
18,387 spectators
2010
1001 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Pittsburgh, United States
No Pitch
Single-Sport Venue
Ice Hockey
Arena
PPG Paints Arena is the home of the Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL), located at 1001 Fifth Avenue in Pittsburgh's Uptown district. Opened on August 18, 2010 at a cost of $321 million, the arena replaced the Civic Arena (Mellon Arena) -- which dated to 1961 -- as the permanent home of one of the NHL's most successful franchises. The arena was designed by Populous (the same firm behind PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium) working with local architect Astorino, and is owned by the Sports and Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County, with the Penguins serving as master lessee. PPG Paints Arena holds two significant distinctions from the year it opened. It was named "Best New Major Concert Venue" in the Pollstar Concert Industry Awards and "Best NHL Arena" in the Sports Business Journal reader poll -- dual recognition in both hockey and the entertainment industry. More durably, it remains the first LEED Gold-certified arena in the NHL, a designation from the United States Green Building Council recognising its environmental sustainability across energy, water, materials, and indoor quality. The arena's most iconic exterior feature is the Mario Lemieux statue on the Centre Avenue plaza -- a bronze sculpture depicting Lemieux splitting two defenders during a legendary 1988 goal. Lemieux, whose number 66 is honoured throughout the building, rescued the Penguins from bankruptcy in 1999 and drove the creation of the arena. Suite 66 -- the exclusive premium space named for his number -- offers views of the players' locker room corridor on the event level. The Penguins won three Stanley Cup Championships with PPG Paints Arena as their home: 2009, 2016, and 2017 (adding to the franchise's 1991 and 1992 titles at the old Civic Arena). The building has hosted some of the most dramatic hockey of the 21st century. In 2023, the arena underwent a $30 million renovation designed by original architects Populous, adding two ice-level bunker suites flanking the Penguins' bench (with unprecedented proximity to the locker room corridor), a 300-person all-inclusive VIP event-level club in the double-attack zone, and comprehensive upgrades to the scoreboard, sound, lighting, and concession technology. The Penguins Hall of Fame was also relaunched in 2025 after a decade's absence, celebrating franchise legends in a dedicated interactive concourse space. Steel Plaza station on Pittsburgh's T light rail system is 3 blocks from the arena -- rides within the downtown free fare zone are free of charge. Multiple Port Authority bus routes serve the surrounding area. The arena sits adjacent to Duquesne University in Uptown Pittsburgh, with Fifth Avenue lined with bars and restaurants, and the full breadth of downtown Pittsburgh's dining and nightlife a 15-minute walk away.
Pittsburgh's light rail system, known as The T, provides service to the arena area. Steel Plaza station is the closest stop -- a flat 3-block walk from PPG Paints Arena, making it a straightforward transit option. The T runs from the South Hills suburbs into downtown Pittsburgh, with Steel Plaza on the downtown loop. First Avenue station is another option, also within walking distance. Fares in the downtown free fare zone are $0; paid fares apply from suburban stations.
Multiple Port Authority bus routes connect Pittsburgh's neighbourhoods to the downtown core near PPG Paints Arena, including the 61A, 61B, 61C, 61D, and 67. The bus network covers Pittsburgh's diverse hillside neighbourhoods (the South Side, Oakland, Shadyside, Lawrenceville) that the T does not serve. Use the Whiz or Transit apps for real-time schedules. Lyft is the official rideshare partner -- use code PPGPAINTS for 50% off the first 2 rides.
PPG Paints Arena is accessed via Interstate 376 (take the Grant Street exit to 7th Avenue, then turn right) or I-579 from the north. Multiple parking lots and garages surround the arena and along Fifth Avenue, starting at $28 for Penguins games. The Mellon Center Garage is a well-regarded option within walking distance. Lots closer to the arena carry premiums. Pittsburgh's street layout is famously confusing for visitors -- plan your route in advance and allow extra time.
