Benchmark International Arena has three seating levels:
- 100 Level (Lower Bowl) — closest to the action, including premium Glass Seats on the boards.
- 200 Level (Club/Mezzanine) — the best balance of price and sightlines.
- 300 Level (Upper Bowl) — the most affordable seats with a broad panoramic view.
The arena is designed so that even the upper sections still provide a solid view, especially from center ice. Sections 106–108 and 116–118 are considered the “sweet spot” for hockey. For concerts, the best seats are usually directly across from the stage (118–120 or 101–103).
Best Seats for Hockey
If you’re an NHL fan, here’s where to look:
- Center Ice (106–108 and 116–118) — the perfect full-ice perspective.
- Behind the Benches (104–105 for visitors, 116 for Lightning) — get up close to players and coaches.
- Glass Seats (Rows A–C) — the ultimate “in the game” experience right on the boards. Downside: limited view of the far end.
Behind the Goals — ideal if you love seeing goals scored up close (and maybe even catching a puck in the netting).
The hockey atmosphere in Tampa is electric. The fan sections in “Thunder Alley” (up in the 300 Level) make it feel like the roof might come off after a Lightning goal.
Best Seats for Concerts
When it’s concert time, Benchmark International Arena transforms: some sections close off, and the stage is set up at one end.
- Floor Seats — unmatched proximity to the artist, but if you’re not in the first few rows, sightlines can be blocked.
- Lower Bowl (118–120 and 101–103) — excellent balance of price, view, and sound quality.
- 200 Level Opposite the Stage — great angle, strong acoustics, and more affordable.
- 300 Level — best if you want to be in the room and enjoy the atmosphere for cheap.
- Pro Tip: For rock shows, the best acoustics are often to the side of the stage (sections 115–116 or 106–107).
Ticket Pricing:
- Glass Seats for hockey: $250–$490 per game.
- Suites: from $1,000 per game, including food and parking.
- Budget Tickets
- You don’t have to spend big to enjoy a game or concert:
- Sections 301–312 and 322–330 — the cheapest seats (starting at $25–40 for hockey).
- Upper Rows of the 200 Level — solid sightlines at a fair price.
- VIP and Premium Experience (starting at $228, Club Seats at $790).
Parking:
- Official Garages: South Regional Garage, Pam Iorio Garage, and Channelside Drive lot ($15–25).
- Public Transit: TECO Line Streetcar connects Downtown with the arena.
- Rideshare: Uber/Lyft pickup zones are clearly marked.
- Accessibility: fully ADA-compliant with elevators, ramps, and designated seating.
Insider Tips
- Arrive an hour early to enjoy Thunder Alley — the pregame block party with live music and food.
- The best food inside is at Savor Tampa Bay, featuring local restaurants.
- After an event, the quickest exit is usually through the east gates.
- For memorable photos, aim for rows 10–15 in the center sections.
