You Made it to the Big Apple... Now You Want to Catch a Puck? How to Get to UBS Arena from NYC
So you've braved the crowds, dodged the rogue hot dog vendors, and maybe even managed to snag a slice of real New York pizza (emphasis on real). Now, the siren song of slap shots and cheering fans is calling you to the heart of hockey heaven: UBS Arena. But here's the thing, friend, this island paradise (well, Long Island) isn't quite Manhattan. Fear not, intrepid ice hockey adventurer, for this guide will be your Zamboni, smoothing the path to your UBS Arena odyssey.
Public Transportation: Your Not-So-Secret Weapon
Forget the carriage rides, central perk isn't a viable travel option (though a coffee beforehand is a wise decision). The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) is your best bet. Think of it as a magical train that whisks you away from the city bustle and deposits you right at the doorstep of hockey glory (or, well, Elmont-UBS Arena Station, which is pretty darn close). Trains depart from both Grand Central Terminal and Penn Station, with a travel time of around 30 minutes. That's quicker than your average Broadway show intermission!
Pro Tip: Download the LIRR TrainTime app. It's like having a pocket-sized conductor ready to point you in the right direction (and avoid any unexpected delays).
Bus It If You Must: Look, we get it, maybe trains aren't your jam. There are a few bus options, but they take a bit longer than the LIRR. We're talking over an hour, which is plenty of time to get hangry. So, pack some snacks (and maybe a MetroCard if you're feeling adventurous).
Hitting the Road: Buckle Up for an Adventure (and Maybe Some Traffic)
Sure, you could hail a cab, but for a more authentic New Yorker experience (by which we mean potentially soul-crushing traffic), renting a car might be your thing. Just be warned, navigating highways and Long Island traffic can be an adventure in itself.
Important Note: Parking can fill up fast on game days, so booking in advance is a wise move. Think of it as securing your own personal piece of real estate in the UBS Arena kingdom.
Whichever route you choose, remember:
- Leave plenty of time for your journey. Traffic and unexpected delays are a New York rite of passage (like overpriced hot dogs).
- Dress for the weather. The arena might be climate-controlled, but that walk from the station could involve some brisk Long Island air.
- Pack your Islanders (or visiting team, no judgement here) pride!
Now get out there and enjoy the game! Just remember, cheering for the home team is highly encouraged.
