Oct 28, 2025
·Mary Callahan
In the heart of downtown Montreal stands one of Canada’s most famous arenas: Centre Bell. Known worldwide as the home of the Montreal Canadiens, the winningest franchise in NHL history, Centre Bell is more than just a hockey arena—it’s the beating heart of Montreal’s sports and entertainment culture. Since opening in 1996, the arena has hosted thousands of events, from Stanley Cup playoff games to sold-out concerts by global icons like Céline Dion, U2, Drake and Metallica. With a capacity of more than 21,000 for hockey games, it’s the largest hockey arena in the NHL, making it a bucket-list destination for fans of the sport and a top venue for live entertainment in North America.
About Centre Bell
Address: 1909 Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montréal, Montreal, QC H4B 5G0, Canada
Owned by Groupe CH, Centre Bell replaced the historic Montreal Forum, the Canadiens’ legendary home from 1926 to 1996. The new arena was designed not just for hockey but to be a multi-purpose hub for concerts, sporting events, family shows and cultural experiences. Located in a lively downtown district near shopping, restaurants and Montreal’s iconic nightlife, Centre Bell has become a landmark in its own right.
The arena regularly welcomes more than a million visitors each year, both for hockey and for non-sporting events. From hosting NHL All-Star Games to performances by Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran and The Rolling Stones, Centre Bell has solidified itself as one of Canada’s premier destinations for live events.
A Look Back at Centre Bell’s History
When it opened in March 1996 (then called the Molson Centre), the venue was built to carry forward the Canadiens’ storied tradition while ushering in a new era of modern amenities and fan experience. In 2002, it was renamed Centre Bell after Bell Canada acquired the naming rights.
The arena has since been the site of unforgettable sports history. The Canadiens’ playoff runs, historic matchups against rivals like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins, and milestone NHL events have all taken place here. Beyond hockey, Centre Bell has hosted NBA preseason games, professional boxing, mixed martial arts events like UFC and even international soccer matches on indoor turf.
On the entertainment side, it’s one of the busiest concert arenas in North America, frequently appearing on lists of the world’s top-grossing venues. Local star Céline Dion has performed there dozens of times, solidifying the arena’s status as a global concert powerhouse.
How to Get to Centre Bell
Driving: Centre Bell is located right off Autoroute 720, making it accessible by car from across the city and surrounding suburbs. On-site parking garages and nearby lots are available, though spots can be limited during major events.
Public Transit: Montreal’s excellent STM (Société de transport de Montréal) system makes it easy to reach the arena. The Lucien-L’Allier Metro station is directly connected to Centre Bell, while Bonaventure Station is just a short walk away.
Rideshare/Taxi: Rideshares and taxis can drop off and pick up passengers at designated points along Rue de la Montagne and Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montréal.
Accessibility: Centre Bell is fully accessible, offering wheelchair seating, elevators, accessible restrooms and assistive listening devices for guests with hearing impairments.
Plan Your Visit to Centre Bell
Opening Times: Doors generally open 90 minutes before Canadiens games and concerts.
Food & Beverages: From classic arena fare like hot dogs and popcorn to Montreal specialties like poutine, smoked meat sandwiches and local craft beer, the concessions at Centre Bell bring a taste of the city into the arena.
Family-Friendly Options: Family restrooms, stroller-friendly areas and child ticket pricing make it welcoming for younger fans.
Premium Seating: Fans can upgrade their experience with club seats, luxury suites and VIP lounges that include gourmet dining and private entrances.
Arena Policies
Bag Policy: Small purses and bags are permitted, but backpacks and large bags are not allowed.
Prohibited Items: Outside food/drink, professional cameras with detachable lenses, weapons and noisemakers.
Re-Entry: No re-entry is allowed once tickets are scanned.
Security: Guests should expect metal detectors, wand screenings and bag checks.
Inside Centre Bell
The arena’s layout ensures great sightlines from nearly every section. The lower bowl offers close-up action for hockey games, while the upper bowl provides panoramic views at more affordable prices. For concerts, seating arrangements vary depending on the stage setup, with floor seating and multiple-tiered sections available.
Centre Bell also features:
The Canadiens Hall of Fame Museum – A must-visit for hockey fans, celebrating the franchise’s unparalleled history.
Interactive Fan Zones – Pre-game entertainment and merchandise shops throughout the concourse.
Renovated Technology – High-definition video boards, upgraded sound systems and LED lighting enhance the fan experience.
Make the Most of Your Visit
Best Value Seats: Upper-level center sections balance affordability with solid views of the rink or stage.
Premium Options: The Desjardins Club offers center-ice seating, in-seat service and private concessions.
Signature Tradition: When attending a Canadiens game, don’t miss the crowd’s spine-tingling rendition of “O Canada” and the raucous energy that fills the building. Few arenas in sports match Centre Bell’s atmosphere.
Local Flavor: Be sure to try concessions featuring Montreal classics—you won’t find better arena food in the NHL.
Legacy at Centre Bell
Centre Bell isn’t just a sports arena—it’s the epicenter of Montreal’s culture, energy, and pride. The Canadiens’ legacy makes it a pilgrimage site for hockey fans around the world, while its reputation as a top concert and event destination ensures it plays a central role in Montreal’s thriving entertainment scene. Whether it’s a playoff hockey game, a sold-out rock concert or a family-friendly event like Disney on Ice, Centre Bell offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
Ready to experience one of the NHL’s most iconic arenas? SeatGeek makes it easy to find the best seats for Montreal Canadiens games, concerts and major events at Centre Bell. Compare ticket options, explore seating charts and get ready to enjoy live entertainment in one of the most passionate and electric venues in North America.