The Pittsburgh Penguins are a professional ice hockey team in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, known for their success in the NHL. Founded in 1967 during the league's expansion, they played at Mellon Arena until 2010. The Penguins have won five Stanley Cup titles in 1991, 1992, 2009, 2016, and 2017, establishing themselves as one of the top franchises in the league.
The team's fortunes changed with the drafting of Mario Lemieux in 1984, who became a legendary player and led the team to two championships. After Lemieux's retirement in 1997, Sidney Crosby was drafted in 2005, ushering in a new era. Alongside Evgeni Malkin, Crosby helped the team win the Stanley Cup in 2008 and again in 2009, as well as back-to-back titles in 2016 and 2017.
What is the name of the Pittsburgh Penguins Arena?
The PPG Paints Arena is the home of the Pittsburgh Penguins, built to ensure the team's presence in Pittsburgh until 2039. The arena was developed after a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed in March 2007, involving various local and state entities, with a final project budget of approximately $321 million. Designed by Populous (formerly HOK Sport), the arena has a seating capacity of around 18,087 for hockey games, making it larger than the previous Civic Arena.
The arena includes features such as retail spaces, 2.5 acres of public open space, and a five-story parking garage with 642 spaces. There are three public entrances for easy access. The construction cost of $319.7 million was financed through a combination of revenue bonds, casino funds, and rent payments from the Penguins.
Pittsburgh Penguins Arena History/Pittsburgh Penguins Arena Construction and Cost
The PPG Paints Arena, home to the Pittsburgh Penguins, opened in 2010 and replaced the iconic Mellon Arena, which had served the team since its inception in 1967. The need for a new arena arose as the Penguins sought to secure their future in Pittsburgh, leading to the agreement in March 2007 between state and local governments as well as private entities to finance its construction. The arena was built at a cost of approximately $321 million, with a focus on modern amenities and fan experience.
Designed by the architectural firm Populous, the PPG Paints Arena features a seating capacity of 18,087 for hockey games, about 1,000 more than the old Civic Arena. The Penguins had primary responsibility for its design and construction, ensuring it met the team's needs. The arena quickly became known for hosting not only hockey games but also major concerts and events, solidifying its status as a premier multi-purpose venue in the region. The arena has also received accolades, including LEED-Gold certification.
Where is the PPG Paints Arena
PPG Paints Arena is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specifically at 1001 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. It sits just a short distance from downtown Pittsburgh, making it easily accessible for fans attending events. The arena is conveniently situated near public transportation options and is close to various restaurants and attractions in the area.
Pittsburgh Penguins Arena Capacity
PPG Paints Arena has different seating capacities depending on the event. For ice hockey games, it can hold 18,187 fans. For basketball games, the capacity increases to 19,000. In arena football, it accommodates 16,280 spectators. For concerts, the seating varies: an end-stage setup allows for 14,536 attendees, while a center-stage configuration can host up to 19,758 people. The arena covers a total area of about 720,000 square feet, making it a spacious venue for various events.
What is the parking cost at Pittsburgh Penguins Arena?
Parking at PPG Paints Arena for Pittsburgh Penguins games costs between $26 and $32. You can find several options nearby, such as off-site parking for as low as $10 if you don't mind a short walk. The Parking Panda App allows you to reserve spots for around $12.
Commercial lots and garages charge hourly rates between $5 and $9, with 24-hour rates at about $19. On-street parking varies from $0.50 to $4 per hour and is enforced from 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Saturday.
Pittsburgh Penguins Arena Notable Events
The PPG Paints Arena has hosted several notable events for the Pittsburgh Penguins since its opening. On July 27, 2010, team owner Mario Lemieux and captain Sidney Crosby skated on the new ice during the official opening, which coincided with the announcement of the 2011 NHL Winter Classic. The Penguins had their first pre-season game in the arena on September 22, 2010, winning 5-1 against the Detroit Red Wings. The official opening game took place on October 7, 2010, against the Philadelphia Flyers, where the Penguins lost 3-2, but they secured their first win on October 15 against the New York Islanders.
The arena also hosted significant playoff moments, including the first playoff game on April 13, 2011, against the Tampa Bay Lightning, where Alexei Kovalev scored the first playoff goal. PPG Paints Arena was the site of the Penguins' Stanley Cup Finals in 2016 and 2017, when they clinched their fourth and fifth Cups, respectively. During these finals, the arena hosted watch parties for fans, charging $10 for admission and donating proceeds to the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation.
FAQs on Pittsburgh Penguins Arena
A. The Pittsburgh Penguins, established in 1967, joined the NHL in the same year.
A. The Pittsburgh Penguins have won the Stanley Cup five times: in 1991, 1992, 2009, 2016, and 2017.
A. The Pittsburgh Penguins compete in the Eastern Conference.
A. The Pittsburgh Penguins are part of the Metropolitan Division.
A. The home arena of the Pittsburgh Penguins is called PPG Paints Arena.
