Maurice Richard Arena

Maurice Richard Arena Montreal: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Maurice Richard Arena, located in Montreal’s vibrant Hochelaga-Maisonneuve district within the Olympic Park complex, is a distinguished landmark that seamlessly weaves together rich sporting heritage and cultural significance. Established in the early 1960s and named after Maurice “Rocket” Richard—the legendary Montreal Canadiens hockey player whose career became a symbol of French-Canadian pride and resilience—the arena offers far more than just a venue for athletic events. Its Olympic-sized ice rink and functionalist design have made it a versatile space for international competitions, community gatherings, and cultural celebrations.

Beyond sports, the arena’s proximity to key attractions such as the Olympic Stadium and Montreal Botanical Garden, plus its accessible amenities, make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Montreal’s history and vibrant social evolution. This comprehensive guide provides up-to-date details on visiting hours, tickets, guided tours, accessibility, and nearby sights to help you plan your visit to one of Montreal’s most treasured sporting and cultural venues (mtl.org, CityNews Halifax, Tourisme Montréal, Olympic Park site).

Origins and Construction of Maurice Richard Arena
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Honoring Maurice Richard: A Quebec Icon
Sporting and Cultural Events
Architectural Features and Renovations
Accessibility and Getting There
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visitor Tips
Conclusion

Origins and Construction of Maurice Richard Arena

Built in the early 1960s during a period of significant urban growth in Montreal, Maurice Richard Arena (Aréna Maurice-Richard) was named for one of Quebec’s greatest sports icons. The arena features an Olympic-sized ice rink (30 x 60 meters) and a seating capacity of approximately 4,800, expandable for larger events. Its design, rooted in the functionalist style of the era, prioritizes versatility, unobstructed sightlines, and capacity, establishing it as the second-largest arena on the Island of Montreal (wikipedia, mtl.org).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

General Visiting Hours:

Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Event hours and public skating times may vary; always check the official Olympic Park website before your visit.

Ticketing:

Tickets for sporting events, concerts, and exhibitions can be purchased online via the official site or at the arena box office.
Public skating sessions: CAD $5–$10
Major events: CAD $15–$60, depending on the event and seating
Discounts are available for students, seniors, and children.
Guided tours are available by appointment, with schedules posted online.

Honoring Maurice Richard: A Quebec Icon

Maurice “Rocket” Richard was the first player in NHL history to score 50 goals in 50 games and remains a central figure in Quebec’s cultural identity. His career with the Montreal Canadiens (1942–1960) and his leadership during pivotal moments—particularly the 1955 Richard Riot—cemented his role as a symbol of French-Canadian resilience and pride (NHL.com, CityNews Halifax). The arena serves as a living tribute, highlighting his influence on Quebec’s Quiet Revolution and ongoing cultural affirmation.

Sporting and Cultural Events

Maurice Richard Arena is renowned for hosting a diverse range of international and local sporting events:

Short Track Speed Skating: The arena is a national training center and a regular host for the ISU Short Track World Cups and World Championships (dam.mtl.org PDF).
Ice Hockey & Figure Skating: From amateur tournaments to figure skating clubs, the venue is at the heart of Montreal’s ice sports community.
Concerts & Cultural Events: The arena’s flexible layout accommodates concerts, expos, and community celebrations. Noteworthy historical events include the Rolling Stones’ first Quebec concert (1965) and performances by The Beach Boys.

Architectural Features and Renovations

Design: Column-free interior for unobstructed views, Olympic-standard rink, and flexible seating arrangements (sports.mtl.org).
Capacity: 4,800 seats, expandable with temporary arrangements.
Modernization: Major renovations in 1994 upgraded seating, lighting, and accessibility, and added a permanent multimedia exhibition on Maurice Richard (mtl.org).
Amenities: Changing rooms, dignitary lounge, concession stands, and a souvenir shop.

Accessibility and Getting There

Location: 2800 Rue Viau, Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, Montreal, Quebec.
Public Transit: Viau Metro (Green Line) and Pie-IX Metro stations are within walking distance; several bus routes serve the area (montreal.ca).
Parking: On-site parking with accessible spaces.
Accessibility: Wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, elevators, and designated seating.

Nearby Attractions

Maurice Richard Arena is ideally situated near several of Montreal’s top cultural and historical sites:

Olympic Stadium
Montreal Biodome
Botanical Gardens
Insectarium
Saputo Stadium
Château Dufresne

Combining a visit to the arena with these attractions offers a full day of exploration in Montreal’s Olympic Park district (trek.zone).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Maurice Richard Arena’s visiting hours?
A: Generally 9:00 AM–9:00 PM daily; check ahead for event-specific times.

Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Online via the official site or at the box office.

Q: Is the arena accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the arena features barrier-free entrances, elevators, accessible restrooms, and seating.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: By appointment; check the events calendar for availability.

Q: What else is nearby to visit?
A: The Olympic Stadium, Biodome, Botanical Garden, and more.

Visitor Tips

Check the event calendar before you go for updated hours and ticketing.
Public transit is recommended during major events to avoid parking congestion.
Arrive early to enjoy the Maurice Richard multimedia exhibition and the iconic bronze statue.
Combine your visit with other Olympic Park attractions for a richer experience.
Photography is allowed during most public events—double-check restrictions for competitions.

Conclusion

Maurice Richard Arena stands as a testament to Montreal’s rich sporting legacy and Quebec’s cultural evolution. From its modern amenities and world-class events to its role as a community hub, the arena embodies resilience, pride, and the enduring spirit of Maurice “Rocket” Richard. Whether you are a sports fan, a history enthusiast, or a first-time visitor to Montreal, this venue offers a unique window into the city’s vibrant past and present.

Plan your visit by checking current hours and ticket options at the official Olympic Park website. Don’t forget to explore nearby attractions and connect with the broader story of Montreal’s Olympic heritage.