Madison Square Garden, aka MSG or “The Garden,” in midtown Manhattan, is regarded as the pinnacle of success. Opened in 1968, MSG is both a performance and sports arena (home to NBA basketball team the New York Knicks and to NHL hockey’s New York Rangers). In 1971, the first match between the boxing legends Mohammed Ali and Joe Frazier was held at the MSG. Between 2011-2013 it underwent an extensive, $1 billion dollar transformation. Today, MSG has a capacity of nearly 20,000 seats.
Who has played here? Elvis Presley, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin (in 1977, due to popular demand, they went from playing four nights to six) Elton John, the Rolling Stones, Duran Duran, Muse, Bruce Springsteen, Jay-Z, The Police, Madonna, Notorious B.I.G., Michael and Janet Jackson, and many others.
Next to MSG is a smaller venue, HuluTheater at Madison Square Garden, for more intimate shows and productions, with a capacity between 2,600 and 5,000. Both venues are easily accessible, located by the 34th Street train station and the Long Island Rail Road below.