Finding convenient and affordable parking for events at the new UBS Arena in Elmont, NY can be a challenge. With a capacity of over 17,000 for concerts and almost 18,000 for NHL hockey games, this state-of-the-art entertainment venue draws massive crowds. Assessing the parking options available and choosing the best one for your needs can ensure that your experience getting to and from events at UBS Arena is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Parking at UBS Arena
There are over 3,000 parking spots available right at UBS Arena, with options including general parking, VIP premier parking, and ADA accessible parking. For major concerts or sporting events, these on-site parking lots are likely to fill up fast. Those able to purchase passes in advance online will have the best access to UBS Arena parking. Day-of-event parking often sells out quickly and drives up the price of passes still available. Parking directly at UBS Arena puts you right next to the venue for very convenient entry and exit.
General Parking at UBS Arena
General parking at UBS Arena provides access to the venue’s main public lots adjacent to the arena. Prices vary based on the event but are typically in the $25-50 range. Parking passes can be purchased in advance online via Ticketmaster when buying event tickets. Otherwise, parking is pay-as-you-go at the lot entrances on the day of the event, subject to availability.
VIP and Premier Parking at UBS Arena
For those looking for premium parking options at UBS Arena, VIP and Premier passes offer access closer to venue entrances, prioritized ingress/egress, and perks like in-and-out privileges for a higher price. Premier parking is directly across from the entrance, while VIP parking offers exclusive spaces steps from the arena doors. Prices for premium parking normally start around $60-75 per event.
ADA Accessible Parking at UBS Arena
UBS Arena provides dedicated ADA-compliant parking spaces for those with disabilities and special needs. A limited number of these accessible parking spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis for around $50. Make sure to have a valid ADA placard or license plate when parking in one of these designated accessible lots. Drop-off areas are also available at arena entrances.
Parking Near UBS Arena
In addition to the parking directly on-site at UBS Arena, there are also lots and garages at nearby facilities, businesses, and public transportation stations. These off-site parking options put you within a short walking distance or shuttle ride away from the venue’s entrance. Prices are generally cheaper than UBS Arena parking, however, transportation logistics may be less convenient. Here are some popular parking choices near the arena:
Parking at Belmont Park
Belmont Park racetrack is directly adjacent to UBS Arena, making their massive parking lots the closest off-site option. Belmont Park parking for arena events is $25 per car and $40 for buses/RVs, paid upon entry on the day of the event. From Belmont’s lots, it is about a 10-15 minute walk to UBS Arena via paved paths on the grounds. Shuttles and pedestrian guides are also available to transport attendees between the two venues.
LIRR Parking at Queens Village or Bellerose Stations
Parking is available at the Long Island Rail Road stations in Queens Village and Bellerose for $5-10 per day. Both stations are 2-3 miles from UBS Arena. Take the LIRR one stop to Belmont Park station or walk about 30-45 minutes to the arena. Shuttles from the stations run regularly for major events. Parking at LIRR stations gives access to public transit connections across Long Island and New York City.
Parking at Nearby Commercial Locations
Area malls and businesses like Queens Center Mall ($10-20), Queens Place Mall ($3 with validation), Resorts World Casino ($10), and local hotels have parking garages and lots near UBS Arena. Rates are hourly or daily. Accessibility varies from 0.5 mile to over 2 miles away. Shuttles are sometimes provided from malls and casinos for arena events.
Public Transportation to UBS Arena
Instead of driving and parking, public transit is an alternative option for getting to events at UBS Arena. Trains, buses, and rideshares can drop off right at the venue entrance without the need to park. Public transportation may be more affordable and avoids traffic jams. However, options are still somewhat limited given the arena’s suburban location.
Belmont Park LIRR Station
The Belmont Park station on the LIRR Port Washington Branch line opened in September 2022 specifically to serve UBS Arena. It is adjacent to the east entrance of the arena, providing direct LIRR access from Long Island and New York City with seamless connection to events.
