The Best Places to Sit at a Hockey Game: A Fan’s Guide to the Ultimate Experience

---

Lower Bowl Center Ice: Balanced, Premium View

For fans who want a comprehensive view of the game without sacrificing proximity, the lower bowl at center ice is one of the best spots in the arena. These seats allow you to see plays unfold from start to finish, offering a strategic and immersive perspective.

Pros:

• Excellent sightlines of both offensive zones
• Great for following the puck and player movements
• Less obstructed than glass seats

Cons:

• Still pricey, especially in large or popular arenas
• May not have the raw intensity of glass-side seating

Best for: Fans who want a mix of strategy and intensity; ideal for both first-time viewers and long-time followers of the sport.

---

Behind the Goal: Get in on the Goalie Action

Sitting behind the net—especially within the first 10 rows—offers a unique perspective that centers around goalie action, power plays, and last-second saves. It’s also a fun place to watch shootouts and penalty kills unfold.

Pros:

• Unique view of offensive attacks and goalie saves
• Strong fan energy, often loud and lively
• Great for capturing dynamic photos

Cons:

• Limited visibility at the far end of the ice
• Harder to track plays developing across the rink

Best for: Fans who love goaltending, fast-paced offense, and the intensity of the defensive zone.

---

Upper Bowl Center Ice: Budget-Friendly Strategy View

Want a bird’s-eye view of the entire rink without breaking the bank? The upper bowl at center ice is your best bet. These seats provide fans with a tactical view of how plays form and flow, similar to a coach’s or analyst’s vantage point.

Pros:

• Affordable pricing in most arenas
• Full-rink perspective
• Easier to see line changes and strategic play formations

Cons:

• Farther from the action
• The atmosphere may not be as electric as the lower bowl sections

Best for: Budget-conscious fans, families, or anyone who enjoys the “chess match” aspect of hockey.

---

Corner Sections: Diagonal Drama and Dynamic Views

Sitting in the corner sections, particularly between rows 10 and 20, provides a dynamic, angled view of the ice. You’re close to one goal and can still see most of the rink clearly, offering a nice mix of perspective and excitement.

Pros:

• Great mix of proximity and affordability
• Excellent for photographing goals and breakaways
• Often less expensive than center ice or glass seats

Cons:

• The diagonal angle isn’t ideal for everyone
• Sightlines can be blocked by the boards in the lower rows

Best for: Fans seeking a balanced perspective with great energy and decent value.

---

Club Level and Suite Seating: Premium Comfort and Perks

If you’re seeking luxury, club-level and suite seats offer the best amenities—enjoy cushioned seats, VIP lounges, shorter restroom lines, and exclusive food and drink options.

Pros:

• Premium service and comfort
• Often located at mid-level, with solid views of the ice
• Great for entertaining clients or enjoying a night out

Cons:

• Expensive
• The atmosphere can feel less rowdy or passionate

Best suited for: Corporate events, special celebrations, or fans seeking comfort and convenience.

---

Standing Room Only: Atmosphere on a Budget

Some arenas offer standing-room-only (SRO) tickets—often at a lower price point—for fans who want to soak in the atmosphere without committing to a seat.

Pros:

• Cheapest way to attend a sold-out game
• Often located near concession-heavy concourses with TVs
• You can move around for different perspectives

Cons:

• No dedicated seat
• It can be tiring to stand for 2+ hours
• Limited visibility depending on the crowd and location

Best for: Hardcore fans, last-minute attendees, or those just looking to be part of the live experience.

---

Tips for Choosing the Best Hockey Seats:

• Check seat maps before buying: Not all arenas are designed the same. Look at NHL 3D seat previews or fan-uploaded photos to see actual sightlines.
• Know your goal: Are you here for excitement, photos, strategy, or affordability?
• Consider the teams and venue: Popular matchups (like rivalries or playoffs) may warrant splurging for better seats.
• Use trusted marketplaces: Ticketing platforms like TickPick enable you to compare prices and seat views on hockey tickets before making a commitment.

---

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Seat at a Hockey Game?

Ultimately, the best place to sit at a hockey game depends on your budget, priorities, and personal preferences. Want to feel every hit? Go glass-side. Prefer a chess-match perspective? Head to the upper center bowl. Bringing the family? Look for corner sections or club seats for extra comfort.

Wherever you sit, one thing is sure—hockey is one of the most thrilling sports to watch live, and there’s no bad seat when you’re in the building. The smell of the ice, the sound of blades cutting the rink, and the roar of the crowd? You just can’t beat it.

---

Looking for the best deals on hockey tickets? Visit TickPick for no-fee tickets, real seat views, and the best value for your next game.