| Madison Square Garden Quick Guide | |
|---|---|
| Home Teams | New York Knicks (NBA), New York Rangers (NHL) |
| Opened | Current location opened in 1968 (renovated 2013) |
| Capacity | ~19,500 for basketball, ~18,000 for hockey/concerts |
| Best Value Seats | 200 Level Corners (Sections 214–217) – Good sightlines under $100 |
| Premium Seating | Delta Sky360 Club, Madison Club, Suite Level |
| Top Arena Foods | Carnegie Deli Pastrami, Daily Burger, Fuku Chicken Sandwich |
| Nearby Bars | Mustang Harry’s, Bourbon and Branch, The John Dory Oyster Bar |
| Closest Hotels | Renaissance New York Midtown, Stewart Hotel, Fairfield Inn |
| Transit Access | Penn Station (below the arena) – Amtrak, LIRR, NJ Transit, Subway A/C/E/1/2/3 |
🔍 Want a custom MSG experience? Use our Gameday Guides Planning Tool to get personalized tips on seating, food, hotels, and transit for your Knicks, Rangers, or concert night.
Best Seats At Madison Square Garden
The latest iteration of the Garden was built in 1968 directly above Penn Station, Madison Square Garden is the oldest active arena in both the NBA and NHL. A $1 billion renovation from 2011-2013 modernized the venue while preserving its iconic steep bowl design—unlike newer arenas, there are no luxury boxes hanging over the lower bowl, making even upper-level seats feel surprisingly intimate for Knicks and Rangers games. You’re in the heart of Manhattan at 33rd and 7th, surrounded by transportation, restaurants, and the energy of New York City itself
Seating Guide
MSG’s seating is notoriously confusing at first because of the bowl configuration, bridge seats, and multiple levels—but once you understand the layout, finding value becomes strategic.
For Knicks Games – Lower Bowl Center Court (Sections 107-117): Sections 107 and 117 are dead-center court along the sidelines, offering the absolute best sightlines for basketball. The Knicks bench sits in front of Section 6, visitors in front of Section 4. Section 107 Rows 8-15 is the sweet spot—you’re elevated enough to see plays develop without glass obstructions, and close enough to hear every word from the bench. Expect $300-800 per ticket depending on the opponent and row. Lakers, Celtics, Warriors games hit $600-800; weeknight games against rebuilding teams drop to $250-400. Rows 1-7 put you courtside-adjacent, but honestly, anything past Row 10 in these sections still delivers elite views because of MSG’s steep rake.
For Rangers Games – Lower Bowl Center Ice (Sections 106-108, 116-118): Sections 107 and 117 are center ice, with the Rangers bench in front of 106-107 and visitors in front of 107-108. For hockey, sitting slightly elevated (Rows 8-12) in 107 or 117 is ideal—you see both ends of the ice without tracking through glass. I sat Section 108, Row 10 for a Rangers-Devils playoff game, and watching breakouts develop from that angle while hearing the bench reactions was worth every penny. Lower bowl Rangers tickets run $200-600 depending on the opponent. Original Six matchups (Bruins, Canadiens, Flyers) hit the high end; weeknight games against non-contenders stay closer to $200-350.
The Bridge Seats Reality: Chase Bridges span above Sections 200-210 and offer unique elevated views for $150-300. These are bar-height seating with tables, creating a lounge vibe. For concerts, Bridge seats are phenomenal—you’re suspended above the floor with unobstructed views of the entire production. For basketball and hockey, they’re more “experience” than optimal sightlines. You’re high and far from the action, but the novelty factor and included lounge access make them fun for groups who want a different MSG experience. Not ideal for die-hard fans analyzing every play.
200-Level (Mezzanine) – The Value King: The 200-level at MSG is criminally underrated. Sections 201-223 wrap around the arena, and center sections (208-211 for basketball, 209-210 for hockey) offer legitimacy
great views for $100-250. The 200-level is the first elevated tier, so you’re not in nosebleeds—you’re at eye-level with the scoreboard and seeing the full court or ice. Section 208, Row 5 for Knicks games runs $150-200, and you genuinely see everything. The trade-off: you’re not “in the moment” like lower bowl, but for watching the game tactically, this is where smart fans sit.
