You might be excited about going to the next Ottawa Senators game at Canadian Tire Center, but one thing you probably aren’t excited about is having to find a park. Regular parking costs between $12 and $15, depending on the event. However, if you are smart about planning your parking, you can save money by following some lesser-known parking tips. The venue offers several hidden alternatives in addition to conventional options. This guide reveals the best alternative parking spots near the Canadian Tire Center, so you don’t have to pay full price for parking, and you don’t have to park so far away that you have to walk for miles.
Lot 5 – Budget-Friendly General Admission
Lot 5 is a great choice for budget-friendly parking. It helps fans save money without having to walk too far. It is located on the southeast side of the Canadian Tire Center, and you should exit highway 417 at Palladium Dr. and then turn left. For NHL games, admission costs $12 to $15, and you can reserve your parking spot in advance through the Indigo Neo parking app. It is by far the cheapest parking option at Canadian Tire Center, with the only downside being exit issues at the end of the game, when everybody is trying to get out at the same time.
895 Palladium Dr, Ottawa, ON K2V 1C6, Canada
Lot 6
Another great option for budget-friendly parking near the Canadian Tire Center is Lot 6. Once it was unpaved and muddy, now it is a fully paved parking option. You can access lot 6 from Hwy. 417, by turning left onto Terry Fox Drive, and then right onto Palladium Drive. For NHL events, you will spend approximately $12. If you are a seasoned ticket holder, you can purchase a passholder parking spot. It is right in front of the main entrance, and spots close to the entrance are available if you arrive by 5:30 PM.
187 Cyclone Taylor Blvd, Ottawa, ON K2V 1C8, Canada
Lot 9
Lot 9 is considered a last resort parking lot, because it is seen by regular attendees as the parking lot everyone goes to once every other lot has been filled out. It is located on the Southwest side of the Canadian Tire Center, at 1000 Palladium Dr. For NHL games, you are going to be spending $20, and you will need to pay through the parking app, once you arrive, or you can do so in advance up to 4 hours before the event. The advantage of this parking lot is that there is almost always a guaranteed space, even if you arrive late.
155 Cyclone Taylor Blvd, Ottawa, ON K2V 1C8, Canada
Silver Seven Road Costco Parking
Suppose you want to find a free parking alternative to the official Canadian Tire Center lots. In that case, the Silver 7 Road Costco parking area has become a go-to spot for regular attendees. You will need to walk about a mile to the venue, but this is a small price to pay if you are looking for completely free parking. There is also significantly less congestion after the game than in official parking lots, and a high chance of finding a parking spot, even if you arrive late.
770 Silver Seven Rd, Ottawa, ON K2V 0A1, Canada
Palladium Auto Park Complex
The Palladium Auto Park Complex is situated right next to the Canadian Tire Center, but many event attendees overlook this hidden alternative. It is an automotive dealership that has become one of the best free parking spots available. It is located off Hwy. 417 at the Palladium Dr. exit, next to the Ottawa Senators’ home. The most standout feature of this auto park is that it is completely free. It also has substantial capacity, making it a great choice if you are running late. After the game, it offers quick access to Hwy. 417. The only downside is that there are no guarantees, so it’s advisable to arrive in advance.
2500 Palladium Dr, Kanata, ON K2V 1C2, Canada
Lot 7
If you are a season pass holder, Lot 7 is ideal, as it provides regular attendees with an excellent balance of easy exit and location. Regular visitors will appreciate its blend of accessibility and quick departure times. It’s worth noting that only pass holders can use Lot 7, and they must present their credentials upon arrival. It gives you a good mix of indoor access and ease of exit, but again, you must be a pass holder, which means that it isn’t available for general admission.
150 Cyclone Taylor Blvd, Ottawa, ON K2V 1C8, Canada
OC Transpo Park and Ride
If you don’t mind using public transport and prefer to park a little further away, you can still make the most of the park and ride option. OC Transpo runs special event buses, making it easy to get to games. Routes 404 and 405 connect the Canadian Tire Center to different parts of Ottawa. Please note that you will need to pay the regular fare for OC Transpo service, but it will be significantly cheaper than finding a nearby parking spot. Buses run for all Senators hockey games, and your ride home after the event leaves about 15 minutes after the game is over.
Located in: Kanata Centrum Shopping Centre
Accessible Parking Lot 3
Lot 3 is a notable parking option, as it is the only available parking option with mobility lots. A designated area makes it easier for patrons with disabilities to attend events, reducing their walking distance. You will find lot 3 at the southeast corner of Canadian Tire Center. This provides easy access to Gate 3, which features elevators that transport you to the venue’s upper levels. To get to lot 3, you exit highway 417 at Palladium Drive and turn left. Accessible parking is $21 for regular events.
Palladium Dr, Stittsville, ON K2V 1A5, Canada
Lot 4
Lot 4 might be a more expensive option, but it’s definitely the closest general admission parking for Canadian Tire Center. It appeals to people wanting convenience over cost, and it is located at 1000 Palladium Dr. For NHL games, you can expect to pay between $30 and $35 for a parking spot. Please note that spots become limited, especially if you need to find a park at the last minute. However, walking to the arena will take half the time compared to other general lots.
Palladium Dr, Ottawa, ON K2V 1A5, Canada
Conclusion
Navigating the maze that is Canadian Tire Center parking can often be a challenge, but the good news is that options are available for every budget and parking preference. Perhaps you want to be smart about where you choose to park, and don’t mind walking a bit of a distance to save on parking fees. Or, you’d rather be situated right near the entrance, and don’t mind how much it’s going to cost you. Whatever you’re looking for, this guide has every option available, so that you can have a positive experience the next time you watch your favorite team play at Canadian Tire Center.