A Guide to Grand Casino Arena
Standing as the centerpiece of downtown Saint Paul, this premier venue is renowned for its world-class sightlines and high-energy atmosphere as the home of the NHL's Minnesota Wild and the PWHL's Minnesota Frost. Its architecture seamlessly blends modern amenities with local heritage, consistently ranking among the top arenas in the country for its commitment to sustainability and an elite fan experience.
Getting to the Arena
Grand Casino Arena sits at 199 West Kellogg Boulevard in downtown St. Paul, perched on a bluff above the Mississippi River near the intersection of West 7th Street and Kellogg Boulevard.
- Driving & ParkingFrom I-94, take the 7th Street exit and head south toward the arena. From I-35E, take the Kellogg Boulevard/West 7th Street exit. Downtown St. Paul ramps and lots. The RiverCentre Parking Ramp on Kellogg Boulevard is the closest. Street parking in the surrounding neighborhoods is limited.
- Public TransitMetro Transit bus routes serve downtown St. Paul extensively. The Green Line light rail connects Minneapolis and St. Paul along University Avenue, with the closest stop at Central Station — about a 15-minute walk or short bus ride to the arena. The Route 54 bus runs along West 7th Street directly past the arena.
- Light Rail METROThe Green Line remains the primary rail link. For the most direct access, fans should exit at Central Station 4th & Cedar or 10th Street Station Cedar & 10th. The Blue Line connection is for fans coming from the South Metro MSP Airport/Mall of America should take the Blue Line and transfer to the Green Line at U.S. Bank Stadium Station.
- Bus Lines & Rapid Transit BRTThe METRO Gold Line is a new Bus Rapid Transit line that connects Woodbury to downtown Saint Paul, providing a frequent, high-capacity option for East Metro fans. The METRO B Line is now fully operational, replacing much of the old Route 21 service along Marshall/Lake Street with faster, limited-stop service to the arena area. Local Routes: The following lines have stops within blocks of the arena: 54, 61, 63, 64, 72, 74, and 94.
- RideshareDesignated pickup and drop-off on Kellogg Boulevard and West 7th Street. Surge pricing is moderate by NHL standards. Walking toward the West 7th neighborhood after games can reduce wait times.
Pregame Festivities
The West 7th Street corridor leading to the arena and the surrounding downtown St. Paul streets offer a strong mix of longstanding local institutions and newer additions.
Bars & Restaurants
- The definitive pregame destination, located directly across from the arena on West 7th Street. Owned by former North Stars defenseman Tom Reid, the bar is a shrine to Minnesota hockey — walls covered in hockey memorabilia, a lively game-night atmosphere, and solid pub fare.
- An Italian market, restaurant, and pizzeria on West 7th Street, a short walk from the arena. The Cossetta family has been in St. Paul since 1911, and the current multi-level operation features a bakery, a traditional Italian restaurant Cossetta's Tradizione upstairs, and a fast-casual counter with pizza, pasta, and sandwiches. Lines can be long on game nights, but they move quickly. A St. Paul institution.
- A sports bar on West 7th Street near the arena with multiple screens, a game-day crowd, and standard bar fare. The name suits the neighborhood perfectly, and the pregame energy is reliable.
- A craft brewery on West 7th Street within walking distance of the arena. Their rotating tap list of small-batch beers and a cozy taproom make it a great pregame stop for craft beer enthusiasts. The Ominous name belies the friendly atmosphere.
- A legendary St. Paul steakhouse on West 7th Street that has been charbroiling steaks since 1967. The old-school lounge, live entertainment, and perfectly prepared steaks transport you to another era. It's a splurge, but worth it for a special game night.
- A restaurant offering a fusion of East African and American cuisine with locations in the Twin Cities. Somali-influenced dishes, wraps, and smoothies provide a unique and flavorful pregame option that reflects Minnesota's diverse communities.
Neighborhood Attractions
- A charming downtown St. Paul park surrounded by the Landmark Center, the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, and the St. Paul Hotel. About a 10-minute walk from the arena, it's a pleasant pregame stop, especially when lit up in winter.
- One of the nation's premier chamber orchestras, performing at the Ordway Concert Hall near Rice Park. A world-class cultural institution in a hockey town.
- A stunning Beaux-Arts cathedral on Summit Avenue overlooking downtown St. Paul. The dome is visible from much of the city, and the interior is breathtaking. About 10 minutes from the arena.