PPG Paints Arena sits in the Uptown district, adjacent to Duquesne University and east of downtown Pittsburgh. From the downtown hotel district, the arena is an approximately 15-minute flat walk along Fifth Avenue. The Centre Avenue entrance (north side) is the main fan arrival point, where the famous Mario Lemieux statue -- depicting a goal from his legendary 1988 performance -- serves as the pre-game gathering point. A second entrance is on Fifth Avenue and Washington Place (south side). Bar and restaurant options line Fifth Avenue approaching the arena.
Explore the home of the five-time Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins with a guided behind-the-scenes tour of PPG Paints Arena. Visit the Penguins locker room, walk through the players' tunnel, see the ice-level bunker suites flanking the Penguins' bench (added in the 2023 renovation), and explore the revived Penguins Hall of Fame -- reopened in 2025 after more than a decade's absence, featuring interactive tributes to legends Scotty Bowman, Ron Francis, Eddie Johnston, and Mario Lemieux. Guides cover the arena's history from opening in 2010 as Consol Energy Center through the five Stanley Cup championships (1991, 1992, 2009, 2016, 2017), the LEED Gold sustainability achievement, and the steel-city story of Pittsburgh hockey.
Adult tickets cost £20, children's tickets are £12, and concession tickets are available for £16. The complete stadium tour experience lasts 75 minutes, providing comprehensive access to the stadium's most exclusive areas.
The PPG Paints Arena Behind-the-Scenes Tour includes penguins locker room, players' tunnel, ice level, ice-level bunker suites, suite 66, penguins hall of fame, mario lemieux statue, 2023 renovation highlights, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world's most famous stadiums. Available on select non-event days. Contact PPG Paints Arena guest services or visit ppgpaintsarena.com for scheduling. Book via ppgpaintsarena.com or call guest services at 412-642-1800.
Luxury accommodation - short walk
Rates from £200 to £440 per night
Pittsburgh's grandest hotel -- a 1916 landmark in the heart of downtown, 0.8km from PPG Paints Arena. The William Penn has hosted presidents, royalty, and every major Pittsburgh sports championship celebration. The Palm Court lobby is one of Pittsburgh's most magnificent spaces.
Mid-range accommodation - walking distance
Rates from £150 to £300 per night
Directly adjacent to PPG Paints Arena -- 0.3km from the main entrance. One of the closest hotels to the arena and reliably busy on Penguins game nights. Modern Marriott standards and an unbeatable location for Pens fans.
Budget accommodation - walking distance
Rates from £110 to £200 per night
One of the closest hotels to PPG Paints Arena at 0.2km -- essentially next door. Well-regarded for its arena proximity and value in the Pittsburgh market. Popular with Penguins fans attending games and concerts at The Rock.
Boutique accommodation - short walk
Rates from £160 to £360 per night
Vibrant boutique hotel in a landmark 1902 Beaux Arts building in downtown Pittsburgh, 0.9km from the arena. Free evening wine hour, playful dog-friendly policy, and Smith & Wollensky restaurant. A distinctive alternative to chain hotels for Penguins game visits.
PPG Paints Arena has wheelchair and companion seating throughout on all levels. Elevators serve all concourse levels. The Sports and Exhibition Authority (SEA) handles ADA accommodation queries for the arena. Contact the SEA for ADA information at 412-393-0200 or sea-ada-info@pgh-sea.com. Arena guest services can also direct fans to accessible seating and elevators on arrival.
Steel Plaza station (Pittsburgh Light Rail / The T) is a 3-block walk from the arena. All T vehicles are accessible for mobility aids. The downtown free fare zone means rides within the central loop are free. Port Authority PARATRANSIT provides door-to-door accessible transit for those unable to use fixed-route services. Port Authority PARATRANSIT: 412-562-5353. All T vehicles ADA accessible. Steel Plaza station has accessible platform access.
Designated accessible parking available in multiple lots and garages surrounding PPG Paints Arena. The Sports and Exhibition Authority manages accessible parking arrangements. Pre-book where possible for major events. Multiple accessible spaces in surrounding lots starting at $28 for Penguins games. Contact the SEA at 412-393-0200 for accessible parking guidance.
