Amalie Arena: The Ultimate Home of the Tampa Bay Lightning

The Amalie Arena is a multipurpose venue located in the heart of downtown Tampa’s Channelside District. It is the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning, an NHL team that has won three Stanley Cup Championships.

The arena has a seating capacity of up to 21,500 for concerts and center stage events, 20,500 for basketball games, and 19,758 for NHL games.

The arena first opened its doors on October 12, 1996, with its first event being the Royal Hanneford Circus. Shortly thereafter, on October 20, 1996, the first Lightning game was played, and the team won 5-2 over the New York Rangers.

Since then, the arena has hosted some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment, including the NCAA Men’s Frozen Four Semi Finals & Championship, Eagles Hotel California 2023 Tour, and Marco Antonio Solís El Buki World Tour 2023.

Amalie Arena is not only a venue for sporting events and concerts, but also a popular tourist attraction in Tampa Bay. Visitors can take a tour of the arena to learn about its history and see behind the scenes areas, such as the locker rooms and press box.

With its state-of-the-art facilities and prime location, the Amalie Arena is a must-visit destination for anyone in the Tampa Bay area.

Amalie Arena: Key Facts

Amalie Arena is a multipurpose indoor arena located in Tampa, Florida. It is home to the Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League and has hosted numerous concerts, sporting events, and other shows since its opening in 1996. Here are some key facts about Amalie Arena:

• The arena has a seating capacity of 19,092 for hockey games and up to 21,500 for concerts and other events.
• It covers an area of 670,000 square feet and features four concourses, 70 luxury suites, and five party suites.
• The arena’s ice surface measures 200 feet by 85 feet and is made up of 5.5 inches of concrete and sand, followed by a layer of insulation and a refrigeration system that can keep the ice at a temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Amalie Arena has been the site of three Stanley Cup Championships for the Tampa Bay Lightning, in 2004, 2020, and 2021.
• The arena is owned by the Tampa Bay Sports and Entertainment, LLC and managed by Vinik Sports Group, LLC.

Amalie Arena has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years, including the addition of a new scoreboard and sound system in 2012, and the installation of a new LED lighting system in 2015. The arena also features a variety of food and beverage options, including local favorites like Cuban sandwiches and craft beer.

Overall, Amalie Arena is a state-of-the-art facility that has become a beloved landmark in the Tampa Bay area. Whether you’re a fan of hockey, music, or live entertainment, there’s always something exciting happening at this iconic venue.

Where is Amalie Arena Located?

Amalie Arena is located in downtown Tampa, Florida, in the Channelside District. The exact address of the arena is 401 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602.

The arena is situated in a prime location, making it easily accessible to visitors and locals alike. It is located near several major highways, including I-4, I-75, and the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway. This makes it easy for fans to travel to and from the arena without any hassle.

In addition to its convenient location, Amalie Arena is also situated near several popular attractions in Tampa. Some of the nearby attractions include The Florida Aquarium, the Tampa Convention Center, and the Tampa Riverwalk. Visitors to the arena can easily make a day of their trip by exploring the surrounding area and enjoying all that Tampa has to offer.

The Best Way to Get to Amalie Arena

Amalie Arena is located in downtown Tampa, Florida, and is the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning. The arena is easily accessible by car, public transportation, and rideshare services.

If you are driving to the arena, there are several parking options available. The arena has its own parking garage, which is located on Channelside Drive. There are also several other parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the arena.

If you prefer to use public transportation, there are several options available. The TECO Line Streetcar System has a stop located directly in front of the arena, making it a convenient option for those staying in the downtown area. Additionally, several bus routes run near the arena, including the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) system.

For those who prefer rideshare services, there are two designated pickup locations near Amalie Arena. The Tampa Convention Center, located west of the arena, is the ideal pickup location for those arriving from the south or west. The Marriott Waterside Hotel, located east of the arena, is the ideal pickup location for those arriving from the north or east.

No matter how you choose to get to Amalie Arena, it is important to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for traffic and parking. Arriving early will also give you time to explore the surrounding area, including the Tampa Riverwalk and nearby restaurants and bars.

Parking Near Amalie Arena

Amalie Arena, home of the Tampa Bay Lightning, is located in downtown Tampa, Florida. With its central location, finding parking can be challenging, especially during events. However, there are several convenient parking options available for visitors.

