What You Need to Know About Bell Centre
Bell Centre is the home arena of the Montreal Canadiens, located in downtown Montreal at 1909 Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montréal. The building opened in 1996 and holds roughly 21,300 people for hockey games. It is also used for concerts, other sports events, and conventions, so the layout and available services can change depending on what event is happening.
The arena sits near the Lucien-L'Allier Metro station and has parking available in an attached garage, though parking fills quickly on game nights. If you are driving, arriving at least 90 minutes early gives you a better chance of finding a spot without paying premium rates for overflow lots.
Key Takeaways
- Tickets are sold through the official Canadiens website, Ticketmaster, and resale platforms like StubHub and Kijiji, with prices varying widely based on opponent and seat location.
- Game days typically run from early October through mid-April for regular season, plus playoff games in April and May if the team advances.
- You can bring a clear bag up to 14 inches wide into the arena, but outside food and alcohol are not permitted.
- Parking in the attached garage costs money on game nights; public transit via the Metro is often faster and cheaper than driving.
- Bell Centre has restaurants, bars, and concession stands inside, though prices are higher than outside the building.
How to Buy Tickets
The Montreal Canadiens sell tickets through their official website at canadiens.com. You can browse the schedule, see available seats with a price map, and buy directly. Tickets range from under $50 for upper-bowl seats against weaker opponents to several hundred dollars for lower-bowl seats against popular teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs or Boston Bruins.
Ticketmaster also sells Canadiens tickets and often has the same inventory as the official site. If you prefer to buy from someone else, resale platforms like StubHub, Kijiji, and Facebook Marketplace have tickets from other fans, sometimes at lower prices if demand is soft. Resale prices can spike the day of the game or drop if the team is struggling.
Student and senior discounts are sometimes available directly through the Canadiens website, though not for every game. Check the ticket page for your specific game to see if a discount applies to your age group.
When Games Are Played and How to Check the Schedule
The Canadiens play home games from October through mid-April during the regular season. Most games are played on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday evenings, with occasional afternoon games on weekends. You can see the full schedule on canadiens.com, which also shows which games are televised and which are available to stream.
Playoff games run from mid-April through June if the team qualifies. Playoff tickets sell much faster than regular season tickets and are often more expensive. If you want to attend a playoff game, buy as soon as they go on sale.
What to Bring and What Is Not Allowed
You can bring a clear plastic bag into Bell Centre, as long as it is no larger than 14 inches wide, 14 inches tall, and 4 inches deep. A small clear purse or a clear plastic shopping bag works. You can also bring a small clutch or wallet without a bag.
Outside food and alcohol are not permitted inside the arena. You can buy food and drinks at concession stands once you are inside, though prices are significantly higher than restaurants outside the building. If you want to eat before the game, there are restaurants and cafés in the surrounding area.
Cameras with detachable lenses are typically not allowed, though phone cameras are fine. Check the Canadiens website for the current list of prohibited items, as policies can change.
Parking and Getting to Bell Centre
Bell Centre has an attached parking garage that costs money on game nights. Rates vary but typically run $20 to $30 for standard parking. The garage fills quickly, especially for popular games, so arriving early improves your chances of finding a spot.
Public transit is often faster and cheaper. The Lucien-L'Allier Metro station is a short walk from the arena on the Green Line. You can buy a single-trip ticket or a day pass at any Metro station. Buses also serve the area; check the STM (Société de transport de Montréal) website for routes that stop near Bell Centre.
If you are taking a taxi or rideshare service like Uber, ask the driver to drop you at the main entrance on Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montréal. Traffic around the arena is heavy before and after games, so allow extra time if you are being picked up after the game ends.
Food, Drinks, and Amenities Inside the Arena
Bell Centre has multiple concession stands throughout the building selling hot dogs, pizza, nachos, popcorn, and other typical arena food. Prices are higher than outside — expect to pay $15 to $20 for a hot dog and drink combo. The arena also has full-service restaurants and bars in certain sections, though these require more time and money.
Alcoholic drinks are sold inside the arena and can be brought to your seat. Non-alcoholic beverages and snacks are also available. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, check the Canadiens website or call ahead to ask what options are available.
The arena has restrooms throughout, ATMs for cash withdrawals, and phone charging stations in some areas. Wifi is available but can be slow during busy games.
What Happens on Game Day
Doors typically open 60 to 90 minutes before puck drop (the start of the game). Arriving early gives you time to find your seat, buy food, and soak in the atmosphere without rushing. The Canadiens usually play music and show highlights on the scoreboard during warm-ups.
Games last roughly two and a half to three hours, including two 15-minute intermissions between periods. During intermissions, the arena shows entertainment and you can move around, buy food, or use the restroom without missing play.
After the game ends, expect crowds heading to the exits and parking garage. If you parked in the garage, plan to wait 20 to 40 minutes to leave, depending on how many people are leaving at the same time. Taking the Metro after the game is usually faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I resell my ticket if I cannot go?
Yes. You can list your ticket on StubHub, Ticketmaster's resale platform, Kijiji, or Facebook Marketplace. The price you get depends on demand — popular games sell quickly at high prices, while games against weaker teams may sell below face value. Resale is legal in Quebec, though some platforms take a commission.
Are there any games I cannot attend because of age?
No. All ages can attend Canadiens games at Bell Centre. Children under a certain age may sit free on a parent's lap for some events, but this varies by event type. Check the ticket page for your specific game to see if any age restrictions explore.
What if I lose my ticket or it does not scan?
If you bought through the Canadiens website or Ticketmaster, your ticket is tied to your account or email. Bring a photo ID and the email confirmation to the box office, and they can reissue or reprint your ticket. If you bought from a reseller, contact that platform first for help.
Can I bring my own chair or cushion to sit on?
No. Outside chairs and cushions are not permitted. Your seat comes with a built-in cushion. If you have a medical reason for needing extra support, contact the Canadiens accessibility office before the game to discuss options.
What is the best time to buy tickets to get a good price?
Prices are usually lowest when tickets first go on sale, roughly two to three months before the game. Prices drop again a few days before the game if it has not sold out. Avoid buying the day of the game unless you are flexible on price, as last-minute tickets are often marked up.