Source: Getty Images
The Tampa Bay Lightning, based in Tampa, Florida, are a professional ice hockey team competing in the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League (NHL). Notably, they have clinched the Stanley Cup championship thrice in their existence till now. Established as an expansion team in 1992, the Lightning initially faced challenges, enduring losing seasons in their early years. However, they showed promise in 1995–96 with their first winning season and a playoff appearance. Their pinnacle came in the 2003–04 season when they achieved the best record in the Eastern Conference and triumphed in a thrilling seven-game Stanley Cup finals against the Calgary Flames. Although they faced playoff disappointments in the following seasons, including a historic upset in 2018–19, they rebounded strongly the next season to secure their second Stanley Cup title. In the 2020–21 season, the Lightning secured their second consecutive Stanley Cup victory, defeating the Montreal Canadiens in the finals. Despite their efforts to secure a third consecutive championship in the 2021–22 season, they fell short to the Colorado Avalanche in the championship series.
The team has also clinched the conference and divisison titles four time apiece with a Presidents' Trophy in between. Notable players to have played for the team include, Vincent Lecavalier, Martin St. Louis, Steven Stamkos, Nikita Kucherov, and Andrei Vasilevskiy.
What is the name of the Tampa Bay Lightning Stadium?
The name of the Tampa Bay Lightning stadium is Amalie Arena. It is Located at 401 Channelside Drive in Tampa, Florida, with a seating capacity of 19,092 for NHL games. Notably, Amalie Arena hosts over 150 events annually, featuring state-of-the-art technology and innovative design which maks it one of the premier facilities in North America.
In addition to NHL hockey, the arena accommodates various sports such as arena football, basketball, figure skating, gymnastics, indoor soccer, lacrosse, tennis, and volleyball. It also serves as a venue for NCAA events, concerts, and other performances. With amenities like luxury suites, meeting rooms, concession stands, and signature areas like the Budweiser Biergarten, Amalie Arena offers a world-class experience for sports fans and event attendees alike.
Tampa Bay Lightning Stadium History
Amalie Arena, originally known as the Ice Palace, began construction in 1994 and opened its doors on October 20, 1996. The arena was built in downtown Tampa, Florida, with the primary purpose of serving as the home venue for the Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League.
The construction of the arena was a significant undertaking, involving the efforts of architects and construction teams to design and build a state-of-the-art facility suitable for hosting NHL games and various other events. The construction cost of Amalie Arena totaled approximately $139 million. Over the years, there have been additional investments in renovations and upgrades to enhance the arena's facilities and amenities. Since its opening, Amalie Arena has undergone several renovations to modernize and improve its features. Notably, Lightning owner Jeff Vinik spearheaded a $62 million renovation project in recent years, aimed at enhancing the fan experience and updating the arena with cutting-edge technology and design elements.
Amalie Arena has had a significant impact on the city of Tampa and the surrounding region. Beyond serving as the home of the Lightning, the arena has become a hub for entertainment, hosting a wide range of events, including concerts, NCAA tournaments, and other sporting events. It has also contributed to the revitalization of downtown Tampa, attracting visitors and generating economic activity for local businesses.
Tampa Bay Lightning Stadium Capacity
The capacity of Amalie Arena varies depending on the nature of the event being hosted. For NHL games, the arena offers seating for approximately 19,092 spectators. When transformed for basketball games, the seating capacity expands to accommodate up to 20,500 attendees. Moreover, for concerts and center-stage events, the arena's capacity can extend to approximately 21,500 spectators. Alongside these seating arrangements, Amalie Arena features luxury suites, including "Super Suites" and executive suites, as well as various amenities and facilities to enhance the spectator experience.
Tampa Bay Lightning Stadium Seating Chart
The Amalie Arena features standard seat numbering patterns, with seat number 1 positioned closest to the adjacent lower-numbered section aisle. In the 100-level sections along the sidelines, there are typically between 16-19 seats per row, while the number of seats in the corners and behind the goals varies by row. The 200 level averages between 12-16 seats per row, while the 300 level exhibits the greatest variance, ranging from 11-26 seats per row.
For Lightning games, the team shoots twice at the net in front of sections 108-109, leading to higher ticket prices for seats in that area. The arena also offers club seating options, including the Lexus Club and Chase Club, each offering unique amenities such as valet parking, upscale dining, private restrooms, and lounge areas. Expert tips suggest opting for seats above row 10 in the 100 level for optimal viewing angles, prioritizing the 200 level over the last few rows of the 100 level, and considering sections 123-124 for more affordable tickets if not concerned about seeing the Lightning shoot twice. Additionally, the arena provides handicapped and ADA seating options, typically located at the top of most sections.
The following is the seating arrangement created for the fans in the Amalie Arena for the games:
Source: eventticketscenter
What is the parking cost at Tampa Bay Lightning Stadium?
The parking cost at Amalie Arena varies depending on the event and parking location. Typically, parking prices range from around $20 to $40 for Tampa Bay Lightning games and other events held at the arena. However, prices may be subject to change based on factors such as demand and special events.
The following is the parking map of the Amalie Arena:
Source: seatgraph.com
Tampa Bay Lightning Stadium Notable Events
Amalie Arena has been the esteemed host venue for numerous notable events across various sports and entertainment spectrums. Apart from serving as the electrifying backdrop for NHL hockey games, the arena has welcomed a plethora of distinguished occasions over the years. Notable events include hosting the NCAA Men’s Frozen Four in 2012 and again in 2016, along with hosting the Women's Final Four in 2008, 2015, and 2019.
Additionally, Amalie Arena has been a prominent venue for NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament games, including the first and second-round games in 2020 and the SEC Men's Basketball Tournament in 2022. The arena has also witnessed various other sporting events such as University of South Florida basketball games, professional wrestling matches, and numerous NCAA Tournament games. Furthermore, Amalie Arena has been a vibrant hub for entertainment, having hosted the NHL All-Star Weekend in 2018, Hockey Day in Tampa Bay, and an array of captivating performances and concerts.
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