300-Level (Upper Bowl) – Budget Seats That Don’t Suck: MSG’s 300-level is steep—like, hold-the-railing steep—but the sightlines are shockingly good because there’s no luxury box overhang blocking views. Sections 308-312 are center court/ice and run $50-120 depending on the event. I’ve sat 310, Row 12 for a Knicks-Nets game, and while you’re obviously far from the floor, you see every rotation, defensive scheme, and zone coverage perfectly. For concerts, upper bowl is a gamble—stage placement matters, and if you’re behind the stage, you’re watching screens. But for sports, this is legitimate budget-friendly seating.
For Concerts – It Depends on Stage Setup: Most concerts use an end-stage setup near Sections 1-2 and 19. Floor sections A-D are closest to the stage, running $300-1,000+ depending on the artist. Lower bowl sections 1-9 and 15-25 flank the stage with solid angles. The 200-level center sections (especially 210-214 if the stage is at the 1-2 end) give you elevated full-production views for $150-400. Avoid sections directly behind the stage unless you’re okay watching on screens—MSG doesn’t discount those seats enough to justify it.
The Courtside/Glass Seat Reality Check: Courtside for Knicks games runs $900-7,000 per seat. Glass seats for Rangers games run $800-3,000. Both come with VIP entrance, Delta 360 Club or JP Morgan Club access, all-inclusive premium dining, and in-seat service. Here’s the honest truth: if you’re under 6 feet tall or going for the “bucket list” experience, courtside is incredible. If you’re going to watch basketball or hockey, you’re better off in Rows 8-15 of the lower bowl where you actually see plays develop instead of craning around bodies. Glass seats for hockey are phenomenal Rows 1-3, but anything past that, you’re watching through plexiglass distortion.
Premium Seating & VIP Entrances at MSG
MSG’s premium spaces are designed for New York money—corporate clients, celebrities, and special occasions where cost isn’t the primary concern.
The Secret Doors: North and South VIP Entrances
South VIP Entrance (31st St & 8th Ave): This is the exclusive entrance for Chase Lounge guests and most Event Level Suite holders. If your ticket says “Chase Lounge” or you’re in an Event Level Suite, go here—you’ll take an escalator straight to the lounge and bypass general admission entirely. Security is faster, the crowds are smaller, and you feel like you’re walking into a different arena. This entrance opens earlier than general admission (typically 90 minutes before events), so premium ticket holders can arrive, eat, drink, and settle in before the masses show up.
North VIP Entrance (33rd St & 8th Ave): Use this entrance if your tickets include access to The Loft, Terrace Suites, or specific upper-tier premium areas. It’s less crowded than the South VIP entrance and serves the premium sections on the north side of the arena. Security lines move faster here because fewer people know about it, even among premium ticket holders. If you have Loft or Terrace Suite access and accidentally go to the South entrance, they’ll redirect you—save yourself the walk and go straight to the North entrance.
Club Areas
Delta Sky 360 Club: The all-inclusive holy grail at MSG. Located at ice/court level wrapping around the arena, this club offers complimentary gourmet food, soft drinks (no alcohol included), in-seat wait service, padded seats, and exclusive entrance. Your ticket includes club access and premium seating in the first few rows of the lower bowl. For Knicks and Rangers games, this runs $500-1,500 per seat depending on location and opponent. The food is legitimately upscale—carved meats, seafood, desserts, not hot dogs and nachos. Best for corporate entertainment or once-in-a-lifetime games where you want the full VIP treatment.
Chase Lounge: One of MSG’s premier all-inclusive club spaces with complimentary premium dining, bars, lounge seating, and exclusive VIP entrance. Chase Lounge guests use the South VIP Entrance at 31st St & 8th Ave—you’ll take an escalator straight up to the lounge, bypassing general admission security lines entirely. This is the primary entrance for most Event Level Suite holders as well. The Chase Lounge offers elevated food options, private bars, and a members-only atmosphere that feels more high-end restaurant than arena. Pricing runs $400-900 per seat depending on the event and seating location
JP Morgan Club: Exclusive club for glass seat holders at Rangers games, offering premium buffets, full bars, and lounge seating. Access is limited to those with glass seats, so it’s genuinely exclusive. Similar upscale dining to Delta 360, just hockey-specific.
