An NHL game offers fiery passion set against the ice-cold resilience of players and fans alike. To experience the action live in the arena is like nothing else. Where else can you witness the last-minute goal or crucial save followed by the iconic klaxon as the crowds go wild around you? So you’ve got your tickets (perhaps after reading our Buying NHL Tickets Guide) and now you’re looking ahead to gameday and you might have a few questions about what to expect. This helpful guide will help you prepare for your chosen game.
- What to Bring and Wear
- When to Arrive
- Venue Parking & Transport
- Entry Gates
- Finding your Seat
- Game Format
- Additional Entertainment
- Spectator Experience
- Taking Photographs and Videos
- Autographs and Signed Pucks
- Merchandise
- Food & Drink
- Toilets/Restrooms
- Leaving and Exiting the Venue
- Enjoy the Game and Make Memories
What to Bring and Wear
Don’t forget your ticket! Most events will issue electronic tickets so you will need to have your phone or device charged and the ticket downloaded so that you can enter the venue.
On the ice, temperatures are kept cool for obvious reasons, but ice hockey arenas are generally warm and comfortable for fans. As NHL games take place across North America and from October to June, the climate outside will vary hugely, so wearing layers to a game is a good idea. On Koobit, you can check the Destination tab on event pages to check the current and average weather where your game is taking place so you can prepare. There are a few outdoor games during the NHL season – including the NHL Winter Classic, NHL Heritage Classic, and NHL Stadium Series – and it is best to check the forecast and dress accordingly if you are attending one of these fixtures: in 2022, the Winter Classic was the coldest game in NHL history with temperatures of just -7°F (-22°C) at puck-drop.
More importantly, you may want to wear team colours; perhaps a branded jersey, scarf, or a beanie to show your support! You can take a look at the Merchandise sections on Koobit’s NHL page or on individual team pages.
Try to avoid taking large bags to an arena as many venues will have specific bag policies which may mean some are not permitted or will be checked on arrival which may slow down your entry into the game. Opt for a small, clear bag if you need to bring essentials. Similarly, venues will have a list of prohibited items – often including food and drink – which can be found on event pages or on the arena’s official website.
When to Arrive
To maximize your NHL game experience, it's ideal to arrive at least 1 to 1.5 hours before puck-drop. Early arrival ensures smoother entry without the long lines closer to game time and it will allow for any security checks that may be in place at the venue. You'll have plenty of time to get through the doors and find your seats.
Many arenas offer pre-game entertainment, such as live music, games, or team-related activities. You might see warm-ups, which are a fun way to watch players prepare up close and for you to get excited in the building atmosphere as the arena fills with fans.
Beat the lines at concession stands or merchandise shops and explore specialty foods or unique team gear available only at the arena by arriving in plenty of time.
If you’ve got VIP or hospitality tickets, you can often arrive earlier (sometimes a few hours before puck-drop) so that you can enjoy food and drink, or the fantastic perks included in you package.
Arriving early also allows for flexibility in case of unexpected delays like traffic, parking, or public transport issues.
Venue Parking & Transport
As NHL arenas are located in large metropolitan areas in the United States and Canada, there will be extensive transport links and parking options available for fans. You can check the Travel & Parking tab on Koobit venue and event pages ahead of gameday for more information.
You can usually pre-book parking – either in venue-owned car parks or private lots – and this is advised to ensure smooth access to the game. Many fans will drive to the arena, so traffic can build up and it is best to leave plenty of time when setting out on the day.
Venues will normally have drop-off and pick-up points right outside the entry gates which can be for taxis, rideshares, or for those being dropped off by other drivers. If you’re using buses or trains, ensure that they will be running after the game (which usually lasts around 2 hours).
Entry Gates
Arenas will typically have several entrances enabling you to get to your seat in the most direct way; for example, if you seat is on the west side of the stadium, you might enter through the west entrance. There will also be specific entrances for VIP and hospitality ticket holders. To find out which entrance to use, you can ask a member of staff, check your ticket, or take a look at the About tab on Koobit’s venue pages before you head to the game.
