Nationwide Arena guide: schedule, start times, food, parking and bag policy

Nationwide Arena holds up to 18,500 fans and is home to Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL). This page lists every remaining home game with its start time, and the arena's doors, food, parking and bag rules.

When are the remaining home games?

35 home games left, starting Tue Nov 3, 2026. Times are local (Eastern).

When do the doors open at Nationwide Arena?

Doors open 60 minutes before puck drop for standard Blue Jackets games, though Opening Week games in 2026 had doors open at 5:30 pm for a 7 pm puck drop; exact times are set per event. (source)

Before you go

• Bags: Bags are generally not permitted. There is an exception for medical bags, diaper bags or clutches no larger than 8" x 5" x 1". Medical bags, diaper bags and clutches will be X-rayed via dedicated screening lines identified at each entry. Bag policy.
• Payment: Nationwide Arena has converted to a cashless experience from ticketing to concessions and merchandise. Purchases can be made with a debit or credit card, or mobile wallet options like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Cash-2-Card reverse ATMs that exchange cash for a no-fee debit VISA card are located in the Ticketmaster Box Office, Main Concourse and Upper Concourse.
• Getting there: From the North, take COTA Lines 1, 2, or 5 south to N. High St. and Ohio Center Way, then walk one block west to Nationwide Arena. From the West, take COTA Lines 3 or 8 to Neil Ave and Vine St, then walk south to Nationwide Blvd. From the East, take COTA Lines 6 or 9 to West Nationwide Blvd and N. Front St, then walk one block west. Parking and transit.
• Food: Outside food and beverage, including alcohol, is prohibited.

Related: Nationwide Arena food and drink · Nationwide Arena parking and transit · Nationwide Arena bag policy.