While NHL hockey is almost done for this season, we wait with anticipation for the 23-24 season to start back up again in just a few months. As someone who is moving from a warm-weather climate (Southern California) to to the bitter cold winters in Michigan, I know that I'll be looking for some excuses to head south for a game or two. If you are in that same situation or just simply love to travel and see your favorite hockey team play in a different city, well ... this article is for you.
What Do You Call Your "Guys Trips"?
- NHL games can be enjoyed in warm weather cities such as Tampa, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Dallas, Las Vegas, Miami, and San Jose during the winter season.
- These cities offer modern arenas equipped with advanced technology that ensure optimal game conditions no matter the weather outside. They also have high attendance rates at games due to their electrifying atmosphere, great entertainment options, and many are in states that allow sports betting now too.
- Visitors to these warm weather destinations can experience vibrant city life beyond attending NHL games. There are plenty of attractions to explore such as museums, music venues, beaches and shopping centers.
As winter sets in, hockey enthusiasts look for the perfect destination to enjoy their favorite sport without stepping into frosty arenas. Look no further, as we present to you the 7 Warm Weather Cities To Catch An NHL Game This Winter! These cities not only offer a fantastic fan experience but also allow visitors to soak up sunnier climates during their stay.
Top 7 Best Warm Weather Cities For NHL Games This Winter
In this blog, we will explore the top 7 warm weather cities to catch an NHL game this winter that are perfect for a guys' trip. Our list includes: Tampa, Florida; Los Angeles, California; Phoenix, Arizona; Dallas, Texas; Las Vegas, Nevada; Miami, Florida; and San Jose, California.
Tampa, Florida
Tampa, Florida offers NHL fans a unique opportunity to enjoy the excitement of professional ice hockey in a warm climate. Home to the Tampa Bay Lightning, this subtropical paradise entices visitors with its year-round mild weather and high attendance rates at games.
In addition to exceptional hockey action, Tampa provides vibrant city life and entertainment options for visiting enthusiasts. February 2023 witnessed Raymond James Stadium hosting an outdoor NHL game, drawing widespread attention due to the unusually warm weather conditions it presented.
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles, California is a must-visit destination for hockey enthusiasts looking to catch an NHL game in warm weather this winter. With two teams—the LA Kings and the nearby Anaheim Ducks—there's no shortage of action-packed games to experience.
While you're enjoying daytime temperatures hovering around a comfortable 60°F during winters in Los Angeles, don't forget to tune into Bally Sports South broadcasts for Predators games on cool nights.
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona ranks among the top of our list of best cities to catch an NHL game this winter. Home to the Arizona Coyotes, fans can revel in a unique blend of competitive hockey action and mild winter temperatures.
There's more to Phoenix than just its climate - this bustling city offers visitors plenty of entertainment and attractions beyond hockey games. However, as a dedicated hockey enthusiast, you may also want to follow ongoing relocation speculations involving Salt Lake City and potential Houston expansion plans for the NHL.
Dallas, Texas
Dallas, Texas is another great pick for hockey fans looking to catch game this winter. While it can be cold during the winter on occasion, when the temperature dips, there's plenty of tequila and spicy Tex-Mex food to keep you warm! As the third-largest city in Texas and the largest in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, it has established itself as a premier hockey destination.
Dallas has hosted several major NHL events over the years, including being the first warm-weather city to host the Winter Classic. In 2023, despite high temperatures, they hosted it again - proving that they can handle any climate for a world-class ice hockey event.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Like Dallas, Las Vegas can get cold on winter nights but during the day it will be nice and warm. This city has embraced the Golden Knights like you wouldn't believe and is quickly becoming a premier destination for hockey enthusiasts looking to escape the bitter cold of northern winters. With a subtropical hot desert climate and over 300 days of sunshine each year, Las Vegas offers visitors mild winter weather perfect for catching an NHL game.
The city's newest sports team, the Vegas Golden Knights, have quickly become a beloved part of the community and offer plenty of opportunities to catch exciting hockey games throughout the season.
And when you're not at the rink cheering on your favorite team, there are endless entertainment options in this vibrant city that never sleeps.
Miami, Florida
Miami, Florida is a hot spot for hockey enthusiasts looking to catch an NHL game this winter. With its tropical monsoon climate and warm temperatures year-round, Miami offers the perfect getaway whether you are trying to escape from cold Canadian winters or the snow and ice in Michigan.
The city boasts advanced technology in its modern arenas and guarantees high attendance rates at games.
Furthermore, Miami has become a popular destination among Canadian tourists who come to enjoy the tropical landscapes and avoid harsh weather conditions back home. Being one of the few warm-winter cities in the US with consistently mild weather throughout the season makes it one of the top seven destinations to watch an NHL game this winter.
San Jose, California
San Jose, California, is a great warm-weather destination for NHL games this winter. With the San Jose Sharks as its home team, fans can expect to witness thrilling hockey action in one of the most modern arenas in North America. But even if you're not a Sharks fan, attending an NHL game at SAP Center is an exciting experience that shouldn't be missed. The arena boasts advanced technology and amenities that make every visit comfortable and enjoyable.
Tickets for San Jose Sharks' NHL games are available on Ticketmaster.com, but it's best to book early since attendance rates are usually high during hockey season.
Why These Cities Are Great For NHL Games
These seven warm weather cities are perfect for NHL games due to their year-round mild climate, high attendance rates at games, advanced technology and modern arenas, as well as great entertainment and vibrant city life.
Enjoy Year-round Mild Weather
One of the reasons why these seven warm weather cities are great for NHL games is that they all enjoy year-round mild weather. Unlike cold northern cities, you can catch a game in Florida or California without having to wrap yourself up in layers of winter clothing.
Imagine sitting outside on a warm evening, enjoying an ice-cold beer and cheering on your favorite team without feeling frozen to the bone! And with outdoor NHL games becoming increasingly popular, like the upcoming Winter Classic at Dallas's Cotton Bowl Stadium, being able to comfortably enjoy an outdoor game is even more appealing.
High Attendance Rates At Games
NHL games are known for their electrifying atmosphere, and warm-weather cities like Tampa, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Dallas, Las Vegas, Miami, and San Jose have consistently drawn high attendance rates.
In fact, the Panthers lead the Cup playoffs in average attendance this season. The NHL has managed to buck the trend of declining attendance numbers seen across various sports due to several factors such as its growing popularity among fans who enjoy watching fast-paced action on ice.
Additionally, modern arenas equipped with advanced technology offer a unique experience that attracts large crowds to these games.
Advanced Technology And Modern Arenas
Hockey enthusiasts always crave a world-class experience, so, modern arenas with advanced technology are crucial for an unforgettable NHL game. The NHL has invested heavily in high-tech infrastructure to make all aspects of the fan experience seamless and engaging.
Weather-resistant facilities with cutting-edge refrigeration equipment ensure that ice conditions are optimal no matter the weather outside. Additionally, fans can now enjoy virtual reality technology for an immersive game-viewing experience.
Experience Great Entertainment And Vibrant City Life
These warm weather cities offer much more than NHL hockey games. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of entertainment options and vibrant city life, making their trip even more enjoyable.
In Phoenix, Arizona, visitors can take in the arts scene by visiting the Phoenix Art Museum or checking out one of the many local music venues.
Aside from entertainment options, these cities also have plenty of top attractions to visit during your downtime between games. Dallas, Texas boasts museums such as The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza or get some shopping done at NorthPark Center mall.
All these cities provide fun activities throughout the year for all ages that go beyond going to an NHL game alone — there's so much to do!