The Loft: MSG’s newest premium space offering club access, all-inclusive food and drink (no alcohol), in-seat wait service, and a host of exclusive amenities. Located in select sections with private lounge access. Pricing isn’t widely advertised but expect premium-tier rates ($400-800+ per seat). Best for season ticket holders or corporate groups who want consistent VIP experience across multiple events.
Madison Club & Balcony Seats: Premium seating areas with club lounge access, upscale food options, and padded seating. These are step-down options from Delta 360 but still offer significantly better amenities than standard seats. Pricing varies but generally $250-500 per seat for Knicks/Rangers games.
Suites
MSG has 97 suites across three levels—Event Level (below 100 level), Lexus Level (above 100 level), and Signature Level (above 200 level). Suites hold 16-20 guests with double-wide theater-style seating, wet bar, HD TVs, private restrooms, and refrigerators. Pricing is event-dependent: Knicks games run $8,000-30,000, Rangers games $7,000-24,000, and concerts $8,000-60,000 depending on the artist. Signature Level suites offer the best value per ticket and are positioned above the 200 level with excellent vantage points for concerts and events. Best for large corporate groups splitting costs 16-20 ways
Madison Square Garden Seating Chart
Madison Square Garden has a seating capacity that can vary depending on the event. New York Knicks games seat around 19,812 and NY Rangers and Concerts range from 18,200 to 20,000. You can find a seating chart for Madison Square Garden on their official website by visiting Madison Square Garden Seating Chart.
Remember that for popular events, tickets may sell out quickly, so it’s advisable to act fast and be prepared to purchase tickets as soon as they are available. Be cautious of ticket scams and only buy from reputable sources to ensure the validity of your tickets.
Madison Square Garden Tickets
Getting tickets to events at Madison Square Garden can be competitive, especially for popular shows, games and events. Here are some of the best ways to secure tickets:
- Get Madison Square Garden Tickets Here! Looking for Knicks, Rangers or concert tickets. Our Partnership with Vivid Seats has great seats to these events and just about any event on the planet.
- Official Madison Square Garden Website: The official website of Madison Square Garden is often the primary source for purchasing tickets to events held at the venue. They typically release tickets for sale well in advance of the event date.
- Box Office: Visit the Madison Square Garden box office in person to purchase tickets. This can be a good option if you prefer to buy tickets directly and avoid online fees.
Big East Tournament
The legendary Big East men’s basketball tournament takes place every March at Madison Square Garden, showcasing top teams like UConn, Villanova, and St. John’s. Expect high-energy games with NCAA tournament bids, star players, and an exciting atmosphere. Everyone has to go to this event once. Grab your tickets here!
Upcoming Events at The Garden
Madison Square Garden hosts an average of over 320 events per year, so there is always something going on at this legendary arena. Here are a list of Upcoming Events at Madison Square Garden.
Madison Square Garden Bag Policy
MSG allows bags up to 22″ x 14″ x 9″, but here’s what nobody tells you until it’s too late: there is no bag check or storage at the arena. If your bag is even one inch over the limit, security will turn you away at the door, and you have three options—throw it in the trash, miss the event, or frantically search for somewhere nearby to stash it. Since most people take the train to MSG (it’s literally built on Penn Station), you’re not “running it back to the car.” You’re stuck in Midtown Manhattan holding an oversized bag with nowhere to put it.
The arena strongly advises guests to minimize bag use entirely. Small purses, clutches, and bags well under the size limit pass through security faster. Clear bags are encouraged but not required. Backpacks are allowed if they meet the size requirement, but expect thorough inspection and slower security lines.
Pro tip: If you’re coming from out of town or bringing luggage, drop it at your hotel first or use a luggage storage service near Penn Station. Do not show up with a suitcase thinking you’ll figure it out—you won’t.
