Madison Square Garden, the iconic New York venue, is known for hosting electrifying concerts, thrilling basketball games, and everything in between.
But before you head out for your next event at “The Garden,” it’s crucial to understand their bag policy to ensure a smooth entry.
Let’s look into Madison Square Garden bag policy, permitted items and prohibited items inside the arena.
Madison Square Garden Bag Policy
Madison Square Garden discourages bringing bags altogether, but here’s the gist of their policy:
Allowed Bags at Madison Square Garden:
- Bags do not have to be clear, but they must fit comfortably under your seat.
- Bags must not be larger than 12” x 6” x 12”
- Small clutches or purses no bigger than 4.5” x 6.5”
Prohibited Bags:
- Any bag exceeding 22” x 14” x 9”
- Briefcases/computer bags
- Diaper bags
- Fanny packs
- Purses/handbags bigger than the specified clutch size
Checkout:
What is not allowed in Madison Square Garden?
The following items are not allowed in Madison Square Garden:
- Weapons of any kind: This includes knives, guns, pepper spray, mace, tasers, etc.
- Explosives: This includes fireworks, flares, smoke bombs, etc.
- Alcohol: No outside alcohol is allowed to be brought into Madison Square Garden.
- Outside food and beverages: No outside food or beverages are allowed to be brought into Madison Square Garden.
- Glass, cans, or aluminum bottles: This includes water bottles, soda cans, and beer bottles.
- Signs and banners: Unless approved in advance by Madison Square Garden, signs and banners are not allowed.
- Laser pointers: Laser pointers can be distracting and dangerous, and are therefore not allowed at Madison Square Garden.
- Video recording equipment: With the exception of small personal cameras, video recording equipment is not allowed at Madison Square Garden.
- Oversized bags: Bags larger than 22” x 14” x 9” are not allowed into Madison Square Garden. Backpacks are specifically prohibited.
- Hoverboards and skateboards: Hoverboards, skateboards, and other similar wheeled devices are not allowed at Madison Square Garden.
- Animals (other than service animals): No pets or other animals are allowed at Madison Square Garden, with the exception of service animals.
It’s important to note that this list may not be exhaustive, and Madison Square Garden reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone with any item that they deem to be a security risk.
Do they check bags at Madison Square Garden?
Yes, they do check bags at Madison Square Garden. All bags are subject to screening before you enter, which may include X-ray machines [similar to airport security].
However, unlike airports, Madison Square Garden doesn’t offer a service to check and store your bags. Their policy actually discourages bringing any bags at all if possible.
This is because only small bags that fit under your seat are allowed (maximum dimensions are 22” x 14” x 9”) and backpacks are specifically prohibited.
Can you bring a medical bag into Madison Square Garden for necessary items?
Medical bags are an exception to the bag restrictions at Madison Square Garden. Medical bags will be subject to inspection.
Contact Guest Relations in advance. It’s always a good idea to call Madison Square Garden Guest Relations at 212.465.6225 or email guestrelations@msg.com to let them know you’ll be bringing a medical bag and inquire about any specific procedures. This will help avoid delays at security.
Are food and drinks allowed in bags at Madison Square Garden?
No, food and drinks from outside Madison Square Garden are not allowed in bags or even on their own, regardless of whether they are sealed.
Madison Square garden bag policy is strict: only empty, clear, soft-plastic bottles are permitted for bringing your own water. This means any outside food, including sealed containers, and drinks, even sealed water bottles, are prohibited.
They do however have a variety of concession stands inside the venue where you can purchase food and drinks.
Planning Makes Perfect: Be Prepared
By familiarizing yourself with Madison Square Garden bag policy beforehand, you can avoid any entry delays and ensure a hassle-free experience.
Remember, packing light and opting for a clear bag are your best bets for a smooth entry into “The Garden.”
