Dubbed as the greatest sports arena in the world, Madison Square Garden is located in Manhattan. The 19,500 seats in The Garden hosts concerts, ice shows, legendary boxing matches, and other shows like a circus. Fans in MSG watched legendary games between Ewing's New York Knicks and Jordan's Chicago Bulls in the 90s. The arena is home to New York Rangers NHL team as well. In the last 20 years, both sports teams in The Garden had a rough patch without real success, but they kept the fan base. Whether you visit MSG for a concert, other live show, or sporting event, it is a must-see spot when visiting New York.
If you are a foreign traveler, you will need American ESTA to enter the country. To get the travel authorization, you will need to fill ESTA online form with detailed questions and pay a small fee. ESTA is available for people from countries in the Visa Waiver program. American administration needs around three days to process the application, and once you get the approval, there is a two-year window for visiting the US.
Attractions near Madison Square Garden
Located at Seventh and Eight Ave, between West 31st and West 33rd, the MSG is surrounded by many famous New York Attractions. Just half a mile to the east stands a prominent art-deco structure and one of the symbols of Big Apple, the Empire State Building. With its 1250 feet, it is still among the tallest building in the US. Go up to the 86th and 102nd-floor observatory and look at the stunning panorama of New York City. The facility attracts more than 4 million tourists annually.
If you go to the north, one mile from MSG is the Rockefeller Center complex. You can go behind the scenes of NBC Studios, take an Art Deco tour, or go to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck.
Near the most famous arena globally is America's largest department store Macy's at Herald Square. The building is historically relevant and offers a fantastic shopping destination.
If you want to take a break from the tall concrete jungle, head to the nearby Bryant Square. The green oasis hosts summer concerts, outdoor cinema, other events, and the winter ice skating rink.
One of the most tourist places in New York is Times Square, which is only 12 minutes from MSG. Besides the famous square in the heart of Midtown, you can explore Broadway with its selection of theatres.
Restaurants around Madison Square Garden
New York City is famous for many things, and street food is one of those. From breakfast cart bagels, iconic dirty water dogs, through King of Falafel & Shawarma or Milk Truck and Big Red with a great lobster roll.
For those who seek serious restaurants, Keens Steakhouse is a midtown steaks destination. Old-school type restaurant has a long tradition and a great menu.
Pasta lovers could visit Ai Fiori, a hotel restaurant featured in Michelin's guide. Pocha 32 in Korea Town is much less posh, but it has an excellent selection of dishes with substantial portions.
NoMad restaurant in the Nomad hotel is another Michelin-starred place with classic American cuisine.
Haymaker Bar and Kitchen is much more down to earth with a large selection of tap beer and an American menu with a southern touch.
Rooftop bars near Madison Square Garden
There is a great rooftop sports bar for sports fans who cannot get the tickets for Knicks. Rock & Reilly's big Irish sports bar is ideal for whiskey and sports lovers.
Hayden Rooftop is on the top floor of Chelsea's Hotel Hayden. Impressive views and Mediterranean snacks and drinks make this spot a popular bar near MSG.
Rare View rooftop lounge high above the crowded streets offers captivating cocktails, great views, and sunbathing in the urban jungle.
Sky Room is among the highest rooftop bars in Manhattan, some 36 floors above Times Square with an excellent selection of innovative cocktails.
Other rooftop bars near Madison Square Garden include How High, Fine and Dandy, and Social Dring & Food.
Walking distance from Penn Station to Times Square
Penn Station is among the largest and busiest train stations in America. It is an intersection for A, C, and E subway lines, Amtrak train, New Jersey Transit, and Long Island Rail Road. More than 600,000 passengers go through the station weekly, and it has 21 tracks. Besides being a communication hub, Penn Station also has impressive architecture and an important New York landmark. Located some eight blocks from Madison Square Garden, the Penn Station is around 10 minutes of walking distance.
If you want to explore Manhattan, make sure you have ESTA Visa America. Wait with the reservation until you get travel authorization. Once the administration approves your application, you can travel within the US for up to 90 days.
Bottom line
Although the Knicks are terrible, attending a game or other event in Madison Square Garden is a great experience. Its Midtown location means you will be close to some of the best New York attractions. After a couple of hours of sightseeing, you can relax in great Manhattan restaurants and bars.
