Minnesota Wild Tickets & the Ultimate Game Day Guide in Saint Paul

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Overview

Planning to grab Minnesota Wild tickets and immerse yourself in a full day of NHL action? There’s nothing quite like a Wild game at Xcel Energy Center — but the real magic starts long before puck drop. Whether you’re a diehard fan or a first-time visitor to Saint Paul, this game day plan will take you from sunrise to the final buzzer with food, drinks, local flavor, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s how to turn your game day into a legendary hockey pilgrimage.

🍳 Start the Day Right: Best Breakfast Spots Near Xcel Energy Center

Fuel up before the excitement with a hearty Minnesota-style breakfast. These beloved local spots are all within reach of downtown Saint Paul:

The Buttered Tin (237 7th St E)
- Famous for: Giant cinnamon rolls, savory hash, baked egg scrambles
- Vibe: Cozy, Instagrammable, and full of fans on game day
Hope Breakfast Bar (1 S Leech St)
- Must-try: Sweet potato pancakes, espresso martinis, avocado toast
- Bonus: Supports local charities with every meal
Swede Hollow Café (725 7th St E)
- Best for: Relaxed patio coffee, baked goods, and quiet pregame chats

🍻 Pre-Game Beers & Fan Hotspots Near the Arena

Looking to soak in the Wild fan spirit before you even walk into the arena? These bars and pubs are known gathering places before the big game.

Tom Reid’s Hockey City Pub (258 7th St W)
- Owned by former NHL player Tom Reid
- Wall-to-wall hockey memorabilia
- Packed with Wild fans before every game
- Don’t miss: Buffalo wings and a Summit EPA
Seventh Street Truck Park
- Part food hall, part tailgate party
- BBQ, tacos, loaded fries, and full bar
- Open seating, great for groups
Eagle Street Grille (174 7th St W)
- Right across from Xcel Energy Center
- Fan-favorite menu items include: Minnesota Melt sandwich, waffle fries, and craft beer towers

🎓 Get in the Spirit: Souvenirs, Gear & Jersey Shops

Before you enter the arena, make sure you’re suited up like a true fan:

Hockey Lodge (Inside Xcel Energy Center)
- Official Minnesota Wild team store
- Open to the public before games
- Jerseys, hats, rally towels, pucks, and collectibles
Fan HQ (Mall of America)
- Autographs, authentic gear, and team memorabilia
- Worth a stop if you’re heading through Minneapolis earlier in the day

🌟 What Time to Arrive for a Minnesota Wild Game?

Xcel Energy Center opens its doors 90 minutes before puck drop.

Arrive early to avoid long entry lines
Watch warm-ups: The players hit the ice 30 minutes before the game
Fan experiences (mascots, music, giveaways) usually start 1 hour before

✨ Inside the Arena: Where to Sit, Eat, and Drink at Xcel Energy Center

When you grab your Minnesota Wild tickets, you’re not just watching a hockey game — you’re stepping into one of the most immersive NHL experiences in North America. The Xcel Energy Center, located in the heart of downtown Saint Paul, is consistently ranked among the best arenas in the league for fan experience, food, and atmosphere. Here’s how to make the absolute most of your game night once inside the gates.

🏟️ Best Seating Options at Xcel Energy Center

Your Minnesota Wild tickets unlock a seating experience tailored to every type of fan — from die-hard puck chasers to families and first-time visitors.

Club Level (C1–C40)
- Why choose it: Elevated sightlines, wider seats, and access to private lounges and bars.
- Bonus: Exclusive dining areas and shorter wait times at concessions and restrooms.
Lower Bowl (Sections 101–126)
- Perfect for: Fans who want to be right on top of the action. These seats provide the loudest, most intense Wild experience.
- Tip: Sitting near the glass offers a thrilling view of every hit, shot, and celebration.
Upper Bowl (Sections 201–230)
- Best for budget-conscious fans or larger groups. These seats still offer excellent views thanks to Xcel’s steep and efficient stadium design.
- Fan tip: Rows 1–5 in the upper bowl have some of the best value-to-view ratios in the NHL.

