What Climate Pledge Arena is and where it sits

Climate Pledge Arena is the home of the Seattle Kraken, the NHL team that began play in the 2021–22 season. The arena is located in Seattle, Washington, in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood, just north of downtown. It sits at 334 5th Avenue South, a few blocks from Pike Place Market and the waterfront.

The building itself is not new — it opened in 1962 as the Seattle Center Coliseum and hosted concerts, basketball, hockey, and other events for decades. In 2019, Amazon and the Kraken ownership group funded a major renovation. The arena reopened in 2021 with a new name reflecting its commitment to carbon-neutral operations, and it became the Kraken's first home.

The arena holds roughly 18,000 people for hockey. The exact capacity varies slightly depending on the event setup, but that is the standard configuration for Kraken games.

Key Takeaways

  • Climate Pledge Arena is located at 334 5th Avenue South in Seattle's Lower Queen Anne neighborhood, a short walk from downtown and Pike Place Market.
  • The building was renovated and reopened in 2021 after decades of use as the Seattle Center Coliseum, and it is designed to operate carbon-neutral.
  • The arena holds approximately 18,000 people for Kraken hockey games.
  • Parking is available in nearby lots and garages, though game-day parking fills quickly and public transit or rideshare are common alternatives.
  • The arena is accessible by light rail, bus, and car, with the Seattle Center Monorail station also nearby for some visitors.

Getting to the arena by car and parking

If you drive, Climate Pledge Arena is accessible from Interstate 5 and local streets. The address — 334 5th Avenue South — can be entered into any GPS or mapping app. On game days, traffic in the Seattle Center area is heavy before and after events, so plan extra time if you are unfamiliar with the route.

Parking at the arena itself is limited. The venue has some on-site parking, but it fills quickly on game nights. Most visitors use nearby parking garages and lots operated by Seattle Center or private companies. Rates vary by lot and by day; expect to pay between $15 and $25 for standard parking on a game night, though some lots charge more during peak events. Arrive early or research parking options before you go — many people book spots in advance through apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz.

Street parking around Seattle Center is metered and restricted, so read signs carefully if you choose that route. Parking enforcement is active, especially on game days.

Public transit and rideshare options

Public transit is often faster and less stressful than driving on game nights. The Link Light Rail — Seattle's light rail system — stops at Westlake Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from Climate Pledge Arena. Trains run frequently, and the ride from downtown Seattle or the airport takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on your starting point. This is a popular choice for Kraken fans.

King County Metro buses also serve the Seattle Center area. Several routes stop near the arena, including routes that connect to downtown, the University District, and other neighborhoods. Check the Metro website or use Google Maps to find the best route from where you are starting.

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in Seattle and can drop you near the arena. On game nights, demand is high and surge pricing often applies, so expect to pay more than you would on a quiet evening. The Seattle Center Monorail, which runs between downtown and Seattle Center, is another option if you are coming from the downtown core.

What to bring and what the arena allows

Climate Pledge Arena has standard rules about what you can bring inside. You are generally allowed to bring a small bag or backpack, though it will be checked at entry. Large bags, hard-sided containers, and weapons are not permitted. The arena also prohibits outside food and beverages, though you can bring an empty water bottle and fill it at fountains inside.

Cameras and phones are permitted for personal use. Professional recording equipment and tripods require permission. If you plan to bring anything unusual, check the Kraken's website or call the arena directly before game day to confirm it is allowed.

Dress for the season — the arena is climate-controlled, but the walk to and from parking or transit can be cold, especially in fall and winter. Comfortable shoes are a good idea because you will be walking and standing.

Seating, amenities, and accessibility

The arena has seating throughout the lower bowl, upper bowl, and club sections. Ticket prices vary widely depending on the opponent, the day of the week, and how far in advance you purchase. Regular-season games against division rivals or popular teams tend to cost more than games against less-familiar opponents.

Inside the arena, you will find concession stands selling food, beverages, and merchandise. Prices are typical for sports venues — higher than restaurants outside — so budget accordingly. The arena has restrooms on multiple levels, and they can get crowded during intermissions.

Climate Pledge Arena is accessible to people with mobility challenges. Wheelchair seating is available, and the arena has elevators, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking spaces nearby. If you need specific accommodations, contact the Kraken's ticket office or the arena directly before your visit to arrange them.

Nearby restaurants and things to do before or after the game

The Seattle Center area and Lower Queen Anne neighborhood have restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance of the arena. Pike Place Market is a short walk away and is open year-round, though it closes before most evening games. The Chihuly Garden and Glass museum is also nearby if you want to spend time before a game.

Queen Anne Avenue, which runs through the neighborhood, has cafes, breweries, and casual dining spots. Many fans grab food or drinks before heading into the arena, or return to the neighborhood after the game. On game nights, some establishments get crowded, so arrive early if you want to sit down and eat.

The Seattle Center itself has parks, fountains, and open space if you want to walk around before entering the arena. The Space Needle is also at Seattle Center, though it is a separate paid attraction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into Climate Pledge Arena?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the arena. You can bring an empty water bottle and refill it at fountains inside. Concessions inside sell food and drinks at typical sports venue prices.

What is the best way to get to the arena if I do not want to drive?

The Link Light Rail to Westlake Station is the most straightforward option — it is fast, frequent, and avoids parking hassles. King County Metro buses and rideshare are also options, though rideshare can be expensive on game nights due to surge pricing.

Is there accessible parking near Climate Pledge Arena?

Yes, accessible parking spaces are available in nearby lots and garages. Contact the Kraken's ticket office or the arena directly before your visit to reserve a space or learn which lots have accessible spots closest to the entrance.

How early should I arrive on game day?

Arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before puck drop if you are driving or using rideshare, to account for parking and entry lines. If you are using light rail or bus, 20 to 30 minutes early is usually sufficient. Arriving early also gives you time to explore the arena and grab food before the game starts.

Are there hotels near Climate Pledge Arena?

Yes, several hotels are within a short distance of the arena in Seattle Center and Lower Queen Anne. Downtown Seattle hotels are also nearby and connected by light rail. Search online for "hotels near Seattle Center" or "hotels near Climate Pledge Arena" to see options and rates.