SportCationSportCation
DestinationsTeamsStacksBlogWC26Index

Amalie Arena Guide

NHL · Tampa · 19,204 capacity

See Tampa weekends

Last updated: 3/4/2026

Amalie Arena sits along Tampa's Channelside waterfront, where the TECO Line Streetcar stops directly in front of the building — a free ride from downtown that makes Lightning games remarkably easy to reach. The Water Street development surrounding the arena has added restaurants, hotels, and a Riverwalk connection that extends the game-night experience well past the final horn. Stay in the Channel District or downtown Tampa and the entire evening is walkable.

At a glance

Cashless
Cashless
Re-entry
Re-entry is not permitted once you exit the arena.
Gates open
Gates open 90 min before
Outside food
No outside food
Getting here
The TECO Line Streetcar connects downtown Tampa to the arena area, stopping directly in front of the arena.
Family friendly
Family restrooms are located behind sections 208 and 326.
Capacity
19,204
Home team:Tampa Bay Lightning

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

Where to stay for Amalie Arena

Downtown Tampa, Water Street, or Channelside. The Tampa Marriott Water Street and Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown are within walking distance. Hyde Park also offers highly-rated vacation rentals.

Channel District / Downtown Tampa

This urban and walkable area offers proximity to the waterfront, vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, Sparkman Wharf, and cultural attractions like the Tampa Bay History Center and Florida Aquarium.

The TECO Line Streetcar System directly connects the Channel District and Downtown, providing easy access within these areas and to Ybor City. For Raymond James Stadium, visitors can take the TECO Line Streetcar to the Marion Transit Center and transfer to a HART bus (Route 7 or 32).

Hyde Park

An upscale, historic, and highly walkable neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, elegant architecture, upscale boutiques, and diverse dining scene along South Howard Avenue (SoHo). It also features the scenic Bayshore Boulevard, the world's longest continuous sidewalk.

Hyde Park is convenient to Downtown Tampa, which offers access to the TECO Line Streetcar. For Raymond James Stadium, rideshare services or HART bus connections from downtown would be necessary.

Midtown Tampa

Midtown Tampa is a vibrant and relatively new district offering a central location with a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment spaces. It's considered a trendy area with modern amenities and provides a convenient base for exploring the city.

While specific public transit lines directly to venues are not highlighted as a primary feature, Midtown Tampa's central location makes it a short drive to major attractions. Rideshare services would be the most efficient way to reach sports venues.

See full Tampa stay guide →

Arrival and exit strategy

Transit and approach

The TECO Line Streetcar connects downtown Tampa to the arena area, stopping directly in front of the arena. HART bus routes (8, 19, 30) serve downtown Tampa near Amalie Arena. The Pirate Water Taxi also offers a scenic route with a stop near the arena.

Rideshare and parking

Rideshare: Designated rideshare drop-off zones are provided close to the venue. For post-event pickup, designated spots are located at the intersections of Jefferson St and Eunice St, Nebraska Ave and Eunice St, Nebraska Ave and Cumberland Ave, and Water St and Cumberland Ave.

Parking: Multiple parking garages and surface lots surround the arena, with spaces available for pre-purchase through SeatGeek or the arena's site. Closest parking options include The Car Park, Green Lot Amalie, Parking Lot 2, Teal Lot, and Pam Iorio Parking Garage. Arrive early to beat downtown traffic.

After the event

Hattricks Tavern (Franklin Street) is open until 3 AM. American Social on Harbour Island offers late-night specials. Ybor City is also a popular area for post-game activities.

Works well with these Tampa venues

Map context

Open in Google Maps →

The game-day experience

  • Atmosphere area: Downtown Tampa's vibrant Water Street district. It is also considered part of the Channelside District.
  • Signature food: The arena offers classic stadium eats along with local Tampa flavors such as Cuban sandwiches, seafood, BBQ, and craft beer from Florida breweries.
  • Fan tradition: Tampa Bay Lightning fans, known as 'Bolts Nation,' are passionate, engaging in traditions like 'Thunderstruck' introductions and goal celebrations. The arena itself features a nautical theme, including a giant replica of a pirate ship.
  • Pregame institution: Columbia Cafe at the Tampa Bay History Center (701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602)

Where to eat and drink nearby

Pregame picks

  • Hattricks Tavern
    107 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602 · Downtown Tampa

    A legendary institution since 1997, known for its hockey-centric atmosphere, lively vibe, and being a go-to spot for Tampa Bay Lightning pregame and postgame parties. Features wall-to-wall HDTVs with surround sound audio for all major sports.

    What to order: Lightning Shake n Bake wings (tossed in garlic parmesan), Shephard's Pie, happy hour drink specials.

  • American Social
    601 S. Harbour Island Blvd., Tampa, FL 33602 · Harbour Island / Downtown Tampa

    An upscale yet casual waterside sports bar adjacent to Jackson's, offering a diverse craft beer and cocktail menu. It features large resort-style waterfront patios with Downtown Tampa views, plenty of TVs, and live entertainment. It's a popular spot for dinner before games and offers social hour and late-night specials.

    What to order: Craft beers, cocktails, upscale American dining.

  • Top Shelf Sports Lounge
    401 East Jackson Street Suite 101, Tampa, FL 33602 · Downtown Tampa

    An upscale sports bar and restaurant in Downtown Tampa, voted #1 Sports Bar and Best Wings in Tampa. Offers fresh food made from scratch, daily specials, trivia night, and live music, making it perfect for fans and foodies.

    What to order: Award-winning wings, fresh food made from scratch.