MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, New Jersey)

MetLife Stadium

MetLife Stadium is a premier sports and entertainment venue located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, just a few miles west of New York City. As one of the largest stadiums in the NFL, it serves as the proud home of two National Football League teams: the New York Giants and the New York Jets. Beyond American football, MetLife Stadium hosts an impressive array of events, from international football (soccer) tournaments and major concerts to college American football games and WWE extravaganzas. This guide provides essential information for visiting MetLife Stadium, understanding its unique characteristics, and navigating the experience of attending events here.

History and Design

Opened on April 10, 2010, MetLife Stadium was constructed at a cost of $1.6 billion, replacing the iconic Giants Stadium. It was designed as a modern, multi-purpose facility capable of hosting a diverse range of events. A unique design feature is its adaptable lighting system, which illuminates the stadium in blue for Giants games and green for Jets games, reflecting the colours of its co-tenants. In 2011, MetLife acquired the naming rights, solidifying its place as a recognisable landmark in the sports world.

Venue Highlights and Amenities

MetLife Stadium is a state-of-the-art facility built to enhance the fan experience:

  • Premium Seating: The stadium boasts over 200 luxury suites across four levels, offering premium views and amenities for groups of 16-24. There are also over 10,000 club seats.
  • Technology: Equipped with cutting-edge technology, including high-definition video displays and extensive Wi-Fi coverage, ensuring fans stay connected and engaged.
  • Sustainability: MetLife Stadium is committed to environmental responsibility, being the first NFL stadium to join the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change’s Sports for Climate Action Framework. It has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives, including energy-efficient lighting and recycling programmes.
  • Safety: The stadium was the first NFL stadium to receive SAFETY Act certification by the US Department of Homeland Security in 2013, consistently ranking high for safety.

Key Information

Official Name: MetLife Stadium
Location: East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA (part of the Meadowlands Sports Complex)
Opened: April 10, 2010
Capacity: 82,500
Tenants: New York Giants (NFL), New York Jets (NFL)
Cost: $1.6 billion
Address: 1 MetLife Stadium Dr., East Rutherford, NJ 07073, United States

Major Events Hosted

MetLife Stadium has a rich history of hosting world-class events since its opening:

  • NFL: Home to the New York Giants and New York Jets.
  • Super Bowl XLVIII (2014): The first outdoor, cold-weather Super Bowl in NFL history.
  • WWE: Hosted WrestleMania 29 (2013) and WrestleMania 35 (2019).
  • Football (Soccer):
  • Concerts: Hosted numerous concerts by global music superstars.
  • College American Football: Including the Army-Navy Game.

Getting to MetLife Stadium

MetLife Stadium is conveniently located within the Meadowlands Sports Complex, easily accessible from New York City and the wider New Jersey area. Public transport is highly recommended, especially for major events.

  • By Air:
    • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): The closest major airport, approximately 10-12 miles from the stadium.
    • LaGuardia Airport (LGA): Approximately 15 miles from the stadium.
    • John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): Approximately 25 miles from the stadium.
  • By Public Transport:
    • NJ TRANSIT Rail Service: For events with anticipated attendance above 50,000, the Meadowlands Rail Service provides direct access to the stadium. Most NJ TRANSIT rail lines connect at Frank R. Lautenberg Station at Secaucus Junction. From Secaucus Junction, trains run directly to the Meadowlands Sports Complex station (approximately a 10-minute journey). Purchase return tickets in advance via ticket windows, vending machines, or the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App.
    • Coach USA Bus Service (Route 351 Meadowlands Express): This bus service operates from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan directly to the MetLife Sports Complex for NFL games and other large events. Service typically begins 2.5 hours before an event and runs for about an hour after.
  • By Car & Parking:
    • Address for Navigation: 1 MetLife Stadium Dr., East Rutherford, NJ 07073.
    • Highways: The stadium is located near major highways including the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95, Exit 16W) and State Route 3.
    • Parking: A pre-paid parking permit is generally required for all vehicles entering the Sports Complex on event days. Parking is limited, especially for high-demand events. It is crucial to purchase parking passes in advance through official channels. Expect heavy traffic and potential delays when driving and parking.

Tickets & Stadium Tours

Tickets to Events at MetLife Stadium

As a major sports and entertainment venue, tickets for events at MetLife Stadium are sold through various channels, depending on the event type.

  • New York Giants Tickets:
    • Tickets for New York Giants home games are available via the official New York Giants website, Ticketmaster, and NFL-authorised resale marketplaces.
    • Season tickets are the primary way to guarantee seats for all home games.
    • Single-game tickets are released closer to the season, subject to availability.
  • New York Jets Tickets:
    • Tickets for New York Jets home games can be purchased through the official New York Jets website, Ticketmaster, and NFL-authorised resale marketplaces.
    • Season tickets offer the best access to all home games.
    • Single-game tickets are typically available closer to the start of the season.
  • Concert & Other Event Tickets:
    • Tickets for concerts, international football (soccer) matches, and other special events are typically sold through major ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster or directly via the event promoter.
  • Premium Seating & Suites:
    • Luxury suites and club seats offer enhanced amenities and are available for season-long leases or individual event rentals. Contact the MetLife Stadium premium seating department for details.
  • Important Note: Always purchase tickets through official channels to avoid fraudulent sales and ensure authenticity.

Stadium Tours

MetLife Stadium offers guided tours that provide fans with a behind-the-scenes look at this impressive venue. Tours typically include access to:

  • Locker Rooms: (Subject to availability) Get a glimpse into the locker rooms of the Giants and Jets.
  • Press Box: Experience the view from where sports journalists cover the action.
  • Premium Clubs & Suites: See the luxurious hospitality areas.
  • Pitch Level Access: Step onto the sidelines where NFL stars play (pitch access is often limited to the sidelines and subject to event preparations).
  • Booking Tours:
    • Tours are generally available on non-event days.
    • It is highly recommended to book your tour tickets in advance through the official MetLife Stadium website’s tour section. Check the website for specific tour schedules, pricing, and availability.

Where to Stay Near MetLife Stadium

There are various accommodation options near MetLife Stadium, ranging from hotels in New Jersey to those in New York City, depending on your preference for proximity versus city experience.

Booking Tips:

  • Book Early: Especially for major events like NFL games or concerts, hotels near MetLife Stadium and in NYC can book up quickly.
  • Check Transport Links: Verify the ease of public transport access from your chosen hotel to the stadium.
  • Use Reputable Booking Sites: Utilise platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or Tripadvisor to find and compare options. Always verify reviews.
  • Review Cancellation Policies: Be aware of cancellation policies, especially when booking far in advance.
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Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to MetLife Stadium

Enjoy your visit to MetLife Stadium!

Last Updated on July 18, 2025 by Sports Tourist

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