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KeyBank Center Guide

NHL · Buffalo · 19,070 capacity

Last updated: 3/4/2026

KeyBank Center sits on Buffalo's waterfront in the Canalside entertainment district, served by NFTA Metro Rail and bus routes that make Sabres games genuinely accessible without a car. The arena's cashless parking lots accept card-only or online prepayment, and the Canalside area has added restaurants, an ice rink, and waterfront activities that extend the game-night experience. Stay downtown and the walk to the arena takes you along the Buffalo River — a waterfront that's been transformed in the past decade.

At a glance

Bag policy: Size-restricted bags
Cashless: Cashless
Re-entry: Re-entry to events is not permitted at KeyBank Center.…
Gates open: Gates open 90 min before
Outside food: No outside food
Getting here: 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.
Family friendly: Sensory kits are available free of charge at Guest Services.
Capacity: 19,070

Home team:Buffalo Sabres

No upcoming multi-sport weekend featuring KeyBank Center on the calendar. See Buffalo home weekends on the city hub →

Where to stay for KeyBank Center

The ideal hotel neighborhood is downtown Buffalo or the Canalside area due to its proximity and walkability to KeyBank Center. The Marriott hotel within the connected LECOM Harborcenter complex is a convenient option.

Downtown Buffalo

Downtown Buffalo is ideal for a sports weekend due to its central location and proximity to major sports venues, dining, and entertainment. It offers a dense urban environment with a mix of historic buildings and modern amenities.

The NFTA Metro Rail runs along Main Street through Downtown and is free while traveling above ground, providing easy access to various points within the core. Numerous bus routes also serve the area. KeyBank Center and Sahlen Field are directly in or easily accessible from Downtown.

Canalside

Canalside, a revitalized waterfront area, is a vibrant destination within downtown Buffalo. It offers a lively atmosphere with various activities, restaurants, and shops, making it appealing for visitors.

Canalside is easily accessible via the NFTA Metro Rail at the Erie Canal Harbor stop. It is also within walking or a short drive from KeyBank Center and Sahlen Field.

Elmwood Village

Elmwood Village is a well-known, popular, and walkable neighborhood featuring numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, and local shopping. It's considered one of Buffalo's most vibrant and safest neighborhoods, offering a distinct cultural experience.

While not directly on the Metro Rail, Elmwood Village is well-served by NFTA Metro Bus routes, providing connections to Downtown Buffalo and other areas.

Allentown

Allentown is known as the artistic and bohemian heart of Buffalo, offering a vibrant nightlife, numerous bars, restaurants, and galleries, as well as historic architecture. It's a lively area with a strong sense of community.

Allentown is conveniently located close to Downtown Buffalo and is a short walk from Elmwood Village. It is served by NFTA Metro Bus routes, providing access to major venues and other parts of the city.

See full Buffalo stay guide →

Arrival and exit strategy

Transit and approach

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.

Rideshare and parking

Rideshare: 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.

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.

Works well with these Buffalo venues

Highmark StadiumAcross town · 8.3 mi

Map context

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The game-day experience

Atmosphere area: KeyBank Center is located in downtown Buffalo, New York, within the Canalside area. It is connected by an elevated walkway to the LECOM Harborcenter complex, which includes restaurants like 716 Food and Sport and Tim Hortons, as well as a Marriott hotel.
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.
Fan 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.

Where to eat and drink nearby

Pregame picks

Southern Tier Brewing Company Buffalo
7 Scott St, Buffalo, NY · Canalside / Downtown
Features the largest TV screen in Buffalo, an array of craft beers, and a full tasting room experience, making it a prime spot for game days.
What to order: Craft beers like Hayburner IPA, and beer-inspired dishes from their extensive menu.
Pearl Street Grill & Brewery
76 Pearl St, Buffalo, NY 14202 · Downtown
A fun, historic brewpub offering house-made craft beer across multiple levels and patios, popular for watching sports games and gathering before events.
What to order: House-made craft beer, pub food, and their famous beer cheese soup.
Big Ditch Brewing Company
55 Huron St, Buffalo, NY 14203 · Downtown / Electric District
A leading craft brewery in Buffalo, known for its acclaimed taproom and popular Hayburner IPA, offering a vibrant community space.
What to order: Hayburner IPA, other craft beers, pretzel bites, loaded wedges, and Hayburner wings.
The Banshee Irish Pub
293 Franklin St, Buffalo, NY 14202 · Downtown
A downtown favorite combining Irish pub character with a strong commitment to live sports, particularly popular for soccer and major American sports.
What to order: Open bar packages and halftime buffets during major games.
The Draft Room
79 Perry Street, Buffalo, NY · Canalside / Downtown
A Buffalo-themed sports bar with over 30 TVs and a wide selection of local and regional craft beers, ideal for pre- or post-event gatherings at KeyBank Center.
What to order: Local and regional craft beers and Buffalo-themed menu items.

Postgame spots

Founding Fathers Pub
75 Edward St, Buffalo, NY 14202 · Allentown
A historic American pub known for its extensive US history memorabilia, presidential trivia nights, and a cozy atmosphere.
What 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.
Forty Thieves
727 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222 · Elmwood Village
An official member of the Buffalo Sabres Bar Network, offering a dedicated atmosphere for fans with Sabres-themed giveaways and prize drawings.