Other Important MSG Policies
No Re-Entry Under Any Circumstances: Once you leave MSG, you’re not getting back in—period. Your ticket is single-entry only, with no exceptions. This catches smokers completely off guard, especially those used to arenas with designated smoking areas and re-entry. MSG is smoke-free inside, and there’s no outdoor smoking zone with re-entry privileges. If you step outside for any reason, you’re done for the night. Plan bathroom breaks, food runs, and phone calls accordingly before you leave your seat area.
Completely Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Venue: Madison Square Garden is 100% smoke-free and vape-free throughout the entire facility. This includes cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vaporizers, cigars, and all smokeless tobacco products. Combined with the no re-entry policy, this means if you need to smoke during a 3-hour event, you’re either missing significant portions of the game/concert or not smoking. There are no designated smoking areas, no outdoor exceptions, and security enforces this strictly. [New York City takes this seriously—don’t try to sneak vapes into bathrooms.]
Mobile Tickets Only (For Most Events): MSG has shifted almost entirely to mobile ticketing through the MSG app or your mobile wallet. Paper tickets are rare and typically only available for specific legacy season ticket holders. You need your phone charged and the app downloaded before you arrive. If your phone dies, you’re dealing with Guest Services to retrieve your tickets, which can take 30+ minutes during peak entry times. Bring a portable charger or make sure you’re fully charged before leaving for the arena. Screenshots of tickets don’t work—they need to be live QR codes that refresh.
View full MSG policies and guidelines here to avoid surprises on game day.
Getting to Madison Square Garden
MSG sits directly above Penn Station at 33rd Street and 7th Avenue, making it the most accessible arena in North America—if you know how to navigate New York’s transit system.
Subway (The New Yorker’s Move)
Taking the subway to MSG is the obvious choice, and honestly, if you’re driving and parking in Midtown Manhattan for $50-70, you’re doing it wrong. Penn Station is served by the 1, 2, 3, A, C, and E trains, all of which drop you directly underneath the arena. You step off the train, walk up one level, and you’re inside the building. I take the A train from Brooklyn every time—$2.90, 25 minutes, zero traffic stress.
The 34th St-Penn Station stop is the main hub, but you can also use 28th Street (1 train) or 34th St-Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W trains) and walk 2-3 blocks. During rush hour (5-7 PM), trains are packed, so if you’re claustrophobic or hate crowds, leave extra time or take an express train to avoid local stops.
Pro tip: If you’re visiting from outside the city, check the MTA website or use Google Maps for live service alerts. Weekend construction and delays happen constantly, and you don’t want to discover your train isn’t running 30 minutes before tip-off. Here’s the MTA guide to getting to MSG with all subway and bus routes.
Taxi (The Classic New York Option)
Yellow cabs are everywhere in Midtown, and unlike rideshare, there’s no surge pricing or app confusion. Flag one down on 7th Avenue or 8th Avenue and tell the driver “MSG, 33rd and 7th”—they know exactly where you’re going. Metered fare from most Manhattan neighborhoods runs $15-30 depending on distance and traffic, and you can pay with card or cash.
Post-game, taxis line up on 7th Avenue and 33rd Street trying to pick up fares, but expect competition from 20,000 other people doing the same thing. Walk a few blocks north to 36th-38th Street or west toward 8th Avenue to find available cabs faster and avoid the scrum. The advantage over rideshare: no waiting for your driver to navigate through chaos, and cabs are allowed to use bus lanes, which sometimes cuts through Midtown gridlock faster
Commuter Rail (For Visitors from Long Island, NJ, and Beyond)
Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and NJ Transit both terminate at Penn Station, which is literally inside the same building as MSG. If you’re coming from Long Island or New Jersey, you’re walking off the train and taking an escalator straight to the arena entrance—no outside exposure, no additional transit needed. Amtrak also stops at Penn Station, so if you’re visiting from Boston, Philly, or DC, the train drops you at the front door.