When you get to the entry gate, your ticket will be checked and scanned, and you will probably have to go through a quick security check. If you have a bag with you, this may take slightly longer.
Inside the venue, staff members may check your tickets again to guide you to the right section or to ensure you have access to certain areas.
Finding your Seat
NHL arenas are not small, so it is worth familiarising yourself with the arena layout before you go so that you can find your seat easily. Koobit displays venue maps on event and venue pages as a handy guide.
Arenas usually have an upper and lower tier and often a middle tier of seating or premium boxes. For example, the Panther’s Amerant Bank Arena has a lower Plaza (100 Level) and an Upper (300 Level) of standard seating as well as a Club (C Level) which consists of blocks with fewer rows and loge boxes, suites, and lounges. There are also Glass seats which are the front few rows of the lower sections just behind the plexiglass separating the fans from the ice.
Check your ticket to see what section, row, and seat number you are in and follow signage – perhaps overhead or wall-mounted signs, or row numbers at the end of rows, or seat numbers on seats – or ask a member of staff for help.
For help selecting your ticket, take a look at our Buying NHL Ticket Guide.
Game Format
The NHL game format follows a standard structure, though some variations occur depending on the context ( regular season, playoffs, or special events like the All-Star Game).
In a regular season game, consists of 3 periods of regulation time, each lasting 20 minutes with 15-minute intermissions between periods. If the score is tied at the end of regulation, the game proceeds to overtime. Overtime is 5 minutes long and involves 3-on-3 play (3 skaters plus a goalie per team). This is sudden-death so the first goal wins and ends the game, but if no goal is scored, the game goes to a shootout. In a shootout, each team selects 3 players to take turns attempting to score on the opposing goalie. If still tied after the initial 3 shooters, the shootout continues in a sudden-death format until a winner is determined.
If a team wins in regulation time, overtime, or after a shootout, they earn 2 league points. If a team loses in overtime or after a shootout, they earn 1 point. If a team loses in regulation time, they get 0 points.
Additional Entertainment
Ice hockey games have 3 periods and there are 2 breaks, meaning that fans can enjoy ample additional entertainment. Along with the pre-game shows, entertainment acts in the breaks are a fantastic way to keep up that passionate atmosphere while the players are taking a break and going through tactics.
Pre-game shows – especially those at the beginning of the season or before big fixtures – can be incredible elaborate light shows utilising the rink as a blank canvas. Fans can watch videos on the big screens in the arena before the light show begins and the story unfolds. Perhaps the greatest pre-game intros belong to the Vegas Golden Knights, although special mentions go to Montreal Canadiens, Nashville Predators, and Seattle Kraken.
During the intermissions between periods of play, there may be musical acts or skating performances. Often, audience participation is encouraged, and the team mascots may be getting up to mischief!
Spectator Experience
Attending an NHL game as a spectator is an electrifying and unforgettable experience. From the singing of the national anthems (of the United States and Canada depending on teams and venue) to videos on the Jumbotron, fan engagement and participation is the key to a great hockey experience. It will of course vary from team to team, but the atmosphere at an NHL game – particularly at significant or rival fixtures – is like nothing else!
Seats in the upper tiers of arenas are often very steep and tightly packed meaning there’s an intense atmosphere in these elevated levels. The Canadien’s Centre Bell in particular is known for its steep upper seating which, combined with the huge lower bowl, provides one of the NHL’s most intimidating atmospheres. Remember, if you need a break from the crowds, you can take a quick breather in the concourse areas or you can speak to a member of staff as some arenas have dedicated quiet spaces or sensory rooms.
Taking Photographs and Videos
You’ll want to make sure your phone is fully charged for gameday so that you can take plenty of photos and videos to look back on your amazing experience. It’s the perfect opportunity to make your friends and followers sigh that they wish they were there!