One option is to park at the Port Garage, located across the street from Sparkman Wharf at the Northeast corner of Channelside Dr and S 12th St. This garage is only a 0.2 mile walk to Amalie Arena and is suggested for those accessing the arena from the North or East of Downtown Tampa. The cost of parking in the Port Garage is $16 per game or $688 per season, plus service and handling fees.

Another option is the Whiting Street Garage, located at 400 Whiting St, Tampa, FL 33602. This garage is a bit further away from Amalie Arena, but still within walking distance. It is a great option for those who prefer to park at a slightly lower cost. The cost of parking in the Whiting Street Garage is $10 per game or $360 per season.

For those who prefer to reserve parking in advance, pre-purchased parking passes for Amalie Arena events can be handled by the preferred parking vendor, ParkWhiz. Availability is limited, so it is recommended to book ahead of time to ensure a spot.

It is important to note that Amalie Arena does not control any parking in the downtown area. However, there are several surrounding lots available for parking. While all surrounding lots have disabled parking, the most convenient option for disabled visitors is to park in the arena’s ADA parking lot, which is located in the Blue Lot off of Channelside Drive.

The Best Restaurants near Amalie Arena

Amalie Arena is not only home to the Tampa Bay Lightning but also a great place to find some of the best restaurants in Tampa. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, the area around the arena has something for everyone.

One of the top-rated restaurants near Amalie Arena is Firestick Grill. This American restaurant is located right inside the arena and offers a variety of delicious dishes. The restaurant has received rave reviews for its outstanding service and mouth-watering food. If you’re looking for a great meal before or after a game, Firestick Grill is definitely worth checking out.

Another popular restaurant near Amalie Arena is Haven. This American restaurant is located just a few blocks away from the arena and has received excellent reviews for its contemporary cuisine and extensive wine list. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

If you’re in the mood for seafood, Harpoon Harry’s Crab House is a popular spot to enjoy a seafood dinner and drinks when attending events at Amalie Arena. Skye’s expertly prepared seafood dishes are sure to satisfy any seafood lover’s cravings.

For those looking for a waterfront dining experience, Jackson’s Bistro is a great option. Located on Harbour Island, just a short walk from Amalie Arena, this restaurant offers stunning views of Downtown Tampa and delicious sushi and fresh oysters. With over 500 wines to choose from, Jackson’s Bistro is a great place to unwind after a game or concert.

Overall, there are plenty of great restaurants near Amalie Arena to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for American cuisine, seafood, or sushi, the area around the arena has something for everyone.

The Best Bars Near Amalie Arena

There are plenty of great bars and restaurants near Amalie Arena, making it easy to grab a drink or a bite to eat before or after a game. Here are a few of the best bars near Amalie Arena:

Ferg’s Live: Ferg’s Live is the perfect spot for sports fans looking for a lively atmosphere. With plenty of TVs and a large outdoor patio, this bar is a popular spot for pre-game drinks. The menu features classic bar food and a variety of beers on tap.

Hotel Bar: Located inside the historic Floridan Palace Hotel, Hotel Bar is a stylish spot for cocktails and small plates. The menu features classic cocktails and a variety of wines and beers. The atmosphere is sophisticated and upscale, making it a great spot for a date night or a night out with friends.

Hattricks: Hattricks is a classic sports bar located just a few blocks from Amalie Arena. The menu features pub grub favorites like wings and burgers, and there are plenty of TVs to catch the game. The bar is also known for its extensive beer selection, with a variety of local and craft beers on tap.

District Tavern: District Tavern is a neighborhood bar with an upscale twist. The menu features American cuisine and craft cocktails, and there’s a large outdoor patio for enjoying drinks in the Florida sunshine. The bar is located on the ground floor of Skyhouse Channelside, just a short walk from Amalie Arena.

Garrison Tavern: Garrison Tavern is a cozy spot for drinks and pub fare. The menu features classic bar food like burgers and wings, and there’s a large selection of beers on tap. The bar is located just a few blocks from Amalie Arena, making it a convenient spot for pre-game drinks.Whether you’re looking for a lively sports bar or a sophisticated cocktail spot, there are plenty of great bars near Amalie Arena. Be sure to check out one of these top picks before or after the game.

The Best Hotels near Amalie Arena

Amalie Arena, home of the Tampa Bay Lightning, is a popular destination for sports fans and concert-goers alike. If you’re planning a trip to attend an event at Amalie Arena, you’ll want to find a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Here are some of the best hotels near Amalie Arena:

The Westin Tampa Waterside

The Westin Tampa Waterside is located just 0.4 miles from Amalie Arena, making it a convenient choice for visitors. This hotel offers stunning views of the waterfront and a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Guests can also enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and a 24-hour business center.

