Nov 9, 2025
·Mary Callahan
Located in Ottawa, Ontario, the Canadian Tire Centre is the beating heart of live sports and entertainment in Canada’s capital. Best known as the home of the Ottawa Senators (NHL), the arena also hosts concerts, family shows, comedy tours and cultural events year-round. With its modern amenities, intimate seating and location just outside downtown Ottawa, the Canadian Tire Centre is one of Eastern Canada’s top destinations for unforgettable live experiences.
Whether you’re catching a Sens game, cheering on your favorite musician, or bringing the family to a Disney on Ice show, here’s everything you need to know before visiting.
About Canadian Tire Centre
Location: 1000 Palladium Drive, Ottawa, ON K2V 1A5
Opened: 1996 (originally called the Palladium, later the Corel Centre and Scotiabank Place before becoming Canadian Tire Centre in 2013)
Capacity: ~18,700 for hockey; up to ~20,000 for concerts
Primary Tenant: Ottawa Senators (NHL)
Other Events: Major concerts, family shows, trade shows, comedy tours, basketball and more
The arena sits in the Kanata suburb of Ottawa, about 25 minutes from downtown. It’s designed to provide excellent sightlines for hockey while also adapting seamlessly for concerts and other events.
A Look Back at Canadian Tire Centre’s History
Canadian Tire Centre was built in the mid-1990s as part of the Ottawa Senators’ return to the NHL in 1992. Originally named the Palladium, the arena has gone through several name changes as corporate sponsorships evolved.
Over the years, it has hosted some of the biggest moments in Canadian sports and entertainment, including:
2009 World Junior Hockey Championship, one of the most attended IIHF junior tournaments ever.
2012 NHL All-Star Game, bringing hockey’s brightest stars to Ottawa.
Stanley Cup Finals (2007): When the Senators faced the Anaheim Ducks.
Concerts from global icons like Elton John, The Rolling Stones, Drake, Taylor Swift and Shania Twain.
Getting to Canadian Tire Centre
By Car: Most visitors drive to the arena, which is just off Highway 417 in Kanata. On-site parking is plentiful, though traffic can be heavy before and after major events. Pre-purchasing a parking pass is recommended.
Public Transit: OC Transpo runs event-day bus services from downtown Ottawa and other areas directly to the arena. Express routes make it easy for fans without a car.
Rideshare & Taxi: Uber, Lyft and taxis have designated pick-up and drop-off zones near the venue.
Seating at Canadian Tire Centre
The arena’s bowl design ensures that fans get excellent views no matter where they sit. Seating options include:
Lower Bowl: Closest to the ice or stage, these seats provide the most immersive experience.
Club Level: Premium seating with in-seat service, lounge access and excellent sightlines.
Upper Bowl: More budget-friendly while still offering clear views of the action.
Suites: Luxury options for groups and corporate events, featuring private seating and catering.
Concert Configurations: Flexible staging allows for both end-stage and center-stage setups.
Food & Drink at Canadian Tire Centre
The arena offers a mix of traditional stadium fare and Ottawa-inspired eats:
Arena Classics: Hot dogs, pizza, nachos, popcorn and burgers.
Local Flavors: Poutine, smoked meat sandwiches and craft beer from Ottawa-area breweries.
Specialty Options: Vegan and vegetarian-friendly stands, specialty coffee and international cuisines.
Premium Dining: The Club Red restaurant and other premium lounges provide upscale food and beverage service.
Atmosphere at Canadian Tire Centre
A Sens game at Canadian Tire Centre is a high-energy experience, with passionate fans filling the arena with red and black.
Hockey Tradition: The “Sens Army” is known for their enthusiasm and creativity, especially during playoff runs.
Family-Friendly Events: Disney on Ice, Cirque du Soleil and children’s shows draw big crowds throughout the year.
Concert Vibes: The arena’s acoustics and intimate design make it a popular stop for international tours.
Stadium Policies
Bag Policy: Small bags are permitted but subject to security screening. Large backpacks and oversized bags are prohibited.
Tickets: Mobile tickets are the standard, so download them before arriving.
Cashless Payments: Most concessions and retail stands are cashless.
Prohibited Items: Outside food and beverages, professional cameras, noisemakers and laser pointers.
Re-Entry: Not permitted once you leave the building.
Notable Events at Canadian Tire Centre
NHL All-Star Game (2012): A major showcase for the league.
Stanley Cup Final Games (2007): The Senators’ most successful playoff run in modern history.
World Juniors (2009): Record-breaking attendance for junior hockey.
Concerts: Performances by Taylor Swift, The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Ariana Grande and Canadian favorites like The Tragically Hip.
Nearby Attractions
While Canadian Tire Centre is located in Kanata, there are plenty of nearby attractions and things to do before or after an event:
Kanata Centrum Shopping Centre: Restaurants, shops,and entertainment options within minutes of the arena.
Downtown Ottawa: About a 25-minute drive, featuring Parliament Hill, the ByWard Market,and Rideau Canal.
Local Eats: Try Ottawa favorites like Beavertails, shawarma, or local craft breweries.
Why Canadian Tire Centre Stands Out
Canadian Tire Centre blends the intimacy of a modern hockey arena with the versatility of a major entertainment venue. Whether you’re watching the Senators chase a playoff berth, singing along with a superstar, or enjoying a family-friendly show, the arena delivers a memorable experience every time. Its location in Kanata makes it accessible for both local fans and visitors from across Ontario and Quebec.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
From the roar of Sens Army to the excitement of world-class concerts, Canadian Tire Centre is one of Canada’s premier destinations for live entertainment. Use SeatGeek to find the best tickets, compare seats and plan your perfect trip to Ottawa.