PPG Paints Arena opened in August 2010 as Consol Energy Center. The Penguins played the first game in the arena during the 2010 preseason. Team owner Mario Lemieux, as head of the Lemieux Group, agreed with Pittsburgh to keep the team in the city as part of the new arena project, making local hockey fans very happy. The downtown venue became PPG Paints Arena in 2016 after PPG acquired the naming rights.

How many seats are in PPG Paints Arena?

There are more than 18,000 seats available for National Hockey League games. The seating bowl includes lower, club, and upper levels along with suites and other premium areas.

For concessions and stand locations, see the PPG Paints Arena food guide.

Directions – How to get to PPG Paints Arena

PPG Paints Arena is at 1001 Fifth Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh. Drivers can approach from I-579, I-376, or the downtown street grid; the venue posts route-by-route directions for each approach. Steel Plaza is the closest light-rail station, and travel on the T is free within Pittsburgh’s downtown free-fare zone. Several Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus routes also stop near the arena.

Where to Park near PPG Paints Arena?

Parking is available in arena lots and garages around the Uptown and downtown area. Arena-operated lots are cashless, and buying a pass before the event is encouraged. The attached garage is generally reserved for non-hockey events, so Penguins fans should check the event parking map before leaving home. Rates depend on the event and lot. A passenger drop-off area is available on Fifth Avenue near the Peoples Gate.

Other PPG Paints Arena FAQs

What time can you enter PPG Paints Arena?

Doors generally open one hour before events, although the time can change for a particular game or show. Re-entry is not permitted after a ticket has been scanned.

What is the bag policy at PPG Paints Arena?

The arena generally does not allow bags. Medical and diaper bags are exceptions, and small wristlets measuring no more than 4 by 6 by 1.5 inches are permitted after inspection.

Is PPG Paints Arena cashless?

Yes. Concessions and retail locations accept major cards and mobile payments. Reverse ATMs inside the arena can turn cash into a prepaid card.

What was the name of the Penguins arena before PPG Paints Arena?

PPG Paints Arena was originally named Consol Energy Center (CEC) after Consol Energy purchased the naming rights in December 2008.

Sources

Fact-checked August 11, 2026.