Maple Leaf Square is the official public viewing area for Toronto Maple Leafs home games located just outside Scotiabank Arena in downtown Toronto. Watching the Maple Leafs play from Maple Leaf Square is a fantastic experience for fans who want to soak up the electric game night atmosphere but don’t have tickets to the game itself. Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets and watching the action from Maple Leaf Square.
About Maple Leaf Square
Maple Leaf Square was constructed by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment in 2010 as part of a major redevelopment project for Scotiabank Arena and the surrounding area. Spanning over 250,000 square feet, it’s one of the largest public viewing spaces for any sports team in North America.
On Leafs home game nights, Maple Leaf Square comes alive with thousands of fans. Large screens broadcast the game live from inside the arena, and the square has space for over 5,000 standing spectators. The buzzing energy of Leafs Nation brings Maple Leaf Square to life before, during and after games.
Getting Tickets for Maple Leaf Square
Access to Maple Leaf Square on Leafs home game nights is free and open to the public. No tickets are required to enter the square. Fans just need to show up on game day and walk right in.
Keep in mind that space is limited, so arrive early if you want to secure a good viewing spot. Doors open 2 hours before puck drop. The square hit capacity quickly, especially for weekend games and playoffs, so get there when doors open to avoid being turned away.
Entry and Security
All fans entering Maple Leaf Square will be searched and scanned with metal-detecting wands. Bags will be inspected. To get through security faster, avoid bringing bags if possible.
Prohibited items in Maple Leaf Square include outside food and beverage, alcohol, bottles, cans, coolers, lawn chairs, pets, bikes, rollerblades and skateboards. Signs and flags on sticks are also not allowed.
Seating
Maple Leaf Square is standing room only. No chairs or seating are provided. Cement steps along the north side and scattered benches along the periphery offer minimal seating. Bring comfortable shoes for standing.
Weather
Maple Leaf Square is outdoors and open to the elements. Dress appropriately for the weather – bring layers for changing temperatures. Rain ponchos and hand warmers can make cold wet weather more bearable. Umbrellas are allowed into the square.
Food and Drinks
Food and beverages are available for purchase inside Maple Leaf Square from multiple concessions and vendors. Offerings include pizza, poutine, hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken fingers, fries, pretzels, popcorn, peanuts, canned beer and soft drinks. Prices are comparable to arena concession pricing.
No outside food or beverages can be brought in. Bags and coolers are checked at entry. Leave bottles, cans and alcohol at home – they will be confiscated.
Watching the Game
Maple Leaf Square is equipped with state-of-the-art screens, lights and sound systems to enhance the game viewing experience:
- A 39-foot video screen shows the Sportsnet broadcast feed live.
- Surrounding screens show close-ups and replays.
- Powerful speaker setup pumps in audio of the game broadcast and arena sounds.
- Dynamic LED lighting sequences flash during player introductions, anthems, goals and intermissions.
The energetic atmosphere of thousands of cheering Leafs fans in Maple Leaf Square makes it feel like you’re right inside Scotiabank Arena!
Live Performances
Maple Leaf Square frequently features special live music performances before playoff games and on other big game nights:
- Live bands on temporary stages get fans pumped up.
- Arkells, The Strumbellas and other Canadian acts have played free shows.
- Appearances by Leafs legends and NHL alumni are also common.
If the Leafs make the playoffs, arrive early to catch the free concerts and special guest appearances leading up to game time!
Getting to Maple Leaf Square
Maple Leaf Square is located steps from Scotiabank Arena at the corner of Bay St and York St in downtown Toronto.
Public transit is the easiest way to get there. The Union subway station is connected directly to the square via the underground PATH walkway. Many surface bus and streetcar routes also stop nearby.
For drivers, there are several parking garages and lots within walking distance. Prices for event parking can be $20-40. Arrive very early as spots fill up fast.
Ride share services like Uber and Lyft can drop off and pick up on Bay St in front of the square.
Things to Do Nearby
Make a night of it in downtown Toronto by exploring nearby attractions and restaurants around Maple Leaf Square before or after the game:
- Shop at the Eaton Centre mall or along Queen St West.
- Check out the Hockey Hall of Fame, CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium.
- Grab dinner at a restaurant in the theatre district.
- Walk through the lively entertainment district on King St West.
Conclusion
Watching the Maple Leafs from the high-energy party atmosphere of Maple Leaf Square is a top Toronto experience. By arriving early, dressing warm, and knowing what to expect, fans can have an amazing time cheering on the Leafs surrounded by thousands of loud and proud members of Leafs Nation.
With a little planning, catching a game night in Maple Leaf Square is a fun, affordable way to soak up the electrifying ambiance of Leafs hockey. Let’s go Leafs!