Sudbury Arena Information
History
The Sudbury Community Arena has a storied past that reflects the resilience and spirit of Northern Ontario. Construction began with a groundbreaking in 1950 on the site of the former Central Public School, and the arena officially opened its doors in 1951 at a cost of $700,000 (equivalent to about $6.6 million today). The project was championed by then-Mayor Bill Beaton, who pushed for its approval to provide a much-needed multi-purpose facility for the growing mining town.
Over the decades, the arena has evolved significantly. It has been the home rink for the Sudbury Wolves of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) since 1972, fostering generations of hockey talent and community pride. In 2018, it also became the venue for the Sudbury Five basketball team in the Basketball Super League. Notable renovations in 2007 modernized the space, adding 12 private boxes, a premium club seating section with padded seats and refreshment services, updated washrooms, a new concession stand, and a lounge area. These upgrades reduced the seating capacity slightly from its original design but enhanced the overall experience.
The arena has hosted iconic events, including the kickoff of Shania Twain’s 1998 Come On Over Tour and various concerts and ice skating shows. In 2015, a life-size statue of Canadian folk singer Stompin’ Tom Connors was unveiled on the grounds to honor his song “Sudbury Saturday Night.” More recently, it gained pop culture fame as the filming location for the TV series *Shoresy*, portraying it as the home of the fictional Sudbury Bulldogs hockey team.
Looking ahead, the arena’s days may be numbered; in 2024, city council approved plans for a new state-of-the-art event center nearby, set to open in 2028, marking the end of an era for this beloved venue.
Who Manages It
The Sudbury Community Arena is owned and operated by the City of Greater Sudbury, ensuring it serves as a public facility focused on community events and accessibility. The city’s Parks, Leisure, and Community Services department oversees day-to-day operations, including event bookings, maintenance, and visitor services. For hockey-related activities, there’s close collaboration with the Sudbury Wolves Hockey Club, which manages certain aspects like concessions during games. This municipal management model keeps the arena affordable and integrated into local programming, with tickets and rentals handled through the city’s official website or on-site box office.
Atmosphere
Stepping into Sudbury Arena feels like entering a classic hockey barn, with its red brick exterior and iron-beamed hardwood roof evoking a sense of nostalgia. The atmosphere is electric, especially during Sudbury Wolves games, where high-energy announcements, country-to-rock music transitions, and fan chants create an immersive experience. A unique highlight is the taxidermy wolf in the rafters that glides over the visiting team’s bench whenever the home team scores, adding a quirky, intimidating flair. The venue buzzes with community spirit, from banners honoring retired players like Randy Carlyle and Mike Foligno to trophy cases displaying Sudbury’s hockey heritage. Attendance averages around 3,000 for games, fostering an intimate yet lively vibe, though fans can be passionate yet discerning due to the team’s inconsistent performance. For non-hockey events like concerts, the energy shifts to a more versatile, welcoming ambiance, making it a favorite for diverse crowds.
Equipment and Facilities
Sudbury Arena boasts versatile equipment suited for multi-purpose use. The ice surface measures 200 feet by 85 feet, standard for professional hockey, and can be covered for non-ice events like concerts or trade shows. Conversion capabilities include setting up a 60′ x 40′ x 4′ stage, removing rink glass, and accommodating large setups for circuses or exhibitions. The facility is wheelchair accessible, with a seating capacity of 4,640 and total capacity up to 5,100 including standing room. Modern amenities from the 2007 renovations include private boxes, club seating with in-seat service, and an outdated but functional video board at center ice. Audio systems support high-quality sound for events, and the arena’s layout ensures unobstructed views from most seats.
What to Expect
As an event-goer, expect a blend of old-school charm and community focus. For Wolves games, arrive early for warmups, enjoy intermission activities like Timbits mini-games, and interact with mascot Howler. Concerts and other events transform the space efficiently, with professional staff ensuring smooth operations. The downtown location means easy access via public transit, with Via Rail and GOVA bus stops nearby. Parking is free on weekends near the train station, though traffic can cause minor delays post-event. Be prepared for stairs and a somewhat maze-like interior, which may challenge those with mobility issues – elevators are limited. Tickets range from $21-$26 for hockey, with discounts for kids and seniors. Overall, it’s a value-packed experience, but note the arena’s planned closure in 2025 for the new facility.
Concessions
Concessions at Sudbury Arena are straightforward and satisfying, operated primarily by the Sudbury Wolves Hockey Club with stands throughout the building. No outside food or drinks are allowed, so plan to indulge in classics like hot dogs, popcorn, pizza, chicken fingers, fries, nachos, and onion rings. Beverages include Coca-Cola soft drinks, coffee, and hot options. For adults, beer selections like Molson Canadian and Coors Light are available at most stands, with an expanded menu at “The Bar” on the upper concourse. Prices are standard for arenas – expect to pay around $5-10 per item – and lines move efficiently during peaks. It’s a no-frills setup that complements the venue’s unpretentious vibe.
Additional Useful Information
Beyond the basics, Sudbury Arena is nestled in a vibrant neighborhood with nearby eateries like Towne House Tavern and attractions such as Science North. For out-of-towners, hotels like the Best Western Downtown Sudbury are walking distance. Safety is prioritized with standard security checks, and the arena promotes inclusivity. With its impending replacement, now’s the time to experience this piece of Sudbury history – check the city’s website for event schedules and tickets.
For more information on the Sudbury Community Arena see the pages below:
Sudbury Arena Parking:
Read parking information and directions for the Sudbury Arena.
Ticket Policies:
Read ticket policies, ticket verification and refund policies.
Sudbury Arena Seating Chart:
View the Sudbury Community Arena seating map and read related seating information.