Barclays Center

The basics

Opened in 2012, the Barclays Center is one of New York City's big-draw arenas and a challenger to Madison Square Garden's throne. It's hosted international names such as Barbra Streisand, Jay-Z, Big Daddy Kane, and others. The complex, which seats up to 19,000 depending on the event, also boasts shops, restaurants, and bars.

One of Downtown Brooklyn's most recognizable sights, the Barclays Center features on most of the Brooklyn routes of New York City hop-on hop-off tours—their buses stop right outside. You can also see the arena on Brooklyn tours focused on the borough's highlights and urban culture. To experience a sports event or concert, book Barclays Center tickets via the Ticketmaster platform on its website or at its box office.

Things to know before you go

• Events at the Barclays Center will appeal to music and sports enthusiasts.

• The center is fully accessible to visitors with mobility, hearing, or sight issues.

• Strollers are not permitted inside the main arena.

• Bags and backpacks are screened on entry, so avoid bringing them to speed up the security process.

• On-site amenities include restaurants, restrooms, phone-charging stations, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi.

• To grab a bite or a meal nearby, head into buzzing Prospect Heights, home to a wide range of bars and restaurants.

How to get there

Situated at 620 Atlantic Avenue—where the avenue intersects with Brooklyn's Flatbush Avenue—the Barclays Center is easy to access via subway: From Manhattan, the 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q, and R lines serve the Atlantic Terminal station located right beside the entrance. Long Island Railroad (LIRR) trains also run to the Atlantic Terminal just below the venue, and several bus lines stop nearby. Paid parking lots are available in the area—use the ParkWhiz platform on the center's website to identify locations.

When to get there

There are multiple Barclays Center events each year, so visitors time their arrival accordingly. Several Brooklyn Nets' basketball games are played each month from October to April, as are New York Islanders' hockey matches. Those driving to the center should allow extra time to negotiate the usually heavy, pre-event traffic.

Star billings at the Barclays Center

Alongside names such as Barbra Streisand and Jay-Z, many of the world's leading stars have graced the stage at this multi-purpose venue, including Beyonce, Madonna, Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones, Billy Joel, and Andrea Bocelli. (Barclays Center tickets sell out quickly). The venue also hosts WWE wrestling and seasonal family-oriented performances such as ice shows.

Can you tour the Barclays Center?

No. While you might find a Brooklyn walking tour that includes a photo stop at the Barclays Center, tours of the inside arena are not currently offered. Your best bet at getting a peek? Snag tickets for an upcoming concert or sports game—it’s the home of the Brooklyn Nets.

Can you take pictures in the Barclays Center?

Yes, with some caveats. Concert or event attendees can bring their smartphones inside and take photos, but professional photography is not permitted. That means you aren’t allowed to bring a camera with a removable lens, tripod, or recording device. Just stick with your smartphone camera and you’ll be fine.

Can you visit the Barclays Center without a ticket?

No. You need a ticket to enter Barclays, which does not offer tours. The only way to catch a peek at this exclusive arena—home to the NBA's Brooklyn Nets and WNBA's New York Liberty and host to many musical concerts and special events throughout the year—is to buy tickets.

Do you need to book in advance to visit the Barclays Center?

Yes. Events can sell out quickly, so booking in advance is a must. The Barclays Center has hosted everyone from Jay-Z to Madonna, plus plenty of boxing, NBA, and WNBA games, so tickets are in high demand. If you have a tight vacation window, that’s another reason to book early.

Can I see the Barclays Center for free?

Yes, you can walk by and see the exterior of the arena for free. It’s a fun way to soak up some of the famous venue’s energy, especially if you join the crowds before or after a show. To get inside, though, you'll need a ticket.

Can I park at the Barclays Center?

Yes, there are paid parking lots adjacent to the stadium. Limited street parking may be available in Park Slope or Gowanus. For ease, take the subway to Atlantic Ave-Barclays Center station beneath the venue or take the Long Island Rail Road to the Atlantic Terminal station across the street.

Ways to explore

As one of New York City’s premier multipurpose venues, Barclays attracts large crowds. You can walk by anytime, but tours inside the arena are typically unavailable. The best way to get inside is to snag tickets for concerts or sporting events, which you should purchase before your visit. Architecture buffs (or die-hard sports fans without time to sit down for a match) can take walking or themed Brooklyn tours that stop to admire the striking structure and continue to other parts of the borough.

Accessibility

Wheelchair and companion seating are available on all arena levels; all restrooms are accessible; strollers are prohibited in seating sections.

Age limits

While Barclays does not have official age limits for most performances, guests under 18 are encouraged to visit with a parent or guardian.

What to pack

Bags measuring 10 x 6 x 2 inches (25 x 15 x 5 centimeters) or smaller, ID and credit card to purchase drinks

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, your team’s hat or jersey

Not allowed

Large bags (see above), outside food and drinks, audio and video recording devices, selfie sticks

Amenities

Free Wi-Fi, baby changing tables, meditation room

Address

Barclays is a well-connected public transportation hub in the heart of Brooklyn, located at the intersection of Atlantic and Flatbush avenues. Although the venue is a relatively short drive from Lower Manhattan and offers paid parking, taking the subway is a more convenient option.

Driving

From Manhattan, take the Manhattan Bridge and turn off onto Flatbush Avenue Extension and Flatbush Avenue. Then, turn right onto Fourth Avenue and left onto Atlantic Avenue, or Pacific and Flatbush.

Public transportation

The 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q, R trains serve the Atlantic Terminal-Barclays Center Station. You can also take the C train to Lafayette Avenue or the G train to Fulton Street. On the Long Island Railroad, it’s 20 minutes from Jamaica Station.

Best times to visit

Arrive an hour or two before the start time of your event to check out the architecture, pass through security, and settle in.

Best days to visit

Visit midweek and Sundays to avoid heavy crowds, and Fridays and Saturdays to take advantage of Brooklyn’s nightlife.

Best months to visit

Barclays is open year-round for concerts and events. In April, you can catch a late-season NBA game after exploring Prospect Park and Fort Greene Park nearby in nice weather.

Special events

College basketball fans rejoice. Annually in November, the Legends Classic tournament kicks off the college basketball season at Barclays Center.