Watching the Toronto Maple Leafs play at home in the Scotiabank Arena is an exciting experience for any hockey fan. However, getting tickets can be difficult as they often sell out quickly. If you can’t get tickets to the game itself, the next best option is to watch the game with thousands of fans at Maple Leaf Square.
What is Maple Leaf Square?
Maple Leaf Square is an outdoor public square located on the southwest corner of the Scotiabank Arena in downtown Toronto. It was created by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment to be an outdoor viewing area for fans to gather and watch Maple Leafs and Raptors games broadcast on a giant LED screen. The Square can accommodate over 10,000 fans and has become one of the premier destinations in Toronto to experience major sporting events.
When is Maple Leaf Square Open?
Maple Leaf Square is open during all Maple Leafs home games, as well as during the NHL playoffs regardless if the Leafs are playing or not. It is also open during Raptors games and other major sporting events taking place at Scotiabank Arena. The Square typically opens up 2 hours before game time and remains open up to an hour after the game ends.
How to Get Free Access to Maple Leaf Square
Getting into Maple Leaf Square is free and does not require tickets on most game days. Fans can just show up anytime during the operating hours and walk right in. The exception is during the NHL playoffs when the demand for space is extremely high. For playoff games, free access is limited and fans must reserve spots ahead of time when they become available.
Playoff Access
For Maple Leafs playoff games, reservations for Maple Leaf Square are required and made available about a week before each home game. Reservations can be made on the Maple Leafs’ website and users can register for access codes. Each code provides entry for up to 2 people. Codes are limited and given out on a first come, first served basis.
Other Playoff Games
During other NHL playoff games not involving the Leafs, some free reservations may be available on the Maple Leafs website. However, most spots during this time do not require reservations. Fans can just show up when doors open to grab a standing room space.
Purchasing Tickets for Maple Leaf Square
In addition to the free standing room areas, there are also separate, designated ticketed areas within Maple Leaf Square for an upgraded experience:
Molson Canadian Hockey House
This massive tent structure spans nearly half a city block and offers seating at counters and tables with full food and drink service. Tickets are all-inclusive with food and drinks and start at around $200 per person. There is often live entertainment as well.
Bars and Restaurants
Tickets are available for the indoor bars and restaurants surrounding the Square which have views of the big screen on their TVs. This includes Real Sports Bar & Grill, e11even, and Loose Moose. Prices vary by location.
How to Purchase Tickets
Tickets for these designated areas can be purchased through the Scotiabank Arena website or reseller sites like StubHub. There are often ticket package deals which combine Square access with Game tickets.
Getting to Maple Leaf Square
Maple Leaf Square is located right by Union Station in downtown Toronto, making it easy to access via public transportation.
TTC
The TTC is the most affordable way to get there. Take the subway to Union Station. From there, Maple Leaf Square is just a short walk south.
GO Transit
Many GO Trains connect directly to Union Station in Toronto. Maple Leaf Square is walkable from there.
Parking
There are some limited parking lots and street parking in the area, but availability is scarce. Public transportation is recommended.
Arriving Early
Make sure to arrive to Maple Leaf Square early, especially for playoff games. Spots fill up quickly, even with a reservation. Bring portable chairs or blankets to sit on while waiting. Food and drinks are allowed.
What to Bring
- Leafs jersey, hat, scarf, and flags to show your fandom
- Portable lawn chairs or blankets
- Warm clothes and layers for colder weather games
- Sunscreen for afternoon games in warmer months
- Food and non-alcoholic beverages
- Phone charger
- Earplugs in case it gets too loud
Rules
Maple Leaf Square has some basic rules that fans must follow:
- No alcohol or drugs allowed
- No smoking
- No objects that can be used as projectiles
- No obscenity or profanity
- No fighting, throwing items, or unruly behavior
- No obstructing other fans’ views
- No advertisements or solicitation
- No entering unauthorized areas
Keep in mind there is security enforcing these rules to ensure everyone has a fun and safe experience.
Atmosphere
The energy and excitement in Maple Leaf Square during a big game is contagious. Fans cheer together, celebrate goals, and form an enormous outdoor party. Strangers become friends as everyone wants the Leafs to win.
Fun for All Ages
Maple Leaf Square provides fun for all fans. Kids enjoy face painting, giveaways, and cheering alongside mascots. Adults can responsibly enjoy the party atmosphere. There is truly something for everyone.
Conclusion
Maple Leaf Square is the next best thing to watching the Leafs live in Scotiabank Arena. By arriving early, bringing necessary items, and following the rules, fans can have an unforgettable experience watching the game outdoors with thousands of passionate Torontonians. This guide covers all you need to know to get into Maple Leaf Square and join Leafs Nation on game day!