With this NHL season imploding, the farm team is starting to look pretty good. Hopefully several of you will make the trip north to see the Albany Devils in action. It occurred to me you could use a few pointers to make your trip the more enjoyable, so here are some personal suggestions:

Directions: Coming from the south, take the NYS Thruway to exit 23 (not exit 24), get on 787 North (just go straight ahead). Travel approximately four miles, take exit 3 "Empire State Plaza", (not sure but I don't think you actually see a sign for the Times-Union Center). You'll cross over 787 and see the T-U Center on your right (but you can't get there from here). Go under the Empire State Plaza and take an (and I mean), an immediate right. This little street brings you up to a traffic light, turn right on to State Street. You can park almost anywhere on State Street for free after six pm! State Street goes all the way down to South Pearl St. which is where the rink is located. It is a five to ten minute walk depending on how far down you park on State. If you prefer the T-U covered parking garage you can go up S. Pearl and turn right just past the T-U, which take you to the garage. I think they are charging something like six bucks this year.

Where to eat: If you like Mexican, I would suggest El Mariachi at 144 Washington Ave. $$ (518-465-2568) If you had parked on State Street near the Capital Builidng it is a five minute walk up the hill, 10+ minutes back to the T-U.

Where to sit: Don't expect a big crowd, 4,000 is usually a pretty good night. The upper deck sections are seldom used so expect good seats. In fact, there are no bad seats however some are better than others. Personally, I would suggest section 119. This allows you to sit on the Blue line which the Devils attack twice. It also gives you a good view of our players coming off the bench, If you want to be above the glass entirely, sit in row "N" or higher. Single game prices as of now are $22.00A / $16.00C. If you want ice level anywhere in the building look for $25.00A / $20.00C. You can walk up to the T- U Box office on the outside Ground level and likely get decent seats.

I hope you find these suggestions helpful. Keep in mind the most popular opponet up here are the Adirondack Phantoms who come here several time each year. Seats are in more demand for those games. A good alternative might be when the Whale comes to town. Especially, if the Rangers have sent up some of their players.