The only catch: post-game, Penn Station is absolute chaos. After a sold-out Knicks or Rangers game, 20,000 people funnel into the same train station trying to catch the last LIRR or NJ Transit train home. If you need to catch a specific departure, leave 5 minutes before the final buzzer or plan to wait 30-45 minutes for crowds to thin.
Bus Service
Several bus routes stop near MSG, including M4, M7, M20, M34, Q32, and X10. The nearest stops are 7th Ave & W 36th St and W 32nd St & Broadway. Buses are slower than the subway (Midtown traffic is brutal), but they work if you’re staying on the West Side or coming from areas without direct subway access. Use the MTA Bus Time app to track arrivals in real-time.
Ferry (The Scenic Route)
NY Waterway runs ferry service to Midtown/W 39th St, with a free shuttle to MSG. This is legitimately cool if you’re staying in Weehawken, Hoboken, or Jersey City—you skip the Lincoln Tunnel traffic and get Hudson River views. The ferry is also way less crowded than NJ Transit during rush hour. It’s not faster, but it’s a much nicer commute.
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft work for MSG, but here’s the reality: there are no designated pickup or drop-off zones at the arena. Your driver will navigate Midtown traffic, drop you somewhere on 7th, 8th, or 33rd Street, and you’ll walk a block or two. Post-game, surge pricing is vicious—I’ve seen $60-80 rides to Brooklyn that cost $25 any other time. If you’re taking rideshare, walk 3-5 blocks away from MSG toward 9th Avenue or 28th Street to avoid the scrum of people requesting rides at the same time. You’ll save $10-20 just by moving away from the arena.
Pro tip: If you’re staying in Midtown, just walk. MSG is surrounded by hotels within a 10-15 minute walk, and you’ll spend less time walking than sitting in a rideshare stuck in traffic.
Parking (If You Must)
Parking near MSG runs $40-70 for events, and you’ll sit in post-game traffic for 45+ minutes trying to leave Midtown. The closest garages are Central Parking at 401 W 33rd St, Icon Parking at 10 Penn Plaza, and Quik Park at 350 W 42nd St. Book ahead on SpotHero or ParkWhiz to lock in rates and guarantee a spot. Honestly, unless you’re driving from upstate or Connecticut and can’t take the train, parking at MSG is the worst option logistically and financially.
Madison Square Garden Insider Tips
MSG sits at the intersection of everything New York—use that to your advantage, but also navigate the chaos strategically with moves most tourists never figure out.
Arrival Timing Strategy: For general admission entrances, arrive 60-75 minutes before tip-off or puck drop for Knicks and Rangers games to avoid the worst security lines. The main 7th Avenue entrance gets slammed 30-45 minutes before events when everyone shows up at once. If you’re using the 33rd Street entrance from Penn Station, you can cut that to 45-60 minutes early since fewer people use it. For concerts and big events (playoff games, opening night, rivalry matchups), add 15-30 minutes to those windows—the crowds are exponentially worse. VIP entrance holders can arrive 90 minutes early when doors open and enjoy the lounges before the rush.
Rangers Warmups Are Open Access: If you arrive early for Rangers games, you can walk down near the ice surface and watch players warm up before security locks down the lower bowl. This is a free perk most casual fans miss because they show up 10 minutes before puck drop. Kids love this—players often toss pucks over the glass during warmups, and you can get close-up photos. Just don’t try this 5 minutes before game time; security will redirect you to your assigned section.
Upper Level Bathroom Hack: The upper levels (300 sections) have significantly shorter bathroom lines than the lower bowl, even during intermissions and halftimes. Section 302 area specifically has quick access to bathrooms that most people skip because they assume lower-level bathrooms are closer. If you’re sitting in the 100s or 200s and don’t want to wait 15 minutes during intermission, walk up to the 300 level, use the bathroom there, and walk back down. You’ll save 10+ minutes every time.
Take the MSG All Access Tour: When you’re not attending an event, book the MSG All Access Tour for behind-the-scenes access to locker rooms, the arena floor, luxury suites, and historical areas. The tour includes a free Boomerang photo experience and virtual reality technology that lets you “play” at MSG. It’s $40-50 per person and gives you insider knowledge about the building’s history, celebrity stories, and iconic moments. If you’re a sports or music fan visiting New York, this is genuinely worth it—you see areas premium ticket holders never access.
