Where Scotiabank Arena Is Located and How to Get There
Scotiabank Arena sits at 20 Bay Street in downtown Toronto, right on the waterfront between the Gardiner Expressway and Lake Ontario. The building is a short walk from the St. Lawrence neighbourhood and the Distillery District. If you are driving, the arena has its own parking garage with multiple levels, though spaces fill quickly on game nights — arriving at least an hour early gives you a better chance of parking close to the entrance.
Public transit is often faster than driving. The Bathurst subway station (Line 2) is about a 10-minute walk north. The Spadina station is also nearby. Several streetcar lines run along King Street and Queen Street West, both within walking distance. GO Transit buses also stop near the arena if you are coming from outside the city.
Key Takeaways
- Scotiabank Arena is at 20 Bay Street in downtown Toronto, accessible by subway (Bathurst or Spadina stations), streetcar, or the parking garage on-site.
- Game tickets are sold through the official Raptors website, Ticketmaster, and resale platforms like StubHub and Kijiji, with prices varying by opponent and seat location.
- The arena has a no-bag policy for most events — small clutches and medical bags are allowed, but large backpacks and purses are not permitted inside.
- Food and drinks are available throughout the arena at concession stands, though outside food and beverages cannot be brought in.
- Arrive at least 90 minutes before tipoff to allow time for parking, entry lines, and finding your seat.
How to Buy Tickets for Raptors Games
The official Toronto Raptors website is the primary place to purchase tickets directly. You can browse the full schedule, see available seats in real time, and buy through their ticketing system. Prices depend on the opponent — games against teams like the Boston Celtics or Los Angeles Lakers cost more than games against smaller-market teams. Playoff games and opening night are also more expensive.
Ticketmaster is another official vendor and often has the same inventory as the Raptors site. If you already have a Ticketmaster account, buying there may be faster. Resale platforms like StubHub, Kijiji, and Facebook Marketplace also list tickets from other fans. Resale tickets are often cheaper than face value, especially for less popular matchups, but you are buying from another person rather than the team — check the seller's rating and confirm the ticket delivery method before paying.
Season ticket holders sometimes release single games, and the Raptors occasionally run promotions for discounted tickets on their social media accounts. Signing up for the team's email list will notify you of flash sales and special offers.
What to Bring and What Is Not Allowed Inside
Scotiabank Arena enforces a strict no-bag policy. You cannot bring backpacks, large purses, or duffel bags inside the building. Small clutches (roughly the size of a wallet or phone case) are permitted, as are medical bags and diaper bags. If you need to carry items, use a small bag or leave larger ones in your car or at your hotel.
Outside food and drinks are not allowed. You must purchase food and beverages from the arena's concession stands. Alcohol is sold inside but only to people 19 and older (the legal drinking age in Ontario). You cannot bring your own alcohol into the arena.
Weapons of any kind — including pocket knives, pepper spray, and firearms — are prohibited. Cameras with detachable lenses are not permitted for regular games, though phone cameras are fine. Check the Raptors website before your visit, as policies can change for special events or playoff games.
Parking, Arrival Time, and Getting Inside
The arena's parking garage is connected directly to the building, which is convenient but fills up quickly on game nights. Parking rates vary but typically run between $20 and $30 for a standard vehicle. If you arrive more than two hours before tipoff, you are more likely to find a spot. Alternatively, street parking is available in the surrounding neighbourhood, though it can be harder to find and may require walking several blocks.
Plan to arrive at least 90 minutes before the game starts. This gives you time to park, walk to the arena, go through security screening, and find your seat without rushing. Security lines move faster earlier in the evening. If you are coming by transit, check the TTC website for any service delays before you leave home.
The arena opens its doors roughly 90 minutes before tipoff. Once inside, concession stands are open, and you can explore the seating bowl and find restrooms. Arriving early also lets you soak in the atmosphere as the crowd builds.
Seating Sections and Sightlines
Scotiabank Arena has a standard bowl layout with lower bowl, club level, and upper bowl sections. Lower bowl seats (sections 101 to 120) are closest to the court and offer the best views but cost the most. Club level seats (sections 201 to 220) are in the middle and often include perks like premium concessions or lounge access, depending on your ticket type. Upper bowl seats (sections 301 to 320) are the most affordable and still provide a good view of the game, though you are farther from the action.
Corner seats generally offer better sightlines than baseline seats (behind the baskets), where the backboard can obstruct your view at certain angles. When buying tickets, the arena's interactive seating map shows you exactly what you will see from each seat. Use this tool to compare options before you purchase.
Food, Drinks, and Concessions
Concession stands throughout the arena sell hot dogs, nachos, pizza, popcorn, candy, and soft drinks. Prices are higher than outside restaurants — expect to pay $15 to $20 for a hot dog and drink combo. Beer, wine, and spirits are available at dedicated bars and some concession stands. Non-alcoholic options include bottled water, soda, juice, and coffee.
The arena has partnered with local Toronto restaurants and vendors for some premium food options. These vary by season but may include items from well-known local chains. Check the Raptors website or the arena's app to see what vendors will be operating on your game night.
If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, most concession staff can tell you about ingredients. Bring any necessary medications or snacks for medical reasons — medical bags are exempt from the no-bag policy.
What Happens During the Game and After
Raptors games typically last about two hours and 15 minutes from tipoff to final buzzer. There are two 12-minute halves (not quarters like in college basketball), with a 15-minute halftime break. Timeouts and fouls stop the clock, so the actual time in your seat is usually closer to three hours. Bring a jacket or sweater — arena air conditioning can make the upper bowl feel cold.
After the game ends, the arena empties quickly. If you parked in the garage, expect a wait of 20 to 30 minutes as thousands of cars leave at once. Leaving when ready after the final buzzer gets you out faster than waiting for the crowd to thin. If you took transit, head to the nearest subway or streetcar station — service runs late on game nights, but trains and streetcars fill up quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my child to a Raptors game?
Yes. Children of all ages can attend games. Infants and toddlers do not need a ticket if they sit on a parent's lap, but they must have their own seat if you want them in a chair. The arena is generally family-friendly during regular season games, though some playoff games or special events may have different atmospheres. Bring snacks or formula for young children, as arena food is expensive and limited in variety for babies.
What if I need accessible seating or have a mobility issue?
Scotiabank Arena has wheelchair-accessible seating throughout the building, including lower bowl, club, and upper bowl sections. Accessible parking is available in the garage. Contact the Raptors ticket office before you purchase to discuss your needs — they can direct you to the best seats and explain what accommodations are available. Service animals are permitted inside the arena.
Can I leave the arena and come back during the game?
No. Once you exit the building, you cannot re-enter with the same ticket. If you need to leave early, you will not be able to return. Plan your timing accordingly, especially if you have young children or need frequent restroom breaks.
What is the dress code for a Raptors game?
There is no official dress code. Most fans wear casual clothing — jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are standard. Many people wear Raptors jerseys or team colours (red and black). Dress for the weather outside, but remember the arena is air-conditioned and can feel cold, especially in the upper bowl.
How do I get to my seat if I do not know the arena layout?
Ushers are stationed throughout the arena and can direct you to your section and seat. Your ticket shows your section number and seat number. When you enter, tell an usher your section, and they will point you in the right direction. The arena is not huge, and most people find their seats within a few minutes of asking for help.