A Fan’s Guide to the 10 Best NHL Arenas

For hockey fans, there's nothing quite like the thrill of watching an NHL game live. The buzz of the crowd, the intensity of the players, and the excitement of seeing your favourite players up close. It's an experience like no other.

But, just like the teams on the ice, not all arenas are created equal. Some venues take the hockey experience to a whole new level with state-of-the-art facilities, electric atmospheres, and unique features.

Whether you're planning your first or 50th hockey pilgrimage, heading to an NHL arena you've never visited is a truly magical experience. To help you make the most of your getaway, we've compiled this list of 10 hockey halls every fan should visit at least once.

From historic buildings steeped in tradition to modern marvels with state-of-the-art equipment, these arenas offer the ultimate hockey experience. So grab your jersey and a foam finger, and join Ask Genie as we dive into the best places to catch an NHL game!

If you’re a hockey fan, you might be interested in some of our other guides:

But first, let's explore some tips for making the most of your trip.

Seven Tips for Making the Most of Your NHL Arena Visit

Arrive early: Many arenas offer pre-game entertainment and activities. Plus, you'll have time to explore the venue and soak in the atmosphere.

Take a tour: If available, arena tours can provide behind-the-scenes access and interesting historical tidbits.

Try the local food: Many arenas now offer local specialties. It's a great way to taste the local flavour.

Visit team stores early: Popular items can sell out quickly, especially for big games.

Check for special promotions: Many teams offer theme nights or giveaways that can add to your experience.

Participate in pre-game rituals: Whether you watch warmups or join in a specific chant, embracing team traditions can enhance your visit.

Stay after the game: Some arenas offer post-game activities or become great places to discuss the game you just watched.

10 Must Visit NHL Arenas

1. Bell Centre - Montreal Canadiens

Home to the most storied franchise in NHL history, the Bell Centre in Montreal is a must-visit for any hockey fan. With a capacity of 21,302, it's the largest arena in the NHL and boy, does it get loud!

What makes it special:

The pre-game ceremonies are legendary, especially during playoff games.
The steep seating arrangement means there's not a bad seat in the house.
The Canadiens Hall of Fame is located right in the arena.

Best time to visit: Any game against long-time rivals, like the Boston Bruins or Toronto Maple Leafs.

2. T-Mobile Arena - Vegas Golden Knights

As the newest team in the NHL, the Golden Knights have quickly made T-Mobile Arena one of the most exciting places to watch hockey. The pre-game show is pure Vegas spectacle, and the atmosphere inside is electric.

What makes it special:

The medieval-themed pre-game show is unlike anything else in the NHL.
The arena's design allows sound to reverberate, giving every match that big-game atmosphere.
Located right on the Las Vegas Strip, it's perfect for combining hockey with other Vegas attractions.

Best time to visit: Any game, really – the Knights always put on a show.

3. Madison Square Garden - New York Rangers

Known as "The World's Most Famous Arena," Madison Square Garden is a landmark in its own right. Home to the Rangers since 1968, MSG offers a blend of history and modernity that's hard to beat.

What makes it special:

The iconic ceiling and famous celebrity row.
The newly renovated concourses offer great New York-themed food options.
The "Blue Seats" section is known for housing the most passionate fans.

Best time to visit: A rivalry game against the Islanders or Devils always brings extra energy.

4. Scotiabank Arena - Toronto Maple Leafs

In the heart of hockey-mad Toronto, Scotiabank Arena (formerly Air Canada Centre) is always buzzing. Home to the Maple Leafs, one of the "Original Six" NHL teams, this arena breathes hockey history.

What makes it special:

The square outside the arena becomes a sea of blue and white on game days.
Legends Row, featuring statues of Leafs greats, is a must-see for hockey history buffs.
The in-arena experience is top-notch, with one of the largest centre-hung scoreboards in the NHL.

Best time to visit: Any Saturday night game – it's a Toronto tradition.

5. TD Garden - Boston Bruins

Home to both the Bruins and the NBA's Celtics, TD Garden is steeped in Boston sports lore. Bruins fans' passion is legendary, making for an intense atmosphere.

What makes it special:

The Bobby Orr statue outside the arena is a popular photo spot.
The Sports Museum within the arena showcases Boston's rich sports history.
Recently renovated concourses offer great local food and beverage options.

Best time to visit: A playoff game if you can snag tickets or any matchup against historic rivals like the Canadiens or Rangers.

6. Enterprise Center - St. Louis Blues

Fresh off their first Stanley Cup victory, the St. Louis Blues have turned Enterprise Center into one of the most exciting venues in the NHL. The arena rocks to the tune of "Gloria" after every Blues goal.

What makes it special:

The passionate St. Louis fans create an incredible atmosphere.
The food options are excellent, including the famous St. Louis barbecue.
The Blues Museum in the arena showcases the team's history.

