People's Bank Arena is in downtown Hartford, Connecticut

People's Bank Arena is located at 1 Civic Center Plaza in Hartford, Connecticut 06103. It sits in downtown Hartford along the Connecticut River and is home to the Hartford Wolf Pack, the American Hockey League affiliate of the New York Rangers. The arena opened in 2017 and replaced the Hartford Civic Center that had operated since 1972. The main phone number is 860-722-9425.

The venue hosts hockey games, concerts, family events, wrestling, and other public gatherings throughout the year. If you're planning to visit, knowing the exact location and your route options ahead of time prevents confusion on event day. The arena is visible from major routes into Hartford and sits in an area with multiple ways to reach it—by car, bus, or train.

Key Takeaways

  • People's Bank Arena is at 1 Civic Center Plaza in downtown Hartford, Connecticut, home to the Hartford Wolf Pack hockey team.
  • The arena is accessible by I-91 Exit 29A, with multiple parking garages nearby, though event-day parking fills quickly.
  • CTtransit buses serve the downtown area, and Amtrak's Union Station is about a 10-minute walk away if you're traveling from the Northeast Corridor.
  • Call 860-722-9425 for information about events, parking, accessibility, or venue policies before your visit.
  • The arena is ADA-accessible with designated parking, wheelchair seating, and accessible restrooms throughout the building.

Getting There by Car from I-91

From I-91 northbound or southbound, take Exit 29A toward downtown Hartford. Follow the signs for the Civic Center or downtown attractions. Once you exit, you'll be on Columbus Boulevard, which runs parallel to the Connecticut River. The arena sits just off Columbus Boulevard, and street-level signage becomes clear once you're in the downtown area. The drive from the highway exit to the arena takes about five minutes.

If you're coming from the west on I-84, merge onto I-91 and follow the same exit. From the east, I-91 is the most direct route into downtown. GPS coordinates (41.7658, -72.6734) will take you directly to the building if your navigation system accepts them.

Parking Options Near the Arena

Several parking garages surround People's Bank Arena. The Civic Center Garage connects directly to the building and is usually the closest option, though it fills first on popular event nights. The Bushnell Garage is two blocks away and often has availability when the Civic Center lot is full. Additional surface lots operate in the downtown area, with pricing that varies by event and time of day.

On event days, parking fills quickly—arriving 60 to 90 minutes early gives you a better chance of finding a spot close to the arena. If you're attending a major concert or popular hockey game, consider using public transportation instead. Parking rates typically range from $5 to $15 depending on the event, though some events offer free parking in specific lots. Call 860-722-9425 to ask about parking for your specific event.

Getting There by Bus

Hartford's CTtransit bus system serves downtown and the arena area. Multiple bus routes stop within a five-minute walk of People's Bank Arena. You can check current routes and schedules on the CTtransit website at cttransit.org or call 860-525-9181. Bus fare is typically $2 per ride, though passes and day passes offer better value if you're making multiple trips.

If you're coming from outside Hartford, CTtransit connects to regional bus services. The downtown Hartford transit hub is about a 10-minute walk from the arena, making bus travel a practical option if you're avoiding parking hassles.

Getting There by Train

Amtrak serves Union Station in Hartford, which is approximately a 10-minute walk from People's Bank Arena. Union Station is located at 411 Church Street, and the walk to the arena takes you through downtown Hartford. This option works well if you're traveling from New York City, Boston, or other Northeast Corridor cities. Amtrak schedules vary by route and season, so check amtrak.com for current times and fares.

The walk from Union Station to the arena is straightforward: head east on Church Street, then south on Columbus Boulevard toward the river. The arena building is clearly visible once you're in the downtown area. If you have mobility concerns, consider a taxi or rideshare service for this final leg.

What's Nearby and How to Orient Yourself

The arena sits in Hartford's downtown core, so restaurants, hotels, and shops are within walking distance. The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts is two blocks away. The Connecticut Science Center is also nearby along the riverfront. These landmarks help you orient yourself if you're unfamiliar with the area.

The riverfront area has undergone development in recent years, with new dining and entertainment options opening near the arena. If you're planning an event day, you have options for meals and activities before or after your visit. The area is walkable, though downtown Hartford can feel quiet in the evening, so plan your route and stick to well-lit streets if you're arriving after dark.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

People's Bank Arena is ADA-accessible, with designated parking spaces in nearby garages, wheelchair seating throughout the building, and accessible restrooms on multiple levels. If you need specific accessibility information before your visit—such as the location of accessible entrances, the availability of accessible parking for your event, or details about companion seating—call the arena directly at 860-722-9425.

The arena's website lists current events, ticket information, and venue policies. Bag policies, prohibited items, and other rules vary by event type, so checking ahead prevents delays at entry. The arena staff can answer questions about what you can bring, where to sit if you have mobility concerns, and how early you should arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What events happen at People's Bank Arena besides hockey?

The arena hosts concerts, family shows, wrestling events, and other entertainment. The Hartford Wolf Pack plays roughly 40 home games per season from October through April. Check the arena's event calendar on its website or call 860-722-9425 to see what's scheduled during your visit.

Is there accessible parking for people with disabilities?

Yes. The arena has designated ADA parking spaces in nearby garages and surface lots. You'll need a valid disability parking permit or license plate. Call ahead at 860-722-9425 if you need specific information about accessible parking for your event, as availability varies by location and event type.

Can I bring my own food or drinks into the arena?

Outside food and beverages are typically not permitted, though policies can vary by event type. The arena has concessions throughout the building. Contact the venue directly at 860-722-9425 to confirm the policy for your specific event before you arrive.

How early should I arrive for an event?

Arriving 60 to 90 minutes before event start time is standard practice. This gives you time to park, walk to the building, and find your seat without rushing. Parking fills faster on popular event nights, so arriving earlier on those days is wise.

Is there a best time to visit if I want to avoid crowds?

Weekday events typically draw smaller crowds than weekend events. Hockey games on weeknights are less busy than Friday or Saturday games. Concerts and special events vary widely. Call 860-722-9425 to ask about expected attendance for your specific event.