What is the surrounding area like?

Not so long ago the West End wasn't somewhere you'd head for a night out. But many bars and restaurants have recently opened their doors in this now lively area.

Which bars are good for a pre- or post-match drink?

Fours

A friendly kind of joint, Fours is the place to get in the mood for the game. It serves good food but make sure to leave enough time as the kitchen gets busy in the run up to a game.

Harp

This pub is stumbling distance from the arena and several TD Garden hotels. Enjoy the laid-back crowd who, in the later hours, take to the dance floor for live music.

Beer Works

Speciality brews range from the wheat beer 'Chico wit' with coriander to Pumpkin Works brought out for fall. The Canal Street venue complements its wide range of drinks with food too. Expect plates filled with flavorful options such as fresh haddock sandwich and roasted beet salad.

What is there to do during the day in Boston?

Duck Tours

Granted, it's the cheesy tourist thing to do. But these tours are invariably good fun whatever your age. Board the amphibious landing vehicle for a narrated cruise around many of Boston's historic sights. An 80 minute tour will cost adults $35.99.

The Freedom Trail

Alternatively, you could get better acquainted with the city on foot. Book a group walking tour or go it alone - you can buy an info brochure at the visitor center. The trail is around 2.5 miles long.

Tour of Fenway Park

The Red Sox Legends, Williams, Yaz, Fisk, Rice? See the home of these stars and one of America's best-loved baseball parks. A one-hour walking tour will teach you about Pesky's Pole and maybe see you sitting atop the 37-feet tall Green Monster.

Where are the best places to eat near TD Garden?

Finch in the Boxer Hotel

A fine choice for a pre-game dinner (it closes around 10pm). Simple, well-cooked dishes including lots of New England favorites are eaten along farmhouse-style tables in the cozy setting.  

Scampo at Beacon Hill's Liberty Hotel.

Although still close to TD Garden, Scampo is a more refined choice away from the crowds. The Italian menu includes hand-made pasta, not to mention a whole bar devoted to mozzerella. Maybe that's what draws the odd celeb to this upmarket eatery.

Tip Tap Room

Walk through the garage-style doors to find a late night restaurant and bar. Foodies love this place for the range of wild game that includes antelope meatloaf and bison short rib. To top it off, there is a handsome beer list of 36 drafts.

View more restaurants near TD Garden

What's the best way to get to TD Garden?

Take the commuter rail directly into North Station. You can then enter the TD Garden at the East or West entrance. For more info and maps, see the MBTA website.

How are the food and drinks?

There are three private restaurants: Banners Harbor View, Legends, and the Premium Club Bistro. For something more casual, check out the the mix of concession stands. These include Well Stacked Burgers, Lucky's Chicken and Frank House (on level four), plus Shots Sports Bar and Sweet Pot (on level seven's balcony). Need something to wash your food down with? The Craft Beer Garden (level seven) has taps including Magic Hat, Original Sin and Wachusett.

Does the venue have WiFi?

Yes, it's free. You can also download a mobile app for event updates.

How much does parking at TD Garden cost?

Located directly underneath the venue, North Station Garage charges an event rate of $45 if you enter 2.5 hours before the scheduled event time.

What time do doors normally open?

Usually it's one hour beforehand, unless you're told otherwise.

Any other important information the user should know?

Sorry folks, no food or drink from home can be brought into the arena. While watching the match or concert, strollers should be collapsed and tucked under seats.