Columbus Blue Jackets at Tampa Bay Lightning

Blue Jackets Bring Metropolitan Division Grit to Channelside

Columbus visits Amalie Arena on Monday, December 7th at 7:00 PM for an Atlantic versus Metropolitan Division clash that should deliver the physical, structured hockey both teams are known for. The Monday night slot typically draws a passionate crowd of season ticket holders and die-hard fans who appreciate the tactical chess match these games often become. With the Lightning defending home ice against a Columbus squad that's historically played Tampa tough in the playoffs, this matchup carries more edge than a typical regular season game.

What to Expect:

Amalie Arena transforms into one of the NHL's loudest buildings when the puck drops, and December games carry extra intensity as teams jockey for playoff positioning. The 7:00 PM start gives fans time to settle in before the opening faceoff, and the arena's sight lines ensure there's not a bad seat in the house. Columbus brings a defensive-minded style that often frustrates high-powered offenses, setting up the kind of tight-checking game that tests Tampa's skill and patience.

Insider Tips:

- Doors typically open 90 minutes before puck drop, giving early arrivals access to warmups and a chance to beat concession lines
- The Tesla coils fire after Lightning goals, so seats in sections 101-128 offer the best view of the pyrotechnics
- Monday night crowds tend to be smaller than weekend games, meaning shorter waits at food stands during intermissions
- Download the Amalie Arena app beforehand for mobile ordering to skip concession lines entirely
- The team store gets crowded during intermissions but clears out once the second period starts
- Dress in layers since arena temperatures can vary significantly between upper and lower bowls

Getting There:

Amalie Arena sits right on Channelside Drive in downtown Tampa, making it accessible from multiple directions. The Pam Iorio Parking Garage on Channelside Drive sits just 132 meters from the arena entrance and fills quickly but offers covered parking. Green Parking Lot on Eunice Street provides another close option at 128 meters away, while the Selmon Expressway Parking Lot 2 and Lot 3 on South Florida Avenue and South Morgan Street respectively sit about 240 meters out. The TECO Line Streetcar stops at HSBC on Water Street, putting riders within a two-minute walk of the arena doors. For those coming from north Tampa, take I-275 south to the Channelside exit, while visitors from south Tampa can use the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway for direct downtown access.

Local Scene:

The Channelside District surrounding Amalie Arena offers plenty of pre-game options within steps of the venue. Yard House sits 105 meters away at 450 Channelside Drive, serving up an extensive beer list and shareable appetizers perfect for groups arriving early. 3 Corners Pizza at 813 Water Street provides quick slices about 147 meters from the arena for those cutting it close on time. The Pearl Tampa at 823 Water Street delivers upscale dining and cocktails for those making a full evening of it, positioned 147 meters away. Post-game, Lilac at 500 Channelside Drive offers a sophisticated atmosphere for dissecting the game over craft cocktails. The entire district stays active after games, with Water Street and Channelside Drive forming the main pedestrian corridors where fans spill out to continue the night.