Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden is much more than a sports arena in the heart of Manhattan: it’s the world’s most famous arena 🏟️, where the history of sports and music comes alive. Known worldwide for hosting legendary events, from boxing matches to unforgettable concerts and Knicks and Rangers games, this venue represents a vibrant icon of New York.
Located above Penn Station, between Seventh and Eighth Avenues, Madison Square Garden is a must-stop for any sports or music fan visiting the city. Whether attending an exciting game or a spectacular concert, its unique atmosphere makes it an unforgettable experience that combines top-tier entertainment and pure New York energy.
Why Visit Madison Square Garden?
Visiting Madison Square Garden means entering “The World’s Most Famous Arena.” It’s a mythical place in New York that has witnessed countless historic moments in sports and music. NBA and NHL games, concerts by world-class artists, and special events that attract millions of people are held here.
Its cultural significance is undeniable: it has been the home of the New York Knicks (NBA) 🏀 and the New York Rangers (NHL) 🏒 for decades, and music legends like Elvis Presley, John Lennon, Queen, and Lady Gaga have performed on its stage. Furthermore, its strategic location above Penn Station makes it a central hub for transportation and entertainment.
Madison Square Garden is also a symbol of New York’s constant renewal. After several renovations throughout its history (the current one is the fourth venue with this name), today it is a modern and vibrant space that offers a first-class experience to all its visitors. If you want to feel the thrill of a major live event, this is the place.
How to Get to Madison Square Garden by Subway?
Main Stations
The main station providing direct access to Madison Square Garden is 34th Street–Penn Station, located right beneath the venue. This station is one of the city’s largest transportation hubs, connecting multiple subway lines, as well as commuter trains (LIRR and NJ Transit) and Amtrak.
Subway Lines That Take You to Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden is exceptionally well-connected by the New York City subway, thanks to its location above Penn Station. The lines that take you directly to the 34th St–Penn Station are:
- 1, 2, 3 (red lines)
- A, C, E (blue lines)
Additionally, the 34th Street–Herald Square station (lines B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) is just one block east, offering even more options.
How to Get to Madison Square Garden From:
Central Park / Columbus Circle
If you are in Central Park or near Columbus Circle (59th St), simply take the 1 train (southbound) or the A or C trains (southbound), and in a few stops, you will arrive directly at 34th St–Penn Station.
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
From Wall Street or World Trade Center, you can take the 1, 2, or 3 trains (northbound) or the A, C, or E trains (northbound) directly to 34th St–Penn Station.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From DUMBO, take the A or C train at High St northbound (uptown) to 34th St–Penn Station. If coming from Williamsburg, you can take the L train to 14th St/8th Ave and transfer to the A, C, or E trains northbound one stop to 34th St–Penn Station.
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
If you’re coming from Long Island City or Flushing in Queens, the most direct way is to take the E train (e.g., from Court Sq-23 St or Jackson Hts–Roosevelt Av) directly to 34th St–Penn Station. Alternatively, you can take the 7 train to Times Sq-42 St and transfer to the 1, 2, or 3 train (southbound) one stop.
Harlem
From the north, in Harlem, you can take the 1, 2, or 3 trains (southbound) or the A or C trains (southbound) directly to 34th St–Penn Station.
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK Airport, you can take the AirTrain to Jamaica station and then transfer to the E subway line to 34th St–Penn Station. From LaGuardia (LGA), take the Q70-SBS bus to Jackson Hts–Roosevelt Av and transfer to the E line to 34th St–Penn Station. If arriving at Newark (EWR), take the AirTrain Newark to the NJ Transit train station and catch a direct train to New York Penn Station, which is right below MSG.
What to Do at Madison Square Garden?
Madison Square Garden is one of the epicenters of entertainment in New York. Beyond attending an event, the venue itself offers unique experiences. You’ll feel the history-laden atmosphere and the excitement that permeates every corner of “The World’s Most Famous Arena.”