Best time to visit: Any game, but rivalry matchups against the Chicago Blackhawks are especially intense.

7. Rogers Place - Edmonton Oilers

One of the newest arenas in the NHL, Rogers Place is a state-of-the-art facility that's home to hockey superstar Connor McDavid and the Oilers. The arena is the centrepiece of a revitalized downtown in Edmonton.

What makes it special:

The stunning architecture includes a winter garden and a public gathering place.
The largest high-definition scoreboard in the NHL.
Great sightlines from every seat in the house.

Best time to visit: Any game where you can watch McDavid work his magic, but games against the Calgary Flames (the "Battle of Alberta") are extra special.

8. Amalie Arena - Tampa Bay Lightning

Located in sunny Tampa, Florida, Amalie Arena proves that hockey can thrive in non-traditional markets. The Lightning have built a strong hockey culture, and their arena reflects that.

What makes it special:

The Tesla coils in the arena that fire off actual lightning bolts after goals.
Thunderbug, one of the NHL's most popular mascots.
The party atmosphere in Thunder Alley before games.

Best time to visit: Any game, but playoff games here are legendary for their atmosphere.

9. PPG Paints Arena - Pittsburgh Penguins

Home to superstars Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, PPG Paints Arena offers one of the best game experiences in the NHL. The arena's design focuses on providing great views from every seat.

What makes it special:

The steep seating bowl creates an intimate atmosphere despite the arena's size.
The Mario Lemieux statue outside is a popular photo spot.
Great local food options, including the famous Primanti Brothers sandwiches.

Best time to visit: Any game against cross-state rivals Philadelphia Flyers is sure to be intense.

10. Little Caesars Arena - Detroit Red Wings

The Detroit Red Wings' newest home, Little Caesars Arena, blends modern amenities with nods to the team's rich history. It's quickly becoming one of the best places to watch hockey.

What makes it special:

The unique Via concourse, a covered street that separates the arena and surrounding buildings.
The Belfor Training Center, where fans can watch the Red Wings practice.
Plenty of tributes to Red Wings legends throughout the arena.

Best time to visit: Any game, but Original Six matchups against teams like Chicago or Toronto are extra special.

What to Expect at an NHL Game

If you've not yet been to your first hockey game, here's what you can typically expect:

Security checks: Like most major sporting events, you'll need to pass through security. Check arena policies for prohibited items.
Pre-game warmups: About 30-40 minutes before the game, players come out to warm up. It's a great chance to see players up close.
National anthems: The Canadian and/or US national anthems are sung before every game.
Three 20-minute periods: NHL games consist of three 20-minute periods with intermissions in between.
Intermissions: These usually last 17 minutes and are a good time to grab food or check out arena attractions.
Overtime/Shootout: If the game is tied after regulation, a 5-minute overtime period follows. If still tied, the game goes to a shootout.

From the historic Bell Centre in Montreal to the cutting-edge T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, each NHL arena offers a unique and unforgettable hockey experience.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just getting into the sport, visiting these venues will give you a new appreciation for the excitement and passion of live NHL hockey.

So start planning your hockey road trip – with 31 teams (soon to be 32 with the addition of Seattle), there's always a game to catch somewhere.

Remember, while watching on TV is great, nothing beats the thrill of being there in person, surrounded by thousands of fellow fans, all united in their love for this incredible sport.

Happy hockey-watching!

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FAQs

What is the biggest arena in the National Hockey League?

The largest arena in the NHL is the Bell Centre in Montreal, Canada, with a capacity of 21,302 spectators. This is the only hockey hall to hold over 21,000 spectators. However, many others can host over 19,000 spectators, including:

Chicago Blackhawks - United Center in Chicago, USA: 19,717 capacity
Philadelphia Flyers - Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, USA - 19,537 capacity
Detroit Red Wings - Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, USA - 19,515 capacity
Calgary Flames - Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, Canada - 19,289 capacity
Florida Panthers - Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, USA (home of the Florida Panthers) - 19,250 capacity
Tampa Bay Lightning - Amalie Arena in Tampa, USA - 19,092 capacity
Buffalo Sabres - KeyBank Center in Buffalo, USA - 19,070 capacity

Which is the most successful team in the NHL?

With 35 Stanley Cup finals, including 24 wins, the Montreal Canadiens are widely considered to be the most successful NHL team of all time.

Which team has won the most Presidents' Trophies in NHL history?

The Presidents' Trophy is awarded to the NHL team that finishes with the most points during the regular season. With six wins, the Detroit Red Wings have won this prize the most times. Following the Red Wings, the Boston Bruins and New York Rangers have four wins each, while the Washington Capitals have 3 Presidents' Trophies.

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