Xcel Energy Center Guide
Entry, transit, rideshare, parking, and game-day logistics for Saint Paul.
Last updated: 3/9/2026
Key logistics
| Bag policy | Only clear bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" or a clear resealable plastic storage bag (limited to one gallon in size) are permitted. Small clutch purses no larger than 5" x 8" are also allowed. Medical and diaper bags are permitted but are subject to security screening. Backpacks, coolers, and large totes are prohibited. |
|---|---|
| Doors open | Doors typically open 90 minutes before events. |
| Cashless? | Xcel Energy Center has implemented dedicated electronic (cashless) payment systems at select concessions and points-of-sale, accepting credit cards, gift cards, and mobile payments (like Apple Pay and Google Pay). The box office also only accepts credit card payment for transactions. |
| Rideshare zone | Designated rideshare pickup and drop-off zones are located near Kellogg Boulevard and West 7th Street, specifically at Gate 4 on the northeast corner of 5th Street. |
| Re-entry | No re-entry is allowed once guests leave the arena for any reason, including smoking. |
| Transit | Public transportation options include several Metro Transit bus routes (e.g., 21, 54, 63, 64, 67, 70, 74, 94) and the Metro Green Line light rail, with Central Station being the closest stop. |
Parking
The RiverCentre Parking Ramp and Kellogg Parking Ramp are directly connected to Xcel Energy Center, with the RiverCentre ramp offering skyway access. Reserving parking online is an option for select events, though not typically for Minnesota Wild games. It is recommended to arrive 60-90 minutes early.
Family & accessibility
- Family perks: The arena offers family restrooms, designated nursing rooms, kid-friendly concessions, and often hosts pre-event entertainment such as live music, dance performances, and fan zones with activities like face painting, games, and photo booths.
Culture layer
- Signature food: Local favorites include Hot Indian, Pizza Luce, and Sweet Martha's Cookies, along with various craft beer selections.
- Local tradition: Minnesota Wild hockey is central to the arena's culture. A 'Goal Light District' celebrates Minnesota's passion for hockey with interactive displays and team history exhibits, and the arena itself has been recognized for its fan-friendly layout and atmosphere.
Verified places nearby
- Tom Reid's Hockey City Pub258 W 7th St, Saint Paul, MN 55102 · West 7thWhat to order: American and Canadian specialties, including sizzling burgers, poutine, piled-high sandwiches, salads, wings, grilled chicken, ribs, and eight different walleye preparations.
- Alary's Bar & Barbeque139 E 7th St, St Paul, MN 55101 · DowntownWhat to order: Known for its BBQ, with highlights including slow-smoked burnt ends, smoked turkey, Texas hot links, brisket, pulled pork, and ribs.
- Wild Bill's Sports Saloon175 West 7th Street, St. Paul, MN · DowntownWhat to order: Fresh burgers, homemade cheese curds, breaded pickles, fresh never-frozen wings, thick-cut burgers, BBQ ribs, wraps, and salads.
- The Eagle Street253 Kellogg Boulevard, St. Paul, MN · DowntownWhat to order: Burgers, sliders, wraps, wings, soups, sandwiches, Reuben quesadillas, and Irish nachos.
- J.R. Mac's Grill & Pub1420 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102 · West 7thWhat to order: Award-winning food and cocktails in a traditional Irish pub setting.
- Zamboni's on 7th207 W 7th St, St Paul, MN 55102 · DowntownWhat to order: Thin Crust Tavern Style Pizza and great sandwiches.