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PNC Arena Guide

NHL · Raleigh · 19,722 capacity

Last updated: 3/7/2026

PNC Arena sits on the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, roughly five miles west of downtown in a location with limited public transit. Hurricanes games draw loyal fans who tailgate in the fairgrounds lots, and the surrounding area is car-dependent — plan on driving or ridesharing from your hotel. Raleigh-Durham International Airport is about 10 miles away, and staying near the Glenwood South dining district downtown puts you close to both the city's best restaurants and a reasonable drive to the arena.

At a glance

Cashless
Cashless
Gates open
Gates open 1.5h before
Outside food
No outside food
Getting here
Public transportation to PNC Arena is limited.
Family friendly
Diaper bags are permitted when accompanied by a child.
Capacity
19,722

No upcoming multi-sport weekend featuring PNC Arena on the calendar. See Raleigh home weekends on the city hub →

Where to stay for PNC Arena

While no specific 'ideal' neighborhood is identified, Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is approximately 10 miles away, offering nearby lodging options. Future plans for a mixed-use entertainment district adjacent to the arena include a 150-room hotel.

See full Raleigh stay guide →

Arrival and exit strategy

Transit and approach

Public transportation to PNC Arena is limited. GoRaleigh bus service does not offer direct routes, but routes such as Route 2, 27L, and 60 stop near Trinity Rd at Peter Karmanos Jr Dr, an 8-minute walk from the arena. GoTriangle's DRX bus offers weekday peak-hour service from Durham to Carter-Finley, but return trips require transfers and walking. The Wolfline 60 also goes to the Carter-Finley Park N' Ride. Most fans opt for driving or ridesharing.

Rideshare and parking

Rideshare: Designated rideshare drop-off and pickup zones are located near the East Entrance. For suite guests, the pickup point is across from the West VIP Lot near Gate C.

Parking: Parking fees vary by event. Pre-purchasing mobile parking vouchers in advance via ParkWhiz.com is recommended to save money. On-site parking is cashless, accepting credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. Arriving at least 1 to 1.5 hours before an event is suggested to navigate traffic and find parking.

After the event

The immediate vicinity around PNC Arena offers limited options for post-game late-night activities, with the area described as having 'little to do within walking distance' after events.

Map context

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The game-day experience

  • Atmosphere area: PNC Arena is located in West Raleigh, adjacent to Carter-Finley Stadium and near the NC State Fairgrounds. It is situated near the intersection of Edwards Mill Road and West Trinity Road.
  • Tailgating: Tailgating is permitted and encouraged in the parking lots. Parking lots open three hours prior to Carolina Hurricanes games. Tailgating is allowed in one parking space only, and guests are asked to dispose of charcoal properly and not leave open fires unattended.
  • Signature food: Popular food items include North Carolina BBQ (pulled BBQ sandwiches and BBQ nachos), Shake Shack (burgers, milkshakes), Chick-fil-A, Gonza Tacos y Tequila, Buena Papa gourmet French fries, and Primo Hoagies (Italian specialty sandwiches).
  • Fan tradition: Prominent fan traditions include extensive tailgating, especially for Carolina Hurricanes games, and the post-game 'Storm Surge' celebration where players perform a Viking 'Skol' chant and jump into the boards. Fans also embrace the 'bunch of jerks' moniker, stemming from a comment by Don Cherry, and participate in the annual 'Canes 5K'.

Where to eat and drink nearby

Pregame picks

  • The Players' Retreat
    105 Oberlin Rd, Raleigh, NC 27605 · West Raleigh / NC State Area

    A Raleigh institution since 1951 and a popular spot for NC State fans and official Canes Bar, known for its extensive Wolfpack memorabilia and a lively atmosphere.

    What to order: Famous sandwiches, daily specials, hearty soups, gumbos, chili, and cold beer.

  • Carolina Ale House
    401 W North St, Raleigh, NC 27603 · Downtown Raleigh

    A regional powerhouse in the sports bar scene, known for a massive number of high-definition TVs, a state-of-the-art sound system, and a lively atmosphere perfect for catching any game.

  • Backyard Bistro
    1235 Hurricane Alley Way, Raleigh, NC 27607 · Near PNC Arena / Carter-Finley Stadium

    Known for its unique tailgating atmosphere, spacious outdoor patio, and delicious Southern-inspired cuisine. It's a popular hot spot before Carolina Hurricanes games, often frequented by the Hurricanes booster club.

    What to order: St. Louis style pork ribs, fresh hand-cut fries, creamy mac and cheese, Backyard Burger, and award-winning wings.

  • Rudino's Sports Corner
    3101 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27612 · Near PNC Arena / Carter-Finley Stadium

    One of Raleigh's largest sports bars with over 20 50-inch plasma TVs, featuring all sports packages and ESPN3 college football games. It's a convenient stop before or after games at PNC Arena and Carter-Finley Stadium.

    What to order: Pizza, grinders, buffalo chicken dip, and cheese breadsticks.

  • Tobacco Road Sports Cafe
    505 W Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27603 · Downtown Raleigh

    Offers an expansive menu and is considered an ideal pre-game gathering spot, especially for those looking for hearty food and multiple screens to watch games.

    What to order: Hearty burgers and tantalizing nachos.