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Madison Square Garden
Home of the New York Knicks
Madison Square Garden, also known as The Garden, is the 4th building to be known as such and is situated on 820,000 square feet of real estate. The first and second Madison Square Garden buildings were located on Fifth Avenue, the third on Eight Avenue and the current is located on Seventh Avenue. The venue, which is currently known as Madison Square Garden, officially opened it's doors on February 11, 1969 with a gala salute to the USO starring Bing Crosby and Bob Hope.
Over the last 36 years, Madison Square Garden has hosted many events, including basketball, hockey, boxing, concerts, conventions, wrestling, award ceremonies and others. Perhaps best known for basketball and hockey, The Garden is a haven for sports fans. During pre-game warm-ups, some ticket holders who arrive early may even have the opportunity to get an autograph from their favorite sports star. But, don't wait until the game is over as all fans must leave the arena immediately. So, if you're an autograph collector, show up early because, as they say, the early bird gets the worm.
With so much success of their own, Madison Square Garden believes in giving back to the community of New York. The Cheering for Children Foundation is Madison Square Garden's non-profit corporation, which helps to support and improve after school programs throughout New York's five boroughs. If ticket holders decide not to attend an event, for any reason, they may donate their tickets to the foundation. The company requests that the donations be made no later than 2 days prior to the event and are tax deductible. For more information, the Cheering for Children hotline can be reached by calling 212-465-4170.
In 1992, Madison Square Garden unveiled the "Walk of Fame," which is the walkway located at the entrance of the venue. The symbol is designed to recognize athletes, performers, announcers and game officials who have contributed excellence to The Garden at various events throughout their career. Each individual, who is honored, will be recognized on a plaque noting their career category.
Many fans are intrigued by The Garden's history and significance. For those individuals, an All Access Tour is available for anyone who wishes to get a behind-the-scenes look at, what has been called, the world's most famous arena.
Many memorable moments have occurred at the current Madison Square Garden over the years, including the 1971 world heavyweight championship fight between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, the Knicks clinch two world championships in 1970 and 1973, appearances by Elton John, Elvis Presley and many other legendary performers. Host to such presentations as The Grammys and various VH1 award shows, Madison Square Garden is nothing short of legendary itself.
Cablevision, the current owners of The Garden, announced plans in September 2005 to build a fifth Garden. According to reports, the new venue will be located near the James Farley Post Office. The new Garden will host the Rangers and the Knicks and will feature a variety of other attractions, including stores, restaurants, luxury boxes with improved viewing for sporting events, a hall of fame and a museum.
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