Like most NHL arenas, there is no real tailgate like for football. However, the area around the arena does come to life on game day. It's well served by many surrounding restaurants and pubs.

The arena is well located in downtown Montreal. It's an easy walk from anywhere downtown, although you can also take the Metro (the subway) or the train if you are coming from the 'burbs. Both Metro and train stations are connected to the arena, so during those cold as hell winters we have, you can walk underground all the way to front door!

NOTE: The address is correct, but Google Maps for some odd reason places that address about 2 blocks east of where the arena is. You may have better luck with your GPS.

There's underground parking at the arena, as well as several lots surrounding the arena. Prepare to pay 15-20 dollars to park.

You can't officially tailgate outside the arena, but you can certainly make a crowd and make some noise!

The Centre Bell is a relatively new arena, well located in downtown Montreal. The common complaint about the arena is that there's not enough washrooms. The seats way up in the nose bleeds can have some obstructed views.

Surrounding restaurants and bars have an awesome varied selection for all tastes. Inside the arena, concession stands offer all sorts of food including the local tradition of Smoke Meat. In Quebec, we love steamed hot dogs, and while the Forum had the best, the Centre Bell dogs will at least take you back to those days.

Beer at the arena is mostly Molson products and runs a bit expensive. You can always take care of your thirst at one of the many surrounding pubs.

There's tones of nearby hotels that are all within walking distance to the arena. Take your pick. There's surely one that meets your budget.

Inside the arena is a Montreal Canadiens gift shop. There's tones of shops and places to check out close by. Montreal is a small city and is well connected by the Metro system. You can get around very easily.