Amerant Bank Arena opened in October 1998 and has been home to the Florida Panthers ever since. The building sits in Sunrise, Florida, across from Sawgrass Mills and west of Fort Lauderdale. It was called FLA Live Arena when this guide was recovered and took its present name in September 2023.

The Panthers joined the NHL for the 1993-94 season and made their first Stanley Cup Final in 1996. After years of fleeting playoff success, the club won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2024 and 2025.

How many seats are in Amerant Bank Arena?

The arena seats 19,250 for Panthers games. The lower and upper seating bowls are joined by suites, clubs and other premium areas, and the setup changes for concerts and non-hockey events.

See the companion guide to food at Amerant Bank Arena.

Directions and transportation

Amerant Bank Arena is at 1 Panther Parkway in Sunrise. Drivers can reach it from the Sawgrass Expressway, Interstate 595 or Interstate 75, with the event traffic pattern directing cars toward the appropriate entrance. The arena is not served by a nearby rail station, so driving and rideshare are the main arrival options.

Rideshare drop-off and pickup use the Gate 3 area and North Pedestrian Walkway. Follow the event-day signs because vehicle access can change as lots fill and traffic is released.

Parking

About 7,200 parking spaces surround the arena. Parking can be purchased in advance through the arena, and the pass indicates the entrance and lot to use. Do not rely on older advice about leaving a car at Sawgrass Mills; use an authorized arena lot or another arrangement that expressly permits event parking.

Entry, bags and payment

The arena has a no-bag policy. A small clutch no larger than 4 by 6 inches is allowed, while medical and diaper bags are exceptions subject to inspection. Lockers are available outside the main entrance at the bottom of the Publix Plaza stairs.

Amerant Bank Arena is cashless. Doors generally open 60 minutes before Panthers games, though other events set their own schedule. Re-entry is not permitted.

Amerant Bank Arena FAQs

Is Amerant Bank Arena the same building as FLA Live Arena?

Yes. FLA Live Arena became Amerant Bank Arena in September 2023. Earlier names included National Car Rental Center, Office Depot Center, BankAtlantic Center and BB&T Center.

What hockey team plays at Amerant Bank Arena?

The Florida Panthers play their home games at the arena.

Who owns Amerant Bank Arena?

Broward County owns the arena, which is operated by the Panthers organization.

What is near the arena?

Sawgrass Mills is directly across from the arena and has shopping, restaurants and entertainment. Build in extra time if you plan to visit the mall because event traffic can slow the surrounding roads.

Sources

Fact-checked August 13, 2026.