KeyBank Center Guide
Entry, transit, rideshare, parking, and game-day logistics for Buffalo.
Last updated: 3/4/2026
Key logistics
| Bag policy | All bags, backpacks, and purses are prohibited. Clutches and wristlets no larger than 4" x 6" x 1.5” are permitted and will be subject to visual inspection. Exceptions are made for medically necessary items and diaper bags after thorough security screening. |
|---|---|
| Doors open | Doors typically open 90 minutes before regular season Buffalo Sabres and Buffalo Bandits games. For concerts and other events, full access doors generally open 60 minutes before the show start time. |
| Cashless? | KeyBank Center is a cashless arena. All concession stands and parking lots are cashless, accepting credit and debit cards. |
| Rideshare zone | Designated rideshare drop-off and pickup zones are located along Perry Street, just steps from the main entrance, and at the corner of Washington St. and Scott St. |
| Re-entry | Re-entry to events is not permitted at KeyBank Center. Patrons with a medical emergency should go to the Account Services Office located in the pavilion for assistance. |
| Transit | KeyBank Center is conveniently located on two major bus routes and the NFTA's Metro Rail rapid transit system, which services the city of Buffalo. The Metro Rail's Special Events Station is directly in front of KeyBank Center. The above-ground Metro Rail stations offer free rides from the Theater Station downtown to KeyBank Center. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have designated drop-off and pickup zones along Perry Street, just steps from the main entrance, and also at the corner of Washington St. and Scott St. |
Parking
KeyBank Center operates its own cashless parking lots where payment is by card only, with options for online prepayment. Accessible parking is available on all levels of the KeyBank Center parking ramp. Reserved season-long parking for Suite and 200 Club Seat Season Ticket holders for Buffalo Sabres games is in the KeyBank Center parking ramp (Illinois Street) or in surface lots approximately 200 yards from the building on Perry Street.
Family & accessibility
- Strollers: Strollers are typically not permitted at venues like KeyBank Center, alongside other prohibited items such as camera equipment, laptops, drones, and laser pointers.
- Family perks: Sensory kits are available free of charge at Guest Services. Children three years of age and under do not require a separate ticket for admission to Sabres games, provided a child admittance pass is obtained prior to entry.
Culture layer
- Signature food: Local specialties include Buffalo wings, Beef on Weck (a roast beef sandwich on a kummelweck roll), Buffalo-style pizza from La Nova, fried bologna sandwiches, and Perry's ice cream. For the 2024-25 NHL season, new additions included three fried dough options and 'The Dominator,' a quadruple-brisket bacon cheeseburger.
- Local tradition: Buffalo Sabres fans are known for packing the arena in blue and gold, creating an intense atmosphere, with the team's iconic goal horn and in-game traditions keeping energy levels high. Alumni Plaza features a 10-foot high bronze statue of 'The French Connection,' and fans can purchase custom plaques to be displayed alongside team members.
Verified places nearby
- Southern Tier Brewing Company Buffalo7 Scott St, Buffalo, NY · Canalside / DowntownWhat to order: Craft beers like Hayburner IPA, and beer-inspired dishes from their extensive menu.
- Pearl Street Grill & Brewery76 Pearl St, Buffalo, NY 14202 · DowntownWhat to order: House-made craft beer, pub food, and their famous beer cheese soup.
- Big Ditch Brewing Company55 Huron St, Buffalo, NY 14203 · Downtown / Electric DistrictWhat to order: Hayburner IPA, other craft beers, pretzel bites, loaded wedges, and Hayburner wings.
- The Banshee Irish Pub293 Franklin St, Buffalo, NY 14202 · DowntownWhat to order: Open bar packages and halftime buffets during major games.
- Founding Fathers Pub75 Edward St, Buffalo, NY 14202 · AllentownWhat to order: Inventive sandwiches like the 'Hail To The Chef' and 'New York Sirloin', along with craft beers such as Liberty Lager or Patriot Porter.
- The Draft Room79 Perry Street, Buffalo, NY · Canalside / DowntownWhat to order: Local and regional craft beers and Buffalo-themed menu items.