What Scotiabank Saddledome is and where it sits
Scotiabank Saddledome is the home arena of the Calgary Flames, the National Hockey League team based in Calgary, Alberta. The building opened in 1983 and sits in downtown Calgary at 19 Street SW and Bow River Crescent, a few blocks south of the Bow River. The arena holds roughly 19,000 people for hockey games, though the exact capacity can shift slightly depending on seating configuration.
The building's most recognizable feature is its roof — a white cable-stayed structure that resembles a saddle, which is how it got its name. The design was intentional, meant to reflect Calgary's ranching heritage. The roof is made of Teflon-coated fibreglass and has become one of the most photographed sports buildings in Canada.
The Flames have played there continuously since the arena opened, making it one of the longer-tenured homes for an NHL team. The building underwent major renovations between 2013 and 2018 that updated the seating, concourse areas, and building systems while keeping the iconic roof intact.
Key Takeaways
- Scotiabank Saddledome opened in 1983 and is located in downtown Calgary near the Bow River.
- The arena's distinctive saddle-shaped roof is made of Teflon-coated fibreglass and reflects Calgary's ranching culture.
- The building holds approximately 19,000 people for Flames games and underwent major renovations from 2013 to 2018.
- The Flames have been the primary tenant since the arena opened and continue to play there today.
Getting to Scotiabank Saddledome by transit and parking
The arena is accessible by Calgary's C-Train (the city's light rail system). The Eau Claire station is the closest stop, located about a five-minute walk from the building. Most game-day visitors use the C-Train because parking downtown is limited and paid lots fill quickly on event nights.
If you drive, several paid parking lots and parkades operate in the surrounding blocks. Prices vary by lot and event, but downtown Calgary parking typically costs between $10 and $20 per vehicle on game nights. Some lots offer advance booking, which can be cheaper than paying at the gate.
The arena is also walkable from several downtown Calgary neighbourhoods, including the Beltline and East Village. The walk from most downtown hotels takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on starting point.
What to bring and what the building allows
The Flames and Scotiabank Saddledome follow standard NHL arena policies for what spectators can bring inside. You can bring a small bag (typically no larger than 14 inches by 14 inches by 6 inches), a jacket, and a phone or camera. Outside food and drink are not permitted — the arena has its own concession stands.
Glass containers, weapons, and recording devices beyond personal cameras are prohibited. The arena also does not allow large signs or banners, though small handheld signs are usually permitted. Specific rules can change, so checking the Flames' official website before you attend is worth doing.
The building has designated accessible seating for people with mobility needs, and service animals are permitted. The arena has accessible washrooms and elevators throughout.
Concessions, seating, and amenities inside the building
Scotiabank Saddledome has concession stands throughout the building selling hot food, snacks, and drinks. Prices are typical for NHL arenas — higher than outside restaurants but standard for the league. The building also has a mix of general seating, club seats with premium amenities, and luxury suites.
The 2013–2018 renovations added new seating sections, improved sightlines from many areas, and updated the concourse. The upper bowl (the highest seating level) was completely rebuilt during this period. Most seats now have better views of the ice than they did before the renovation.
The arena has Wi-Fi throughout, though it can be slow on busy game nights. There are charging stations in some seating areas, particularly in premium sections. The building also has family-friendly areas and quiet spaces for people who find the noise level overwhelming.
Event calendar and what happens beyond Flames games
Scotiabank Saddledome is primarily home to the Calgary Flames' 82-game regular season plus playoffs. The Flames typically play 41 home games per season from October through April, with playoff games extending into May or June if the team advances.
The building also hosts other events including concerts, conventions, and other sporting events. The Calgary Stampeders (Canadian Football League) have occasionally played there, and the arena hosts university hockey and other amateur events. Concert schedules vary year to year and are announced by the venue and promoters.
The Flames' official website and Ticketmaster list upcoming events and game dates. You can also check the Saddledome's own website for a full event calendar.
Ticket prices and how to purchase
Flames ticket prices vary widely depending on the opponent, day of the week, and seat location. A regular-season game against a division rival on a Saturday typically costs more than a Tuesday game against a non-rival team. Prices can range from roughly $40 for upper-bowl seats against lower-ranked teams to $200 or more for premium seats or games against popular opponents.
Tickets are sold through Ticketmaster, the official Flames website, and resale platforms like StubHub and Kijiji. Ticketmaster is the primary official vendor. Prices on resale sites fluctuate based on demand and can be higher or lower than face value depending on the game.
The Flames sometimes offer discounts for weekday games, group purchases, or season-ticket holder promotions. Checking the team's website for current promotions before buying is common practice.
The building's history and renovations
Scotiabank Saddledome was designed by architect Cesar Pelli and opened on October 15, 1983. The building cost approximately $160 million to construct at the time, making it one of the most expensive sports buildings built in Canada up to that point. The distinctive roof design was both an architectural statement and a practical solution to the building's structural needs.
The arena hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics ice hockey events, which raised its profile internationally. The building remained largely unchanged for 30 years until the major renovation project began in 2013. That project replaced seating, updated mechanical systems, improved accessibility, and modernized the concourse without altering the iconic roof structure.
The renovations took five years and cost over $200 million. The Flames continued to play during most of the renovation, though some games were moved to temporary locations during the most intensive construction phases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food and drinks into Scotiabank Saddledome?
No. Outside food and drink are not permitted inside the arena. The building has its own concession stands throughout. You can bring an empty water bottle if you want to fill it at water fountains inside.
What is the closest parking to the arena?
Several paid parkades and lots surround the building in downtown Calgary. The closest are within one block. Prices typically range from $10 to $20 per vehicle on game nights. Using the C-Train is often faster and cheaper than driving and parking.
How do I get tickets for Flames games?
Ticketmaster is the official vendor and the primary place to buy tickets. You can also purchase through the Flames' official website. Resale platforms like StubHub and Kijiji offer tickets from other sellers, though prices may differ from face value.
Does Scotiabank Saddledome have accessible seating?
Yes. The arena has designated accessible seating for people with mobility needs, accessible washrooms, and elevators throughout the building. Service animals are permitted. Contact the Flames' accessibility office before your visit if you need specific accommodations.
When was Scotiabank Saddledome built?
The arena opened on October 15, 1983. It underwent major renovations from 2013 to 2018 that updated seating, concourse areas, and building systems while preserving the original roof structure.