Where the Celtics Play and How to Get There

The Boston Celtics play at TD Garden, located at 100 Legends Way in Boston, Massachusetts. The arena sits in the downtown area near the North Station transit hub, making it accessible by the MBTA subway system (the Green and Orange lines both stop at North Station). If you drive, there are several parking garages within walking distance, though prices vary by lot and event date.

TD Garden has been the Celtics' home since 1995. Before that, the team played at the Boston Garden, which occupied the same location. The current building also hosts the NHL's Boston Bruins, so on nights when both teams play, parking and traffic around the arena are heavier than usual.

Key Takeaways

  • TD Garden is located at 100 Legends Way in downtown Boston and is served by the MBTA Green and Orange lines at North Station.
  • The arena holds roughly 19,000 people for Celtics games, and seating ranges from courtside to upper-level standing room.
  • Game-day parking is available in nearby garages but fills quickly on popular matchups; public transit is often faster and cheaper.
  • The arena has restaurants, bars, and concession stands inside, though outside options on Legends Way and Hanover Street offer different price points.
  • Bag policies, prohibited items, and entry procedures are enforced at the doors, so arriving early prevents delays.

Seating Sections and Ticket Price Ranges

TD Garden has three seating levels. The lower bowl sits closest to the court and includes sections 1 through 19, wrapping around the playing surface. Courtside and club seats in this section cost the most and offer premium amenities like wider seats and dedicated entry. Regular lower-bowl seats are still expensive but less so than club level.

The upper bowl (sections 20 through 38) offers a full view of the court from a higher angle. These seats cost less than lower-bowl tickets but more than standing room. The balcony level includes standing-room-only areas and the cheapest tickets, though sightlines can be partially obstructed depending on the section.

Ticket prices vary widely by opponent, day of the week, and how far in advance you buy. A regular-season game against a non-rival team on a weeknight may have lower-priced tickets than a matchup against the Lakers or Heat on a weekend. Playoff games cost significantly more across all sections.

What to Bring and What Is Prohibited

TD Garden allows small bags, purses, and backpacks that fit within a 16-inch by 16-inch by 8-inch size limit. Clear bags are preferred and move through security faster. You can bring an empty water bottle and fill it at fountains inside the arena.

Prohibited items include weapons of any kind, outside food and beverages, recording devices (including professional cameras), and items that obstruct other fans' views. Laser pointers, air horns, and signs larger than a certain dimension are also not allowed. The full list is posted on the Celtics' official website, and security staff enforce these rules at entry gates.

Arrive at least 45 minutes before tipoff to allow time for bag checks and entry scanning. On high-demand nights, arriving earlier prevents long lines at the gates.

Parking, Transit, and Getting Around

The MBTA is the most reliable way to reach TD Garden. The Green Line (B, C, or D branch) and Orange Line both stop at North Station, which is directly connected to the arena by a pedestrian tunnel. A single MBTA fare costs less than parking at most nearby garages and avoids the post-game traffic congestion.

If you drive, parking garages surround the arena. The Boston Garden Garage is directly beneath the building and is the most convenient but also the most expensive. Other options include the Haymarket Garage, Government Center Garage, and several private lots on nearby streets. Prices typically range from $15 to $30 depending on the lot and event, though premium events may cost more. Many garages offer pre-purchase discounts if you buy online before the game.

Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) operate in Boston but can have surge pricing on game nights. If you use rideshare, arrange pickup at a designated zone rather than waiting curbside, which speeds up departure after the game.

Food, Drinks, and Concessions Inside the Arena

TD Garden has multiple concession stands throughout the building serving hot dogs, pizza, nachos, popcorn, and other standard arena fare. Prices are higher than outside restaurants — a hot dog and drink combo typically costs $25 to $35. The arena also has a few branded restaurants and bars, including a Jillian's location and a Celtics-themed bar area.

Outside the arena, Legends Way and the surrounding streets have restaurants, bars, and food trucks. Hanover Street (in the nearby Haymarket neighborhood) has Italian restaurants, sandwich shops, and casual dining. Many fans eat or drink before or after the game in these spots to save money or avoid arena crowds.

Alcohol is sold inside the arena and is subject to standard venue policies — you must show ID, and service stops before the end of the game. Outside the arena, bars stay open late on game nights and are popular gathering spots before and after.

Accessibility and Special Services

TD Garden has wheelchair-accessible seating throughout the building, with designated spaces in the lower and upper bowls. Accessible parking is available in nearby lots and garages. The arena has accessible restrooms and elevators to all levels.

If you need information, staff members are stationed throughout the building. The Celtics' website lists accessibility information and a phone number to call with specific questions before your visit. Service animals are allowed in the arena.

The arena also offers sensory-friendly events for fans with autism or sensory sensitivities, though these are scheduled on specific dates and require advance notice. Check the Celtics' official site for upcoming sensory-friendly game dates.

What Happens on Game Day

Doors typically open 90 minutes before tipoff. Fans can enter early to find their seats, explore the concourse, and watch warm-ups. The arena fills steadily in the hour before the game starts, and parking becomes harder to find as tipoff approaches.

During the game, the arena enforces its noise and conduct policies. Fans are expected to remain seated during play (except for timeouts and breaks), and security staff will ask fans to sit down if they stand for extended periods. Disruptive behavior, including verbal abuse of players or other fans, can result in ejection without a refund.

After the game, traffic and transit are congested for 30 to 45 minutes. If you drove, expect a wait to exit the parking garage. If you took the MBTA, expect crowded trains for the first 15 to 20 minutes after the final buzzer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into TD Garden?

Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the arena. You can bring an empty water bottle and fill it at fountains, but no other drinks or food from outside. All food and drinks must be purchased at arena concessions or restaurants.

What is the best way to get to TD Garden if I don't want to drive?

The MBTA is the fastest and cheapest option. Take the Green Line (B, C, or D) or Orange Line to North Station, which connects directly to the arena. A single fare is under $3, and you avoid parking costs and post-game traffic.

How early should I arrive before a Celtics game?

Arrive at least 45 minutes before tipoff to allow time for parking (if driving), transit (if using MBTA), and entry security. On high-demand games, arriving 60 to 90 minutes early prevents long lines and gives you time to explore the arena before the game starts.

Are there restaurants near TD Garden other than inside the arena?

Yes. Legends Way and Hanover Street (in the Haymarket neighborhood) have Italian restaurants, sandwich shops, bars, and casual dining. These options are cheaper than arena concessions and are popular before and after games.

Does TD Garden have accessible seating for wheelchair users?

Yes. The arena has wheelchair-accessible seating in the lower and upper bowls, accessible parking nearby, elevators to all levels, and accessible restrooms. Call the Celtics' accessibility line before your visit if you have specific questions about your needs.