The Brooklyn Nets play at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York

Barclays Center, located at 620 Atlantic Avenue in downtown Brooklyn, is the home arena of the Brooklyn Nets. The building opened in 2012 and holds approximately 17,732 people for basketball games. The arena is accessible by subway, car, and bus, making it reachable from most parts of New York City and the surrounding region.

The Nets moved to Brooklyn from New Jersey in 2012, the same year Barclays Center opened. Before that, the team played at the Izod Center (later called the Meadowlands Arena) in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The move brought NBA basketball back to Brooklyn after more than 50 years — the last team to play in Brooklyn was the Dodgers, who left in 1957.

Key Takeaways

  • Barclays Center is located at 620 Atlantic Avenue in downtown Brooklyn and holds about 17,732 people for Nets games.
  • The arena is served by multiple subway lines (A, C, R, and 2, 3, 4, 5 trains) and several bus routes, with parking available nearby.
  • Game tickets are sold through the Nets' official website, Ticketmaster, and resale platforms like StubHub and SeatGeek.
  • The arena has concession stands, restaurants, and bars throughout the building, with prices typical for NBA venues.
  • Barclays Center also hosts concerts, hockey games (New York Islanders), and other events beyond Nets basketball.

Getting to Barclays Center by public transportation

The subway is the most common way to reach Barclays Center. The Atlantic Terminal station, directly under the arena, is served by the A, C, and R trains. The same station also connects to the 2, 3, 4, and 5 trains one block away at the Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center stop. From most parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan, you can reach the arena within 20 to 45 minutes depending on your starting point.

Several bus routes also stop near Barclays Center, including the B25, B26, B52, and others. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) website has a trip planner that shows real-time subway and bus schedules. On game nights, the MTA sometimes adds extra service to handle the crowd leaving the arena after the game ends.

Parking and driving to the arena

If you drive, several parking garages are located within a few blocks of Barclays Center. The arena itself does not have its own parking lot. Garages in the area include the Atlantic Terminal parking structure (attached to the building) and independent lots on surrounding streets. Parking prices vary by garage and by day of the week, typically ranging from $15 to $35 for an event.

Atlantic Avenue and the surrounding streets can be congested on game nights, especially before the game starts and after it ends. Arriving early or using a parking app like SpotHero or ParkWhiz to reserve a spot in advance can save time. Some people choose to park in a residential neighborhood farther away and walk or take the subway the last part of the way.

Buying tickets to Nets games

Tickets to Nets games are sold through the official Brooklyn Nets website (nba.com/nets), Ticketmaster, and resale platforms including StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats. Prices depend on the opponent, the day of the week, and how close the game is. Games against popular teams or on weekends typically cost more than weekday games against less-watched opponents.

Season ticket holders and members of the Nets' loyalty program sometimes get first access to tickets or discounted prices. The team also releases single-game tickets in phases, with some becoming available weeks before the game and others released closer to game day. Resale platforms often have tickets available at different price points, though fees added by the platform can increase the total cost.

What to bring and what is not allowed inside

Barclays Center allows guests to bring a small bag (roughly the size of a purse or backpack) and a clear plastic bag for storage. Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the arena. You can bring an empty water bottle and fill it at fountains inside, or purchase drinks and food at concession stands throughout the building.

Weapons of any kind, including firearms, knives, and pepper spray, are prohibited. Professional cameras with detachable lenses are not allowed for regular games, though the policy may differ for special events. Laser pointers, air horns, and other items that could disrupt the game or other spectators are also banned. The Nets' official website lists the full prohibited items policy.

Food, drinks, and amenities at Barclays Center

Barclays Center has concession stands throughout the arena selling typical arena food: hot dogs, pizza, nachos, popcorn, and candy. Prices are higher than outside restaurants — a hot dog typically costs $12 to $15, and a drink $8 to $12. The arena also has several full-service restaurants and bars, including a Shake Shack and other branded vendors, though these are pricier and often have longer lines on game nights.

The arena has restrooms on multiple levels and throughout the seating bowl. Charging stations for phones are available in some areas. The building is climate-controlled and generally comfortable, though it can get warm during crowded games. If you have mobility concerns, the arena has accessible seating and elevators to reach different levels.

Other events at Barclays Center beyond Nets games

Barclays Center hosts events beyond basketball. The New York Islanders (NHL) play some of their home games there, though they also use UBS Arena in Elmont, Queens. The arena regularly holds concerts, wrestling events, boxing matches, and other sporting events. The calendar of events is posted on the Barclays Center website, which also shows which events require separate tickets.

The arena's location in downtown Brooklyn makes it a destination for entertainment beyond sports. The surrounding Atlantic Terminal area has shops, restaurants, and hotels, so some visitors make an evening of it by eating nearby before or after an event.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time should I arrive before a Nets game?

Most venues recommend arriving 30 to 60 minutes before tipoff, especially if you want to park, get food, or find your seat without rushing. On popular game nights, arriving earlier is safer. The Nets' website lists the exact tipoff time for each game.

Can I bring my own food into Barclays Center?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the arena. You can bring an empty water bottle to fill at fountains, but all food and drinks must be purchased at concession stands inside the building.

Is there accessible seating for people with disabilities?

Yes, Barclays Center has accessible seating throughout the arena and elevators to reach different levels. You can contact the Nets' box office directly to discuss your needs and reserve accessible seats when you purchase tickets.

How do I get a refund if a game is cancelled?

Refund policies depend on where you bought the ticket. If you purchased through the Nets' official website or Ticketmaster, check your confirmation email for the refund process. Resale platforms have their own policies, which are usually listed on the platform's website.

Can I leave the arena and come back during the game?

Most venues, including Barclays Center, do not allow re-entry once you leave. Check your ticket or contact the box office to confirm the policy for your specific game.