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Heritage Bank Center Guide

NHL · Cincinnati

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Last updated: 3/20/2026

Heritage Bank Center sits on Cincinnati's riverfront in The Banks district, connected to downtown by the Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar and walkable from the cluster of restaurants and bars along the Ohio River. The arena hosts Cyclones hockey and touring events, with Moerlein Lager House serving as the obvious pre-game beer stop — it sits directly between the arena and Great American Ball Park. Stay downtown or in The Banks and you can reach three different venues on foot.

At a glance

Bag policy
Size-restricted bags
Cashless
Cashless
Re-entry
No re-entry
Gates open
Gates open 90 min before
Outside food
No outside food
Getting here
The venue is accessible via the Cincinnati Bell Connector (streetcar) and various TANK and Metro bus routes.
Family friendly
Nursing rooms and family-friendly accommodations are available; check guest services upon arrival.

No upcoming multi-sport weekend featuring Heritage Bank Center on the calendar. See Cincinnati home weekends on the city hub →

Where to stay for Heritage Bank Center

Downtown Cincinnati or The Banks district for walkability.

The Banks

This modern riverfront district is situated directly between Great American Ball Park and Paycor Stadium, making it ideal for sports fans seeking immediate proximity to major venues. It offers a lively atmosphere with numerous bars and restaurants.

The Cincinnati Bell Connector (streetcar) has multiple stops in The Banks, providing free access to Downtown and Over-the-Rhine. The TANK Southbank Shuttle also serves The Banks, offering connections to Northern Kentucky (Covington/Newport).

Downtown Cincinnati

Downtown Cincinnati offers a central and compact location with easy walkability to major sports venues and a wide range of hotels. It serves as a hub for various city attractions.

The Cincinnati Bell Connector (streetcar) runs a 3.6-mile loop through downtown, connecting to The Banks and Over-the-Rhine with 18 stops, and is free to ride. The Cincinnati Metro bus system also provides extensive routes throughout the city.

Covington/Newport (Northern Kentucky)

These Northern Kentucky cities across the Ohio River offer an alternative to staying directly in Cincinnati, providing scenic views and a different ambiance. They are well-connected to downtown Cincinnati's sports venues.

The TANK Southbank Shuttle Trolley is a key transit option, directly connecting Covington and Newport to The Banks and the major stadiums in downtown Cincinnati for a low fare. The Airporter 2X bus also provides service from CVG airport to downtown Cincinnati and these Northern Kentucky areas.

See full Cincinnati stay guide →

Arrival and exit strategy

Transit and approach

The venue is accessible via the Cincinnati Bell Connector (streetcar) and various TANK and Metro bus routes.

Rideshare and parking

Rideshare: Designated pick-up and drop-off areas are located along the venue perimeter; follow event-day signage.

Parking: Pre-purchasing parking through the venue's official partner (usually via the website) is recommended for guaranteed spots.

After the event

The Banks district offers several bars and restaurants that remain open after games.

Works well with these Cincinnati venues

Map context

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The game-day experience

  • Atmosphere area: Situated on the banks of the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, adjacent to Great American Ball Park.
  • Tailgating: Not permitted in venue-managed parking lots.
  • Signature food: Local Cincinnati favorites such as Montgomery Inn BBQ and regional concessions are frequently available.
  • Fan tradition: Gathering at The Banks district pre-game and interacting with the local riverfront atmosphere.
  • Pregame institution: Moerlein Lager House (115 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202)