Find New York’s Premier Entertainment Destination
UBS Arena is a state-of-the-art multi-purpose venue located at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York, just outside the New York City limits. For visitors seeking information about this world-class facility, here are the essential details:
| UBS Arena Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Address | 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, NY 11003 |
| Opened | November 20, 2021 |
| Seating Capacity | 17,255 for NHL hockey, up to 19,000 for concerts |
| Home Teams | New York Islanders (NHL), PWHL New York |
| Project Cost | $1.5 billion (including surrounding development) |
| Notable Feature | Nicknamed “The Stable” due to Belmont Park location |
Situated on the historic grounds of Belmont Park, UBS Arena represents the culmination of years of planning and a $1.5 billion investment to create one of the most advanced entertainment venues in the United States. The arena opened its doors in November 2021, offering New Yorkers a premier destination for sports, concerts, and special events.
The facility was designed with both music and hockey in mind, featuring exceptional acoustics and intimate sightlines that bring fans closer to the action. As the proud home of the NHL’s New York Islanders and the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s New York team, the venue has quickly established itself as a landmark in the regional sports landscape.
What sets UBS Arena apart is its thoughtful design that pays homage to iconic New York landmarks. The architecture draws inspiration from places like Central Park and Grand Central Terminal, while preserving legacy trees around the entrance to honor Belmont Park’s rich history.
The economic impact of the arena extends far beyond entertainment, generating approximately $25 billion in economic activity and creating 10,000 construction jobs and 3,000 permanent positions. With sustainability at its core, the venue is eligible for LEED V4 certification and aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2024.
Whether you’re attending an Islanders game, experiencing a world-class concert, or enjoying one of the more than 150 annual events, UBS Arena offers an unparalleled entertainment experience with cutting-edge technology, premium hospitality options, and convenient access via the newly constructed Elmont LIRR station.
Find more about ubs arena:
History & Location of UBS Arena
The story of UBS Arena is one of perseverance, vision, and a long-awaited homecoming. Nestled within the historic grounds of Belmont Park in Elmont, New York, this magnificent venue sits just a stone’s throw from the New York City limits at coordinates 40°42′42″N 73°43′34″W.
Locals have warmly acceptd the nickname “The Stable” for the arena – a charming tribute to its location at Belmont Park, a site renowned for its rich thoroughbred racing heritage. The nickname perfectly captures both the venue’s connection to its historic surroundings and its promise of housing sporting excellence for generations to come.
The journey officially began with a groundbreaking ceremony on September 23, 2019, though the dream had been brewing for much longer. This $1.5 billion project represents a partnership between Oak View Group and the New York Islanders ownership, creating not just a sports venue but a community landmark. In July 2020, Swiss banking giant UBS secured the naming rights in a 20-year agreement, cementing the identity of UBS Arena for the foreseeable future.
Birth of a Modern Icon – UBS Arena
The road to creating UBS Arena was anything but smooth. The venue emerged from the ashes of earlier proposals, including the ambitious Lighthouse Project that sought to transform the aging Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum and its surrounding area. When that vision stalled, Islanders fans endured a challenging period as the team temporarily relocated to Brooklyn’s Barclays Center – a venue that, while beautiful, wasn’t designed with hockey in mind.
Hope was rekindled in December 2017 when New York State selected the proposal for a new arena at Belmont Park. But just as momentum was building, construction faced perhaps its biggest hurdle: the COVID-19 pandemic forced a temporary pause in 2020. Despite this significant setback, the construction team pivoted, implementing improved safety protocols and pushing forward with renewed determination.
Their perseverance paid off when UBS Arena finally opened its doors on November 20, 2021, hosting its inaugural event – an NHL game between the New York Islanders and Calgary Flames. Though the Islanders fell 5-2 that night, the occasion transcended the scoreboard. Calgary’s Brad Richardson earned the distinction of scoring the first-ever goal in the new arena, while Islanders forward Brock Nelson claimed the honor of netting the first home team goal – moments now forever etched in the venue’s young but storied history.
