Taffy Abel Arena seating chart — Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan

Discover the Beloved Taffy Abel Arena

The Taffy Abel Arena is more than an ice hockey arena — it's a beloved community hub that unites fans across Sault Sainte Marie. Located on the Lake Superior State University campus, it’s the proud home of Lakers hockey and a go-to venue for skating and community events. Whether you’re exploring the Taffy Abel Arena seating chart for the perfect center-ice view or planning a game-night outing, this venue makes live hockey feel close and electric.

Opened in 1976 and renovated in 1995, the arena seats 4,000 and delivers that classic rink feel fans love. As part of the James Norris Physical Education Center, the facility features seating on both sides of the ice, creating great sightlines and an energized atmosphere on game days. Named for Clarence “Taffy” Abel — a pioneering Native American hockey legend and Olympic silver medalist — the arena carries a proud local legacy.

Programming centers on NCAA Division I hockey, with the Lake Superior State Lakers men’s team calling Taffy Abel Arena home. The venue has hosted countless NCAA matchups and conference championships that have added to the Lakers’ storied tradition. Beyond Division I action, the arena supports community skating and campus events, reinforcing its role as a year-round cornerstone for local sports and gatherings.

From the student section’s energy to reserved center-ice seating favored by die-hard fans, Taffy Abel Arena delivers a welcoming, community-first experience. It’s a place where the history of Lakers hockey meets the next great moment on the ice — and you’re never far from the action.

Purchase Process

Buying tickets with Ticket Purchase is simple, fast, and secure.

• Browse Events — Explore upcoming games, concerts and more.
• Pick Your Seats — Use our interactive map to view real-time availability and compare prices.
• Secure Checkout — Pay easily with card, PayPal, Apple Pay, or Affirm.
• Digital Delivery — Tickets will be sent via email or mobile entry prior to your event date.

Need Help? Here are several options in reaching our customer support team:

• You can log into your account here and live chat with one of our agents.
• You can email our team at customersupport@ticketpurchase.com.
• You can call the number on your invoice that was emailed to you immediately after your order was completed and accepted.

All tickets are 100% verified and guaranteed for on-time delivery.

Safe & Secure Ticketing — With over 1 million happy customers since 2012, we take your security seriously:

• 24/7 TrustGuard Monitoring
• SSL-encrypted checkout
• Verified Ticket Listings
• 100% authenticity guarantee
• Access to 125,000+ live events nationwide

Personalized Help Service:

• Support via phone, chat, or email
• Tailored seat suggestions based on budget, view, or group size
• Excellent service, even for a single ticket

Are Taffy Abel Arena Tickets on TicketPurchase.com Legit?

Absolutely! Ticket Purchase has been a trusted name in live event ticketing since 2012, helping over 1 million customers experience the best concerts, sports, and performances worldwide.

All Taffy Abel Arena tickets purchased through TicketPurchase.com are 100% verified and guaranteed for authenticity and timely delivery. Our platform is fully protected by SSL encryption and 24/7 TrustGuard Monitoring, so you can buy confidently knowing your transaction is secure.

Whether you’re catching the Lake Superior State Lakers or a campus showcase, Ticket Purchase delivers verified tickets for every unforgettable moment.

Seating Recommendations and Charts

Taffy Abel Arena offers seating for approximately 4,000 guests, with a traditional ice rink layout and seating on both sides that keeps you close to the action. You’ll find primarily reserved seating, student sections that bring the noise, and some general admission and standing-room areas.

• Center-Ice Reserved Seating: For the best all-ice perspective and play-reading angles, reviewers recommend seats at center ice. These seats balance attacking and defensive views and make faceoffs and transitions easy to follow.
• Side Seating Along the Benches: Seats along the player benches put you near line changes and in-game strategy. You’ll feel every shift and get great looks at puck battles along the boards.
• Ends/Behind the Net: If you love goalie matchups and net-front scrums, end-zone seating provides thrilling, close-quarters views of power plays and breakaways.
• Student Section/General Admission: The student sections crank up the atmosphere with chants and school spirit. If you’re after energy and community buzz, this is where to be.
• VIP/Press Seating: Limited VIP and press seating exists and offers an elevated vantage point — ideal if you prefer a wide-angle view of the ice and benches.

