MVP Arena

Times Union Center featuring a city
MVP Arena
Times Union Center showing a city and landscape views


Enjoy the sounds of some of today’s biggest performing artists or watch an exciting sports event at a stadium in the very heart of Downtown Albany.

The Times Union Center in Downtown Albany lets you attend a huge stadium show without having to leave the city. Set amid the tall buildings that line the western shore of the Hudson River, the center provides an easy opportunity to catch a show or a game. Glimpse some of the biggest artists for far less hassle than seeing them in bigger markets nearby. The center is one of the biggest stadiums in America for the size of the city it’s in.

In front of the stadium, admire the contrast between the stadium’s gleaming bright exterior and the orange-red high-rises behind it. Imagine it as it was on its first night, in 1990, when Frank Sinatra opened what was then called the Knickerbocker Arena to throngs of attendees and local residents excited about their idol and the brand-new venue in the city.

Head inside with the rest of the fans, who can number up to 17,500 people at concerts and 15,500 for sporting events. Take a break and purchase a drink or snack from the many vendors along the walls, including local favorites such as Dinosaur Bar-B-Que.

At the end of the night, venture back onto the street and make the short trip home or head out onto the nearby blocks to continue the night at some of Albany’s best bars and restaurants.

Find the Times Union Center in the heart of Downtown Albany, only a few blocks from the Hudson River. Walk here in 6 minutes from the main bus terminal or in 10 minutes from the New York State Capitol building. Local bus connections are available nearby to all parts of the city. Drive from the Albany airport in 17 minutes. Access and exit is easy using several nearby highways. Park in the nearby metered parking garage run by the center or in several other garages within walking distance.

The center is open only during show times. The box office is open from Monday to Saturday during regular business hours, on Saturday mornings and on Sundays when events are being held.

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Things to do near MVP Arena

At MVP Arena in Albany, New York, visitors can enjoy an array of activities including exhilarating hockey matches, vibrant live music performances, and lively dancing events. Be sure to catch a live concert while you're there and take some time for area sightseeing to fully appreciate the local culture and attractions surrounding the arena.

Shopping

At MVP Arena, you can enjoy shopping at nearby Crossgates Mall, just 3.7km away, and Colonie Center Mall, 3.1km away, both offering a mix of business and family vibes. Westgate Plaza is even closer at 1.9km. If you're up for a drive, visit other local gems further afield.

Recreation

The Albany Berkshire Ballet, 249m from MVP Arena, offers a romantic blend of dance and culture, perfect for artistic souls. For sports enthusiasts, the Joseph L Bruno Stadium, 3.1km away, provides an exhilarating atmosphere. Additionally, Westland Hills Park, 1.9km distant, invites you to unwind in nature's embrace.

Adventure

Explore Jennings Landing for a delightful outdoor experience, only 186m from MVP Arena, perfect for a leisurely stroll. For family fun, head to Funplex Fun Park, 2.5km away, featuring thrilling water rides. Alternatively, challenge yourself at Albany Indoor Rockgym, also 2.5km away, for an adventurous climbing session.

Nightlife

The nightlife around MVP Arena offers a delightful mix of entertainment. Enjoy a show at the Palace Theater, just 311m away, or marvel at the stars at the Henry Hudson Planetarium, also 311m away. For a cinematic experience, head to Scene One Spectrum 8 Theatres, located 621m away.

Find the best attractions near MVP Arena

While visiting MVP Arena in downtown Albany, you'll find a mix of historic and modern attractions, including civic buildings and universities that showcase the area's rich culture. Ideal for those seeking outdoor experiences and cultural immersion, the local points of interest are just a short walk or drive from the arena, making it easy to explore the vibrant surroundings during your stay.

  • Albany Capital Center: Located a mere 62m from MVP Arena, this event venue exudes a professional atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for conferences and corporate gatherings. Its modern facilities and spacious layout create a vibrant backdrop for various events.
  • Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza: Situated 249m away, this striking civic building combines modern architecture with significant government functions. Visitors can appreciate its impressive design while enjoying the surrounding plazas and art installations, embodying New York’s political spirit.
  • Destroyer Escort Historical Museum: About 311m from MVP Arena, this maritime museum offers a unique glimpse into naval history. Explore the decommissioned destroyer escort and immerse yourself in the stories of those who served, all while experiencing a rich cultural atmosphere.

Best time to go to MVP Arena

The best time to visit MVP Arena can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around MVP Arena falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around MVP Arena falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January24.1°F (-4.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly Low
February26.1°F (-3.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
March34.2°F (1.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
April46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May58.5°F (14.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June65.8°F (18.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
July71.8°F (22.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly High
August70.0°F (21.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly High
September62.8°F (17.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November39.0°F (3.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December30.7°F (-0.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for MVP Arena

To save money during your visit to MVP Arena, consider travelling between November and January when accommodation prices are lower, particularly on Mondays. Avoid Saturdays for the best rates. Use Expedia to compare hotel options that fit your budget and preferences, and sort results from lowest to highest price. Additionally, save further by booking a package deal that includes flights and activities. For transport, utilise Albany's public transport system, which is cost-effective, or explore the area on foot to discover free attractions nearby.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around MVP Arena are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around MVP Arena is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around MVP Arena is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices, taking into account your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking at MVP Arena with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.