From the frozen Mississippi’s edge, a glass and steel giant rises. The Xcel Energy Center stands as a testament to Minnesota’s hockey passion. It’s more than just an arena. It’s the beating heart of the “State of Hockey.” The Xcel Energy Center opened in September 2000. It replaced the old St. Paul Civic Center. It was a key part of bringing NHL hockey back to Minnesota.
The energy inside the Xcel Energy Center is palpable. It hosts over 150 events a year, drawing 1.7 million visitors. Imagine the roar of the crowd as the Minnesota Wild take the ice. The foghorn blasts from its lighthouse perch, signaling the start of the game. The arena holds nearly 18,000 fans. The energy during a Wild game is electric. The Xcel Energy Center also hosted the Minnesota Swarm lacrosse team from 2005 to 2015. Now, it serves as the home of the PWHL’s Minnesota Frost.
The Xcel Energy Center isn’t just for hockey. It’s a multipurpose venue that has hosted countless concerts, from rock legends like the Rolling Stones to pop icons like Taylor Swift. Shania Twain holds the record for the largest concert crowd, with over 20,500 fans packing the arena in 2003. The venue also played a role in national politics. It hosted the 2008 Republican National Convention.
As you walk the concourses, take a moment to appreciate the “State of Hockey” tribute. Jerseys from every Minnesota high school hockey team line the walls. It’s a reminder of the deep roots of hockey in this state. The Xcel Energy Center is more than just an arena. It’s a community hub, a place where memories are made, and a symbol of Minnesota’s enduring love for the sport of hockey. It blends seamlessly with the city’s vibrant cultural scene, making it a must-see destination for any visitor to Saint Paul. Even the architecture tells a story. The crow’s nests at each corner add a unique touch. One houses an organ, another a foghorn, and the others are home to a drumline and an additional stage. The Xcel Energy Center isn’t just a building. It’s an experience.