Tampa Bay Lightning

Tampa Bay Lightning
Address: 401 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 301-6500

The Tampa Bay Lightning are Tampa Bay’s National Hockey League team, playing their home games at Benchmark International Arena in Downtown Tampa. Known locally as the Bolts, the Lightning compete in the Atlantic Division and have won three Stanley Cup championships.

Planning to catch a game in Tampa? Browse upcoming Tampa Bay Lightning home games and tickets below, then continue through our guide for arena information, game-day tips, parking, team history, and more.

Tampa Bay Lightning Home Games & Tickets

Quick Facts

  • League: National Hockey League (NHL)
  • Conference: Eastern Conference
  • Division: Atlantic Division
  • Home Arena: Benchmark International Arena
  • First Season: 1992–93
  • Nickname: Bolts
  • Stanley Cup Championships: 3
  • Championship Seasons: 2004, 2020, and 2021
💡 Did You Know?
The Lightning won back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021, becoming one of only a handful of NHL franchises to repeat as champions in the modern era.

Benchmark International Arena

The Lightning have played at Benchmark International Arena since the venue opened in 1996. Located along Channelside Drive in Downtown Tampa, the arena sits in the heart of the Water Street district and within walking distance of several waterfront attractions.

Visit our Benchmark International Arena guide for parking, arena policies, upcoming events, and more.

Lightning Game-Day Experience

  • NHL Hockey – Watch the Lightning compete against Atlantic Division rivals and teams from throughout the National Hockey League.
  • Ford Thunder Alley – Join fans outside the arena before the game and experience the excitement building toward puck drop.
  • Food & Drinks – Find concessions, bars, and dining options throughout the arena, with many additional restaurants within walking distance.
  • Atlantic Division Rivalries – Games against teams such as the Florida Panthers, Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Montreal Canadiens can bring extra energy to the arena.
📍 Visitor Tip
Arrive early and grab dinner or drinks nearby before the game. Sparkman Wharf and other Water Street destinations are within walking distance, making it easy to enjoy Downtown Tampa before heading inside for puck drop.

Tampa Bay Lightning History

The Tampa Bay Lightning joined the NHL for the 1992–93 season and played their earliest home games at Expo Hall before moving to the Thunderdome, now Tropicana Field, in St. Petersburg. The team moved into its permanent Downtown Tampa arena in 1996.

The Lightning won their first Stanley Cup in 2004, defeating the Calgary Flames in a seven-game Final. Tampa Bay returned to championship form in 2020 and 2021, winning consecutive Stanley Cups and establishing one of the most successful eras in franchise history.

Good to Know

  • Lightning tickets are mobile.
  • Doors generally open 60 minutes before puck drop, with earlier access available for eligible premium ticket holders.
  • Benchmark International Arena has size restrictions and additional screening requirements for bags.
  • Purchasing parking in advance is recommended for popular games.
  • Numerous restaurants and bars are located within walking distance of the arena.
  • Arena policies and game-day procedures can change, so check current information before attending.

Parking & Transportation

Several parking garages and surface lots are available around Benchmark International Arena and throughout Downtown Tampa. Parking demand increases considerably for Lightning games and other major events, so reserving parking in advance and arriving early can make game day easier.

The arena is also accessible from other parts of Downtown Tampa by the TECO Line Streetcar, Tampa Riverwalk, and rideshare services. Visitors staying downtown may be able to walk to the arena rather than drive.

Pair Your Visit

Pair a Lightning game with a visit to Sparkman Wharf, located just a short walk from Benchmark International Arena. Grab food or drinks along the waterfront before the game, then head to the arena for puck drop.

Nearby Things to Do

Benchmark International Arena is surrounded by some of Downtown Tampa’s most popular attractions, including Tampa Riverwalk, Sparkman Wharf, The Florida Aquarium, Tampa Bay History Center, and American Victory Ship & Museum. The surrounding Water Street district also offers restaurants, hotels, and waterfront spaces within walking distance.

Tampa Bay Lightning Videos

Tampa Bay Lightning Map

Last Modified Date: August 25, 2026