Nestled in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, TD Garden stands as one of America's most legendary sports and entertainment venues. Home to the NBA's Boston Celtics and NHL's Boston Bruins, this iconic arena has witnessed decades of championship glory, unforgettable performances, and countless historic moments. With a basketball capacity of 19,156 spectators, TD Garden creates an electric atmosphere that few venues can match. Whether you're catching a Celtics game, cheering on the Bruins, or attending a world-class concert, the arena delivers an immersive experience that captures the passion and spirit of Boston sports culture.
TD Garden Capacity
TD Garden's impressive capacity adapts seamlessly to different events, ensuring optimal viewing experiences across all entertainment formats. For Boston Celtics basketball games, the arena accommodates 19,156 passionate fans who create one of the NBA's most intimidating home-court advantages. Hockey enthusiasts pack in at 17,850 strong for Boston Bruins games, where the intimate configuration brings fans closer to the hard-hitting action on the ice. When the venue transforms for concerts and live entertainment, TD Garden expands to welcome up to 20,000 music lovers, establishing itself as a premier destination for touring artists and performers. This versatility showcases TD Garden's sophisticated design and its ability to host world-class events across multiple entertainment categories.
- Basketball: 19,156
- Hockey: 17,850
- Concerts: 20,000
Boston Celtics & Boston Bruins Tickets
Securing your spot at TD Garden for a Celtics or Bruins game is easier than ever, with multiple convenient purchasing options available. The most direct route is through Ticketmaster, the arena's official ticketing partner, where you'll find guaranteed authentic tickets and the best seat selection. For additional flexibility and competitive pricing, reputable third-party platforms like SeatGeek and StubHub offer extensive inventories of single-game tickets, premium seating options, and season passes. Many fans appreciate comparing prices across platforms to find the best deals, especially for high-demand matchups. Pro tip: purchasing tickets early in the season or on weekday games often yields better value than waiting for marquee weekend contests.
A Historical Landmark: TD Garden's Storied Past
The legacy of TD Garden extends back nearly a century to the original Boston Garden, which opened its doors in 1928. Affectionately known as the “Madison Square Garden of Boston,” the old arena became a cathedral of sports, hosting generations of unforgettable moments. The parquet floor witnessed Celtic legends like Bill Russell orchestrating dynasty after dynasty, accumulating an unprecedented 11 championships. When the current TD Garden opened in 1995, it inherited this remarkable legacy while offering modern amenities and improved sightlines. The new arena preserved the spirit of its predecessor while embracing the future, ensuring that Boston's rich sporting tradition would continue for decades to come.
The Larry Bird Era: Glory Days at the Garden
The 1980s transformed TD Garden's predecessor into basketball's most feared venue, largely due to Larry Bird's extraordinary dominance. Bird's tenure with the Celtics produced three NBA championships (1981, 1984, and 1986) and established some of the most heated rivalries in sports history, particularly the legendary battles against Magic Johnson's Los Angeles Lakers. Bird's clutch shooting, basketball IQ, and fierce competitiveness made every home game an event, with fans packing the Garden to witness his magic. His influence extended far beyond statistics, he embodied Boston's blue-collar work ethic and transformed the arena into a basketball mecca where championships were expected, not hoped for. Today, Bird's legacy continues to inspire current Celtics stars who play beneath the championship banners he helped raise.
The Bruins' Stanley Cup Triumphs: Hockey Glory at TD Garden
TD Garden's hockey heritage runs deep, with the Boston Bruins delivering some of the most thrilling moments in NHL history. The franchise's Stanley Cup victories in 1970 and 1972 at the original Boston Garden established a winning tradition that would culminate in the unforgettable 2011 championship run at the current arena. That 2011 triumph, the Bruins' first Cup in 39 years, united the city in celebration and reminded fans why TD Garden holds such a sacred place in Boston's sporting landscape. The arena's intimate atmosphere for hockey creates an intensity that visiting teams struggle to overcome, with the thunderous roar of Bruins fans providing a distinct home-ice advantage. From Bobby Orr's flying goal to Zdeno Chara's leadership, TD Garden continues to be where hockey legends cement their legacies.
Hotels Near TD Garden
Visiting TD Garden from out of town? You'll find several excellent accommodation options within walking distance of the arena, making your game day or concert experience hassle-free. These conveniently located hotels offer comfortable stays and easy access to North Station:
- Onyx Boston Downtown “ A boutique hotel just steps from TD Garden with modern amenities
- The Boxer “ Historic charm meets contemporary comfort in this North End favorite
- citizenM Boston North Station “ Stylish, affordable, and literally connected to the arena
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the bag policy at TD Garden?
TD Garden enforces a strict bag policy for security purposes. Bags larger than 14″ x 14″ x 6″ are prohibited, and backpacks or laptop bags are not permitted under any circumstances. Exceptions are made for medically necessary items and diaper bags for guests with infants, though these will be subject to X-ray screening. To avoid delays, it's best to arrive with minimal belongings or use a small clutch or clear bag. Visit the official TD Garden bag policy page for complete details before your visit.
What is the TD Garden Arena Address?
TD Garden is located at 100 Legends Way, Boston, MA 02114, directly above North Station in downtown Boston.
What is the fastest way to get to the TD Garden?
Public transportation is highly recommended for accessing TD Garden. The MBTA's North Station stop serves the Green, Orange, Red, and Blue lines, making the arena accessible from virtually anywhere in Greater Boston. This is typically the fastest and most convenient option, especially on game days when traffic congestion is heavy. If you're traveling from outside the MBTA service area, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft offer designated drop-off zones near the arena entrances. For those driving, several parking garages operate nearby, though spots fill quickly and can be expensive during major events.
Is there bus service to the TD Garden?
Yes, the MBTA operates multiple bus routes that stop at or near North Station and TD Garden. This provides an affordable transportation option, with round-trip fares costing approximately $3.40. Visit the MBTA website to plan your specific route and check real-time schedules to ensure you arrive on time for your event.
Does the TD Garden have coat check or lockers?
TD Garden does not offer public lockers or coat check services. The arena strongly encourages guests to travel light and leave bulky items, large coats, and unnecessary bags at home or at your hotel. This policy helps expedite security screening and enhances everyone's experience by reducing congestion in the concourses and seating areas.
When do the TD Garden doors open?
For Boston Celtics and Boston Bruins games, TD Garden typically opens its doors one hour before the scheduled start time. This gives fans ample opportunity to find their seats, grab food and beverages, and soak in the pre-game atmosphere. Concert door times usually follow the same one-hour guideline, though this can vary depending on the specific event. Always check your ticket or the event details page on TD Garden's website to confirm exact opening times for your particular event.
How many seats are in TD Garden?
TD Garden's seating capacity varies by event type: 20,000 seats for concerts, 19,156 seats for basketball games, and 17,850 seats for hockey games. These different configurations optimize sightlines and acoustics for each specific event format.