The completion of UBS Arena represents more than just a new building; it symbolizes a permanent home for the Islanders and a world-class entertainment destination where memories will be made for decades to come. From its thoughtful design to its prime location, the arena stands as a testament to New York’s enduring love affair with sports, music, and spectacular entertainment experiences.
Architecture, Design & Technology
UBS Arena stands as a breathtaking blend of New York heritage and cutting-edge innovation, crafted by the visionary architectural firm Populous. Walking through the venue feels like experiencing a love letter to the city’s architectural legacy while enjoying tomorrow’s entertainment technology.
The designers drew deep inspiration from beloved New York landmarks that residents and visitors cherish. You’ll notice echoes of Grand Central Terminal’s grandeur, Central Park’s timeless elegance, and the Prospect Park Boathouse’s classic charm throughout the arena. One particularly thoughtful touch is the preservation of legacy trees around the entrance – a respectful nod to Belmont Park’s storied history that creates a welcoming sense of place as you approach the venue.
Step inside, and your eyes are immediately drawn to the largest scoreboard in New York State – a dazzling high-definition centerpiece that brings every moment to life. Surrounding the bowl, two levels of vibrant LED ribbon boards create an immersive visual experience that improves both the excitement of hockey games and the spectacle of world-class concerts.
Speaking of concerts, the acoustic engineering at UBS Arena is truly remarkable. The venue was carefully designed to deliver crystal-clear sound quality regardless of the event type or attendance. Strategic placement of absorptive materials and fully upholstered seating ensures that whether you’re cheering for the Islanders or singing along with your favorite artist, the sound quality remains exceptional.
For performers, the arena offers unparalleled convenience and comfort. The artist compound features direct ramp access and seven loading bays that allow for efficient setup and teardown – a feature that touring productions deeply appreciate.
Technology permeates every corner of UBS Arena. The entire venue is equipped with Verizon’s 5G Ultra-Wideband network, allowing fans to share their experiences instantly and engage with interactive features throughout the arena. For those who appreciate seamless connectivity as part of their event experience, this technological backbone ensures you’re always connected.
Environmental responsibility sits at the heart of the arena’s design philosophy. As the first venue in New York eligible for LEED V4 Building Design + Construction certification, UBS Arena demonstrates a serious commitment to sustainability. The facility is on track to achieve carbon neutrality by 2024, incorporating innovative sustainable technologies guided by industry experts.
Whether you’re a hockey fan, concert enthusiast, or foodie looking for an exceptional dining experience alongside world-class entertainment, the thoughtful architecture and cutting-edge design of UBS Arena creates the perfect backdrop for memorable evenings out in New York.
Events & Resident Teams at UBS Arena
When the lights go up at UBS Arena, magic happens. This isn’t just a sports venue – it’s a vibrant entertainment hub that pulses with energy year-round, hosting over 150 diverse events annually that bring the New York metropolitan area together.
The arena proudly serves as home ice for the NHL’s New York Islanders and the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s New York team. Hockey fans will be thrilled to know that UBS Arena will showcase the sport at its highest level when it hosts the prestigious 2026 NHL All-Star Game, bringing the league’s brightest stars to Long Island for an unforgettable weekend celebration.
Beyond hockey, the arena has become a favorite destination for college basketball tournaments and matchups, where the excitement of March Madness and rivalry games electrifies the crowd. Wrestling fans cheer themselves hoarse during action-packed AEW and WWE events, while UFC fights bring mixed martial arts enthusiasts to the edge of their seats. The WNBA Commissioner’s Cup has also found a welcoming home here, celebrating women’s professional basketball at its finest.
According to research on arena economics, UBS Arena isn’t just entertaining crowds – it’s powering the local economy. The venue and surrounding development are projected to generate a remarkable $25 billion in economic activity, creating 10,000 construction jobs and 3,000 permanent positions that benefit surrounding communities and businesses.
