There are a number of unique things about NHL arenas that make them desirable for fans. Great arenas are made up of many factors: atmosphere, location, visibility, history, concessions, etc. The following NHL venues are a must for every hockey fan, regardless of whether you play the game or not.
Bridgestone Arena
With its recent success, Nashville has cemented its reputation as a hockey town. Some amazing country bars and live music venues on Broadway are just a few steps away from the arena. Nashville Predators games give a “college sports” vibe, akin to the party on Broadway that is brought inside Bridgestone Arena. In most Nashville Predators games, you will see a country music performer singing the national anthem or performing during intermission. There is probably no better way to experience an NHL game than at Bridgestone Arena.
SAP Center
As one of the most underrated arenas in the NHL, SAP Center, also called The Shark Tank, is one of the places to watch hockey. As a small and intimate venue, SAP Center provides excellent entertainment. For opposing teams, The Shark Tank provides fierce competition. It may be an older venue and not have all the bells and whistles that some newer ones do, but SAP Center is still an impressive venue due to the game-day atmosphere.
Kings Alex Turcotte (39) looks to screen Sharks’ goalie James Reimer as Tomas Hertl defends – Photo by Jack Lima
Capital One Arena
Capital One Arena is one of the best arenas to watch a hockey game in the NHL. Located in the heart of downtown Washington D.C., the venue is within walking distance of many attractions around the city. Fans fill the arenas during games, creating a great game-day atmosphere. Fans of the Washington Capitals “Rock the Red” during the postseason are incredibly loyal. Get a chance to experience unique Capitals experiences today, including watching Alex Ovechkin snap off a one-timer, hearing the iconic Capitals goal horn, and exploring Capital One Arena.
United Center
One of the most iconic buildings in North American sport is the United Center, home of the Chicago Blackhawks. It has the second-largest capacity of any arena in the NHL, with 19,717 seats, making it the largest arena in terms of square footage in the U
Image courtesy of NHL.com
S. One of the most amazing sights to behold in the league has been described as the National Anthem at the United Center, which is sure to give you chills. The UC is located just outside the downtown core, but Chicago transportation can easily access the arena.
The Bell Centre
Location, history, and atmosphere are all present at The Bell Centre. There is no better atmosphere in the NHL than the one at a Montreal Canadiens home game. Your goosebumps will be raised throughout the introductions and national anthem. Whatever night you go to the Bell Centre, you are bound to experience something special, but a Saturday night is like no other! Hockey fans are well-aware of what the goal horn of the home team looks like whenever they score a goal. Overall, it is the best NHL arena, and you should check it out.
Rogers Place
In the 2016/17 NHL season, Rogers Place became one of the league’s newest venues. The arena is not just an NHL arena; it’s also a multi-purpose venue. ICE District provides plenty of shopping and restaurants as well as a casino. This area is built on top of Rogers Place, owned by the ownership group. There are plenty of concessions, local food options, and a very modern and well-built arena inside the facility. When the ICE District has been further developed, the stadium will gain prominence. Every hockey fan should put Rogers Place on their bucket list to watch Connor McDavid take the ice!
Bell MTS Place
Jets fans in Winnipeg are loud, engaged, and interactive from O’Canada to the final buzzer. Visitors can expect some friendly chirping from Winnipeg Jets fans, unlike many passionate fan bases! As Bell MTS Place has a small capacity, it can be hard to get tickets there due to its small size. There is a wide selection of hotel partners near Bell MTS Place, as well as access to a wide range of Jets tickets that will ensure you have a great time even if the Jets lose!
PPG Paints Arena
The Pittsburgh Penguins played in the classic Igloo barn for many years before building the PPG Paints Arena in 2010. In addition to its impressive amenities, PPG Paints Arena also has excellent sightlines and outstanding concession stands. An homage to Mario Lemieux, one of the greatest players in hockey, can be found outside the arena. Local attractions and a number of restaurants, including those operated by the famous Primanti Bros., are within walking distance of the arena. In PPG Paints Arena, you can feel how much Steel City loves sports!
