We just couldn’t stay away from East Rutherford, New Jersey! American Idol held auditions at the IZOD Center for Season 6, Season 8, Season 10, and now Season 11. Less than an hour away from Steven Tyler’s and Jennifer Lopez’s hometowns, East Rutherford has always turned up bright stars, including Season 10’s Pia Toscano. This New York City suburb is located 7 miles west of Midtown Manhattan, and many enthusiastic and talented singers are sure to show up for auditions.
Auditions
Auditions will be held at IZOD Center. Registration will occur September 20 and 21. Auditions will occur September 22.
Wristbands will be distributed from approximately 7:00 AM on Tuesday, September 20, until approximately 8:00 AM on Thursday, September 22. Auditioners will not be permitted to camp out. Once auditioners obtain their wristbands, they will be asked to return to IZOD Center by 5:00 AM on Thursday, September 22.Check in for Affiliate winners is BY 7:00AM at the registration desk on Audition day. You must have your letter AND I.D. WITH you. If you cannot locate the AI Registration Desk, check with American Idol Security or an American Idol Staff member (in the AI t-shirts) for the exact location if you cannot find it.
Transportation
Just 4.2 square miles, it's easy to get around East Rutherford. Flying into Newark Liberty International Airport places you just 14 miles away from the IZOD Center at the Meadowlands Sports Complex, and it's an easy drive down I-95, the New Jersey Turnpike, to get to the audition center. AirTrain Newark is a simple and speedy way to get to NJ Transit, Amtrak, and PATH, which are all services that can take you through New Jersey, New York City, and Pennsylvania. The ticket costs $5.50 and the closest NJ Transit rail station to the IZOD Center is the Secaucus Junction (Frank R. Lautenberg Station). If you live or are staying in New York, head to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan and take Bus 164 to Meadowlands. The price is $10 round trip or $5 one-way.
Sightseeing
Since East Rutherford is just 8 miles away from Manhattan's theater district, check out a Broadway show. Lace up your sneakers and take a walk around Central Park, hop on a boat to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, or ride up to the top of the Empire State Building. Of course there is plenty to do in East Rutherford. Lodging is available at many hotels and motels near the IZOD Center, so check in, relax, and grab a bite to eat at the many neighborhood restaurants. Sports fans can come a few days early and catch a football game at MetLife Stadium.