Visiting KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, can be an exciting experience, whether you’re attending a Buffalo Sabres hockey game or a concert. To make your visit as enjoyable as possible, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the various gates and entrances of the arena. I’ve compiled some helpful information to guide you through the process – from finding the best entry points to making the most of your time at the arena.
KeyBank Center offers several public entry points located around its exterior. For those attending a special event or possessing VIP status, there are dedicated VIP entrances accessible via attached parking garages and a street-level VIP entrance. It’s essential to be aware of these specific entrances so that you can efficiently navigate your way in and out of KeyBank Center.
In addition to the public and VIP entrances, KeyBank Center’s Box Office, located on the east end of the pavilion, is open on event days to purchase tickets and manage other account services. Being familiar with the arena’s layout will help you make the most of your time at KeyBank Center. So, let’s dive deeper into this guide and discover what you need to know about KeyBank Center’s gates and entrances.
Getting to KeyBank Center
I’ve found that getting to KeyBank Center is quite simple! Located in Buffalo, New York at One Seymour H. Knox III Plaza, it’s easily accessible through multiple modes of transportation.
When driving, from the north, you’ll want to take I-190 southbound. There are two exits you can take: Exit 5 (Louisiana Street) or Exit 6 (Elm Street). For Exit 5, make a left at the bottom of the ramp, and turn onto Perry Street or South Park Avenue at the first or second traffic light, respectively. With either route, KeyBank Center should be straight ahead.
From the south, head north on I-190 and take Exit 6 (Elm Street). After the exit, turn left onto Seneca Street. Turn right onto Michigan Avenue, and after just a couple blocks, you’ll see KeyBank Center to your right.
Don’t worry, though, there are other transportation options. You can easily reach the arena through public transportation by using the Metro Rail. It has a station right in front of KeyBank Center, so getting off the train and going to the event is a breeze.
Lastly, if you prefer to walk or ride a bike, it’s good to know that KeyBank Center is conveniently located near bike paths, parks, and the Buffalo waterfront. Take some time to explore the area and appreciate the beauty of the city while heading to your event.
No matter how you choose to get there, you’ll find the journey to KeyBank Center enjoyable and stress-free. Just remember to plan for some possible traffic or delays on event days, but be ready for a great time once you arrive at this fantastic venue.
Parking Information
VIP Parking
I found that the VIP parking at KeyBank Center offers premium parking spots with close proximity to the arena which can make attending events a much more convenient experience. Although specific VIP parking options were not provided in the search results, I recommend checking the official KeyBank Center website or contacting their offices at (716) 855-4500 to inquire about the availability and rates for VIP parking spaces.
General Parking
For general parking at KeyBank Center, there are several options available. The venue is surrounded by a few facilities that offer secure event parking for all games and events. These facilities include:
- KeyBank Center parking ramp: This parking ramp is directly attached to the arena, making it the most convenient option for attendees.
- Surface parking lots: There are two surface parking lots located adjacent to the arena which provide ample parking spaces for event attendees.
- LECOM Harborcenter parking deck: Located in the nearby LECOM Harborcenter building, this parking deck is another option for those looking to park near KeyBank Center.
Not only can you choose one of these parking facilities, but you can also book a parking spot in advance through various websites, making it even easier to secure a convenient parking space before arriving at the event. Additionally, daytime monthly parking is available at KeyBank Center and LECOM Harborcenter parking ramp for those who require regular parking. For more information about general parking rates and availability, I suggest visiting the KeyBank Center website or calling their offices at (716) 855-4500.
KeyBank Center Entrances
Main Entrance
At KeyBank Center, I find the main entrance to be quite nice. It is located at the east end of the Pavilion, where there are twelve ticket windows available for my convenience. To locate the main entrance, I keep an eye out for the Account Services Office, as the main entrance is just to the left of it.
VIP Entrance
As for the VIP entrance, I usually can’t access that, but I know it’s available for special guests and ticket holders. This entrance is designed to provide a more exclusive experience and might have a separate location for entry, ensuring a smooth and convenient access for those guests.
Accessible Entrance
I appreciate that KeyBank Center is committed to accommodating patrons with disabilities. All entrances in the venue are accessible, making it easy for people with mobility challenges to enter the arena without any difficulties. Just like the main entrance, accessible entrances are designed to provide convenience and comfort to everyone attending events at KeyBank Center.