Use Ticket Purchase’ interactive seating chart to view live seat availability, compare prices, and choose the section that fits your experience.

Ready to secure your seats? Browse Taffy Abel Arena tickets now — events often sell out fast!

Location and Transportation

Venue Address

Taffy Abel Arena

650 W. Easterday Avenue

Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan 49783

Located on the Lake Superior State University campus in Sault Sainte Marie, the arena sits approximately 350 miles north of Detroit, making it a cherished destination for Upper Peninsula hockey fans and visitors.

• Parking: On-site parking is available at the Norris Center — typically free or included with admission — with additional campus lots nearby.
• Public Transit: Limited public transit options are available; a local bus service operates in Sault Sainte Marie.
• Rideshare & Dropoff: Designated pickup and dropoff zones are located near the arena entrance.

Arrival Recommendations

Plan to arrive 60–90 minutes before puck drop to secure convenient parking, pick up merchandise, and settle in before warmups. Early arrival is especially helpful on busy weekends and during conference matchups on the Taffy Abel Arena schedule.

While the arena is indoors, Upper Peninsula winter weather can affect travel and parking conditions. Give yourself extra time during snow or ice, and check for campus lot availability when conditions are severe.

The walk from nearby lots is short with minimal elevation change, making access straightforward. If you’re using local bus service or rideshare, confirm your dropoff point near the main entrance for a smooth entry and exit after the game.

Venue Navigation

Taffy Abel Arena’s straightforward design — seating on both sides of the rink with a compact concourse — makes it easy to find your seats and return to concessions or restrooms during intermissions. Since it’s part of the James Norris Physical Education Center, you’ll also have convenient access to additional facilities on game days.

Concessions serve classic arena favorites including snacks and soft drinks, and there’s a Lakers team merchandise stand open during events. Restrooms and ATMs are available within the Norris Center. If you expect to move around the concourse between periods, comfortable footwear is a smart choice.

Security and Policies

• Bag Policy: Check with the venue for the current policy.
• Prohibited Items: Check with the venue for the current list; typical arenas restrict weapons, outside food/drink, and large bags.
• Re-entry Policy: No re-entry once you exit the venue.
• Service Animals: Allowed as required by ADA.

Post-Purchase Tips — Be Ready for Event Day

• Download your tickets before arriving — cell service can be limited.
• Bring a valid ID and cashless payment option.
• Charge your phone fully.
• Review venue policies in advance.
• Plan extra travel time during winter weather — snow and ice can slow arrival and impact parking.
• Arrive early to enjoy the community atmosphere and browse the Lakers merchandise stand.

Pre-Event Planning

A little planning goes a long way at Taffy Abel Arena. Review the Taffy Abel Arena schedule ahead of time to pick your matchup, then use our interactive seating chart to lock in center-ice seats or a row near your preferred end. If you’re attending with a group, decide on a meeting point inside — the merchandise stand or a concession area — to regroup at intermission.

Since the arena is part of the Norris Center, consider a brief stroll around the complex before gates or during breaks to soak in the campus energy. If the weather cooperates, the proximity to Lake Superior and the St. Marys River gives your game day a scenic backdrop — a great way to extend your outing before or after the puck drops.

Coordinating with friends? Share your digital tickets in advance and use group messaging to navigate parking and arrival. With a compact layout and short walks to seating, you’ll be in your seats quickly — just in time for warmups and the national anthem.

Accessibility

Taffy Abel Arena is ADA-accessible, with ADA parking available in Norris Center lots, accessible seating (contact the box office for locations), and ramps for accessible entry. The venue’s compact footprint and minimal elevation change make it easy to navigate.

