Attending a New York Jets football game at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey can be an exciting experience for fans. However, figuring out parking and transportation to the stadium on game day can bring up questions. One of the most common questions Jets fans have is whether they need a parking pass for Jets games at MetLife Stadium.
Summary
The short answer is no, a parking pass is not required for Jets games. MetLife Stadium has nearly 21,000 parking spaces available in various lots surrounding the stadium that can be accessed on game day by purchasing a parking permit on-site. So Jets fans do not need to purchase parking passes ahead of time and can simply pay for parking when they arrive.
Parking Options at MetLife Stadium
There are a number of parking lots at MetLife Stadium for Jets games. Options include:
- General Parking – Allows parking in Lots D, E, and F. General parking costs $30-50 per game.
- Premier Parking – Closer private lots near stadium entrances. Costs $60-100 per game.
- Carpooling – Fans arriving with 4 or more people can get discounted $30 parking in Lots D, E, and F.
- ADA Parking – Dedicated parking in Lot C for fans with disabilities. Must have ADA license plate or placard. ADA parking costs $30.
- Bus/Limo Parking – Special lots available for charter buses and limos at $100 per vehicle.
Parking passes for the full season can be purchased in advance through the Jets Drive website. This offers guaranteed parking spots for all home games. Individual game parking does not need to be purchased ahead of time.
Where to Purchase Parking Passes
For individual games, parking permits can be purchased right at the stadium when you arrive on game day. Attendants will be stationed at parking lot entrances to collect payment before allowing access. Prices will vary by lot location and demand.
Fans can pay parking attendants via the following methods:
- Cash – Exact change is required, attendants cannot make change.
- Major credit cards – Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover are accepted.
- Prepaid parking vouchers – These can be purchased ahead of time through Ticketmaster as a way to prepay for general or premier parking.
Parking passes are connected to the vehicle’s license plate number. The parking permit must be displayed on your dashboard during the game.
Where to Park for Jets Games Without a Pass
For fans hoping to avoid paying for stadium parking, there are some options available near MetLife Stadium. However, availability is very limited on game days. Some spots include:
- Meadowlands Racetrack – Has 1,200 parking spots available for $20 fee on game days.
- American Dream & Malls – Mall parking lots may allow game day parking for a fee.
- Local businesses – Some nearby bars, restaurants, hotels may sell parking spots but on a first come basis.
- NJ Transit – Trains run special schedules on game days with parking available at stations.
- Ride sharing – Getting dropped off via Uber, Lyft, or taxi can avoid parking altogether.
Keep in mind New Jersey state police crack down on illegal parking on highways, access roads, and other unauthorized spots near the stadium. Parking in prohibited areas could result in tickets or being towed.
Getting to the Stadium Without Driving
Another option for Jets fans is taking public transportation to get to MetLife Stadium on game days. This eliminates the need to park altogether. Transit options include:
- NJ Transit – Trains run direct service to MetLife Stadium station from locations like New York Penn Station on game days. Round trip rail tickets are around $15.
- Coach USA – Shuttle buses provide transportation from New York City Port Authority to the stadium for $35 roundtrip fare.
- Fan Express – Charter buses run by the Jets directly from designated parking lots in New York and New Jersey. Tickets are around $30 roundtrip.
- Ride sharing – Uber, Lyft, and taxis can provide door-to-door service to avoid parking and get dropped at stadium entrances.
Key Takeaways
- Parking passes are not required for Jets games and can be purchased on site.
- General parking costs $30-50 with premier parking closer at $60-100 per game.
- Passes are purchased at lot entrances on game day – cash, credit, and prepaid vouchers accepted.
- Limited free parking offsite is available at racetrack, malls if arriving early.
- Public transit like NJ Transit trains and shuttle buses provide a parking-free option.
