Benchmark International Arena is Downtown Tampa’s major indoor sports and entertainment venue, hosting Tampa Bay Lightning hockey, concerts, comedy, family shows, and other touring events throughout the year. Formerly known as Amalie Arena, the arena sits along the Tampa Riverwalk in Downtown Tampa.
Its downtown location makes it easy to build an evening around an event, with restaurants, bars, hotels, Sparkman Wharf, Water Street Tampa, and other Riverwalk destinations within walking distance.
Upcoming Events & Tickets at Benchmark International Arena
Los Tigres del Norte: Los Tigres del Mundo
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Washington Capitals
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Philadelphia Flyers
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Minnesota Wild
Song Of The Saints Tour with Phil Wickham
Phil Wickham | Official Ticket + Hotel Packages
Jonas Brothers: The Burning Up Tour All Over Again
WEEZER: The Gathering
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Seattle Kraken
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Vancouver Canucks
The Smashing Pumpkins: The Rats In A Cage Tour
Teddy Swims: The UGLY Tour
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Winnipeg Jets
Chayanne - Bailemos Otra Vez Tour
Nightmare on Channelside
Orion180 Insurance Tip-off Classic
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Detroit Red Wings
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Chicago Blackhawks
Cash Money & No Limit Tour
RUSH: Fifty Something
Benchmark International Arena Seating
Seating configurations vary between Tampa Bay Lightning games and concerts. Hockey uses the full arena bowl, while concerts may add floor seating and use different stage setups that change sightlines throughout the arena. Lower-level seats generally provide closer elevated views, while floor tickets can put you nearer the stage but may offer less consistent sightlines, so check the event-specific seating chart before buying.
Entry Policies
Tickets for events at Benchmark International Arena are mobile-only, and guests pass through security screening before entering. Bag, camera, sign, and other restrictions can vary by event, so check the arena’s current policies before arriving, particularly for concerts and touring productions.
Arena-managed concession and retail locations are cashless. Outside food and beverages are generally prohibited except for certain medical or dietary needs.
Parking & Getting There
Benchmark International Arena is in Downtown Tampa along Channelside Drive, with multiple parking garages and surface lots within a short walk. The Pam Iorio Parking Garage is one of the closest options, with additional parking available throughout Downtown Tampa and the Channel District.
The closest parking options can fill quickly for major events, so planning your parking before heading downtown can simplify arrival. The free TECO Line Streetcar also connects the arena area with other parts of Downtown Tampa and Ybor City.
Accessibility
Accessible seating is available on multiple levels of Benchmark International Arena, with locations varying by event. The arena also provides an accessible entrance and drop-off area, wheelchair assistance, assistive listening devices, sensory bags, a sensory room, and other accommodations. Accessible parking is available in surrounding garages and lots.
About Benchmark International Arena
The arena opened in 1996 and has served as the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning throughout its history. Originally known as the Ice Palace, the venue later operated as the St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa Bay Times Forum, and Amalie Arena before becoming Benchmark International Arena.
Looking for More Tampa Events?
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Nearby Things to Do
Benchmark International Arena is one of Tampa’s easiest venues to combine with other downtown destinations. Walk the Tampa Riverwalk, grab food or drinks at Sparkman Wharf, or visit The Florida Aquarium, Tampa Bay History Center, or the American Victory Ship & Museum before or after an event.