Pennsy Food Hall Pre-Game: Instead of eating overpriced arena food, hit Pennsy Food Hall on 33rd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues—it’s literally attached to MSG. Multiple vendors, full bar, outdoor seating, and everything costs 30-40% less than inside the arena.
MSG Food Tips: Most arenas serve “generic sports food.” MSG is different—it actually brings New York’s best restaurants inside the building. But you have to know where they are, or you’ll end up with a $15 stale pretzel. Lavo Meatball (Section 112) is the current hit. Paulie Gee’s Slice Shop (Section 116 and 123) is solid. The Prime Rib Sandwich at Daily Burger is good too. (Section 106)
Celebrity Spotting Sections: If you’re going to a Knicks game and want to see celebrities, they sit courtside in Sections 1-10. Spike Lee has season tickets near the Knicks bench (Section 6-7 area), and you’ll see actors, musicians, and athletes every game. Don’t be the person asking for autographs mid-game, but lingering near the exits post-game is fair territory for sightings. Rangers games attract a different crowd—less Hollywood, more finance and old New York money.
Mobile Ordering Saves Time: Download the MSG app and use mobile ordering for concessions. During intermissions and halftimes, concession lines hit 15-20 minutes. Mobile ordering lets you order from your seat, get a notification when it’s ready, and skip the line entirely. You’ll pick up your food in under 5 minutes and get back to your seat before the next period starts.
The Garden Transforms Overnight: MSG can convert from a Knicks game to a Rangers game (or vice versa) in under 8 hours. The crew works overnight to flip the entire floor, seating, and setup. Sometimes there’s a Knicks game at 7 PM and a Rangers game at 1 PM the next day—the logistics are insane. If you’re a venue nerd, this is fascinating to think about while you’re watching warmups.
Penn Station Exit Strategy: Post-game, Penn Station becomes absolute chaos with 20,000 people funneling into the same train station. If you need to catch a specific LIRR or NJ Transit train, leave 5 minutes before the final buzzer or plan to wait 30-45 minutes for crowds to thin. If you’re taking the subway, walk one stop north to 34th St-Herald Square and catch your train there—it’s less crowded and you’ll get a seat instead of being packed like sardines.
No Re-Entry Means Plan Accordingly: MSG has a strict no re-entry policy. Once you leave, you’re done for the night. This catches smokers off guard constantly (MSG is 100% smoke-free inside with no outdoor smoking area and re-entry). Use the bathroom before you arrive, charge your phone fully, and don’t step outside thinking you’ll get back in. You won’t.
Cheap Ticket Window (Day-Of Box Office): For low-demand games—Rangers vs. Arizona on a Tuesday, Knicks vs. Detroit on a Wednesday—the MSG box office occasionally sells day-of tickets below resale market prices. It’s a gamble and requires flexibility, but I’ve scored $40 upper bowl tickets when StubHub was asking $80. Show up at the box office 2-3 hours before the game and ask what’s available. Not guaranteed, but worth trying if you’re local and spontaneous.
The Disability Services You Didn’t Know Existed: MSG offers assistive listening devices, wheelchair-accessible seating, and sensory bags for guests with disabilities or sensory sensitivities. Most people don’t know sensory bags are available—they include noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, and communication cards. Stop by Guest Services to request one. The arena also has accessible entrances at every door and elevators to all levels.
Chase Bridge Bar Strategy: If you have Bridge seats, arrive early and claim a spot at the Bridge bar before it fills up. Having a table to post up at between periods or quarters makes the Bridge experience way better than standing the whole time. The bar gets packed 20 minutes before events start, so showing up when doors open (60-90 minutes early) guarantees you a spot.