Aloft Tampa Downtown

Aloft Tampa Downtown is a trendy hotel located just 0.5 miles from Amalie Arena. This hotel features loft-inspired guest rooms with modern amenities, such as 55-inch flat-screen TVs and mini fridges. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site bar.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown Convention Center

Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown Convention Center is located just 0.6 miles from Amalie Arena, making it a convenient choice for visitors. This hotel offers spacious two-room suites with separate living areas, mini fridges, and microwaves. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and evening reception with drinks and snacks.

Other hotels near Amalie Arena include The Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk, Tampa Marriott Water Street, and Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa Downtown Channel District. No matter which hotel you choose, you’re sure to have a comfortable and convenient stay while attending an event at Amalie Arena.

The History of Amalie Arena

Amalie Arena, located in Tampa, Florida, is a multipurpose arena that has been used for ice hockey, basketball, arena football, concerts, and other events. It is mainly used as the home for the Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League. The building opened in 1996 and was originally known as the Ice Palace.

The doors to the 670,000-square-foot AMALIE Arena first opened on October 12, 1996, with its first event, the Royal Hanneford Circus. The Circus was followed shortly thereafter by the first Lightning game played on October 20, 1996. The Lightning won 5-2 over the New York Rangers. The arena has since undergone several renovations and upgrades to keep up with modern standards and technology.

In 2014, the arena underwent a major name change when it was renamed Amalie Arena, after Amalie Oil Company, a family-owned enterprise that supplies motor oil and industrial lubricants. The company has been located on 30 acres in Port Tampa Bay since 1977 and has 250 employees.

Over the years, Amalie Arena has hosted numerous significant events, including the 2012 Republican National Convention, the 1999 NHL All-Star Game, and the NCAA Women’s Final Four in 2015. The arena has also been used as a concert venue, hosting many famous artists such as Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Elton John.

Today, Amalie Arena remains one of the premier sports and entertainment venues in the United States, with a seating capacity of approximately 19,000. It continues to be the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning, who have won two Stanley Cup Championships since moving into the arena in 1996.

Where to Get Tickets for Amalie Arena

Amalie Arena is home to the Tampa Bay Lightning and hosts a variety of events throughout the year. If you’re looking to attend an event at the arena, you can purchase tickets from several sources.

The ReliaQuest Ticket Office, located on the west side of the arena, accepts payment in the form of VISA, MasterCard, and American Express. Tickets can also be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com. All tickets for games, concerts, and most events will be mobile-only, so be sure to have your smartphone ready to show your ticket at the gate.

If you’re looking for single-game tickets for a Lightning game, you can purchase them directly from the team’s website. The Lightning offer a variety of ticket options, including premium seating, group tickets, and season ticket packages.

It’s important to note that ticket prices can vary depending on the event and the seating location. Be sure to check the official website or ticketing platform for accurate pricing information.

For those who want to experience the ultimate VIP treatment, the arena offers suites and premium seating options. These packages include access to exclusive areas, premium food and beverage options, and dedicated service staff. Prices for these packages can be found on the official Amalie Arena website.

Overall, there are several options for purchasing tickets to events at Amalie Arena. Whether you’re looking for single-game tickets, group packages, or VIP experiences, be sure to check the official website and ticketing platforms for the most up-to-date information and pricing.

Does Amalie Arena Offer Tours?

Yes, Amalie Arena offers tours for those who want to explore the building and learn more about its history and operations. These tours are a great opportunity for visitors to see behind the scenes and get an up-close look at the arena’s facilities.

The tours take place on Lightning gamedays, and visitors can see every floor of the building, including the locker rooms, press box, and event level. The tour guides provide interesting facts about the arena and its history, making it a fun and educational experience for all.

The tours typically last about an hour and a half, and visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. It’s also important to note that the tours are subject to availability and may be canceled or rescheduled due to events or other circumstances.

If you’re interested in taking a tour of Amalie Arena, you can book your tickets online or at the arena box office. Prices vary depending on the type of tour and age of the visitor, so be sure to check the website for more information.

Overall, the Amalie Arena tours are a great way to experience the building and learn more about the Tampa Bay Lightning. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about the arena, it’s definitely worth checking out.