Top 10 Most Beautiful NHL Arenas

Architecture is something to be appreciated. When form and function come together in harmony, beautiful buildings are created. Traditionally, these buildings are churches, museums, and other historical landmarks. However, there are other buildings that offer the elements of architectural greatness, NHL stadiums. These buildings refuse to become eyesores by adding aesthetic appeal to their home cities. Here is the top ten most beautiful NHL stadiums.

1. Scotiabank Saddledome: Calgary Flames

As one of the oldest arenas in the NHL, the unique shape makes it noticeable from a distance. The 19,000 person capacity packs a punch for fans attending the game with palpable energy. Once inside the dome, the rich Flames history is on display for all patrons to peruse at their leisure.

2. Nationwide Arena: Columbus Blue Jackets

One of the more modern style stadiums, Nationwide Arena is very well maintained and offers patrons a variety of choices once inside this beautiful building. Large glass windows and wide open corridors make this arena wonderful.

3. TD Garden: Boston Bruins

Form definitely meets function at the Garden. Train lines run inside and around the building making it one of the easiest stadiums to get to. Once inside, there is not a bad seat in the house as it has been flawlessly designed with the ultimate hockey fan in mind.

4. United Center: Chicago Blackhawks

As one of the largest arenas in the NHL, the United Center is easy to get to and displays the team's long history throughout the building. While the outside doesn't appear to be artistically special, the expanse of the fan capacity inside during a game is what makes this arena fantastic. Holding the record for top attendance to games, due to their team being Stanley Cup favorites year in and year out, fans have a wide array of seating options.

5. Xcel Energy Center: Minnesota Wild

While this arena is beautiful inside and out, it is the technology options that make this one of the best arenas. The addition of a huge jumbotron and sound system makes the fan experience truly unforgettable. This full glass circular building adds beauty and function to the city of Minneapolis.

6. Air Canada Centre: Toronto Maple Leafs

The large glass entry way which also houses a massive jumbotron makes the Air Canada Centre architecturally interesting. Fans can see all the current and upcoming events as they pass by the stadium. Another appeal is the close proximity to the Hockey Hall of Fame.

7. Joe Louis Arena: Detroit Red Wings

The outside of this building is not very aesthetic or interesting to the eye of a regular person, but the hockey fan knows what is inside this arena. The beauty of this arena lies within, hanging from the rafters, retired numbers of NHL legends and Stanley Cup banners litter the inside of this arena. The beauty within makes this one of the great NHL stadiums.

8. Madison Square Garden: New York Rangers

Madison Square Garden is the oldest building in the NHL. In recent years, it has seen renovations that have made it more fan friendly, but the timelessness of this arena is what generates fan excitement. It is easily accessible from any transportation mode, which helps pack the house for any game or event.

9. PPG Paints Arena - Pittsburgh Penguins

This state-of-the-art arena has raised the bar for other teams building new stadiums. With over 18,000 seats in the house, fans can truly enjoy the game from any angle. The interesting shape of the arena, the glass attributes and beautiful landscaping make it one of the best arenas in the NHL.


10. Bell Centre: Montreal Canadiens

Located in downtown Montreal, this arena is the cornerstone for hockey fans of Canada. With the capacity of over 21,000 fans, 24 Stanley Cup banners, and the array of retired numbers hanging from the rafters, this stadium creates one of the most exciting in-game experiences for any hockey fan.

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By Adam Hayes - writer: usssportsmachine.com