Q2 and Q110 Bus from Jamaica
The Q2 and Q110 buses operated by the MTA stop right at UBS Arena, with service from Jamaica central hub. The ride takes around 40 minutes. Buses from Jamaica run express before and after events at the arena.
Rideshare Services
Ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft operate pickup and dropoff zones outside the entrances at UBS Arena. Prices fluctuate based on demand, but rides from areas like Queens and Nassau County are in the $30-60 range. Ridesharing provides door-to-door service to the venue entrance and avoids parking hassles.
Fan Buses from Manhattan
For major concerts or sporting events, complimentary fan buses may provide direct service to UBS Arena from hubs in Manhattan like Penn Station, PABT, and Madison Square Garden, sponsored by event promoters or sponsors. These buses offer roundtrip rides from the city for convenient arena access.
Key Factors In Choosing UBS Arena Parking
When deciding where to park for a concert, sports game, or other event at UBS Arena in Elmont, there are a few key factors to consider:
1. Convenience
How close is the parking to UBS Arena entrances? Prioritize proximity for shortest walks and ease of access. On-site parking and Belmont Park are most convenient.
2. Availability
Parking on-site and nearby fills up fast during major events. Look to book advance passes online or arrive early for best access. Have backup options in mind in case lots are full.
3. Affordability
UBS Arena parking starts around $25 with closer lots pricier. Nearby LIRR and commercial parking is $5-20. Consider taking transit if cost is a concern.
4. Logistics
Factor in transportation options to connect parking locations with UBS Arena. Shuttles, walking paths, rail service, and rideshares can facilitate access.
5. Experience
Premium parking allows quicker exit and provides perks like in-and-out access. Choose based on needs and budget.
Comparing Parking Options at UBS Arena
This table summarizes and compares the main parking choices available for events at UBS Arena:
Parking Location | Distance to Arena | Price Range* | Availability | Transportation to Venue |
---|---|---|---|---|
UBS Arena General Parking | On-site adjacent | $25-50 | Limited, sells out | Walk 5-10 minutes |
UBS Arena VIP/Premier Parking | On-site closest | $60-75 | Very limited | Priority walk under 5 minutes |
Belmont Park Parking | 0.4 miles away | $25-40 | Abundant | 10-15 minute walk or shuttle |
LIRR Parking (Queens Village or Bellerose) | 2-3 miles away | $5-10 | Available | LIRR train or 30-45 minute walk |
Commercial Parking (malls, casinos, hotels) | 0.5 to 2+ miles away | $3-20 | Varies | Shuttles or under 30 minute walk |
*pricing subject to change based on event
Tips for Parking at UBS Arena
Follow these tips to make parking smooth and easy when attending events at UBS Arena:
Reserve Prepaid Parking Passes in Advance Online
Booking parking ahead of time through Ticketmaster or arena lots guarantees you a space and locks in set rates.
Arrive Early
Give yourself extra time to park and get to the venue before start time to avoid late entry lines.
Check Multiple Parking Options
Have back-up nearby parking locations mapped out in case on-site lots are full.
Consider Public Transit
Modes like LIRR from Belmont, Q2 bus from Jamaica, or Uber/Lyft may be easier than parking.
Follow Signs and Staff Directions
Look for parking signage and guidance from traffic personnel to navigate large, crowded lots efficiently.
Conclusion
Parking for major events at UBS Arena can be competitive and hectic without a plan. Arriving early, purchasing passes online in advance, and understanding all the parking options available both on-site and nearby will give you the best chance at parking quickly and conveniently. Factoring in logistics, availability, affordability, and other priorities allows you to choose the parking that best fits your needs. Proximity and prepaid passes provide premium ease of access for a price. More distant Belmont Park, LIRR, and commercial parking offer abundant, cheaper alternatives. For some, public transit like direct LIRR trains or buses may be the optimal transportation to UBS Arena without the need to park at all. With the right parking approach, you can focus on enjoying concerts, Islanders games, and other events rather than worrying about where to leave your car.