PPG Paints Arena Guide
Entry, transit, rideshare, parking, and game-day logistics for Pittsburgh.
Last updated: 3/4/2026
Key logistics
| Bag policy | For security purposes, ONLY wallets/wristlets (4"x6"x1"), and medical/diaper bags will be permitted inside PPG Paints Arena and all items are subject to searches upon entrance. Large bags, coolers, backpacks and sealed packages of any kind are not permitted. [cite: 2, 8 from previous search] |
|---|---|
| Doors open | Doors generally open one (1) hour prior to the start of an event, including Pittsburgh Penguins games. This time may vary depending on the specific event. [cite: 2 from previous search, 7 from previous search, 18 from previous search, 24 from previous search] |
| Cashless? | PPG Paints Arena operates as a cashless venue, accepting credit and debit cards, as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay. Reverse ATMs are available on-site to convert cash into a pre-paid Visa card. [cite: 3 from previous search, 4 from previous search, 9] |
| Rideshare zone | The designated rideshare pick-up and drop-off location for PPG Paints Arena is situated at the corner of Wylie Avenue and Fullerton Street. [cite: 2 from previous search, 10 from previous search, 19 from previous search] |
| Re-entry | PPG Paints Arena enforces a strict no re-entry policy; once guests leave the building during an event, they will not be permitted to return. [cite: 2 from previous search, 11 from previous search, 28 from previous search] |
| Transit | Public transportation options include Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PAT) buses, with routes such as 61A, 61B, 71A, and 71C serving the area. The T Light Rail's closest stop is Steel Plaza Station, approximately a 10-minute walk from the arena, offering free service within the Golden Triangle. [cite: 5 from previous search, 10 from previous search, 13 from previous search, 8] |
Parking
Parking is available in PPG Paints Arena Lots, which are cashless. Pre-purchasing parking in advance via ParkWhiz is strongly encouraged. Accessible parking is provided in lots such as East Lot, Fullerton Lot, South Lot, and West Lot, as well as in the attached parking garage for non-hockey events; these spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. [cite: 2 from previous search, 19 from previous search, 29 from previous search]
Family & accessibility
- Strollers: Strollers are permitted inside PPG Paints Arena; however, fold-up strollers are preferred due to limited storage space. The arena does not offer secure drop-off areas for personal items. [cite: 2 from previous search]
- Family perks: Children under the age of two do not typically require a ticket for Pittsburgh Penguins games if they are sitting on an adult's lap. For most other events, children aged two years and over need a ticket, with some shows for younger audiences having specific age requirements. Assistive Listening Devices are available at Guest Services behind Section 104. A Designated Driver program is offered during Penguins games, providing a coupon for a complimentary soft drink. [cite: 2 from previous search, 11 from previous search, 22 from previous search, 31 from previous search]
Culture layer
- Signature food: The iconic Primanti Brothers sandwiches, known for being piled high with coleslaw and french fries, are a significant Pittsburgh specialty and an integral part of the game day experience. [cite: 15 from previous search, 19 from previous search, 20 from previous search, 5]
- Local tradition: Notable local fan traditions include throwing hats onto the ice when a Pittsburgh Penguins player scores a hat trick, enjoying Primanti Brothers sandwiches as a game day ritual, and the enduring legend of the 'Lucky Penguin' bringing good fortune to the team. Chants of 'Let's go Pens!' are also common. [cite: 15 from previous search, 20 from previous search, 25 from previous search, 26 from previous search]
Verified places nearby
- Tom's Watch Bar220 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 · North ShoreWhat to order: Jumbo wings, signature prime rib dip sandwich, locally inspired game-day bites.
- Primanti Bros. (Downtown)2 Market Sq, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 · DowntownWhat to order: Sandwiches with fries and coleslaw on them.
- Souper Bowl910 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 · DowntownWhat to order: Game-day specials.
- City Works Eatery & Pour House2 PPG Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 · DowntownWhat to order: Wide menu of beers on draft, cocktails, sharables, and modern American classics with a twist.