The Detroit Red Wings play at Little Caesars Arena in downtown Detroit

Little Caesars Arena, located at 2645 Woodward Avenue in Detroit, Michigan, is the home of the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League. The arena opened in September 2017 and replaced the Joe Louis Arena, where the Red Wings had played since 1979. The building is also home to the Detroit Pistons of the NBA and the Detroit Red Wings' minor league affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins, during certain events.

The arena sits in downtown Detroit's Corktown neighborhood and is accessible by car, public transit, and on foot from nearby parking structures. The facility holds approximately 19,500 people for hockey games, though capacity varies slightly depending on the event setup and seating configuration.

Key Takeaways

  • Little Caesars Arena is located at 2645 Woodward Avenue in downtown Detroit and has been the Red Wings' home since September 2017.
  • The arena holds roughly 19,500 spectators for hockey games and is also home to the Detroit Pistons basketball team.
  • Parking is available in multiple structures surrounding the arena, though prices and availability vary by event date and time.
  • The Red Wings play an 82-game regular season schedule from October through April, with playoff games extending into May or June depending on their performance.
  • Tickets are sold through the official Red Wings website, StubHub, Ticketmaster, and other resellers, with prices varying by opponent and seat location.

Getting to Little Caesars Arena by car and parking

If you drive to Little Caesars Arena, multiple parking structures surround the building. The arena's official parking lots fill quickly on game days, especially for matchups against rival teams or weekend games. Prices typically range from $10 to $25 depending on the lot, proximity to the arena entrance, and whether you book in advance through the arena's website or a parking app.

Street parking exists in the surrounding neighborhoods but is limited and often requires a permit. Many fans use third-party parking apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz to reserve spots ahead of time, which can sometimes offer lower rates than day-of parking. Arrive at least 90 minutes before puck drop if you plan to park on-site, as lots can reach capacity during popular games.

Public transportation and walking to the arena

Detroit's public transit system, operated by DDOT (Detroit Department of Transportation) and SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation), serves Little Caesars Arena. The M-1 Rail streetcar stops near the arena and connects to other parts of downtown Detroit. Several bus routes also pass within walking distance of the building.

The arena is walkable from many downtown hotels and restaurants, particularly those in Corktown and the surrounding neighborhoods. If you use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, drop-off zones are designated on Woodward Avenue and nearby streets. Plan for extra time if using public transit on game nights, as service can be crowded when ready before and after events.

Red Wings schedule and ticket information

The Detroit Red Wings play an 82-game regular season schedule that typically runs from October through April. Playoff games, if the team qualifies, extend into May and sometimes June. The Red Wings' home games are spread throughout the week, with a mix of weeknight and weekend matchups.

Tickets are sold through the official Detroit Red Wings website (nhl.com/redwings), Ticketmaster, StubHub, and other resellers. Prices vary significantly based on the opponent — games against Original Six rivals like the Toronto Maple Leafs or Chicago Blackhawks cost more than games against less traditional opponents. Weekend games and games during holiday periods also command higher prices. Single-game tickets, season ticket plans, and partial season packages are all available through these channels.

What to expect inside the arena

Little Caesars Arena features modern amenities including multiple concession stands, restaurants, and bars throughout the building. The arena has Wi-Fi available to spectators, and the seating bowl is designed so that most seats have a clear view of the ice. Premium seating options include club seats with access to exclusive lounges and suites for groups.

The arena enforces a clear bag policy for security purposes — bags larger than 14 inches by 14 inches are generally not permitted. Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the building, though the arena's concession prices are comparable to other NHL venues. The building is fully accessible for people with mobility challenges, with elevators, accessible seating, and accessible restrooms throughout.

Arena events beyond Red Wings games

Little Caesars Arena hosts events beyond Red Wings hockey, including Detroit Pistons basketball games, concerts, wrestling events, and other sporting competitions. The arena's calendar is busy year-round, so checking the official schedule before planning a visit is important if you want to know what else might be happening on a particular date.

The arena also occasionally hosts college hockey games, international hockey tournaments, and other special events. These non-Red Wings events may have different ticket pricing, parking procedures, and entry policies, so review the specific event details before attending.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into Little Caesars Arena?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the arena. However, the building has numerous concession stands and restaurants throughout, and you can purchase food and drinks at various price points. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, contact the arena in advance to ask about options.

What is the clear bag policy at Little Caesars Arena?

Bags larger than 14 inches by 14 inches are generally not permitted. Small purses, clutches, and bags that fit within those dimensions are allowed. Check the official Red Wings website for the most current bag policy before your visit, as rules can change.

How early should I arrive before a Red Wings game?

Plan to arrive at least 90 minutes before puck drop if you are driving and parking on-site. If you are using public transit or rideshare, arriving 60 minutes early is usually sufficient. Arriving early gives you time to park, find your seat, and grab food or drinks before the game starts.

Are there accessible parking spaces for people with disabilities?

Yes, Little Caesars Arena has accessible parking spaces in its lots and nearby structures. You will need a valid disability parking permit to use these spaces. Contact the arena's accessibility office in advance if you need specific accommodations or have questions about accessible parking availability.

Can I get a refund if a Red Wings game is postponed or cancelled?

Refund policies depend on the reason for postponement or cancellation and the ticket seller. Check your ticket confirmation email or the official Red Wings website for the specific refund policy. If you purchased through a reseller like StubHub, that platform's policy may differ from the arena's official policy.