How early should I arrive for an event at Madison Square Garden?
Posted on Jan 16, 2026 / Travel
Getting to Madison Square Garden early is a smart move, especially on big event nights like concerts or playoffs. A good rule of thumb is to aim for at least **60 to 90 minutes before the start time**, which gives you time to get through security and find your seat without feeling rushed. First-time visitors might want even more time so they can check out the concourse, concessions, and merch stands. Crowds build up fast near the entrances, particularly on subways and around Penn Station, so earlier is almost always easier. If you’re going for a general admission floor show, lining up early can get you a better spot. And remember — New York traffic can be unpredictable, so leaving extra time to get there is wise. No one likes running through crowds with minutes to spare!
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