- Located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River near the arena, the museum features interactive exhibits, an Omnitheater, and views of the river valley. A great pregame option for families.
- One of the best-preserved Victorian residential boulevards in America, stretching from the Cathedral to the Mississippi River. F. Scott Fitzgerald's brownstone at 599 Summit Avenue is where he revised "This Side of Paradise." The architecture and scale of the homes are remarkable.
Monuments & Unique Features
Grand Casino Arena and downtown St. Paul celebrate Minnesota's deep hockey culture and the city's historic character.
- The Herb Brooks StatueThis is the most iconic monument at the venue. It is a larger-than-life bronze statue of 1980 Miracle on Ice coach and Saint Paul native Herb Brooks, captured in his famous arms-outstretched celebration.
- State of Hockey Tribute StatuesSmall bronze statues of various Peanuts characters like Charlie Brown and Snoopy in hockey gear are often found around the vicinity and the Rice Park area, honoring Saint Paul native Charles Schulz.
- The State of Hockey Tribute WallLocated on the main concourse, this massive display features high school hockey jerseys from every sanctioned program in Minnesota. It is updated annually to reflect current teams.
- The Minnesota Wild Gallery of IronA dedicated area showcasing the history of the franchise, including the original Return of Hockey memorabilia from the 2000 inaugural season.
- Jessi Pierce MemorialFollowing the tragic passing of beloved Wild reporter Jessi Pierce in early 2026, a permanent memorial has been established in the press box area, and a tribute display is located on the club level near the media entrance.
- Retired Numbers#1 The Fans: Retired at the first-ever home game in 2000 as a tribute to the fans of Minnesota. #9 Mikko Koivu: The first player in franchise history to have his number retired ceremony held in 2022.
Seating & Special Sections
- Bremer Bank Suite LevelLocated directly above the 100-level seating bowl, these private suites offer a localized luxury experience. Amenities includes a private attendant, dedicated restrooms for suite holders, and two HDTVs per box.
- RBC Wealth Management Club LevelOccupying the entire second tier of the arena Sections C1–C40, this level offers a VIP light experience for those who want premium amenities without a private suite.
- Bud Light Top Shelf LoungeThis is a semi-private premium area located on the 200 level Upper Concourse. Loge Boxes contains 24 four-person Loge Boxes that provide a private table and comfortable chairs.
Concessions
- Signature ItemsMinnesota staples dominate walleye fingers the state fish, hot dish-inspired options, and Kramarczuk's sausages bring local flavor. The Cossetta's pizza stand inside the arena brings the West 7th institution to the concourse.
- The Original Hockey Mom’s SubsA staple of the arena, still operating out of Section 114. They remain the go-to for hearty sandwiches.
- RevivalThe acclaimed local fried chicken vendor continues to serve its signature hot chicken and southern sides at Section 125.
- Parlour BarTheir famous burgers remain a high-demand item on the main concourse at Section 118.
- Black Shoe HospitalityThis partnership remains active for the 2026 season, particularly within the RBC Wealth Management Club Level and select portable carts on the 100 level.
- Flynt & KyndleThis is now the flagship social dining destination on the Club Level. It specializes in rotisserie meats prime rib, turkey, porchetta and wood-fired flatbreads. It is open to all Club Level ticket holders and those with The Reserve access.
- The Northern MarketLocated near Section 124, this has been revamped into a grab-and-go style market for 2026, featuring local Minnesota-made snacks, craft sodas, and pre-packaged healthy options to reduce wait times.
- Michelob Golden Light TaphouseStill the primary destination for the "official beer of the Minnesota Wild, located at Section 120.
- State of Hockey Craft Beer WallLocated on the 200 level, this wall has been updated for 2026 to include rotating taps from Summit Brewing, Surly, and Castle Danger.
Arena Information
Notable Events
- Expansion & Rebirth: The Wild entered the NHL as an expansion team in 2000, seven years after the North Stars left for Dallas. The franchise was born from Minnesota's deep hockey culture and the state's determination to reclaim an NHL team. The sold-out home opener against the Philadelphia Flyers on October 11, 2000, was an emotional moment for a hockey-starved fanbase.
- The North Stars Wound: The original Minnesota North Stars played from 1967 to 1993 before owner Norm Green relocated the franchise to Dallas. The move remains a sore subject. Norm Green Sucks chants still occasionally echo through the arena decades later.
Suggested Places
Recommended places to visit near this arena