Both Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and Madison Square Garden are iconic venues offering a wide range of amenities and experiences. Santiago Bernabéu excels in seating capacity, modern technological integrations, and a wider variety of dining options. Madison Square Garden, however, stands out due to its prime location with superior public transportation access and its long-standing history in the heart of New York City. The choice depends on the specific event and the importance of factors like seating capacity versus location and ease of access.
| Attribute | Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Renovated) | Madison Square Garden |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | Around 83,000 (second-largest in Spain). Renovation added approximately 3,000 seats. | Varies depending on the event: Boxing/MMA: 20,789, Concerts: 20,000, Basketball: 19,812, Pro wrestling: 18,500, Ice hockey: 18,006. Main arena capacity up to 20,000 for sporting events or concerts. |
| Acoustics Quality | Soundproofing added to enclosures for a sharper auditory experience. Retractable roof reduces acoustic impact for local residents. | Generally considered good for a large arena, enhanced by modern sound technology. Circular seating bowl enhances sound distribution. Renovations in 2013 improved acoustics. |
| Food and Beverage Options | Expanded dining areas, Restaurants include Puerta 57, Arzabal, Plaza Mahou, and KO by 99 Sushi Bar. Bernabéu Market (25 food stalls) expected to open in August. Plaza Mahou brews beer on-site. Starbucks at gates 72, 73, and 74. SkyBar VIP restaurant with over 400 m² of screens. | Wide variety of options available, from traditional stadium fare to more unique offerings. Multiple levels with concession stands. Options include hot dogs, popcorn, chicken teriyaki bowls, Carnegie Deli, Fuku, Avenue Cantina, and gluten-free options. |
| Accessibility for People with Disabilities | Improved accessibility with removal of architectural barriers, new entrances and facilities. Enhanced features include elevators, ramps, dedicated spaces. Two new towers and access ramps. 800 new seats for people with different abilities. | Accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating areas. Elevators and escalators provide access to all public areas. Assistive listening devices and ASL interpreters are available upon request. Wheelchair storage and escorts are also available. Seating with movable armrests and larger chairs without armrests are available with advance notice. |
| Transportation Options | Served by Santiago Bernabéu metro station (Line 10). Bus routes 14, 27, 40, 43, 120, 147, and 150. Located in Madrid’s Chamartín district. | Located in Midtown Manhattan above Pennsylvania Station. Train: Amtrak, LIRR, NJ Transit to Penn Station. Subway: 1, 2, 3, A, C, E to 34th Street–Penn Station; B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W to 34th Street–Herald Square. Bus: M4, M7, M20, M34 SBS, M34A SBS, Q32, BxM2. Rideshare: Designated Access-A-Ride stops on 7th Avenue southbound and 33rd Street northbound. |
| Historical Significance | Real Madrid's home since 1947. Named after Santiago Bernabéu. Hosted four European Cup/UEFA Champions League finals, the 1964 European Nations' Cup final, and the 1982 FIFA World Cup final. | Current MSG opened in 1968, the fourth venue to bear the name. Oldest major sporting facility in the New York metropolitan area. Oldest arena in the NBA and second-oldest in the NHL. Has hosted numerous iconic events. |
| Technological Integration (WiFi, screens) | 360-degree video screen. Advanced 5G connectivity. Digital ticketing and biometric access. Mobile app/website for event information and ticketing. | Comprehensive security plan with advanced technology. Utilizes cutting-edge surveillance systems. Offers closed and open captioning for basketball and hockey games. |
| Luxury Suites and VIP Areas | 240 VIP and hospitality lounges. New level with VIP and hospitality lounges offers 1,600 additional seats. Premium lounges and restaurants with pitch views. SkyBar is a VIP area with terraces. | Includes luxury suites and club seats. Exclusive spaces like the Delta Sky360° Club, Club Bar & Grill, and J.P. Morgan Club are available for select ticketholders. |
| Overall Cleanliness | Not available | The venue strives to maintain a safe and fun environment. |
| Architectural Design | Metallic facade of steel and aluminum panels. Retractable roof. Design led by GMP Architekten and L35 Ribas. Facade incorporates LED lighting systems. | Modernist design with a circular form and concrete facade. Innovative suspension roof system allows for unobstructed views. |
| Event Variety | Designed to host football matches, concerts, and other mega-events. Retractable roof and pitch system allows diverse events. Spaces for conferences, meetings, and presentations. E-sports competitions may be played. | Hosts a wide range of events including sports (basketball, hockey, boxing, wrestling), concerts, and other live entertainment. |
| Security Measures | High-resolution security systems. Strict entry and exit policies. Cisco solutions provide non-invasive ingress measures. | Comprehensive security plan includes metal detectors, bag checks, and security personnel. Security cameras are located throughout the arena. Clear bag policy limits the size and type of bags allowed. Trained security personnel are stationed throughout the venue. |