New York Islanders Stadium: Where Do They Play?

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Hey hockey fans! Ever wonder, what stadium do the New York Islanders play in? Well, you've come to the right place! Let's dive into the details of their home ice, the UBS Arena, and explore its features, location, and why it’s such a fantastic place for Islanders fans to cheer on their team.

UBS Arena: A Modern Marvel

The UBS Arena is the state-of-the-art home of the New York Islanders. Located in Elmont, New York, right next to the Belmont Park racetrack, this arena opened its doors on November 20, 2021. After years of playing in various locations, including the Barclays Center in Brooklyn and the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, the Islanders finally have a permanent and modern home that truly caters to their fans.

Design and Capacity

UBS Arena was designed with hockey in mind, ensuring an intimate and electrifying atmosphere for every game. The arena boasts a seating capacity of 17,255 for hockey games, providing a fantastic view from almost every seat. The design incorporates nods to the Islanders' history and the unique character of Long Island, creating a sense of belonging for fans.

Amenities and Features

What makes UBS Arena stand out? It’s packed with amazing amenities! From high-end dining options to spacious concourses, the arena offers a premium experience for everyone. There are numerous bars and restaurants, including the Heineken Terrace and the UBS Club, where fans can enjoy a pre-game meal or a post-game celebration. The arena also features state-of-the-art technology, including high-definition video boards and advanced sound systems, enhancing the overall game-day experience.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Elmont, UBS Arena is easily accessible by car and public transportation. It’s right off the Cross Island Parkway, making it a convenient drive for fans coming from various parts of Long Island, New York City, and beyond. For those using public transportation, the arena is accessible via the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), with a dedicated station at Belmont Park. This makes it easy for fans to get to and from the games without the hassle of driving and parking.

A Brief History of the Islanders' Home Arenas

Before settling into UBS Arena, the New York Islanders had quite the journey when it came to their home venues. Let's take a quick trip down memory lane to see where they've played over the years.

Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum

Ah, the Nassau Coliseum! For many Islanders fans, this is where their love for the team began. From 1972 to 2015, with a brief stint in the late 2010s, the Coliseum was the heart and soul of Islanders hockey. This arena witnessed some of the greatest moments in team history, including the four consecutive Stanley Cup wins in the early 1980s. While it had its quirks and wasn't the most modern facility, the Coliseum held a special place in the hearts of fans due to its intimate atmosphere and the countless memories created within its walls.

Barclays Center

In 2015, the Islanders made the move to the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The intention was to modernize the fan experience and tap into a new market in New York City. However, the transition wasn't smooth. The arena wasn't originally designed for hockey, which led to some obstructed views and a less-than-ideal atmosphere for hockey games. Despite the challenges, the Islanders played several seasons at the Barclays Center before eventually returning to the renovated Nassau Coliseum for a few games and then finally moving to UBS Arena.

The Fan Experience at UBS Arena

Okay, so UBS Arena is the place to be, but what’s it really like to catch a game there? Let’s break down the fan experience and why it’s such a step up for Islanders supporters.

Atmosphere and Seating

The atmosphere at UBS Arena is electric. The arena was designed to create an intimate setting, meaning the fans are right on top of the action. The seating is well-designed, offering excellent views from almost every angle. Whether you’re in the lower bowl or up in the rafters, you’ll feel like you’re part of the game.

Food and Beverages

Let's be real, food is a crucial part of any game-day experience. UBS Arena does not disappoint! There's a wide variety of food and beverage options, catering to all tastes. From classic arena fare like hot dogs and pretzels to gourmet options and local favorites, you'll find something to satisfy your cravings. And of course, there are plenty of places to grab a beer or a soft drink to keep you refreshed throughout the game.

Technology and Entertainment

UBS Arena is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance the fan experience. The high-definition video boards provide crystal-clear replays and engaging content, while the advanced sound system ensures you don't miss a moment of the action. There are also interactive elements and entertainment throughout the arena, keeping fans engaged during intermissions and breaks in the play.

Why UBS Arena is a Great Home for the Islanders

So, why is UBS Arena such a great home for the New York Islanders? It's more than just a new building; it represents a long-term commitment to the team and its fans. Here’s why it stands out:

Long-Term Stability

For years, Islanders fans yearned for a stable and permanent home. With UBS Arena, they finally have it. The arena is a long-term investment in the team's future, ensuring that the Islanders will remain on Long Island for many years to come. This stability allows the team to focus on building a winning product on the ice and creating a strong connection with the community.

Enhanced Fan Experience

UBS Arena was designed with the fan experience in mind. From the comfortable seating to the wide variety of food and beverage options, every aspect of the arena is geared towards providing fans with an enjoyable and memorable experience. The state-of-the-art technology and interactive elements further enhance the game-day atmosphere, making it a truly special place to watch hockey.

Economic Impact

Beyond the benefits for the team and its fans, UBS Arena has a significant economic impact on the surrounding community. The arena has created thousands of jobs and has spurred economic development in the Elmont area. It attracts visitors from all over the region, boosting local businesses and generating tax revenue that benefits the community as a whole.

Getting to UBS Arena: Directions and Transportation

Alright, you're convinced, and you wanna catch a game! Let’s figure out how to get you to UBS Arena without any headaches.

Driving Directions

If you're driving, UBS Arena is conveniently located off the Cross Island Parkway. Depending on where you're coming from, you can take the following routes:

From New York City: Take the Grand Central Parkway or the Long Island Expressway (I-495) to the Cross Island Parkway South. Take Exit 26A for Hempstead Turnpike East. Follow the signs to UBS Arena.
From Long Island: Take the Southern State Parkway or the Northern State Parkway to the Cross Island Parkway North. Take Exit 26A for Hempstead Turnpike East. Follow the signs to UBS Arena.

Public Transportation

Taking public transportation is a great option, especially if you want to avoid traffic and parking fees. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) has a dedicated station at Belmont Park, which is just a short walk from UBS Arena. You can take the LIRR from Penn Station in Manhattan or from various stations throughout Long Island. Check the LIRR schedule for game-day service.

Parking

If you choose to drive, UBS Arena offers ample parking options. There are several parking lots located around the arena, but it's a good idea to book your parking spot in advance, especially for popular games. You can typically purchase parking passes online through the UBS Arena website or through third-party vendors.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! The UBS Arena is the proud home of the New York Islanders. With its state-of-the-art facilities, intimate atmosphere, and convenient location, it’s a fantastic place to watch a hockey game. Whether you're a lifelong Islanders fan or new to the sport, a visit to UBS Arena is sure to be a memorable experience. Grab your jersey, gather your friends, and get ready to cheer on the Islanders in their amazing new home!