Security Checkpoints
While visiting KeyBank Center, I noticed that they take security very seriously. From the minute I arrived at the entrance, I was met with a professional and organized security team. The staff at the security checkpoints were thorough and efficient, ensuring that all guests had a safe and enjoyable experience.
At the entrance, I was asked to open my bags for inspection and walk through a metal detector. This helps the security team to keep prohibited items out of the venue. It is important to note that the camera policies for KeyBank Center events like Buffalo Sabres and Buffalo Bandits games are quite flexible, allowing flash photography and long lenses as long as they do not obstruct the view of other patrons.
To make the security checkpoint process smoother, I made sure to have my ticket and a valid photo ID ready. This allowed me to quickly present them to the security staff and move through the checkpoint with ease. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the prohibited items list before attending an event, as bringing these items may result in not being allowed inside, or having to surrender the items to security.
Once inside the venue, I felt secure knowing that the security team was constantly monitoring for any potential issues. They were present throughout the event, ensuring that everyone had a great time while maintaining a safe environment. Remember, following these simple steps can help you navigate the security checkpoints at KeyBank Center with ease, allowing you to focus on enjoying the event.
Gate Information
Gate Hours
As a visitor to KeyBank Center, I’ve found that the ticket windows are usually open on weekdays from 10 am to 4 pm or until the end of an event. During game times, the Account Services office is also open to help with any ticketing needs. I recommend checking the specific event details or contacting the venue for the most up-to-date information on gate hours and entry procedures.
Gate Rules
When I attend events at KeyBank Center, I make sure to keep in mind some important rules and guidelines. First and foremost, it’s crucial to have a valid ticket or event pass for entry. The venue staff may also ask for a photo ID to verify your ticket, so don’t forget to carry one.
Additionally, KeyBank Center has certain security measures in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests. Bag checks and metal detectors are commonly used at the entrances, and prohibited items should not be brought to the venue. Some examples of such items are:
- Large bags or backpacks
- Outside food and beverages
- Professional cameras or recording equipment
While I’m happy to share my experience, please note that rules and guidelines may change depending on the specific event or circumstances, so it’s always best to check with the venue or event organizers for the most accurate information. Enjoy your event at KeyBank Center!
Amenities at KeyBank Center
Food and Beverage
At KeyBank Center, I found various food and beverage options to satisfy my cravings. From classic arena fare like hot dogs and nachos to local Buffalo specialties like wings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. There are several concession stands throughout the arena offering a variety of choices, so I never had to worry about going hungry during an event.
Restrooms
The restrooms at KeyBank Center were easy to locate and conveniently placed around the arena. I appreciated the cleanliness and the regular maintenance during events. As an added bonus, each restroom area had baby-changing stations and accessible stalls for those with disabilities.
WiFi Access
One of the best amenities I noticed at KeyBank Center was the free WiFi access. I didn’t have any trouble connecting to the network, allowing me to stay connected with friends and social media during events. Keep in mind that like any public WiFi, the connection speed might vary depending on the number of people connected at once, but overall, I found it to be a useful feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
As a frequent visitor to KeyBank Center, I often get asked various questions about the arena. To help you prepare for your visit, I’ve compiled some frequently asked questions that you might find useful.
What is the bag policy at KeyBank Center?
At KeyBank Center, all bags, backpacks, and purses are not allowed. However, clutches no larger than 4 x 6 x 1.5 inches are permitted and will be subject to visual inspection. Don’t worry, they’ll make exceptions for medically necessary items and diaper bags, but be prepared for a thorough security screening.
What are the main entrances to KeyBank Center?
There are several entrances and gates to KeyBank Center, but one of the most commonly used entrances is the Gate 1 Entrance. This should help you get to your seat and enjoy the event without any hassle.
What are the opening hours of KeyBank Center?
The general opening hours of KeyBank Center are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, the hours might vary depending on the event. I recommend visiting the KeyBank Center website or contacting them for the most up-to-date information.
What kind of events do they host at KeyBank Center?
KeyBank Center is a versatile venue that hosts various events, including concerts, sporting events, and even the home games of Buffalo Sabers. From time to time, you might catch a review about their hockey games or other events, like the Kevin Hart “Reality Check” show in October 2022.
Are there any nearby restaurants or hotels?
There are plenty of options when it comes to dining and staying near KeyBank Center. In fact, you can find a map of the surrounding area and a list of Buffalo restaurants close to the arena on the various websites about the center. Moreover, there’s a good selection of hotels within walking distance or a short drive away.
I hope this information helps you plan your visit to KeyBank Center. Enjoy your experience!