For GPS purposes: Madison Square Garden Address is 4 Pennsyvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001
Hotels Near Madison Square Garden
Staying within walking distance of MSG is the move if you’re catching a Knicks or Rangers game—you can walk back to your hotel post-game, skip surge-priced Ubers, and actually enjoy the Midtown Manhattan experience instead of commuting from Brooklyn or Queens. The best hotel zone sits between 28th-42nd Streets along 7th and 8th Avenues, putting you 5-15 minutes on foot from the arena. You’re also near Penn Station, so even if you’re exploring other parts of the city during the day, getting back for the game is seamless. Hotels here range from luxury properties with rooftop bars to budget-friendly pods—and because you’re in Midtown, you’re surrounded by restaurants, bars, Broadway theaters, and the energy that makes New York, New York.
Best Mid-Range & Upscale Hotels
The New Yorker, A Wyndham Hotel – Classic Art Deco hotel just a short walk from MSG with historic charm and modern amenities. The vibe is old New York elegance—high ceilings, vintage details, but updated rooms. You’re literally 3 blocks from the arena, so post-game walks are easy even in winter. Rates run $150-300 depending on the season, and the location can’t be beat for convenience.
Stewart Hotel – Stylish, modern hotel within walking distance of MSG featuring comfortable rooms and a rooftop lounge with city views. The rooftop is great for pre-game drinks with skyline views, and the hotel itself has a boutique feel without the boutique price tag. Expect $180-350 per night depending on demand. Perfect for couples or small groups who want elevated vibes without dropping $500/night.
The NoMad Hotel – Upscale luxury hotel with beautifully designed rooms and a Michelin-starred restaurant. This is special occasion territory—think anniversaries, milestone birthdays, or impressing out-of-town clients. It’s a short taxi or subway ride from MSG (about 10 minutes), but the experience is worth it if you want to treat yourself. Rates start around $400-700 per night. Not walking distance, but close enough via quick rideshare or subway.
The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel – Located in the heart of Midtown, just a short walk from MSG. This is solid mid-range territory with clean rooms, reliable service, and proximity to both the arena and Times Square. You’re in tourist central, which can be overwhelming, but the convenience is unmatched. Rates run $200-400 depending on the season.
Budget-Friendly Options
Moxy NYC Chelsea – Trendy, budget-friendly option a short walk from MSG with stylish compact rooms and vibrant atmosphere. Moxy properties lean young and social—rooftop bars, communal spaces, and a party vibe. Rooms are small (this is New York), but if you’re just sleeping there and spending your time at the game or exploring the city, it’s perfect. Rates around $120-220 per night.
Margaritaville Resort Times Square – New hotel just blocks from MSG with spacious modern rooms, rooftop bar, fitness center, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The Margaritaville theme is cheesy but fun, and the rooms are surprisingly nice for the price. Great for families or groups who want space and amenities without luxury pricing. Expect $150-280 per night.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Manhattan/Times Square South – Comfortable, modern accommodations just blocks from MSG with complimentary breakfast, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. This is reliable Marriott quality at reasonable rates ($140-250), and the free breakfast saves you $15-25 per person each morning. Marriott Bonvoy members can rack up points or use them for redemption stays.
Pod 51 Hotel – Compact but well-designed rooms at affordable rates in Midtown. The “pod” concept means tiny rooms (think 75-100 square feet), but everything is efficient and modern. If you’re solo or with one other person and don’t mind small spaces, this is one of the cheapest ways to stay in Midtown. Rates as low as $90-150 per night, which is unheard of in this neighborhood.
The Local Hostel NYC – Dormitory-style and private rooms at budget prices with a social atmosphere. Hostels aren’t for everyone, but if you’re young, traveling solo, or don’t mind shared spaces, this is the cheapest option near MSG. Dorm beds run $40-70, private rooms $90-140. You’ll meet other travelers, and the location is walkable to the arena
Keep in mind you want to Book 2 to 3 months ahead for big games (Knicks playoffs, Rangers playoff runs, rivalry matchups) or major concerts. Prices double and availability disappears. Mid week stays are generally cheaper than weekends even for similar events.
Bars & Restaurants Near MSG
Manhattan is the food and drink capital of the world, and MSG sits in the middle of it all—which means you have literally hundreds of options within a 10-minute walk. Listing every great spot would be impossible, but here’s where you actually want to spend your time before and after games based on vibe, quality, and proximity to the arena.
