When you think of the National Hockey League, you probably think of the players and their incredible talent. But there’s a lot more to it than just that. The NHL is home to some of the most passionate professional sports fans. Whether they have been fans for years, or are still new to the sport and looking to resources like this one here to help them learn more about the game, these fans travel with their teams and support them through thick and thin.
You’ll need to know what NHL stadiums provide to get your hockey fix. Here are five things to know about them.
Location
NHL stadiums are located across North America, from the United States to Canada. Each team is proud of their home ice and works hard to make it the best place for their fans. You can learn about locations by checking 3D Hockey Arena or similar reliable sports sites.
The first thing to note is that most NHL stadiums are in cold cities. It’s because hockey is most commonly played on outdoor ice rinks. As a result, teams want to be located in cities where the temperature is cold enough that the ice will stay frozen.
Another thing to note about NHL stadium locations is that many are located near other major sporting arenas. The reason for this is that hockey fans are often fans of different sports, so it’s convenient for them to have multiple arenas nearby. For example, Madison Square Garden, home of the New York Rangers, is also home to the NBA’s New York Knicks and the NHL’s New York Islanders.
Finally, some NHL stadiums are located near each other. It’s especially true for teams in the same division or conference. For example, the Chicago Blackhawks and the Detroit Red Wings share the same division, so their arenas are close by.
Size
NHL stadiums are not all created equal. Some are large, some are small, and each has unique features. Regarding size, the NHL’s biggest stadium is Madison Square Garden in New York City. It seats more than 18,000 fans, making it one of the largest arenas in the league.
On the other end of the spectrum is the Bell Centre in Montreal, which has a capacity of just over 21,000. In between these two extremes are a variety of stadiums that offer a different experience for fans.
For instance, the Staples Center in Los Angeles is known for its state-of-the-art facilities while the Saddledome in Calgary is renowned for its unique shape and design. No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, an NHL stadium is sure to suit your needs.
Design
Regarding NHL stadiums, there are a few things that hockey fans should know about their design. For starters, most NHL stadiums are designed with a bowl-shaped lower bowl. It allows for more seats and a better view of the action on the ice. Most NHL stadiums have an upper deck too that extends around the entire stadium. This upper deck provides even more seating and gives fans a bird’s eye view of the game.
Furthermore, NHL stadiums are typically built with corporate suites and club seats. These premium areas offer fans an upscale experience with private bathrooms and access to VIP clubs.
Amenities
NHL stadiums are among the most modern and comfortable in all professional sports. They feature various amenities that ensure fans have an enjoyable experience, whether they’re watching the game from their seats or taking advantage of the other available activities.
For example, many stadiums have concourses open to the public even when games are not played. This feature gives fans a place to gather and socialize without having to miss any of the action.
In addition, most stadiums now offer a wide range of food and drink options, so fans can enjoy a meal or snack while watching the game. And, of course, there are always plenty of restrooms and concessions stands, so everyone can have what they need.
History
There are 31 NHL stadiums spread out across the United States and Canada. A few of these arenas are quite new, but most have a long and storied history. For example, Madison Square Garden is the oldest arena in the NHL, having opened its doors in 1968.
Similarly, Detroit’s Joe Louis Arena is one of the most iconic stadiums in the league, having played host to numerous Stanley Cup Finals over the years. In contrast, Winnipeg’s MTS Centre is one of the newest stadiums in the NHL, having only opened its doors in 2004.
Takeaway
NHL stadiums are some of the most unique and exciting arenas in professional sports. They come in all shapes and sizes, each with its distinct features. When choosing a stadium to watch a game, you can consider certain factors, like its location or size. With so many great options to choose from, there’s sure to be an NHL arena that’s perfect for you.
