
KeyBank Center
Iconic waterfront arena in Buffalo, NY, hosting thrilling Buffalo Sabres games, major concerts, and exciting sporting events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

KeyBank Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic waterfront arena in Buffalo, NY, hosting thrilling Buffalo Sabres games, major concerts, and exciting sporting events.
"A great atmosphere and a true Buffalo staple!"

🚗 Parking Solutions
Lots can sell out; explore sites like pay2park.net or Parkwhiz for alternatives. :parking:
🎟️ Ticket Smarts
Buy tickets in advance for popular events to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. :admission_tickets:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Buffalo Sabres Game
Ice Rink
Experience the electric atmosphere of an NHL game with the Buffalo Sabres. A true Buffalo staple!

Major Concerts
Main Arena
Catch world-class artists like Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, and Drake live on stage. A vibrant music hub.

Buffalo Bandits Lacrosse
Arena Floor
Feel the intensity of a professional lacrosse game with the Buffalo Bandits. High-energy sports action.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating KeyBank Center
Concert & Game Day Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Solutions
Lots can sell out; explore sites like pay2park.net or Parkwhiz for alternatives. :parking:
🎟️ Ticket Smarts
Buy tickets in advance for popular events to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. :admission_tickets:
🍔 Food & Drink
Expect higher prices, but portions can be generous. Consider it part of the arena experience. :fries:
🎒 Bag Policy
Check the arena's bag policy before arriving to ensure smooth entry. :handbag:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Solutions
Lots can sell out; explore sites like pay2park.net or Parkwhiz for alternatives. :parking:
🎟️ Ticket Smarts
Buy tickets in advance for popular events to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. :admission_tickets:
🍔 Food & Drink
Expect higher prices, but portions can be generous. Consider it part of the arena experience. :fries:
🎒 Bag Policy
Check the arena's bag policy before arriving to ensure smooth entry. :handbag:
🏒 Game Day Vibe
The atmosphere for Sabres games is electric! Don't miss the production value. :fire:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
KeyBank Center is praised for its excellent sightlines and comfortable seating, making it a great venue for both sports and concerts. Visitors appreciate the electric atmosphere during Buffalo Sabres games and the quality of major musical performances. While food and drink prices are noted as high, many find the portion sizes generous, and the overall experience is considered a Buffalo staple.
"So much history in this classic arena! I’ve never had any issues attending events here, and the views from every seat are excellent.
Like most arenas, the food and beer are overpriced and pretty average, but that’s standard for venues like this. That said, the games themselves are fantastic—I’ve seen some truly memorable ones here. The Sabres have really stepped up their production value over the years, making the experience even better.
Highly recommend checking out a hockey or lacrosse game here if you get the chance. A great atmosphere and a true Buffalo staple!"
Mike Julian
"A very modern arena with a lot of concession, booths and bathrooms. The seats were very comfortable and there was lots of staff to help out. However, the alcohol prices were outrageous, especially for liquor."
Shad L
"My first time visiting KeyBank Center for a hockey game left me impressed. Entry was quick, the arena is modern, concession sales are ample and lines are quick, lines in the washrooms are speedy as well.
If you're Canadian be prepared for sticker shock on beer prices, two tall boys came out to about $55 after exchange...
We had a lot of fun, the atmosphere was fantastic and I'll definitely return."
Chris L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
KeyBank Center is located in downtown Buffalo, NY. It's accessible by car, with several parking lots nearby, though they can sell out for major events.
Public transportation options, including NFTA buses and light rail, also serve the area, making it a convenient destination for those without a car.On-site parking lots are available but often sell out for popular events.
It's recommended to check sites like pay2park.net or Parkwhiz for alternative parking garages and lots in the vicinity. Pre-booking parking is often a good strategy.Yes, KeyBank Center is well-served by Buffalo's public transportation system. The NFTA Metro Rail has a station nearby, and numerous bus routes stop in the downtown area, providing convenient access for attendees.
Yes, ride-sharing services and taxis can drop off passengers near the main entrances of KeyBank Center. This can be a good option to avoid parking hassles for events.
To avoid traffic, aim to arrive well before the event start time, especially for concerts and Sabres games.
Utilizing public transport or pre-booking parking can also help mitigate traffic stress.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for events at KeyBank Center can be purchased through official channels like Ticketmaster, the arena's box office, and authorized resale platforms. It's always best to buy from reputable sources to avoid counterfeit tickets.
The KeyBank Center box office hours can vary depending on event schedules. It's advisable to check the official KeyBank Center website or call ahead to confirm their operating hours before visiting in person.
