 PM |
Nearby Alternatives & Transportation Options
Alternative Transit Methods
- Taxi/Rideshare (Uber, Lyft): Direct from NYC to MetLife costs $60-120 depending on surge pricing and distance. Not recommended on match day due to congestion.
- Rental Car: The Meadowlands has parking, but stadium parking fills up quickly. Reserved parking can be purchased via Ticketmaster ($25-40). Avoid driving if unfamiliar with the area.
- NJ Transit Rail + Bus: From Penn Station, you can also take NJ Transit Rail (Northeast Corridor Line) to Secaucus Junction, then connect to Bus 380. Slightly longer but an option if buses are full.