The Pennsy Food Hall (2 Penn Plaza, 33rd Street between 7th & 8th) – This is the no-brainer pre-game spot if you want variety without committing to a sit-down restaurant. Multiple food vendors, a massive bar, outdoor seating, and it’s literally attached to MSG—you walk 2 minutes to your seats after eating. The beer selection is solid, the atmosphere is lively without being chaotic, and you’re saving 30-40% compared to arena concessions. Post-game, it clears out faster than street-level restaurants, so you can grab a drink without fighting crowds. I hit this before almost every game because it’s efficient and the food is legitimately good.
Stout NYC (133 W 33rd Street) – Irish pub literally across the street from MSG with 20+ beers on tap, pub food, and a massive space that handles pre-game crowds. This is the classic sports bar move—TVs everywhere, rowdy energy, and a mix of locals and tourists all hyped for the game. The fish and chips are solid, the Guinness pours are proper, and you’re walking distance to the arena. Gets packed 90 minutes before tip-off, so arrive early or prepare to stand. Post-game, it’s wall-to-wall people, but that’s half the fun if you want to ride the win (or drown the loss) with fellow fans.
The Skylark (200 W 39th Street, 30th floor) – Rooftop cocktail lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic city views. This is your upscale rooftop play—craft cocktails, small plates, and a sophisticated vibe. It’s about 5 blocks from MSG, so factor in a 10-minute walk, but if you want to start the night with skyline views and quality drinks before heading to the game, this is it. Reservations recommended, especially on weekends. Not a sports bar—this is date night or impressing out-of-town clients energy.
Keens Steakhouse (72 W 36th Street) – Legendary old-school New York steakhouse operating since 1885 with historic décor, mutton chops, and one of the city’s best wine lists. This is the splurge pre-game move if you want a proper NYC steakhouse experience before a big game. The vibe is old New York—dark wood, historic photos, and a menu that hasn’t changed in decades. You’re dropping $100+ per person, but the experience is unmatched. Make a reservation days in advance; this place fills up. About a 7-minute walk to MSG.
The Long Room (120 W 44th Street) – Authentic Irish pub in Midtown with a more local, less touristy feel than other spots near MSG. The beer selection is strong, the whiskey list is even stronger, and the crowd skews more regulars than game-day tourists. It’s about 10-12 blocks from MSG (15-minute walk or quick subway), so not as convenient as Stout, but the atmosphere is better if you want an actual pub experience instead of a pre-game scrum. Great for post-game drinks when you want to escape the arena crowd and decompress with a proper pint.
Margaritaville Resort Times Square Rooftop (560 7th Avenue) – Fun, casual rooftop bar with tropical vibes and views, just blocks from MSG. This isn’t sophisticated—it’s Margaritaville—but if you want rooftop drinks, a party atmosphere, and frozen margaritas before a game, it works. The crowd skews younger and tourist-heavy, but the location is convenient and the vibe is lighthearted. Perfect for groups who want to drink and laugh before heading to the arena.
Nick & Stef’s Steakhouse (9 Penn Plaza, 33rd & 8th Avenue) – Premium steakhouse with a secret weapon: a private back door that connects directly into MSG. You make a reservation, enjoy an upscale steak dinner, and walk straight into the arena without ever seeing a security line. This is the ultimate insider move for corporate entertainment or impressing clients. The food is high-end New York steakhouse quality—dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, extensive wine list—and you’re paying $80-120 per person. But the convenience and exclusivity of skipping arena entry chaos makes it worth it for big games or special occasions.
Madison Square Garden lives up to its reputation as “The World’s Most Famous Arena”—the history, atmosphere, and location make it a bucket-list venue whether you’re catching a Knicks game, Rangers playoff hockey, or a major concert. Use the subway, arrive early, and soak in the fact that you’re experiencing sports and entertainment in the most iconic building in the world. Every seat has a story here, and now you know how to make the most of yours.
Here are some guides to some other great NYC venues:
Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.