How to Avoid Traffic Leaving MetLife Stadium After a Match

Updated: June 202625 min read

The final whistle blows. 80,000 fans simultaneously stand up and head for the exits. Within 15 minutes, every highway, toll booth, and access road surrounding MetLife Stadium enters complete gridlock. Escaping this traffic is an art form.

1. The Early Exit Strategy

If your team is down 3-0 in the 85th minute, leave. Getting to your car or the train platform just 10 minutes before the mass exodus begins can save you two hours of sitting in traffic. It is painful to leave a World Cup match early, but the logistical reward is immense.

2. The Delayed Departure Strategy

If the match goes to penalties, or you refuse to leave early, embrace the delay. Do not rush to your car just to sit in park for an hour. Head back to your vehicle, fire up the grill again, open a cooler, and hang out in the parking lot for 90 minutes. The state police generally allow post-match tailgating while the lots clear.

3. Strategic Parking Position

When you arrive before the match, the parking attendants will try to direct you deep into the lots closer to the stadium. If possible, park as close to the exit arteries (leading to Route 3 or the Turnpike) as they will allow. Walking an extra 10 minutes before the match means driving out immediately after the match.

Crucial Navigation Tips

Follow Police Directions, Not GPS:
After the match, state police completely override standard traffic patterns, closing exits and forcing you onto specific highways. Turn off your GPS until you are miles away from the stadium.