If you’re planning to attend an event at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, one of the most practical questions is how much it will cost to park your vehicle. Parking at a live sports game, concert, or show can be an important part of planning your visit, especially when you want to avoid surprises on event day. UBS Arena hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including New York Islanders hockey games and major concerts. Parking pricing can vary depending on where you park, the type of event, whether you purchase in advance, and how close you want to be to the arena. Understanding the typical costs and options for parking at UBS Arena can help you budget and decide whether to drive or consider alternative transportation.
Official UBS Arena Parking Options
UBS Arena features multiple official parking areas on and around the campus, all accessible via the Cross Island Parkway. These lots offer a range of distances from the arena, different experiences, and variable parking fees. Most attendees are encouraged to purchase a parking pass in advance to secure a spot and possibly save money. Purchasing parking ahead of time through official vendors such as ParkWhiz or Ticketmaster is strongly recommended because it guarantees access and smoother entry on the day of the event.
Primary Parking Lots and Garages
The main official parking areas for UBS Arena include
- Emerald Parking – general parking lot accessible via Cross Island Parkway Exit 26D.
- Belmont Park Garage – structured parking near the arena via Exit 26A.
- Silver Parking – accessible via Exit 26B for certain pass holders.
- Diamond & Ruby Parking – also accessed via Exit 26B and typically reserved for pre-paid pass holders.
Each of these areas offers official parking passes, but the cost and proximity to the arena can vary. It’s important to check which exit you need to enter your specific lot when driving to the arena.
Typical Parking Costs at UBS Arena
Parking prices at UBS Arena generally depend on the event type, demand, and whether you buy your pass ahead of time or on the day of the event. For many events, especially hockey games or major concerts, parking can be more expensive due to high demand. It’s common for parking prices to fall within a certain range that most visitors will encounter.
Estimated Price Ranges
Here are typical figures you might expect when parking at UBS Arena
- Standard Event ParkingMany official parking passes at UBS Arena are priced between about $25 to $40 per event. These rates cover entry into the lot for the duration of the event rather than hourly charges.
- Emerald LotSome sources indicate that parking in the larger Emerald lot can be around $40 for certain events, especially if you don’t pre-purchase your pass.
- Pre-Purchased ParkingBuying your parking pass in advance can help secure a space at the lower end of the price range (often closer to $30 to $35), and can speed up entry on event day.
- Off-Site Lots and Nearby GaragesNearby parking facilities within walking distance sometimes offer lower rates, ranging from roughly $15 to $30, depending on the operator and event.
These prices are estimates and can change based on demand, the type of event you are attending (such as a major concert versus a routine game), and the time you pay for the parking pass. Pre-paying online often helps you get a better rate than paying at the venue on the day of the event.
Benefits of Pre-Paying for Parking
Purchasing your parking ahead of time can lead to a smoother experience overall. Pre-paid parking passes are available up to the moment that parking lots open on event day. Buying early helps ensure access to the lot you want and reduces the stress of potentially paying more at the gate or finding a less convenient spot. If lots are full or limited, pre-purchase can prevent you from arriving and finding there are no spots left in your preferred lot.
Why It Can Cost More Onsite
If you wait to buy parking when you arrive at the arena parking area, the event-day price may be higher by about $5 to $10, especially for concerts or high-demand games. This increase reflects the typical supply-and-demand pricing dynamic on event days. Pre-purchase through ParkWhiz or Ticketmaster often gives a slightly better rate.
Other Parking Considerations
While official parking is convenient, it may not always be the most cost-effective option. Especially for popular events, lots can fill up early and traffic can become congested near the exits. If you arrive late or without a pre-paid pass, available parking might be both more expensive and farther from the arena. In addition, neighborhood street parking is generally prohibited during events, and enforcement is strict, so planning ahead is important.
Alternative Parking Strategies
If official parking prices are higher than you prefer or if lots appear full, consider these strategies
- Park offsite at nearby garages or lots and walk to the arena. These may offer slightly lower rates.
- Use parking reservation apps or third-party services that connect you with private driveways or lots near the arena. These often provide alternatives at varying price points.
- Arrive early to secure better spots or lower price options before event-day rates kick in.
Public Transportation as an Option
Another option to consider is using public transportation instead of paying for parking. UBS Arena is served by the Elmont-UBS Arena station, where trains from major hubs like Grand Central Madison and Penn Station can bring you close to the venue. Free shuttle service is often available from the train station or nearby transit stops to the arena entrance, making this an attractive alternative to driving and parking. Choosing transit not only saves money but also avoids traffic and parking challenges on busy event days.
Parking at UBS Arena is an important piece of planning for attending games, concerts, and other events at this New York venue. While the cost for official arena parking typically ranges from about $25 to $40 per event, the price you pay can vary based on the lot you choose, how early you purchase your pass, and the type of event. Pre-paying online is usually the best way to guarantee a parking spot and secure a competitive rate. Alternative options, like nearby garages or public transit, can help reduce costs and simplify your visit. For many people, understanding the typical parking fees and planning ahead leads to a more enjoyable and stress-free experience when attending UBS Arena events.