Home Ice Thrills at UBS Arena
Hockey feels different at UBS Arena. With a capacity of 17,255 for NHL games, the venue was carefully designed with hockey fans in mind. The intimate sightlines bring you closer to the action – close enough to hear skates cutting through ice and feel the boards shake after a big hit.
One of the most special aspects of the arena is Section 329, a dedicated standing section where the Blue and Orange Army (the Islanders’ passionate supporters group) creates an electric atmosphere. This section was intentionally positioned in nearly the exact spot as its predecessor at Nassau Coliseum, preserving a beloved piece of Islanders tradition that connects past and present.
History was made on November 20, 2021, when Brock Nelson scored the first Islanders goal at UBS Arena during the inaugural game against the Calgary Flames. Though the team fell 5-2 that night, the moment marked the beginning of a new chapter in Islanders history – one that continues to unfold with each thrilling game played on home ice.
Show-Stopping Concerts & More
When the hockey boards come down, UBS Arena transforms into one of the country’s premier concert venues, accommodating up to 19,000 music fans. The state-of-the-art acoustics – developed with input from leading music industry experts – create a sonic experience that’s second to none.
Since opening its doors, UBS Arena has welcomed an impressive array of world-class performers spanning every genre imaginable. Music lovers have been treated to unforgettable performances by Harry Styles, Missy Elliott, and the breathtaking artistry of Cirque du Soleil. The excitement continues with upcoming shows featuring legendary artists like Mary J. Blige, country superstar Chris Stapleton, and the chart-topping Kane Brown.
What truly sets UBS Arena apart for performers is its thoughtfully designed backstage area. The venue features a custom artist campus with direct ramp access, created with input from Live Nation to streamline the often-complicated touring process. Performers appreciate one of the industry’s largest covered, enclosed, and heated marshalling yards complete with seven dedicated loading bays – making load-in and load-out remarkably efficient for even the most complex productions.
The venue’s acoustic excellence is preserved through strategically upholstered seats throughout the arena, ensuring perfect sound quality whether playing to a packed house or a more intimate gathering. This attention to detail creates the optimal experience for both the artists on stage and the fans who’ve come to see them – making every concert at UBS Arena something truly special.
Visitor Experience: Seating, Dining & Hospitality
When you step into UBS Arena, you’re not just attending an event—you’re immersing yourself in a carefully crafted experience that caters to every aspect of your visit. The arena’s designers have thought of everything, from premium viewing options to innovative dining concepts that’ll make you forget you’re at a sports venue.
Looking for a touch of luxury? UBS Arena delivers with 57 stunning premium suites, 5 exclusive private clubs, and 10 strategically placed bars that open directly into the bowl—meaning you can grab a drink without missing that game-winning goal or encore performance. The thoughtful design ensures every seat offers excellent sightlines, regardless of the event configuration.
| Capacity Comparison | Seating Configuration |
|---|---|
| NHL Hockey | 17,255 |
| Concerts | Up to 19,000 |
| Basketball | 17,975 |
Tech-savvy visitors will appreciate the arena’s forward-thinking approach to convenience. Select concession stands feature Amazon Just-Walk-Out technology, a cashless payment system that slashes wait times by up to 75%. Imagine spending more time enjoying the event and less time standing in line—that’s the UBS Arena difference.
What truly sets this venue apart is its commitment to inclusivity. Dedicated sensory rooms located at sections 106, the Suite Level, and 212 provide comfortable havens for guests with sensory processing needs. Need a break from the excitement? These thoughtfully designed spaces offer a peaceful retreat. The arena also provides sensory bags with noise-canceling headphones and fidget tools at all Guest Services kiosks—small touches that make a big difference for many visitors.
It’s worth noting that UBS Arena operates as a completely cashless venue, accepting only contactless payment methods. While this might take some getting used to for cash-carriers, the streamlined approach significantly improves efficiency and reduces physical contact points throughout the facility.
