Little Caesars Arena opened in 2017 as the shared home of the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Pistons, and it is one of the best places in the city to see big-league sport indoors. The Red Wings carry some of the proudest traditions in hockey, including the practice of throwing an octopus onto the ice that dates to 1952, and the arena's design leans into that history with banners and displays that celebrate the team's legends. The Pistons, the city's NBA team, play in the same building through the winter. The arena sits north of downtown, near Woodward Avenue and Midtown, in the district that has grown up around it with bars and restaurants, so a night here is easy to combine with dinner. The seating bowl is compact, which means good sight lines even from the upper rows, and the concourses are wide and well lit. It also hosts concerts through the year, so check what is on during your visit. Whatever you choose, a night at the arena is a lively, loud and distinctly Detroit evening.
The seasons
The Red Wings play a National Hockey League schedule from autumn to spring, and the Pistons play a National Basketball Association schedule over roughly the same months. That means home games on most weeks from October to April, with a mix of weekday evenings and weekend afternoons. In the summer the teams are away from the ice and court, though the arena hosts other events. Check each team's schedule when you plan.
Tickets
The game ticket we link is for a Red Wings home game, and the Pistons play in the same building on other dates, so look at both calendars if you can be flexible. Prices vary by opponent, day of the week and seat. Marquee matchups and weekends cost more, while midweek games with less popular opponents are the best value. Arrive early to explore the concourse and the team shops, and to eat nearby.
Getting there
The arena is a short ride north of downtown. The QLine streetcar stops along Woodward Avenue near the arena, and rideshares are a simple alternative, while parking is available in nearby lots and decks at game-day prices. If you are staying downtown, the trip is short, and many fans walk from nearby restaurants. Bag rules apply, so check the arena's policy, and dress for the weather outside because winter evenings are cold even though the inside is warm.
What to expect
The experience
An NHL or NBA home game in a modern indoor arena north of downtown, with restaurants and bars in the surrounding district.
Best time
Any home game from October to April; weekends and rivalry games are liveliest.
How long
About three hours, plus time to arrive and eat.
Tips
Check both the Red Wings and Pistons calendars, arrive early, use the QLine or a rideshare, and check the arena bag policy.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Sports fans in winter who want to see hockey or basketball in a true sporting city.
- Families
- Good for older children; hockey is fast and the noise level high.
- Couples
- A lively night out, with restaurants and bars in the surrounding district.
- Pair with
- The Fox Theatre, Comerica Park and the Detroit Institute of Arts.
- Time needed
- An evening.
Good questions
Who plays at Little Caesars Arena?+
The Detroit Red Wings of the NHL and the Detroit Pistons of the NBA both play home games in the arena, and it hosts concerts on other dates.
When is the season?+
Both teams play from autumn to spring, so you can see games from October to April. Check each team's schedule for the exact dates.
What is the octopus tradition?+
Red Wings fans have thrown an octopus onto the ice since 1952, a tradition that began as a nod to the eight wins then needed to win the championship.
How do I get there?+
The arena is just north of downtown, near Woodward Avenue. The QLine streetcar and rideshares are the easiest options on game nights.
Can I choose the Pistons instead?+
Yes. The Pistons play in the same arena on other dates, so check their schedule and buy tickets for the game that suits you.
