Mary Brown's Centre

In the heart of St. John's lies a modern multi-purpose complex — Mary Brown's Centre. This indoor arena, which opened in 2001, serves as the premier entertainment venue for the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. It was built to replace the historic Memorial Stadium and can now accommodate up to 7,000 spectators, offering comfortable conditions for visitors to Canada.

The venue received its current name in 2021 in honor of a popular local fast-food restaurant chain, adding a special local flavor to the site. Before that, it was known for a long time as the Mile One Centre, symbolizing the beginning of a journey across the entire country. Today, it is more than just a stadium; it is a full-fledged cultural hub where modern technology meets the welcoming atmosphere of the East Coast.

The building stands out in the city skyline with its large signage and modern facade. Inside, visitors will find more than just seating; there are exclusive lounge areas, such as private suites and a restaurant, while the interiors are often decorated with elements reflecting Newfoundland’s unique culture.

To check the event schedule or purchase tickets, you can use the official contact channels. Information desk and box office staff are available to help you navigate upcoming events.

A visit to this venue promises plenty of excitement, regardless of your interests. During the winter season, hockey is the main passion here: you can cheer for the local Newfoundland Growlers team or enjoy the grace of figure skaters at international tournaments. In addition, the arena frequently hosts basketball games and prestigious curling competitions.

The complex's musical lineup is impressively diverse. World stars like Nickelback and Alanis Morissette have performed here, and it has also hosted the Juno Awards ceremonies. For family leisure, touring circus shows and themed exhibitions, such as sci-fi fan conventions, are excellent options.

If you want to feel like part of the local community, look out for the free public skating schedule. This is a great opportunity to get on the same ice where the professionals compete. For those who value comfort, the Level Up premium zones offer priority ticket purchasing and access to exclusive services.

Located at 50 New Gower St, the arena is in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible for tourists. If you are staying at one of the downtown hotels or walking through the historic district, the walk to the building will take between 5 and 15 minutes.

For those who prefer public transportation, Metrobus stops are nearby. Taxis or Uber are also always available. If you are arriving by private car, there are several parking areas around the complex, although it is recommended to look for a spot in advance on the days of major games or concerts.

Travelers arriving from St. John's International Airport (YYT) will need about 20 minutes by car or taxi to cover the 15-kilometer distance to the entertainment center's main gates.

The history of this venue began in May 2001 when it opened as the Mile One Centre. This name was no coincidence: it symbolized the city's geographical position as the "first mile" and the easternmost point of the Trans-Canada Highway. The building was constructed to replace the old Memorial Stadium and quickly became the epicenter of the province's cultural life.

Over the years, the arena has seen several key tenants. It was home to famous hockey teams like the St. John's Maple Leafs and St. John's IceCaps, which drew capacity crowds of dedicated fans. The venue's sporting history includes hosting prestigious tournaments like the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge and the Tim Hortons Brier national curling championship.

A landmark event occurred in October 2021: the naming rights were acquired by the legendary local restaurant chain Mary Brown's Chicken, which was founded right here in St. John's back in 1969. This renaming highlighted the arena's deep connection to local culture and business, turning it into a true symbol of unity for the people of Newfoundland.

When planning your visit, consider the type of event. If you are attending a hockey game or a major concert, you should set aside 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time to comfortably pass through security, find your seats, and enjoy the show, including intermissions.

If you are just dropping in for a public skating session or want to take a quick look at the complex's modern architecture, 1–2 hours will suffice. For those planning to use premium services, visit the on-site restaurant, or relax in a VIP suite, the visit can extend to 5 hours, turning into a full evening of leisure.

The arena's box office and information center operate on a fixed schedule during the week. You can visit them from Monday to Saturday, 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM; the complex is usually closed on Sundays unless a special event is scheduled for that day.

It is important to note that on days with games, concerts, or shows, operating hours may be significantly extended. Doors usually open to spectators one hour before the event begins. It is recommended to check the current calendar on the official website before planning your visit.

Its downtown location allows you to combine a sports match or show with a visit to other points of interest. A stroll through the surrounding area will reveal the city's architectural heritage and modern cultural spaces.