Assistive listening devices available for Penguins games and events. The $30M 2023 renovation upgraded all in-game entertainment technology including sound systems. Request assistive listening devices at guest services desks inside the arena. Enhanced sound system installed as part of the 2023 renovation.
Accessible restrooms on all concourse levels throughout the arena. Accessible restrooms available on every concourse level. Ask arena staff for the nearest facility.
PPG Paints Arena is KultureCity Sensory Certified, providing support for guests with sensory sensitivities. Sensory bags (noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards) are available at guest services. Quiet rooms available for guests who need a low-stimulation space. Request a sensory bag at any guest services desk. Quiet rooms available throughout the event. KultureCity certified venue -- trained staff available for sensory support needs.
Upper Bowl (300 & 400 Levels) tickets range from $30 USD to $120 USD for the season and flex plans via penguins ticket office..
Upper bowl seating for Pittsburgh Penguins home games. Pittsburgh is a rabid hockey city -- five Stanley Cup championships create deep fan loyalty and strong attendance. The arena's LEED Gold design and modern sightlines mean all seats have good ice views. Doors open 1 hour before events.
These upper bowl seating in the steel city's home arena. the 300 and 400 levels offer affordable entry to one of the nhl's most passionate fanbases -- pittsburgh's gold and black fills the arena on big nights. early-season weeknight games offer the best value. tickets include assigned seat, concourse access, standard concessions (cashless preferred), making them an excellent choice for visitors seeking luxury hospitality experience.
Club Level (200 Level) & All-Inclusive VIP Club tickets range from $80 USD to $280 USD for the season club packages available. contact penguins premium sales..
Club Level seating with premium amenities. The 2023 all-inclusive VIP event-level club is the headline new premium offering -- 300-person capacity, all-inclusive food and beverage, positioned in the Penguins' double-attack zone for best offensive viewing.
These club level seating with access to premium concourse areas. the new all-inclusive vip event-level club (added 2023) can accommodate 300 people in the double-attack zone, with section 109 seating for hockey games and premium stage-adjacent seating for concerts. tickets include assigned club seat or vip club access, enhanced f&b, premium concourse areas, making them an excellent choice for visitors seeking luxury hospitality experience.
Suite 66, Ice-Level Bunker Suites & Standard Suites tickets range from $3500 USD to $12000 USD for the season suite leases and single-event rentals. bunker suites in very high demand..
Private suite rental for Penguins games. Suite 66 and the ice-level bunker suites are the most exclusive offerings -- particularly the bunker suites which offer the closest proximity to Penguins players of any premium space at the arena. Full catering via Aramark.
These ppg paints arena features 64 suites, plus the exclusive suite 66 (honouring mario lemieux) and two ice-level bunker suites flanking the penguins' bench -- added in the 2023 renovation. the bunker suites have views outside the penguins' locker room and bench area. tickets include private suite (up to 22 guests), catering via aramark, vip parking, dedicated attendant, private restrooms, making them an excellent choice for visitors seeking luxury hospitality experience.
The bronze statue on the Centre Avenue plaza depicts Mario Lemieux splitting two defenders during a legendary 1988 goal -- one of the most celebrated moments in Penguins history. Lemieux, who wore number 66 and is widely considered one of the greatest players in NHL history, rescued the franchise from bankruptcy in 1999 and spearheaded the drive to build PPG Paints Arena. The statue is the natural pre-game gathering point for Penguins fans.
Take Pittsburgh's light rail system (The T) to Steel Plaza station -- a 3-block flat walk from the arena. The downtown free fare zone means T rides within central Pittsburgh are free. Multiple Port Authority bus routes also serve the downtown area, including the 61A, 61B, 61C, 61D, and 67. Use the Transit or Whiz app for real-time schedules. Lyft is the official rideshare partner (code PPGPAINTS for 50% off first 2 rides).