Conclusion
In summary, purchasing a parking pass in advance is not required for attending New York Jets games at MetLife Stadium. There is ample parking available on game days across numerous lots at the stadium. Permits can be conveniently purchased on-site when arriving by paying attendants stationed at lot entrances. Prices range from $30-100 depending on parking location. For fans hoping to avoid stadium parking fees, free or cheaper options are very limited closeby. Public transportation like trains and shuttles provide the easiest and most cost-effective way to get to the game without needing to park at all.
| Parking Option | Location | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| General Parking | Lots D, E, F | $30-50 |
| Premier Parking | Private lots near entrances | $60-100 |
| Carpool Parking | Lots D, E, F | $30 |
| ADA Parking | Lot C | $30 |
| Bus/Limo Parking | Designated lots | $100 |
Where to Sit at MetLife Stadium for a Jets Game
When attending a Jets game at MetLife Stadium, where you choose to sit can impact your overall experience. Here are some tips on the best places to sit at a Jets game:
Lower Level Sideline Seats
For the most immersive experience, lower sideline seats in sections 100-130 offer a great view of the action. You’ll get the experience of players flying by in front of you and feel close to the field. These midfield to end zone spots also keep you near the Jets sidelines.
Upper Level Midfield Seats
The upper level also provides strong vantage points at a more affordable price. Sections in the 240s around midfield provide a birds-eye view overlooking the 50-yard line. You can see plays develop from end to end.
End Zone Sections
Sections 140-149 behind the north end zone and 120-129 behind the south end zone provide a great head-on look at scoring plays. These areas get you close to the action near the goal lines.
Club Seats
For premium amenities, club seats in the 200 level offer cushioned seats, upgraded food and drinks, indoor club spaces, and private entrances. Great atmosphere though pricier.
Suite Rentals
Suites with luxury amenities provide a unique experience with food/beverage service and a private indoor space. Can accommodate groups of 10-30 people.
Avoid Obstructed Views
Check seat views online beforehand. Sections 205-207 and 238-240 have overhangs that can obstruct views. Also avoid end zone corners (sections 147, 148, 120, 129).
Getting Autographs at Jets Games
One of the most memorable parts of attending a Jets game for many fans is getting autographs from their favorite players. Here are some tips to help get autographs at Jets games:
Arrive Early
Get to MetLife Stadium at least 1.5-2 hours before kickoff. This will give you best chance to catch players on the field before the game warming up.
Bring Items for Signing
Have a jersey, football, or poster ready for signatures. A Sharpie marker works best. Avoid game tickets which players aren’t allowed to sign.
Head to Lower Sections
Sections 100-110 along the sidelines are popular with autograph seekers. You’ll be closest to the field and tunnels here. Standing near the ropes and tunnels can help grab player attention.
Poll Players Politely
Don’t harass players – simply yelling a name and holding out your item may work. Players are more likely to sign for kids than adults.
After the Game
After the game, you may be able to catch players leaving at team busses or private lots near the stadium if you time it right.
Best Food at MetLife Stadium
Enjoying delicious food and drinks is an integral part of the gameday experience. Here are some of the best food spots to check out at MetLife Stadium:
Boulevard Grill
Sections 146 and 344. Features burgers, sausage sandwiches, chicken tenders, fries and more classic grilled items.
Brother Jimmy’s BBQ
Sections 114, 132, 140. Tasty barbecue classics like pulled pork, ribs, brisket, with mac & cheese and cole slaw.
Caliente’s Cantina
Sections 102, 121, 222. Nachos, tacos, quesadillas and other Mexican favorites. Outdoor cantina setup.
Chicken Now
Section 342. Crispy chicken sandwiches plus tenders, nuggets, and wings with various dipping sauces.
Daily’s Place
Section 244. Large two-story restaurant with varied menu – pizza, fish and chips, shakes, and more.
Hard Rock Cafe
Sections 111, 117, 331. Stadium outpost of the famous restaurant chain, known for burgers, wings, nachos.
Conclusion
Attending a game at MetLife Stadium to cheer on the Jets is an unforgettable experience. While you do not need parking passes in advance, it is good to understand parking options available and routes for getting there. Exploring the stadium to find optimal seats and food spots can make your visit even more enjoyable. Arrive early and come prepared to fully enjoy everything a Jets game has to offer.