Food enthusiasts will find plenty to love here, with options that go well beyond typical arena fare. For deeper dives into exceptional dining, check out guides to Best Culinary Experiences or Interesting Places to Eat that highlight venues like UBS Arena that are elevating the food scene.
Exploring Foodie Options Around UBS Arena
As passionate food explorers, we at The Dining Destination couldn’t be more impressed with the culinary renaissance happening at UBS Arena. Forget soggy nachos and lukewarm hot dogs—this venue houses 6 distinctive concession stands, 13 diverse food markets, and specialty dining options that showcase the best of New York’s vibrant food scene.
Need a pre-game pint or post-concert bite? Head to Belmont Hall, the arena’s signature sports bar, where liftd pub classics and craft beers await in a space that honors the rich sporting heritage of Belmont Park. Basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal brings his culinary game to the arena with Shaq’s Big Chicken, serving up crispy, juicy fried chicken sandwiches that have quickly become fan favorites.
What really caught our attention is the arena’s commitment to local sourcing. Their farm-to-table offerings feature ingredients from New York and Long Island producers, supporting local agriculture while delivering fresher, more flavorful meals. If this approach resonates with you, our guide to Table Talk: Exploring the Best Farm-to-Table Restaurants dives deeper into this growing culinary movement.
The beverage program at UBS Arena deserves special mention too. Local craft beers flow alongside creative cocktails and thoughtfully selected wines. Best of all, many of the arena’s bars offer direct views into the bowl, so you can sip your favorite drink without missing a moment of action on the ice, court, or stage.
Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply appreciate quality dining options, UBS Arena has transformed what we should expect from venue food—proving that memorable experiences extend well beyond the main event.
Getting There, Tickets & Practical Tips
Getting to UBS Arena is surprisingly easy thanks to major transportation upgrades that came with the venue’s development. The project included a whopping $100 million investment in transit improvements – with the crown jewel being the brand-new Elmont station on the Long Island Rail Road, the first new LIRR station constructed in nearly half a century!
This game-changing Elmont LIRR station connects directly to both Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan, making it a breeze to reach UBS Arena from virtually anywhere in the New York metro area. On event days, the MTA rolls out special service schedules to handle the crowds, so you won’t be left stranded after that late-night concert or overtime hockey game.
Prefer to drive? UBS Arena has you covered with several parking lots surrounding the venue. Just remember one crucial tip: parking passes must be purchased in advance – you can’t buy them when you arrive. For ride-share fans, there are clearly marked pickup and drop-off zones for your Uber or Lyft, making the post-event exit strategy much smoother.
Accessibility is a priority at UBS Arena, with thoughtfully designed ADA-compliant seating throughout the venue. If you have specific accommodation needs, I’d recommend reaching out to Guest Services before your visit – they’re genuinely helpful and can ensure everything’s set up for your comfort.
When it comes to tickets, everything at UBS Arena runs through Ticketmaster as the official ticketing partner. The venue is fully digital, so you’ll access your tickets through the Ticketmaster app or transfer them to Apple Wallet or Google Pay. No paper tickets means one less thing to forget at home! For the most current information about Getting to UBS Arena on public transit, check the MTA website before heading out.
A few practical tips to remember:
UBS Arena enforces a clear bag policy – only bags measuring 12″ x 12″ x 6″ or smaller are allowed after security screening. Medical and baby bags get a pass but will still be inspected at entry. And in keeping with the venue’s impressive sustainability goals, consider taking public transportation or carpooling when possible – it’s better for the planet and saves you the parking hassle!
The venue is entirely cashless, so bring your credit cards or set up your mobile payment options before arrival. This speeds up concession lines dramatically, giving you more time to enjoy the event and less time waiting for food and drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions about UBS Arena
When did UBS Arena open and what is its seating capacity?
