Thunder Game Night Playbook: Where to Eat, Park & Grab Drinks Before and After the Puck Drop
An Adirondack Thunder game night is a classic way to spend an evening in downtown Glens Falls. When you’re ready to plan a date night or go out with a group of friends, we’ve got you covered as far as logistics go: where to park, restaurants within walking distance to grab dinner, and the best spots for where to enjoy drinks after the game.
The Game Plan at a Glance:
- 5pm: Park downtown
- 5:15pm: Early dinner on Glen Street
- 6:30pm: Walk to arena and grab your seats
- 7:00pm: Puck drop
- Around 9:30pm: Post-game drinks a few blocks away
Step 1: Park Once, Walk Everywhere
Parking downtown is easier than it may seem, even on game nights, and most of it is free. Here are some options:
On or Near Glen Street: We often park on Glen Street shortly before you reach the Church of the Messiah. Parking is free on all city streets, and downtown spots marked with a 3-hour limit become unlimited after 5pm.
Elm Street lot: The city lot on Elm Street offers free spaces and it’s right by Downtown City Tavern and the shops on Glen Street. The time limit lifts after 6pm. Sometimes this lot is full, but can’t hurt to check if you’re feeling optimistic.
Arrow Bank lot on Elm Street: This is a newer option that’s across from the Ed Market Center that offers free parking from 5pm to 2am on weekday evenings, and all day on weekends.
Note, the arena’s Oakland Street lot and the small lot in front of their box office are only free when no event is going on, so they’re not an option for a game night.
You will want to arrive by 5:30pm on Saturdays and on big promo nights. Spots near Glen Street fill up fast once the pre-game dinner crowd arrives.
Also note, if you’re planning on staying out late, overnight street parking isn’t allowed between 2am and 6am.
Please have a sober driver if you plan on drinking, or opt for a ride share.
Step 2: Pre-Game Dinner
Give yourself 60 to 90 minutes for dinner. On game nights, these spots fill up with fellow fans! Here are some great options within walking distance of parking and the arena:
Fire Mission Smokehouse & Taproom
126 Glen Street
This one will offer you the shortest possible walk to your seat. They’re situated across from the arena in the former Go Play With Your Food space. This barbecue-centric eatery is veteran owned and specializes in slow-smoked meats.
184 Glen Street
It doesn’t get more quintessential Glens Falls than a stop at Davidson Brothers Brewpub ahead of a Thunder game. Enjoy the relaxed neighborhood feel and try the fish and chips, maybe with a house-brewed beer. This is also a great after-game spot.
Southpaw Bistro
7 South Street
Just around the corner from Glen Street, Southpaw Bistro is the perfect spot for a date night game night. It's relaxed yet upscale with a regularly changing menu.
Downtown City Tavern
21 Elm Street
Tucked just off Glen Street behind the shops Downtown City Tavern is a local favorite, particularly for their wood-fired pizza and tavern fries. If you happen to park in the Elm Street lot, it’s right there.
Step 3: Game Time at Harding Mazzotti Arena
Arrive early if you can to the Harding Mazzotti Arena! Doors typically open at 6pm for a 7pm puck drop - sometimes earlier on promo and giveaway nights. (Note, there can be 3pm puck drops on Sundays, which is often when families with younger kids come.)
Check on the Thunder’s website before you arrive to see if there’s a special promo or a drink special happening - there’s almost always something special going on!
Step 4: Post-Game Drinks
Win or lose, the night is still young. Here’s where to go for those post-game drinks:
The Bullpen Tavern
216 Glen Street
This is a popular spot for the hockey fans to go, with a sports bar atmosphere and TVs to catch highlights from other games.
Mean Max Brew Works
193 Glen Street
Craft beer fans will want to head to Mean Max Brew Works, a small brewery just steps from Davidson Brothers, renowned for its small-batch brewing.
Fenimore’s Pub at The Queensbury Hotel
88 Ridge Street
For less of a sports pub feel and a more polished vibe, Fenimore’s is known for their live entertainment, local brews, and specialty cocktails. This is a convenient choice if you happen to be staying at the hotel, and it would also be great for a before-game dinner.
Helpful Things to Know for Your Game Night
Where to buy tickets: The Adirondack Thunder has partnered with SeatGeek for their tickets. Get tickets online ahead of time through the Thunder website at echlthunder.com/tickets or you can purchase them at the box office at the arena.
The hockey season: The season runs from October through April, sometimes early May depending on the calendar and how well they do. There are plenty of home games, so you’ll have multiple chances to vary up your game night itinerary and try new places.
Bag policy and prohibited items: You will go through security and will likely need to open a purse if you have one. No backpacks are allowed (except diaper bags). No outside beverages or food (except baby formula/food). No noisemakers, no face pace paint, and no professional cameras.
Make It an Overnight: The Queensbury Hotel
Coming from out of town, or don’t want to have to worry about getting home? The Queensbury Hotel is the clear pick.
It’s 2 blocks from the arena, overlooks City Park, has two on-site restaurants including the aforementioned Fenimore’s, and it even has an indoor pool.
Enjoy your game night!
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