Madison Square Garden is the New York Rangers' arena in Midtown Manhattan

The New York Rangers play at Madison Square Garden, located at 33rd Street and Seventh Avenue in Manhattan. The building sits above Penn Station in Midtown, making it accessible by subway, commuter rail, and car. Madison Square Garden has been the Rangers' home since 1968, when the team moved from the original Madison Square Garden that stood on a different site.

The arena holds roughly 18,000 people for hockey games. The exact capacity varies slightly depending on the seating configuration and whether standing room is included. Tickets range widely in price depending on the opponent, day of the week, and seat location — a regular-season game against a division rival on a Saturday will cost more than a weekday game against a less popular team.

Madison Square Garden is also home to the New York Knicks (NBA), New York Liberty (WNBA), and New York Islanders (NHL, though the Islanders are transitioning to a new arena). The building hosts concerts, wrestling, boxing, and other events throughout the year, so the Rangers' schedule does not always have the arena available.

Key Takeaways

  • Madison Square Garden is located at 33rd Street and Seventh Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, directly above Penn Station.
  • The arena holds approximately 18,000 people for Rangers games and has been the team's home since 1968.
  • You can reach the building by subway (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 lines), Long Island Rail Road, or car, with parking available in nearby garages.
  • Ticket prices vary based on the opponent, day of the week, and seat location, with playoff games and games against rival teams commanding higher prices.
  • The building hosts other events throughout the year, so Rangers games are not held every night during the season.

Getting to Madison Square Garden by public transit

The subway is the most common way to reach Madison Square Garden. Multiple lines stop directly at Penn Station below the arena: the A, C, and E trains (Eighth Avenue Line), and the 1, 2, and 3 trains (Broadway-Seventh Avenue Line). Any of these will get you to the building. During game nights, the station is crowded, so plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before puck drop if you are using the subway.

The Long Island Rail Road also stops at Penn Station and serves commuters from Long Island and surrounding areas. If you are traveling from outside the city, check the LIRR schedule to confirm a train arrives before the game and departs after it ends. The LIRR can be faster than driving if you are coming from certain parts of Long Island or New Jersey.

Once you exit the subway or LIRR, follow signs for Madison Square Garden. The arena entrance is at street level on 33rd Street. The walk from the subway platform to the arena entrance typically takes 5 to 10 minutes.

Parking and driving to the arena

Parking near Madison Square Garden is expensive and often difficult to find on game nights. Multiple parking garages operate within a few blocks of the arena, including facilities on 34th Street, 35th Street, and side streets off Seventh and Eighth Avenues. Prices vary by garage and by event; expect to pay $20 to $40 or more for a game night, with premium pricing for popular matchups.

If you drive, arrive early — garages fill up as game time approaches. Some garages offer online reservation systems that let you book a spot in advance. Search "parking near Madison Square Garden" to find current options and rates. Valet parking is available at some locations but costs significantly more than self-parking.

Street parking in Midtown is metered and heavily enforced, especially on game nights. Do not rely on finding a free spot; use a garage instead.

What to bring and arena policies

Madison Square Garden allows bags, but they must be smaller than 14 inches wide by 14 inches tall by 6 inches deep — roughly the size of a small backpack or large purse. Clear bags are permitted and do not count toward the size limit. Prohibited items include weapons of any kind, outside food and beverages, recording devices, and professional cameras. Binoculars are allowed.

You will pass through security screening at the entrance, similar to airport security. Arrive at least 45 minutes before puck drop to clear security and find your seat, especially on busy nights. Wear comfortable shoes — you will be walking through the building and standing in lines.

The arena is climate-controlled and can be cold, particularly in the upper-level seats. Bring a light jacket or sweatshirt. Concessions inside the building sell food, beverages, and Rangers merchandise at prices typical for an arena — significantly higher than outside vendors.

Seating sections and sight lines

Madison Square Garden has three levels of seating: the lower bowl (sections 101–124), the middle level (sections 201–224), and the upper level (sections 301–324). Lower-bowl seats offer the best view of the ice and are the most expensive. Middle-level seats provide a good view at a moderate price. Upper-level seats are the cheapest but are farther from the action and may have obstructed views depending on the section.

The corners of the arena (sections 103–105, 113–115, 203–205, 213–215, 303–305, 313–315) typically offer the best sight lines for watching the full ice. Seats behind the goals (sections 101–102, 121–124, 201–202, 221–224, 301–302, 321–324) are cheaper but give you a narrow view of the play. Check the seat map when you purchase tickets to confirm your view.

Accessibility seating and companion seating for people with disabilities are available throughout the arena. Contact Madison Square Garden's box office directly to discuss your needs and find appropriate seating.

Ticket prices and where to buy

Rangers ticket prices vary widely based on the opponent, day of the week, and how far in advance you buy. A regular-season game against a less popular team on a Tuesday might start at $30–$50 for upper-level seats, while a Saturday game against the New York Islanders or Boston Bruins could cost $100–$300 or more for the same seats. Playoff games are significantly more expensive.

You can purchase tickets through the official Madison Square Garden website (msg.com), the Rangers' official website (nhl.com/rangers), or resale platforms like StubHub, Ticketmaster's resale section, or SeatGeek. Prices on resale platforms fluctuate based on demand and can be higher or lower than face value depending on how close the game is and how many tickets are available.

Buying tickets directly from the box office (by phone or in person) guarantees you are purchasing legitimate tickets, though you may pay face value or a service fee. Avoid purchasing from unofficial resellers or street vendors outside the arena — counterfeit tickets are common.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into Madison Square Garden?

No, outside food and beverages are not permitted. You can purchase food and drinks at concession stands throughout the arena. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, contact the arena in advance to discuss options.

What time should I arrive for a game?

Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes to an hour before puck drop. This gives you time to navigate transit or parking, pass through security, and find your seat without rushing. On particularly busy nights (playoffs, popular opponents), arriving even earlier is wise.

Are there accessible entrances and facilities for people with disabilities?

Yes, Madison Square Garden has accessible entrances, elevators, restrooms, and seating throughout the building. Contact the box office at (212) 465-6741 or visit msg.com to discuss your specific needs and arrange appropriate accommodations.

Can I take photos or videos during the game?

Personal photography and video recording for private use are generally allowed, but professional cameras and recording equipment are prohibited. Do not use flash photography, as it can distract players and other fans. Check the current policy on the Rangers' website before the game.

What is the best way to get back to the subway after the game?

Follow the crowd toward 33rd Street and Seventh Avenue. The Penn Station subway entrance is clearly marked. Expect crowded conditions when ready after the game ends; if you are not in a hurry, wait 15–20 minutes for the crowd to thin out before heading to the station.