Ursula Tennis, Meridian Ave, San Jose, CA 95126, US

Nicknamed the "Shark Tank" as the home of the National Hockey League's San Jose Sharks, the SAP Center is an indoor arena located just outside of downtown San Jose that plays host to a wide range of sporting events, concerts, and other shows.SAP Center ParkingThere are a plethora of parking lots in the immediate area, so you really don't have to try too hard to find a good spot. The large parking lot right next to the building charges $10-$25 depending on the event, and is your best bet if you don't arrive too late, but you won't have to travel far to find a spot elsewhere if it's full. Sharks season ticket holders may purchase prepaid parking passes before the season.Hotels near the SAP CenterThe Fairmont San Jose and The Hotel De Anza are highly-rated luxury hotels located in downtown. Both draw rave reviews, but tend to be on the pricier side. If you're looking for cheaper options, the Arena Hotel and the Motel 6 San Jose Convention Center should suit your needs.Seating at the SAP CenterMost Sharks fans and Bay Area concertgoers seem to agree that you have to try really hard to find a bad seat at the SAP Center. Even when sitting in the upper levels you'll feel like you're right on top of the action, making it ideal for frugal families.Food at the SAP CenterYou'll find your standard arena fare at the SAP Center (hot dogs, burgers, pizza) as well as some tasty local options. Pasta Pomodoro has authentic Italian dishes while the famous Gordon Biersch brewery has a stand that sells garlic fries, one of the most popular food items in the Bay Area sports scene.Beer at the SAP CenterThe beer selection ranges from the regular domestic and imports (Coors Light, Corona, etc.) to craft beers such as Fat Tire, Lagunitas, and Union Jack IPA. Beer prices start at $9 and vary depending on size and brand.Parking alternatives at the SAP CenterThe SAP Center at San Jose is located right across the street from San Jose Diridon Station and is served by Caltrain and bus, with a light rail station also nearby.What to bring to the SAP CenterBe sure to bring a sweater or other warm clothing if you're going to a hockey game. You can bring in your own food if you want, but according to the guidelines on the SAP Center website they reserve the right to limit this to a "reasonable amount."Insider tip for the SAP CenterHead to the parking garage on San Pedro if you want to save some money on parking for a Sharks game. Parking in the arena lot costs $20, but the parking garage on San Pedro is just $7.Author's bio: Dennis Biles is a freelance journalist who was born and raised in the Bay Area. When he's not writing he can often be found losing his mind at Oakland A's games in the Right Field Bleachers.

Stan Kolosa

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