Oct 19, 2025
·Mary Callahan
Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida, is one of the premier sports and entertainment venues in the Southeast. Best known as the home of the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning, the arena also plays host to top-tier concerts, family-friendly shows and special events that bring the community together year-round. Whether you’re there to watch the Bolts chase another Stanley Cup, see a superstar musician on tour or enjoy a fun night out, SeatGeek has you covered with everything you need to plan your visit.
About Amalie Arena
Address: Amalie Arena, 401 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Located in downtown Tampa’s vibrant Water Street district, Amalie Arena has a capacity of about 19,000 for hockey games and over 20,000 for concerts. Since opening in 1996, the venue has become a cornerstone of Tampa’s cultural and sports scene, drawing millions of visitors each year.
The arena is home to the Tampa Bay Lightning and regularly hosts concerts, NCAA basketball tournaments, professional wrestling, UFC fights and family events like Disney on Ice and Cirque du Soleil.
A Look Back at Amalie Arena’s History
Amalie Arena originally opened in October 1996 as the Ice Palace, giving the Tampa Bay Lightning a state-of-the-art new home. Over the years, it has undergone several name changes—from Ice Palace to St. Pete Times Forum, then Tampa Bay Times Forum—before adopting its current name, Amalie Arena, in 2014 through a partnership with Amalie Oil Company.
The arena has been the site of some of Tampa’s most historic sporting moments, including the Lightning’s Stanley Cup Finals appearances and championships in 2004, 2020, and 2021. It also hosted the 1999 NHL All-Star Game, the NCAA Frozen Four (2008, 2012), the NCAA Women’s Final Four (2008, 2015, 2019) and major concerts from the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran.
How to Get to Amalie Arena
Driving: Amalie Arena is easily accessible from I-275, I-4, and the Selmon Expressway. Multiple parking garages and surface lots surround the arena, with spaces available for pre-purchase through SeatGeek or the arena’s site.
Public Transit: The TECO Line Streetcar connects downtown Tampa to the arena area, making it a convenient option for fans. Rideshare services and shuttle options are also widely available.
Accessibility: Designated ADA parking is located in nearby garages, and all arena entrances are accessible. Drop-off and pick-up zones are provided close to the venue.
Plan Your Visit to Amalie Arena
Opening Times: Parking lots typically open 3–4 hours before events, and arena doors usually open 90 minutes prior to puck drop, tipoff or showtime.
Event Duration: Lightning games run about 2.5–3 hours, while concerts and other shows vary.
Ticketing Types: Mobile tickets are the standard, but printed tickets and will-call are also accepted.
Food & Beverages: The arena’s concessions mix classic stadium eats like pizza, hot dogs and nachos with local Tampa flavors, including Cuban sandwiches, seafood, BBQ, and craft beer from Florida breweries. Premium dining experiences are available in the arena’s Chase Club and Firestick Grill.
Amenities: Family restrooms, nursing stations, first-aid centers and team stores are located throughout the venue. Premium suites and club seating provide luxury amenities.
Accessibility Services: Wheelchair-accessible seating, elevators, ramps and assistive listening devices are all available to guests.
Arena Policies
Bag Policy: Amalie Arena enforces a strict bag policy. Bags larger than 12″ x 12″ x 12″ are not permitted. Clear bags are strongly encouraged. Small clutches and medically necessary bags are allowed.
Security: All guests go through security screenings and metal detectors upon entry.
Prohibited Items: Outside food and beverages, umbrellas, professional cameras, large strollers and noisemakers are not permitted.
Alcohol Policy: Valid photo ID is required for alcohol purchases. Limits per transaction may apply, and service may end before the event concludes.
Re-Entry: Re-entry is not permitted once you exit the arena.
Inside Amalie Arena
The atmosphere inside Amalie Arena is electric, especially on Lightning game nights. Bolts fans are some of the most passionate in the NHL, and traditions like “Thunderstruck” introductions and goal celebrations create an unforgettable environment.
For concerts, Amalie Arena is known for excellent acoustics and state-of-the-art lighting, making it a favorite stop for world-class performers. Family shows and special events benefit from flexible configurations that ensure great sightlines for all ages.
Make the Most of Your Visit to Amalie Arena
Best Value Seats: Upper-level sideline seats offer strong views of the ice or stage at more affordable prices.
Premium Seating: Lower bowl and club-level sections bring you closer to the action, with in-seat service and upscale concessions.
Concert Tips: Floor seating is the most immersive, while lower bowl sections balance great sightlines with comfort.
Arrive Early: Beat downtown traffic, grab a pre-event bite at one of Water Street’s many restaurants, and enjoy the Riverwalk before heading in.
Legacy at Amalie Arena
Amalie Arena is more than just the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning—it’s a central hub for Tampa’s sports and entertainment culture. From Stanley Cup victories to sold-out concerts and championship tournaments, the arena has cemented its place as one of the top destinations in the country for live events.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
Amalie Arena continues to deliver unforgettable experiences, from hockey glory to must-see concerts. With SeatGeek, you can find tickets for Lightning games, concerts and other events, compare seating options and plan your visit with ease.