Yes -- PPG Paints Arena was the first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold-certified arena in the NHL when it opened in 2010, making it the most environmentally sustainable NHL facility at the time of construction. The certification covers energy efficiency, water usage, materials, and indoor environmental quality across the 18,387-seat building.
Multiple lots and garages surround the arena and along Fifth Avenue, starting at $28 for Penguins games (prices increase closer to the arena). The Mellon Center Garage is a good walkable option. Arrive early -- downtown Pittsburgh traffic and the city's complex street layout can catch out visitors. Pre-plan your specific route using Google Maps.
The Penguins Hall of Fame reopened in 2025 after a decade-long absence -- a dedicated concourse exhibit celebrating the greatest players and moments in Pittsburgh Penguins history. The relaunch inducted legends Scotty Bowman, Ron Francis, Eddie Johnston, and Kevin Stevens, with interactive displays and historical artefacts across three seasons of inductees. It is accessible to all ticketed fans on game days.
In 2023, the Penguins and OVG360 completed a $30 million renovation designed by original architects Populous. The key additions: two ice-level bunker suites flanking the Penguins' bench (with views outside the locker room); a 300-person all-inclusive VIP event-level club in the double-attack zone; complete replacement of all in-game entertainment technology including the scoreboard, sound, and lighting systems; and self-ordering kiosks and contactless payments throughout concessions.
PPG Paints Arena concessions feature Pittsburgh's food culture: Primanti Brothers' iconic sandwiches (coleslaw and fries stuffed inside the bread), Pittsburgh-style pierogies, and a range of standard arena food. Self-ordering kiosks and contactless payments were introduced in the 2023 renovation. Pre-game, Souper Bowl and Shale's Bar on Fifth Avenue are the closest fan gathering spots, with Primanti Brothers' standalone locations throughout Pittsburgh.
Yes. PPG Paints Arena is ADA compliant with wheelchair and companion seating throughout, elevators on all levels, and accessible restrooms on every concourse. The arena is KultureCity Sensory Certified -- sensory bags and quiet rooms are available for guests with sensory sensitivities. The T (light rail) at Steel Plaza is fully accessible. Contact the SEA at 412-393-0200 or sea-ada-info@pgh-sea.com for ADA accommodation.
The Pittsburgh Penguins have won five Stanley Cup Championships: 1991, 1992, 2009, 2016, and 2017. The 2009, 2016, and 2017 championships were won with PPG Paints Arena as the home arena. The 1991 and 1992 cups were won at the old Civic Arena (Mellon Arena). The Penguins are one of the most decorated franchises in NHL history.
Tickets via Ticketmaster (official marketplace) and nhl.com/penguins. Box Office at 1001 Fifth Avenue (open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm; event day hours vary). Doors open 1 hour before events.
1 October 2025
The Pittsburgh Penguins Hall of Fame relaunched at PPG Paints Arena in 2025 after being absent for over a decade. The revived exhibit features a dedicated concourse space with interactive displays honouring franchise legends including Scotty Bowman, Ron Francis, Eddie Johnston, Kevin Stevens, and Mario Lemieux. The Hall of Fame is accessible to all ticketed fans during events and enriches the arena's historic displays with multimedia and artefacts from Pittsburgh's five championship eras.
1 September 2025
PPG Paints Arena hosted the nationally televised State Farm Women's College Volleyball Showcase in September 2025, continuing the arena's tradition of hosting elite NCAA events alongside NHL hockey. The showcase featured local Pittsburgh-area squads and was broadcast nationally, demonstrating the arena's versatility across sports disciplines beyond professional hockey.
1 October 2023
The Pittsburgh Penguins and OVG360 completed a $30 million renovation of PPG Paints Arena in time for the 2023-24 NHL season. Designed by original architects Populous, the project added two ice-level bunker suites flanking the Penguins' bench with exclusive locker room corridor views, a 300-person all-inclusive VIP event-level club in the double-attack zone, and comprehensive upgrades to the arena's scoreboard, sound, lighting, and concession technology including self-ordering kiosks.
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