Madison Square Garden: All You Need to Know

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All About Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden (MSG), located smack in the middle of Manhattan, is the grand ol’ man of North American arenas these days as the longest-serving venue in both the NBA and NHL.

Since it opened in 1968, the Garden has hosted some of the Big Apple’s most memorable sporting events, including the legendary first Muhammad Ali -Joe Frazier boxing match, the NHL’s New York Rangers’ 1994 Stanley Cup victory (their first since 1940), and (believe it or not) two NBA Championships for the New York Knicks way back in the early 1970s.

Currently, Madison Square Garden hosts all regular season and playoff Knicks and Rangers home games, as well as numerous concerts, cultural festivals, and other sporting competitions. The St. John’s Red Storm men's college basketball team of the NCAA also play some of their home games at MSG. Anyone who’s anyone has performed at least once at the Garden.

MSG Seating Capacity: 19,812

Home Teams: New York Knicks (NBA), New York Rangers (NHL), St. John’s Red Storm (NCAA College Basketball)

MSG Bag Policy

Unlike most arena’s you do not need a clear bag to enter MSG, here are some things you should take note:

• Bags must fit under your seat

• Does NOT need to be clear

• NO larger than 22” x 14” x 9”

• Laptops and tablets permitted as long as they fit into your bag (policy may differ)

• Onsite storage NOT available

MSG Seating Chart

Madison Square Garden has many different seating options available to visitors for games and events. Premium seating areas like floor seats or luxury boxes cater to those in search of an exclusive experience, while plentiful mid-range and cheaper general seating offers the chance to be a part of the crowd. All seats have excellent views of the action.

Search for available tickets for your game or event at Madison Square Garden on TicketX along with our handy seating chart that outlines different seating options.

Remember, different events have different seating configurations so be sure to confirm the location of your seats beforehand!

🏟️Official MSG Seating Chart🏟️

Getting to MSG

Visitors can access Madison Square Garden via public transportation or driving their own vehicle.

Getting to MSG via public transportation

Public transportation is the best option for traveling to Madison Square Garden, as the arena is located immediately above Penn Station and just one block from 34th Street/Herald Square, both of which connect to multiple lines of the New York subway system. If traveling in from New Jersey, take the PATH train to 33rd Street/Avenue of the Americas and then walk to Madison Square Garden. Visit Madison Square Garden's official website for clear public transportation directions. In classic Big Apple fashion, you could also catch a yellow cab to the venue.

Getting to MSG by car

While it is possible to drive your own vehicle to Madison Square Garden, the traffic in Manhattan is famously unpredictable, frequently grinding to a standstill on days featuring games or big events. Tunnels and bridges are particularly susceptible to traffic jams. Plan to arrive at Madison Square Garden early to avoid missing your event. Madison Square Garden's official website provides a link to a map with driving directions.

Parking Near MSG

Does MSG have on-site parking?

Madison Square Garden does not have on-site parking but there are many parking lots within easy walking distance. It is highly recommended that you reserve prepaid parking in advance using SpotHero or other similar online parking services.

How much does MSG parking cost?

During games and events, parking lots near Madison Square Garden tend to charge $30-40. To learn more about parking options near the stadium, check out Madison Square Garden's official website or use SpotHero to find cheaper parking rates and make prepaid parking reservations.

Best Restaurants Near MSG

Given that MSG is located in the middle of Manhattan there are certainly no shortage in choices. Check out the best food and beverage options such as on OpenTable.

Outside food and beverages are not allowed in venue but there is a range of food available in MSG. Taste the flavors of New York while you enjoy the game. There are eateries at various spots in The Garden, find them here on the official MSG website.

Hotels Near MSG

A variety of hotels are available within walking distance to MSG. Prices depend on your budget preferences but make sure to book well in advanced to get the best prices and your preferred choice! Check our the best hotels near MSG here.

Accessibility at MSG

MSG is committed to meet the needs of all guests so make sure to communicate your needs in advance. Check out the MSG accessibility page here. Here are a few important points you should know:

• Service animals are permitted

• Accessible entrances:

  • 8 Penn on 33rd Street and 8th Avenue

  • Chase Square on 7th Avenue between 31st and 33rd Streets