Attend a Sporting Event
Experiencing a New York Knicks 🏀 game in the NBA or a New York Rangers 🏒 game in the NHL is an electrifying experience. The atmosphere, the fans’ chants, and the arena’s energy are unparalleled. It also hosts other sporting events like professional boxing or wrestling (WWE).
Enjoy a Concert or Show
MSG is a mandatory stop for the tours of the biggest artists on the planet. From rock and pop legends to current stars, performing here is a milestone. Check the schedule to see if your visit coincides with any concerts 🎤 or special shows.
Take the All Access Tour
Discover the secrets of Madison Square Garden with the MSG All Access Tour™. This guided tour takes you behind the scenes, allowing you to visit team locker rooms (subject to availability), learn about iconic moments, and see the arena from unique perspectives, like the Chase Bridges.
Explore Chase Square
The main entrance of the arena, known as Chase Square, often hosts interactive exhibits or displays related to the history of MSG and its teams. It’s a good place to take photos 📸 and feel the pulse of the venue before entering. You’ll also find official team stores.
Visit the Hulu Theater at MSG
Within the Madison Square Garden complex is the Hulu Theater at MSG. This more intimate theater (about 5,600 seats) hosts a wide variety of events, including concerts, comedy shows, award ceremonies, and family events.
Attractions Near Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden’s central location in Midtown Manhattan places it within walking distance of many other popular New York attractions. Take advantage of your visit to explore the surroundings of this iconic arena.
Penn Station / Moynihan Train Hall
Just below MSG is Penn Station, the busiest transportation hub in North America. Across 8th Avenue, you can admire the stunning Moynihan Train Hall, the expansion of Penn Station located in the historic James A. Farley Post Office building, with its spectacular glass atrium.
Macy’s Herald Square
Just one block east, in Herald Square, lies the flagship store of Macy’s, one of the largest department stores in the world. It’s a landmark in itself, famous for its window displays, especially during Christmas 🎄, and its historic wooden escalators.
Empire State Building
A few blocks east of MSG stands the iconic Empire State Building. Go up to its observatories on the 86th and 102nd floors to enjoy spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of New York City and beyond. ✨
The High Line
Starting near Hudson Yards, west of MSG, The High Line is an elevated urban park built on former railway lines. It offers a unique walk with gardens, public art, and different views of the city and the Hudson River. It’s perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Hudson Yards
This modern urban development, located a few blocks west of MSG, features luxury shops, restaurants, the outdoor observation deck Edge (the highest in the Western Hemisphere), and the striking Vessel structure. An example of New York’s new architecture.
Koreatown
Just east of Madison Square Garden, centered around 32nd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues, is Koreatown. This vibrant neighborhood is packed with Korean BBQ restaurants 🍜, karaoke bars 🎤, cosmetic shops, and much more, offering a lively atmosphere day and night.
Tips for Visiting Madison Square Garden
Visiting Madison Square Garden, whether for a sporting event, concert, or tour, is an exciting experience. Here are some tips to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Buy Tickets in Advance
Events at MSG, especially major Knicks or Rangers games and concerts by famous artists, often sell out quickly. Buy your tickets 🎟️ as far in advance as possible through official channels (Ticketmaster, MSG website) to secure your spot and avoid high resale prices.
Arrive Early
MSG is huge, and security checks can take time, especially during sold-out events. It’s recommended to arrive at least 60-90 minutes early before the event starts. This will give you time to pass security, find your seat, buy food or drinks, and enjoy the pre-event atmosphere. ⏰
Security and Venue Rules
Madison Square Garden has strict security policies. Check the official MSG website before you go to learn about the rules regarding permitted bag sizes (they often require small or clear bags) and prohibited items (professional cameras, outside food or drinks, etc.). Be prepared to go through metal detectors.
Food and Drinks
Inside MSG, you’ll find a wide variety of food and drink options 🍿🥤, from fast-food stands to more elaborate choices. However, prices are usually high. Outside food and drinks are not allowed. If you prefer to save money, there are many dining options around the arena before or after the event.
