New York and the Jets

Official Review by Gary Herman, Stadium Journey Special Correspondent

Prior to the 2011 season opener, the new stadium in the Meadowlands finally got a corporate name. It's now called MetLife Stadium and it is the home of the New York Jets and the New York Giants.

Depending on who the home team is on a given day, the stadium has a different look and feel to it. When the Jets are the home team, it's lighted up in green and when the Giants play a home game it's converted to blue.

The building is very generic in stature. It was created that way to give a neutral feel with different shades of grey seats that blend in so it looks like the place is full.

Food & Beverage    5

The overall menu here is extensive, but very pricey. They have an array of choices for you to choose from. MetLife Stadium has a variety of themed concession stands that relate to the New York City area. For example, they have one called the "New York Delicatessen" which serves carved deli sandwiches, along with knishes for which NYC is known.

In addition, they offer a wide selection of eating options such as Nathan's Famous, a NYC staple, hot dogs, chicken tenders, fried clams and their amazing crinkle cut fries. Other choices include the Lobel's USDA prime rib sandwich, a pepper and egg sandwich, Italian roast pork sandwich, pork rolls, meatballs, turkey chili, cheesesteaks, BBQ & brisket sandwiches, burgers, sausage and peppers, bratwurst and pizza.

Furthermore, they have specialty stands that cater to the health conscious as well as to people who follow a diet dictated by religious beliefs. In other words, they offer organic options, gluten free items and kosher food.

As for beverages, they serve Pepsi products. As for alcohol, they have a wide variety to choose from domestic to imported, draft or bottle. They have a stand called Beers of the World. They also serve Captain Morgan's.

Atmosphere    3

The stadium is gigantic compared to its predecessor, Giants Stadium which was much more intimate. Since you're so spaced out from the action here, the crowd reaction isn't what it used to be. Jet fans have a reputation of being more abusive than Giant fans though.

Neighborhood    1

There really isn't a neighborhood surrounding the area. The sports complex was built in the swamp. There's a restaurant and bar called Redd's that's located on Route 503 that leads you to the stadium. Parking is available for $30 and shuttle bus service is provided, taking you to and from the game. Across the street, there's a small shopping center that consists of a Subway restaurant, Mr. Hamburger and Popeye's Fried Chicken.

Fans    3

The real Jets fans were priced out for the most part once MetLife Stadium opened. Those who are fortunate enough to be able to go to a game here will find that the crowd is mostly corporate on the lower and middle levels between the 20 yard lines, which is considered prime real estate to watch a game. A real fan has to settle for end zone seats on all levels to have a chance to get in the building for a somewhat reasonable price just to see a game. That's on top of a PSL fee that season ticket holders had to pay to keep their seats. Jet fans who sit in the upper deck were spared the additional fee.

Access    3

In order to get to and from the sports complex on game day, you need to pack lots of patience. You have different options to choose from when it comes to your means of transportation.

First of all, you can drive to the stadium which is conveniently located off of the New Jersey Turnpike, exit 16W. If you do so, I strongly suggest that you secure a parking pass from a season ticket holder beforehand if possible. By doing so, you'll be able to park closer to the stadium. Otherwise, they do have off site lots available. Another option is to park by Redd's and take their shuttle bus.

Secondly, you can take a bus that leaves from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. The bus drops you off and picks you up near the Timex building which is a short walk through the parking lot on the West side of the stadium between the Pepsi and Verizon gates.

The third option is that you can take a NJ Transit train from New York-Penn Station which connects at Secaucus Junction (transfer point from other lines as well) with the train that goes to the stadium and drops you off right outside the MetLife gate on the East side of the stadium. If you decide to take the train to the game, check the train schedules beforehand so you know when they leave to avoid additional delays.

I've gone to the stadium using all three of these methods. It's a crapshoot as to which is the best way to go.

Return on Investment    3

The return on investment really depends on how much money you can afford to spend because that will determine if your experience will be a good one or a bad one.

I recommend that you treat your visit like it's a once in a lifetime opportunity and just enjoy yourself. By doing so, you'll appreciate what this venue truly has to offer.

Extras    5

MetLife Stadium is equipped with the best technology to date which makes it stand out from the others. Within the seating bowl, they have four giant screens in each corner, allowing fans to get nice views of the instant replays and putting up stats and out of town scores from time to time.

They have pregame entertainment areas just past the gate entrances when you enter the building.

MetLife Stadium also has interactive stations set up on the concourses throughout the stadium.

The Jets have a stand set up where they hand out rosters to their fans so they know who the players are for both teams.

The Jets have cheerleaders who are known as the "Flight Crew".

They also have a Jet team store so you can pick up a souvenir to remember your visit.

I hope you enjoy your visit to MetLife Stadium if and when you decide to go there.