No matter where you sit, your Minnesota Wild tickets give you access to a uniquely passionate crowd in what’s known as the “State of Hockey.”

🍽️ Must-Try Food & Drink at Xcel Energy Center

This arena takes arena food to the next level with a lineup of local vendors, elevated concessions, and fan-favorite dining.

Butcher & the Boar
- A Saint Paul staple offering spicy smoked sausages, pork belly sliders, and beer cheese pretzels.
- Perfect for: Carnivores and beer lovers.
Mama DeCampo’s Pizza
- Famous for thin-crust pies with unique toppings like jalapeño pepperoni and spicy honey drizzle.
- Great for kids, families, or a fast bite before puck drop.
Nordy’s Bar & Grill
- A full-service sit-down restaurant inside the arena. Great selection of entrees, appetizers, cocktails, and desserts.
- Hot tip: Make a reservation through the Wild app to skip the wait.
Summit Brewing Taproom
- One of the region’s most popular craft breweries, Summit pours their EPA, Keller Pils, and seasonal IPAs right on site.
- Pairs perfectly with your Minnesota Wild tickets and a win!
Revival Fried Chicken
- Known for Southern-style fried chicken sandwiches with hot sauce, pickles, and slaw.
- Found near Section 118 and often sells out early.
Ruthie’s Mac & Cheese Bar
- Comfort food lovers rejoice — this stand builds loaded mac and cheese bowls with bacon, jalapeños, and buffalo chicken.

🌈 Pro Tips for a Winning Arena Experience

Here’s how to make the most of your night after securing your Minnesota Wild tickets:

Bag Policy: Only clear bags smaller than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ are allowed. Small clutches must be under 4.5″ x 6.5″.
Mobile App: Download the Minnesota Wild app to access your digital Minnesota Wild tickets, preorder food, check restroom lines, and find in-seat merchandise deals.
Mobile Pay: Xcel Energy Center is 100% cashless. Be ready to pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a card.
Order Ahead: Use the app or designated kiosks to skip lines at food and drink stands.
Beer Express Lanes: Several locations offer beer-only fast lanes for quicker access between periods.
First Game Button: First time attending? Visit Guest Services at Section 105 for a commemorative “My First Wild Game” button.

Whether you’re sitting in the lower bowl close to the glass or taking in panoramic views from the upper deck, a night at the Xcel Energy Center is unforgettable. With your Minnesota Wild tickets, you’re not just attending an NHL game — you’re experiencing Minnesota pride, hometown flavor, and world-class hockey in one of the most beloved venues in sports.

📸 Snap & Share: Top Instagrammable Fan Moments

Whether you’re there for the hockey or the hype, these photo ops are must-capture:

“State of Hockey” Wall outside the arena
The Wild Walk: Light tunnel fans walk through during player intros
Center ice selfie (if you’re lucky enough to get close during warm-ups!)
Nordy the Mascot: Grab a pic with this wild-eyed Minnesota legend

🌆 After the Game: Where to Go to Keep the Night Going

Win or lose, the fun doesn’t stop at the buzzer:

Ox Cart Ale House
- Rooftop bar with skyline views
- Great for drinks and post-game recap
The Liffey Irish Pub
- Guinness, whiskey flights, late-night food
- Just steps from the arena
Tom Reid’s (Again!)
- Often re-fills with fans after the game
- Great place to hear post-game reactions

🏨 Where to Stay: Walkable Hotels for Wild Fans

If you’re traveling from out of town — or simply want to treat yourself to the full Minnesota Wild experience — booking a hotel near Xcel Energy Center can transform your night at the rink into a stress-free getaway. These hand-picked hotels are all within easy walking distance of the arena and pair perfectly with your Minnesota Wild tickets, offering comfort, convenience, and a taste of Saint Paul hospitality.

