The New York Knicks are one of the most storied franchises in NBA history. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor to Madison Square Garden, catching a Knicks game in New York City is an unforgettable experience. The energy, the excitement, and the passion of Knicks fans make every game a thrilling event.
The best part? You can take
Amtrak to the game, making your trip smooth and convenient. Here’s everything you need to know about attending a Knicks game, plus how to make the most of your visit to the Big Apple.
Getting to Madison Square Garden by Amtrak
Taking
Amtrak to see the New York Knicks is one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to travel. Madison Square Garden (MSG) is conveniently located right above
Penn Station, where Amtrak trains arrive. This means you can step off the train and be just minutes away from your seat at The World’s Most Famous Arena.Amtrak provides service to
Penn Station from numerous locations across
New York State, including:
- Albany-Rensselaer
- Poughkeepsie
- Syracuse
- Rochester
- Buffalo
- Hudson Valley
If you’re coming from
New Jersey, Connecticut, or beyond, Amtrak also offers routes that connect seamlessly to NYC. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride—no need to worry about traffic, tolls, or parking.
Explore Amtrak routes to NYC here.
Madison Square Garden: The Home of the Knicks
Located in the heart of Manhattan,
Madison Square Garden has been home to the Knicks since 1968. The atmosphere inside MSG is electric, especially when the Knicks are playing against their biggest rivals, like the
Boston Celtics or the
Brooklyn Nets.
What to Expect at a Knicks Game
- Tip-off times: Most games start at 7:30 PM, but weekend games may have earlier start times.
- Food & Drinks: MSG offers a variety of dining options, including local NYC favorites like Shake Shack and Carnegie Deli.
- Fan Experience: Look out for Knicks legends in attendance and enjoy halftime performances from the Knicks City Dancers.
Find upcoming Knicks games and ticket info.
Things to Do Before and After the Game
New York City offers plenty to see and do before or after the game. Since Madison Square Garden is centrally located, you’re just steps away from some of NYC’s top attractions.
Near Madison Square Garden
- Empire State Building – Just a short walk from MSG, this iconic skyscraper offers breathtaking views of the city.
- Hudson Yards & The Vessel – Visit this modern development for shopping, dining, and stunning skyline views.
- Koreatown – Enjoy delicious Korean BBQ or grab a quick bite at one of the area’s famous bakeries.
Explore more attractions in NYC.
Where to Stay Near Madison Square Garden
If you’re traveling in for the game and want to stay overnight, there are plenty of great hotel options near
Penn Station and
MSG.
Top Hotels Near MSG
- The New Yorker Hotel – A historic hotel with Art Deco charm, just across the street from Penn Station.
- Moxy NYC Chelsea – A stylish, modern hotel within walking distance of Madison Square Garden.
- Hotel Penn (Reopening Soon) – Once a go-to for MSG visitors, keep an eye on this classic NYC stay.
Find more hotels in New York City.
Amtrak Travel Tips for Your Knicks Game Trip
Taking
Amtrak to see the Knicks is a stress-free and comfortable experience. Here are a few tips to make your trip even smoother:
- Book early: Amtrak fares can fluctuate, so book your tickets in advance for the best prices.
- Arrive at Penn Station early: Give yourself extra time to explore the station and grab a bite before heading to the game.
- Use Amtrak’s free Wi-Fi: Stay connected on the go and check Knicks game updates while you travel.
- Pack light: MSG has a bag policy, so bring only essentials to speed up the security check.
Check Amtrak’s latest schedules and fares.
Why Every Basketball Fan Should See the Knicks Live
Even if you’re not a Knicks diehard, seeing an NBA game at
Madison Square Garden is a bucket-list experience for any sports fan. The energy, the talent on the court, and the history of the franchise make every game special.Plus, with
Amtrak’s easy access to Penn Station, getting to the game has never been easier. Whether you’re coming from Upstate New York, the Hudson Valley, or another Amtrak-served city, you can enjoy a seamless trip into the heart of Manhattan.So, grab your Knicks gear, book your
Amtrak ticket, and get ready for an unforgettable night of basketball in
New York City!Plan your trip with Amtrak today.
Learn more about visiting NYC.
