Experience the Energy that Draws New Yorkers to Madison Square Garden
Since its opening night in 1879, Madison Square Garden (MSG) has become a premier destination for historic championship games and legendary concerts. From the New York Knicks to Muhammad Ali and Michael Jackson, playing here is considered the pinnacle of an artist or athlete’s career. The venue is an engineering marvel, the first arena built above an active railroad station.
Background on Madison Square Garden
When they opened the present Madison Square Garden Complex in 1968, they called it Madison Square Garden Center. It was the 4th venue to bear the MSG initials. Then, it boasted the first permanent steel cable suspension roof at its construction. The circular structure was another feat that made the venue famous.
Today, MSG has become so iconic that New Yorkers often refer to it simply as ‘The Garden.’ It can accommodate over 20,000 people for concerts and live events.
Sports fans will recognize the Garden as the home of the NHL’s New York Rangers and the NBA’s New York Knicks. The Garden has also hosted some of the most legendary boxing fights and pro wrestling events. The city’s most high-profile concerts are held here. Elvis Presley, John Lennon, The Who, Billy Joel, and Lady Gaga are among the famous artists who have played here. The venue has even hosted a mass by the Pope.
Where is Madison Square Garden and how do you get there?
Madison Square Garden stands on Seventh Avenue between West 31st and 33rd streets. There are 2 VIP entrances and 6 other entrances.
Getting here is easy:
- By train: Take the 1, 2, 3, A, C, or E trains to Penn Station or the B, D, F, M, N, Q, or R trains to the 34th Street/Herald Square stop.
- By bus: Take the M4, M10, M16, M34 or Q32 buses to 7th Avenue/Penn Station.
- Access-A-Ride: MSG has an Access-A-Ride stop on 7th Avenue and 8th Avenue for physically disabled visitors.
- From New Jersey: Visitors from Weehawken, Hoboken, Jersey City, and Belford can take the ferry to Midtown/W39th St., and a free NY Waterway shuttle will take them to the arena.
What to expect when you visit?
No two visits to MSG are the same. Whether you see a basketball court or a stage depends on ongoing events. You can take the All Access Tour to see the arena if you’re not there for a specific event. Each tour lasts about an hour. Mostly, the weekends are the most crowded. Scheduling your visit on a weekday morning should give you a more comfortable experience. MSG does not have a coat check area, so avoid carrying oversized bags.
Tickets for Madison Square Garden are available at the venue and online. Book your tickets online if you don’t want to stand in a line.
What else can you do when you visit Madison Square Garden?
Besides marveling at the beauty of MSG, you should ideally watch a game or a concert to experience the arena’s energy. Don’t miss out on the Walk of Fame, the retired jerseys hanging from the rafters, and the merchandise stands.
If you’re hungry, grab a snack at one of the many food stalls in the venue or restaurants near the entrances. Alternatively, you could visit Madison Square Park or Bryant Park for a picnic. If you’re lucky, you could picnic during one of the free concerts held at the park. The Empire State Building is a short walk from the arena.
FAQs
Why do people visit Madison Square Garden?
Madison Square Gardens is famed as one of New York’s oldest sporting facilities. It has hosted some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment.
Who can visit Madison Square Garden?
Anyone with a ticket to a game or event can enter the venue. Those without event passes can enter with an all-access tour ticket.
Are children allowed?
Children are allowed to attend most events. Any child over the age of 2 years requires a ticket.
Visiting Madison Square Garden is a must. Locals know the excitement of cheering for the Knicks or joining a roaring crowd at a pop concert. This iconic venue, often called the world’s most famous arena, has been the heart of NYC’s cultural scene since its inception. Catch a game, enjoy a concert, or take a tour to experience its rich history. Whether you’re a sports fan or a music lover, Madison Square Garden offers unforgettable moments.
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