Please note that generally arenas will prohibit the use of professional cameras and recording devices, as well as selfie sticks.
Autographs and Signed Pucks
Getting autographs at an NHL game can be a thrilling experience for fans! Popular items for autographs include jerseys, pucks, hockey cards, and photos. Some arenas have specific policies about approaching players for autographs. Familiarise yourself with these rules beforehand.
Before the game, players often arrive at the arena several hours before the game. Check where the players’ entrance is and wait there with your items ready. Get seats near the glass during warm-ups: players might toss pucks or stop to sign for fans. Some arenas have specific zones where players sign autographs, often near the player tunnel or during fan events.
Players often stop to sign for fans after games, especially if there isn’t a large crowd. Check for post-game autograph sessions or promotional nights where players meet fans.
Just remember to be polite and patient as players are more likely to sign if you’re respectful. Have your item and pen ready to make the process smooth. Check for team-hosted meet-and-greet events or fan fests during the season for guaranteed signing opportunities.
Merchandise
At the arena, you will be able to purchase merchandise related to the home team from the arena shop or from stands around the venue. This can be anything from replica sweaters to hats or even branded cups, some of which may be only available to buy at the arena. However, if you prefer to browse a good selection (perhaps at lower prices and in a calmer environment), you can buy online. You can find official NHL gear and merchandise at Fanatics and through the Merchandise link on Koobit’s NHL page and team pages.
Food & Drink
Food and drink offerings at an NHL game typically vary by arena but often include a mix of classic stadium fare, local specialties, and premium options.
Concession stands – that are usually situated at concourse points throughout the arena on all levels – will offer a range of fast-food options such as nachos, hot dogs, burgers, popcorn, pretzels, and sometimes some local specialties like poutine in Canadian venues or lobster rolls at TD Garden in Boston. There will also be outlets offering sweet treats like ice cream, churros, and candy, as well as bars selling a selection of craft beers, cocktails, soft drinks, and hot drinks. Prices and options will vary from venue to venue, but please note that many arenas are now cashless, so you will need to take your credit or debit card with you. If you're planning to attend a game, checking the arena's website for a food map or the About tab on Koobit’s venue pages for more information.
If you have purchased a hospitality or VIP ticket, there will often be food and drink included – perhaps an all-inclusive buffet, a sit-down meal, or wait service for your seat – or access to other bars and lounges.
Toilets/Restrooms
NHL arenas are designed to handle large numbers of fans and visitors, so restrooms are conveniently located throughout. You can check a venue map before attending an event or follow signs or staff directions when at the venue to find the nearest toilets to your location.
Most venues have family restrooms and baby-changing facilities. All venues will have accessible toilets and many also have adult-changing facilities. Many offer gender-neutral facilities. You can find information on restrooms on Koobit’s venue and event pages for the NHL.
Arenas may have a rule in place that fans should try not to move around during play on the ice, so it is a good idea to plan your visit to the restroom. During breaks and at the end of the game, there may be queues.
Leaving and Exiting the Venue
You are free to leave the venue at any time but please bear in mind that some arenas have a no re-entry policy, or you may need to talk to a member of staff and get a stamp to be able to get back in if you so wish.
If the game is not particularly tight or the result is not significant to the league standings, some fans may start to filter out before the final horn goes in order to beat the crowds or the traffic.
Enjoy the Game and Make Memories
The most important thing is that you enjoy your NHL gameday experience! Our top tips for a thrilling day are:
- Pick the seat that is right for you (check out our Buying NHL Tickets Guide)
- Check your route to the venue and pre-book parking if you need it
- Familiarise yourself with the venue map to see where you need to enter, where your seat is, and where to find shops, concessions, and toilets
- Charge your phone before you go so you can access you ticket and take photos
- Wear team colours to get into the spirit of the game
- Arrive early so that you can get through security smoothly and enjoy the pre-game intro
- Take lots of photos, soak up the atmosphere, munch on a snack, and enjoy the game