🛏️ The Saint Paul Hotel

Address: 350 Market Street, Saint Paul, MN
Distance from arena: ~3 blocks (7-minute walk)

This historic property is the crown jewel of downtown Saint Paul. Since opening in 1910, The Saint Paul Hotel has hosted presidents, celebrities, and now hockey fans from around the country. The elegant architecture, attentive staff, and upscale on-site restaurant (St. Paul Grill) make it an excellent choice for fans looking to turn their Minnesota Wild tickets into a classy overnight experience.

Valet parking available
Free shuttle to Xcel Energy Center on game nights (subject to availability)
Rooms often sell out on Wild game days — book early

🛏️ Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Saint Paul

Address: 200 W 7th Street, Saint Paul, MN
Distance from arena: Across the street (1–2 minute walk)

For fans who prioritize proximity, this is the closest hotel to Xcel Energy Center. With clean, modern rooms and complimentary breakfast, it’s perfect for families, couples, or out-of-towners attending their first Wild game. You can practically hear the crowd from your room — just steps away from the entrance.

Indoor pool and fitness center
Free hot breakfast
Ideal for groups traveling together to use their Minnesota Wild tickets hassle-free

🛏️ InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront

Address: 11 E Kellogg Blvd, Saint Paul, MN
Distance from arena: ~10-minute walk (or short rideshare)

If you’re looking for a room with a view, this hotel offers sweeping panoramas of the Mississippi River. The InterContinental is a top pick for those who want upscale accommodations and proximity to downtown’s top dining and nightlife after the game. Pairing your Minnesota Wild tickets with a night here makes for an unforgettable evening.

River Lounge on-site for post-game cocktails
Business-class amenities for those blending work and play
Walkable route to and from the arena along well-lit streets

🛏️ Other Worthy Mentions Near the Action:

Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown – Budget-friendly, less than a block away from Xcel; popular with visiting hockey fans.
Drury Plaza Hotel – Known for great customer service and included evening snacks & drinks — all within 5 minutes of the rink.
Celeste Hotel – A boutique hotel in a converted convent; stylish and peaceful after the roar of a Wild win.

🧳 Travel Tip for Fans with Minnesota Wild Tickets

Most downtown Saint Paul hotels offer game-day specials or discounts for fans, especially during homestands or playoff season. Booking early — especially once you’ve secured your Minnesota Wild tickets — ensures you get the best rates and availability. If you’re coming for a weekend game, consider staying an extra night to explore nearby attractions like the Science Museum of Minnesota or Cathedral Hill’s historic charm.

Whether you want to walk out your hotel door and straight into the game, or unwind in luxury after the final buzzer, these downtown hotels make attending a Wild game seamless. Plan ahead, pack your jersey, and make your Minnesota Wild tickets the start of an unforgettable trip to Saint Paul.

🚗 Parking & Transportation Tips

Getting to the arena doesn’t have to be stressful:

RiverCentre Parking Ramp: Closest and most convenient
Kellogg Blvd Ramps: Just a 5-minute walk
Metro Transit Green Line: Runs from Minneapolis to Saint Paul with a stop at Xcel
Ride Shares: Drop-off area on Kellogg Blvd fills up fast

🎉 Bonus Tips for an Epic Game Day with Minnesota Wild Tickets

Check promo nights for free bobbleheads or theme nights
Bring cashless payment – Xcel is fully digital
Download the arena map ahead of time to locate bathrooms, merch spots, and exits

🏀 Final Word: Don’t Just Buy Minnesota Wild Tickets — Build a Game Day You’ll Never Forget

Whether you’re a Saint Paul local or flying in for a once-in-a-season experience, planning your day around your Minnesota Wild tickets ensures a richer, more thrilling experience. From local breakfast joints to post-game rooftop drinks, Saint Paul brings the Wild energy from dawn until well after the final horn.

So suit up in green and red, bring your loudest cheer, and get ready for a game day adventure that blends sports, culture, and community like only Minnesota can deliver.