Oct 30, 2025
·Mary Callahan
The PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is one of the city’s premier destinations for sports, concerts and live entertainment. Known primarily as the home of the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, the arena also regularly hosts major concerts, family-friendly shows and special events. With its modern amenities, central location and reputation for passionate crowds, PPG Paints Arena has become a must-visit venue for fans from across the region. Whether you’re watching the Penguins chase another Stanley Cup, catching a sold-out concert or attending a once-in-a-lifetime event, SeatGeek has everything you need to plan your perfect visit.
About PPG Paints Arena
Address: PPG Paints Arena, 1001 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Located just east of downtown Pittsburgh, PPG Paints Arena opened in 2010 and replaced the historic Civic Arena (often called “The Igloo”), which had been home to the Penguins since 1967. With a seating capacity of approximately 18,000 for hockey and up to 20,000 for concerts, the arena combines modern design with fan-friendly amenities.
In addition to Penguins games, the arena has become one of the top concert venues in the Northeast. Artists such as Beyoncé, Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran have all taken the stage at PPG Paints Arena, drawing massive crowds from across Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia.
A Look Back at PPG Paints Arena’s History
Construction for PPG Paints Arena began in 2008, driven by the Penguins’ need for a modern home to replace the outdated Civic Arena. The venue opened its doors in 2010 and quickly established itself as one of the NHL’s premier arenas.
Some of the arena’s most notable moments include:
The Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cup runs in 2016 and 2017, with home ice serving as the backdrop to legendary playoff battles.
Hosting the 2012 NHL Entry Draft and 2017 NHL Stadium Series indoor festivities, cementing its place in hockey history.
Concerts and performances by some of the biggest names in the world, including Garth Brooks, The Rolling Stones and Lady Gaga.
Family-friendly events such as Disney on Ice, WWE wrestling and Cirque du Soleil, making it a venue for guests of all ages.
The arena’s name has changed over the years—from Consol Energy Center (2010–2016) to PPG Paints Arena—but its status as one of Pittsburgh’s premier entertainment hubs has remained constant.
How to Get to PPG Paints Arena
Driving: PPG Paints Arena is conveniently located near I-579, I-376, and I-279, making it easy to reach from the greater Pittsburgh area. Multiple parking garages and surface lots surround the arena, but demand is high for Penguins games and major concerts. Pre-purchasing parking passes through SeatGeek or the arena’s official site is highly recommended.
Public Transit: The Port Authority of Allegheny County operates numerous bus lines that stop near the arena. The T light rail service also connects downtown Pittsburgh to surrounding neighborhoods, making public transit a reliable option.
Rideshare & Shuttles: Designated rideshare pickup and drop-off zones are located near the arena, making Uber and Lyft convenient options.
Accessibility: The arena offers ADA-compliant parking, accessible seating, elevators and ramps to ensure a comfortable visit for all guests.
Plan Your Visit to PPG Paints Arena
Opening Times: Arena doors typically open 90 minutes before the start of hockey games or concerts. Parking lots open earlier, allowing fans to arrive and enjoy pre-event activities.
Event Duration: Penguins games last about 2.5–3 hours, while concerts and family shows vary in length depending on the event.
Ticketing: Mobile tickets are strongly encouraged, though printed tickets and will-call options remain available.
Food & Beverages: PPG Paints Arena offers a wide range of concessions, from traditional arena fare like hot dogs, pizza and nachos to Pittsburgh specialties such as Primanti Bros. sandwiches and pierogies. Local craft beer and specialty cocktails are also available throughout the concourse.
Amenities: Guest services, restrooms, medical stations and family-friendly areas are located throughout the arena. Premium club seats and suites provide upgraded dining, private lounges and exclusive amenities.
Accessibility Services: The arena offers accessible seating, assistive listening devices, captioning services and ADA restrooms.
Arena Policies
Bag Policy: Only small clutches or clear bags (no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″) are allowed. Medically necessary items are permitted with inspection.
Security: All guests must pass through security screening, including metal detectors and bag checks.
Prohibited Items: Outside food and drinks (except sealed water bottles), large umbrellas, coolers, professional cameras and noisemakers are prohibited.
Alcohol Policy: A valid photo ID is required for all alcohol purchases. Sales and last-call times vary by event.
Re-Entry: Guests may not re-enter once they leave the arena.
Inside PPG Paints Arena
The energy inside PPG Paints Arena is electric—especially during Penguins games. The “Pens” faithful bring unmatched passion, making every home game a memorable experience. The design of the arena ensures excellent sightlines and a close-to-the-action feel, whether you’re sitting near the glass or in the upper levels.
For concerts, the arena provides world-class sound and lighting, with flexible staging to accommodate both intimate performances and large-scale productions. Family events and comedy tours also shine thanks to the venue’s versatile setup.
Make the Most of Your Visit
Best Value Seats: Upper-level sideline sections provide strong views of the action at more affordable prices.
Premium Experience: Club seats and luxury suites offer top-notch amenities, private dining and exclusive lounges.
Concert Tips: Floor seats give you the closest view of the performers, while lower bowl sideline seats balance comfort, sightlines and acoustics.
Arrive Early: Pittsburgh traffic and parking congestion can be heavy on game and concert nights. Arriving early allows you to explore downtown, grab a pre-event meal or enjoy the arena’s atmosphere before showtime.
Legacy at PPG Paints Arena
In just over a decade, PPG Paints Arena has built a strong legacy as one of the NHL’s best arenas and one of the top entertainment destinations in the region. From Stanley Cup victories and unforgettable playoff battles to sold-out concerts and community events, the venue is more than just a building—it’s a gathering place for Pittsburgh’s passionate fans.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
Whether you’re cheering on the Penguins, catching a global superstar in concert, or bringing the family to a live show, PPG Paints Arena offers an unforgettable live entertainment experience. SeatGeek makes it easy to find the best tickets, compare seating options and plan your perfect visit to Pittsburgh. With state-of-the-art facilities, passionate crowds and a diverse lineup of events, PPG Paints Arena ensures that every visit is a memorable one.