If you need help selecting accessible seating, reach out to Ticket Purchase for personalized support before you buy. We’re here to help you find great sightlines and the right section for your needs.

Dining Options

Inside the venue, you’ll find concessions serving snacks, soft drinks, hot dogs, and other arena favorites. During Lakers games and major events, a merchandise stand offers team gear so you can represent in the stands.

Food and Restaurants Near Taffy Abel Arena

If you’re arriving early or staying nearby, there are excellent dining options in downtown Sault Sainte Marie, just a short drive from campus:

• The Antlers Restaurant (Downtown) — Historic eatery known for wild game dishes and quirky Northwoods décor.
• Karl's Cuisine, Winery & Brewery (Downtown) — American fare with local ingredients, plus house-made wines and beers.
• Lockview Restaurant (Downtown) — Classic diner-style restaurant famous for whitefish and views of the Soo Locks.
• Zorba's Greek American Restaurant (Downtown) — Greek and American comfort food in a casual setting.
• The Wicked Sister (Downtown) — Gastropub with creative burgers, craft beer, and a lively atmosphere.
• Cup of the Day (Downtown) — Cozy café serving coffee, sandwiches, and baked goods.
• Studebaker's Restaurant & Lounge (Downtown) — Family-friendly spot offering American classics and a full bar.
• Penny's Kitchen (Downtown) — Popular for breakfast and lunch with homemade soups and sandwiches.

These nearby spots make it easy to grab a delicious meal or drink before heading into the show.

Other Venues in Sault Sainte Marie

Sault Sainte Marie and its surrounding areas offer a thriving live entertainment scene — and Ticket Purchase connects you to them all:

• Kaines Rink — Local ice rink used for community hockey and skating events.
• Sault Community Theatre Centre — Performing arts venue hosting concerts, plays, and community events.
• Pullar Stadium — Historic ice arena, one of the oldest in the U.S., used for local hockey and events.
• Soo Theatre Project — Restored historic theater offering live music, theater, and film screenings.
• LSSU Arts Center — University venue for concerts, lectures, and cultural events.
• Big Bear Arena — Multi-use ice arena and event space for youth and adult hockey.
• DreamMakers Theater (Kewadin Casino) — Concert and event venue hosting national touring acts and comedians.
• Sault Ste. Marie Country Club — Golf and event venue with scenic views.

Ready to catch your next show in Sault Sainte Marie? Browse Sault Sainte Marie events now and secure verified tickets through Ticket Purchase today.

Other Things to Do in Sault Sainte Marie

Beyond the sports, the Sault Sainte Marie area offers incredible attractions for visitors heading to Taffy Abel Arena:

• Soo Locks — World-famous locks allowing ships to traverse between Lake Superior and Lake Huron.
• Tower of History — Observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and St. Marys River.
• Museum Ship Valley Camp — Retired freighter turned maritime museum with exhibits and ship tours.
• River of History Museum — Local history museum tracing the region’s Native American and French-Canadian roots.
• Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site — Historic canal with walking trails and interpretive exhibits.
• Rotary Island Park — Family-friendly park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and river views.
• Brady Park — Riverside park popular for walking and fishing.
• Lake Superior State University Campus — Scenic campus with historic buildings and public art.
• Kewadin Casino — Casino and entertainment complex with gaming and live shows.
• George Kemp Marina — Marina with boat rentals and access to the St. Marys River.

Secure Your Seats for Taffy Abel Arena Today

Don’t wait — Taffy Abel Arena events often sell out quickly. From Division I hockey to spirited campus gatherings, you can use the Taffy Abel Arena seating chart to find your perfect view and lock in verified tickets with ease through Ticket Purchase. Whether you’re catching the Lake Superior State Lakers or planning a community night out, we make it simple to get in and enjoy the action.

Browse tickets now and experience the magic of live sports at one of the world's most iconic arenas.

Call us at 1-866-549-4077 to purchase tickets by phone.