Madison Square Garden

At Madison Square Garden, often called just “the Garden” or “MSG,” stadium-filling acts from Elton John to Madonna to Taylor Swift have graced the stage, but this versatile indoor arena, located between 7th and 8th avenues in Manhattan, has also hosted numerous sporting events. And when you take our Downtown Tour, you can see this famed arena for yourself; hop off to take a tour and see where the stars have called home!

Situated on top of Penn Station, the modern venue is actually the fourth building to bear the name “Madison Square Garden.” Previous buildings constructed in 1879 and 1890 were located at East 26th Street and at Eighth Avenue and 50th Street. With construction costs weighing in around $1.1 billion, MSG was one of the most expensive venues ever built, ranking among the top ten in construction cost.

Today, the MSG stadium hosts many different kinds of entertainment, including concerts, circuses, and professional hockey and basketball. This is the oldest arena that hosts NHL games and the second-oldest in the NBA. MSG is also the fourth most popular music arena based on ticket sales, surpassed only by the O2 Arena, Manchester Arena, and the SSE Hydro in the United Kingdom.

When you visit the stadium, you’ll also be within easy reach of landmarks and neighborhoods including the Empire State Building, Macy’s, Herald Square, and Koreatown. Our Downtown Tour stops just a few feet away, so it’s easy to hop off and enjoy a Madison Square Garden visit, explore the area on foot, then hop back on the bus when you’re ready to move on! The closest stop is at the Garment District.

Planning a Madison Square Garden Tour: FAQs and More

Why Is Madison Square Garden Famous?

The Garden is famous for being the home of well-loved New York sports teams like the Rangers, the Knicks, and the New York Liberty. Others come to see singer-songwriter Billy Joel in residency at Madison Square Garden.

Who Sold Out Madison Square Garden Fastest?

Currently, the record is held by Justin Bieber, who sold out two 2012 shows in 30 seconds.

When Was the Current Madison Square Garden Built?

The groundbreaking for the third and current Madison Square Garden took place on Jan. 9, 1925.

Can I Go on a Madison Square Garden Tour?

Yes, you can take an in-depth, behind-the-scenes Madison Square Garden tour (sold separately). When you tour Madison Square Garden, you’ll get expert historical knowledge from your guide, a Boomerang photo experience, and a VR simulation that mimics the experience of being at one of the Garden’s world-famous events.

Where Can I Get Madison Square Garden Tour Tickets?

You can buy tickets for MSG online through vendors like Ticketmaster and StubHub or in person at their box office.

Can I Bring a Backpack to Madison Square Garden?

Yes, if the bag can fit comfortably under your seat. It should also be noted that any backpacks or bags must pass security inspection.