Yes, KeyBank Center typically enforces a clear bag policy for security reasons. Attendees are usually allowed to bring in small, clear bags. Check the arena's official website for the most up-to-date bag policy details before your visit.
For popular concerts and Buffalo Sabres games, it's recommended to arrive at least 60-90 minutes before the scheduled start time to allow ample time for parking, security checks, and finding your seats.
KeyBank Center utilizes advanced entry screening technology to expedite fan entry.
This may include metal detectors or other security measures to ensure a safe environment for all attendees.🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience
KeyBank Center hosts a wide variety of events, including Buffalo Sabres hockey games, Buffalo Bandits lacrosse games, major concerts featuring popular artists [^T1, T3, T8, T10, T14, T15, T18], family shows like Disney on Ice, and other sporting events.
The arena offers numerous concession stands with a variety of food and beverage options. While prices are typical for arenas, some reviewers note generous portion sizes.
Be prepared for higher costs, especially for alcohol.Reviews generally indicate that the seats at KeyBank Center are comfortable, with good sightlines from most locations [^R1, R3]. Even seats further up offer decent views of the action.
The atmosphere during a Buffalo Sabres game at KeyBank Center is described as electric and fantastic, making it a true Buffalo staple. The team has also enhanced its production value, improving the overall fan experience.
Yes, KeyBank Center is equipped with ample restrooms and amenities throughout the concourse, with reviewers noting quick service for washrooms.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal cameras are allowed for non-professional use at KeyBank Center, but professional photography equipment (tripods, large lenses) is usually prohibited. Always check the specific event's policy, as restrictions can vary for concerts versus sports games.
For a wide view of the arena, consider the upper concourses. During games, capturing the action on the ice or the energy of the crowd can make for great shots. For concerts, the stage and the audience's reaction are popular subjects [^T1, T3].
While phone photography is usually permitted for personal use, flash photography is often discouraged, especially during performances or games, as it can be distracting. Some events may have stricter policies, so it's wise to be mindful of your surroundings.
The arena lighting is designed for events, which can be dynamic. For concerts, lighting can be dramatic and moody, while for sports, it's bright and consistent. This can create interesting photographic opportunities, but may require adjusting camera settings accordingly.
The exterior of KeyBank Center, especially with the Buffalo skyline in the background, can be photographed from various points in the surrounding downtown area. Nearby plazas or elevated viewpoints can offer good perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏒 Sports Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Look Inside KeyBank Center
This multi-purpose venue is the proud home of the Buffalo Sabres of the National Hockey League (NHL) and the Buffalo Bandits of the National Lacrosse League (NLL) [^T5, T16]. Beyond sports, KeyBank Center is a premier destination for major concerts, hosting a diverse range of musical artists from pop stars like Dua Lipa [^T3, T4, T17] and Billie Eilish [^T1, T15] to rock bands like Avenged Sevenfold [^T8, T19] and Deftones [^T10, T13]. It also hosts family shows, touring exhibitions, and other special events, making it a vibrant hub for entertainment in Buffalo.
Recent events have highlighted some structural issues, including a ceiling piece falling during an event [^I2, I7]. The arena management has addressed these incidents, emphasizing their commitment to safety and ongoing maintenance. Despite these occurrences, the overall sentiment from visitors remains positive regarding the arena's amenities and the quality of events hosted [^R1, R2].
Experiencing a Buffalo Sabres Game
From the roar of the crowd to the speed of the game, hockey at KeyBank Center offers thrills for both seasoned fans and newcomers. The concourse provides ample opportunities to grab a bite or a drink, with various concession stands offering classic arena fare and local favorites. While prices can be high, some reviewers note that the portion sizes are substantial. For those looking to commemorate their visit, the Sabres & Bandits store offers team merchandise.
Beyond the game itself, the sense of community and shared excitement is palpable. Whether you're sitting close to the ice or in the upper decks, the views are generally good, and the overall experience is highly recommended for anyone visiting Buffalo. It's more than just a game; it's a cultural event that embodies the spirit of the city.
Concert Vibes at KeyBank Center
Attending a concert here means immersing yourself in a sea of fans, all united by their love for the performing artist. The energy is infectious, with many attendees sharing their excitement on platforms like TikTok and Instagram [^T1, T15]. While the focus is on the music, the arena's amenities, including food and beverage options, contribute to the overall event experience. It's advisable to check the specific concert's schedule and any unique policies that might apply.
For many, a concert at KeyBank Center is a highlight of their visit to Buffalo, offering a chance to see world-renowned talent in an accessible and dynamic setting. The variety of genres hosted ensures that there's often something for every music lover, making it a must-visit for concert enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit