Xcel Energy Center Parking Tips in Minneapolis

The Minnesota Wild of the NHL plays home games at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. If you have tickets for an upcoming event at this venue, use our parking guide to plan the outing. 

This detailed Xcel Energy Center parking tips guide offers detailed parking information, including:

• The best official Xcel Energy Center parking lots
• Third-party parking lots near Xcel Energy Center you can book in advance
• Areas to look for free parking in St. Paul
• Handicap parking solutions
• Public transit options for Minnesota Wild events
• Other valuable Xcel Energy Center parking tips to save time and money

Knowing where to park will make your night at Xcel Energy Center far more enjoyable, whether it’s a hockey game, a concert, or another event. We hope this information helps!

Official Xcel Energy Center Parking Lots

There are two parking ramps directly attached to Xcel Energy Center. These two structures are the RiverCentre Parking Ramp and the Kellogg Parking Ramp.

If you park in either of these two ramps, you’ll have easy access to the arena when you arrive, and it will be a short walk back to your vehicle after the night has ended. This is particularly nice when dealing with cold weather in the middle of a Minnesota winter. 

Main Parking Lots 

As mentioned above, two attached parking ramps serve as the main parking lots for Xcel Energy Center. However, those locations are not typically available for advance purchase, so you’ll need just to arrive early to secure a spot before they sell out.

When a popular event occurs, such as a hockey game, you can count on the ramps filling up pretty quickly. If you want to reserve a spot, consider using one of the third-party options nearby, such as the options available on SpotHero (more below). 

EV Parking at Xcel Energy Center

You would be wise not to plan on charging your electric vehicle when you attend an event at Xcel Energy Center. While there are some charging stations in this general area, remember that the streets, lots, and garages will be busy when leading up to an event. So, rather than stressing about finding a place to plug in your vehicle, charge up in advance so you can park anywhere and have a great time. 

Accessible Parking Spaces

The attached RiverCentre parking ramp includes ADA space and elevators to help visitors with disabilities enter the facility. As always, arriving early is best to give yourself the best chance of finding an available ADA space. 

Third-Party Parking Options at Xcel Energy Center

To reserve parking in advance for an event at Xcel Energy Center, consider using the SpotHero widget below. There are some nice options within convenient walking distance of the gates to this arena, but it’s always best to book as early as possible to secure your spot.

One of the closest third-party parking options to Xcel Energy Center is the Holiday Inn Parking Ramp at 234 West Kellogg. This location will leave you only about five minutes on foot from the arena, although the price to park here can be a little high ($30 – $40).

If you want a lower price and don’t mind walking a bit further, you can head to the City Walk Parking Ramp at 69 East 7th St. The walk is twice as long from here, but you’ll cut the price in half or more. 

Free Parking at Xcel Energy Center

If you want to park anywhere in the immediate area around Xcel Energy Center, you will almost certainly need to pay for your parking spot. Shopping around in advance to make a reservation is probably the best way to keep the cost down while knowing you’ll have a spot waiting for you. 

For those who are determined to seek free parking, walking a significant distance to and from the arena is necessary. Specifically, you’ll want to look west of Xcel Energy Center, on the other side of I-35. There are some residential areas in this part of the city, and you might be able to find streets that aren’t restricted or metered.

Of course, obey all posted signs and double-check that you are parking legally before you start to make the walk over to the venue.

Public Transportation to Xcel Energy Center

Known for its bustling atmosphere, Xcel Energy Center is accessible through various public transportation options, making it an excellent choice for fans and visitors. Here’s a detailed look at how you can reach Xcel Energy Center using public transit:

The Green Line Metro Transit

The Metro Transit’s Green Line Light Rail is one of the most convenient options to travel to Xcel Energy Center. Connecting Minneapolis with Saint Paul, the Green Line stops at Central Station, a short walk from the arena.

The Green Line operates at regular intervals, but checking the schedules as the event time approaches is always wise to ensure smooth travel.

Metro Transit Bus Service

In addition to the light rail system, Metro Transit offers numerous bus routes that bring you close to Xcel Energy Center. Different lines connect various parts of the city and suburbs to downtown Saint Paul, providing flexible options for attendees.

The Transit website or app will help you find the best bus route for your specific location.

Park and Ride

f you’re driving part of the way, Metro Transit’s Park-and-Ride facilities can be a great choice. You can park your car for free at one of the designated lots and then take a bus or light rail to the arena.

This option combines the convenience of driving with the affordability and ease of public transportation.

Ridesharing to Xcel Energy Center

To avoid parking fees, or to not have to drive your own vehicle, you can use a rideshare service for your night at Xcel Energy Center. The venue has dedicated a specific spot for rideshare pick-ups and drop-offs, so you can easily connect with your driver and be on your way.

Gate 4 of the arena on 5th Street is the official spot for rideshares like Uber and Lyft to pick up and drop off passengers. 

Xcel Energy Center Events

Minnesota Wild games take up plenty of dates throughout the winter and spring at Xcel Energy Center, but other events also occur here regularly. Check out the table below to look for tickets to upcoming dates that you might want to attend.

Bars and Restaurants near Xcel Energy Center 

There is a nice selection of establishments around Xcel Energy Center if you’d like to grab a bite or have a cold drink. Specifically, there is a row of restaurants and bars along Fort Road, just southwest of the arena. Arriving early to walk around and enjoy these spots with fellow fans is a great way to get excited about the event. 

That said, the restaurant we will highlight here is actually on the other side of the arena. Herbie’s On The Park takes its name from the legendary hockey coach Herb Brooks, and it is a popular game day stop that offers an appealing menu and plenty of drink options. If you are serious about your hockey and want to soak up the game’s history in this area, Herbie’s On The Park is an easy pick. 

Xcel Energy Center Parking Tips for a Great Outing

Attending an event at an NHL arena should be a relaxing, enjoyable experience. However, traffic and transportation issues sometimes get in the way and turn the outing into a nightmare.  

Let’s review some basic parking and travel tips to ensure that doesn’t happen to you at Xcel Energy Center.

Arrive Early and Beat Traffic

All events can create traffic headaches around the venue, and games at Xcel Energy Center are no different. Plan your day to get to the arena early and secure parking before it gets crazy. 

Check to see when the gates will open, and you can arrive early to enjoy as much time inside the facility as possible. 

Know What You Can Bring

Xcel Energy Center has specific policies regarding what can and can’t come into the building like all other stadiums. Check these rules in advance so you don’t have to leave things in the car. 

Remember Where You Parked!

There are plenty of parking spaces available in the area around Xcel Energy Center. With such a massive parking area to cover, you don’t want to be searching for your vehicle at the end of the day. Consider snapping a quick picture of your car’s location on your phone so you can get back to it easily. 

Take Security Measures

You should always consider safety when parking for an event at a popular arena. Be sure to lock your vehicle as a starting point and remove anything valuable from the car or truck before leaving home. You might want to park in a well-lit area for more security.

Have a Backup Plan

Unless you have purchased a parking pass in advance, it’s a good idea to have at least a few parking options in mind when you head out. That way, if your first option is full or otherwise unavailable, you won’t have to scramble to figure out where to go next.

Conclusion

Proper parking at Xcel Energy Center in Minneapolis will make your experience much easier. Whether you’re gearing up for a Minnesota Wild game, a lively concert, or any other event, our comprehensive parking guide ensures you’re well-prepared.

From official Xcel Energy Center parking ramps to nearby third-party options, public transit alternatives, and even ridesharing solutions, we’ve covered every avenue to help you reach your destination hassle-free. Remember the tips for arriving early, checking venue policies, safeguarding your belongings, and having a backup plan.

By following these Xcel Energy Center parking tips, you’ll easily navigate the stadium, leaving you more time to experience the arena.

Frequently Asked Questions for Parking at Xcel Energy Center (FAQs)