Top 5 Sports Bars with Shuttles to MetLife Stadium
MetLife Stadium is notoriously difficult to access by car on a matchday. The traffic on Route 3 and Route 120 can cause hours of delays. While taking the train from Secaucus Junction is the official public transit recommendation, local fans know a better, more festive secret: The Shuttle Bar.
A "Shuttle Bar" is a local pub or restaurant that offers a private shuttle bus service directly from their parking lot to the stadium gates. The concept is brilliant in its simplicity: you park at the bar for free (or a nominal fee), eat a great meal, drink affordably, and then hop on a private bus that utilizes specialized commercial drop-off lanes at the stadium, bypassing the general admission gridlock entirely.
For the 2026 World Cup, these shuttle services will be the absolute VIP experience for regular fans. However, you must know which bars offer the best service, and you must follow their specific rules. This is your insider guide.
How The Shuttle System Works
Do not assume you can just show up and hop on a bus. The system operates on a specific protocol:
The Wristband: Most bars require you to purchase a wristband (usually $10 - $20). This wristband acts as your round-trip ticket.
The Schedule: Shuttles usually start running 2 to 3 hours before kickoff, departing every 15-30 minutes.
The Return Trip: This is crucial. Pay close attention to exactly where the bus drops you off at the stadium, because that is exactly where it will pick you up after the match.
Top Shuttle Bars Near MetLife
Redd's Restaurant & Bar
We mentioned Redd's in our walking guide, but they are also the absolute kings of the shuttle service. They run a massive fleet of mini-buses. Their logistical operation is incredibly smooth. Because they are the closest bar to the stadium, the shuttle ride is practically instantaneous once you clear the intersection.
The Shannon Rose
Located in nearby Clifton, The Shannon Rose is a massive, incredibly authentic Irish pub. The woodwork was imported directly from Ireland. For a World Cup match, particularly if a European team is playing, the atmosphere here will be electric. They serve phenomenal Guinness, great fish and chips, and run a very reliable coach-bus shuttle to the stadium.
Mickey's Bar and Grill
Located in Lyndhurst, Mickey's is where the locals go when they want to avoid the massive crowds at Redd's. It is a smaller, grittier sports bar with cheap pitchers of beer, excellent bar pizzas, and a very loyal clientele. Their shuttle is smaller (usually a passenger van or small bus), but it gets the job done cheaply and effectively.
Critical Shuttle Warnings
Do Not Lose Your Wristband: If you lose your wristband inside the stadium, the bus driver will not let you back on the bus for the return trip. You will be stranded.
The Post-Match Rush: When the match ends, there will be a mad dash for the shuttles. If you don't mind missing the final whistle, leave 5 minutes early. Otherwise, be prepared to wait in line in the parking lot for the second or third rotation of buses.
Cash is King: Bring cash to tip your shuttle driver. $5 per person each way is customary and ensures good karma for your team.