Wondering when UBS Arena first welcomed fans through its doors? The arena celebrated its grand opening on November 20, 2021, with the New York Islanders facing off against the Calgary Flames in their inaugural home game. While the Islanders didn’t secure a win that night, the occasion marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Long Island sports and entertainment.
As for capacity, UBS Arena comfortably seats 17,255 hockey fans for Islanders games, creating an intimate yet energetic atmosphere. For concert configurations, the venue can expand to accommodate up to 19,000 music lovers, with specially designed acoustics that ensure everyone enjoys premium sound quality. Basketball events fit nicely in the middle, with a seating arrangement for approximately 17,975 spectators.
How do I buy tickets and are cash payments accepted?
Securing your spot at an event is straightforward at UBS Arena. All tickets are sold exclusively through Ticketmaster, the arena’s official ticketing partner. You’ll want to purchase your tickets in advance through the Ticketmaster website or mobile app, as all tickets are digital-only – no paper tickets are issued for any events.
Once you’re inside, leave your cash at home! UBS Arena operates as a completely cashless venue, which helps keep lines moving quickly and improves the overall guest experience. All concessions, merchandise stores, and service areas accept only credit and debit cards or mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. This cashless approach has significantly reduced wait times, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the event and less time standing in line.
What transportation options are best for late-night events?
Worried about getting home after a late concert or overtime hockey game? UBS Arena has you covered with several reliable options. The Long Island Rail Road coordinates special eastbound service from the new Elmont station following events, with trains typically scheduled to depart approximately 20 minutes after the conclusion of shows and games.
For those heading in other directions, NICE buses serve the area with routes connecting to various communities across Nassau County. If you prefer rideshare services, UBS Arena features clearly marked pickup zones for Uber and Lyft, making it easy to connect with your driver even when thousands of other fans are leaving simultaneously.
Driving yourself? The arena’s parking lots remain open for a reasonable period after events end, allowing for a staged and orderly exit process. Just remember that parking passes must be purchased in advance – they’re not available for on-site purchase on event days. For the most current transportation information, especially for late-night events, check the Getting to UBS Arena on public transit page before heading out.
Conclusion
UBS Arena stands as a remarkable crown jewel in New York’s entertainment landscape. This $1.5 billion investment has transformed not just the sports and entertainment scene, but the entire community surrounding Belmont Park. In just a few short years since opening in 2021, the arena has become a beloved destination where memories are made, whether you’re cheering for the Islanders or singing along with your favorite artist.
What makes UBS Arena truly special isn’t just the world-class events—it’s the complete experience. As food enthusiasts, we at The Dining Destination are particularly impressed by how the venue has reimagined arena dining. Gone are the days of settling for basic concession fare! The thoughtful integration of local New York flavors, farm-to-table concepts, and innovative dining options like Belmont Hall and Shaq’s Big Chicken shows that great food is an essential part of any memorable outing.
Beyond the walls of the arena itself, the economic ripple effects are changing the surrounding communities. With billions in economic activity generated and thousands of new jobs created, UBS Arena isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a catalyst for regional growth. Their commitment to sustainability, with ambitious carbon neutrality goals set for 2024, sets a new standard for responsible venue management in the entertainment industry.
Planning your visit to UBS Arena becomes even more exciting when you think about it as part of a complete culinary trip. Whether you’re catching an Islanders game, experiencing the PWHL New York team, or attending a concert by a world-class artist, consider enhancing your outing with exceptional dining before or after the event.
For those looking to make the most of your arena visit, we invite you to Explore more restaurant guides on our website. We’ve curated recommendations ranging from quick pre-game bites to memorable post-concert dining experiences that will complement your UBS Arena trip perfectly.
As this remarkable venue continues to evolve and grow, we look forward to sharing more insights about both the arena itself and the exciting culinary landscape that surrounds it. Plan your next food-and-sports trip with confidence, knowing that UBS Arena delivers an experience that truly represents the best of New York—innovative, exciting, and always memorable.
