The 2026–27 NHL schedule is expected to land in mid-July, and for UK fans, that is the moment hockey trip planning really begins.
Once the fixtures are released, the best weekends, rivalry games and multi-city routes start to take shape quickly. Flights, hotels and premium ticket options can also move fast, especially around big-market teams, weekend games and special events.
This season is also set to feel a little different, with the NHL moving to an 84-game regular season from 2026–27. That means even more hockey, more fixture combinations and more chances to build a dream North American sports trip around the team, city or arena you have always wanted to visit.
Why the NHL Schedule Release Matters for UK Fans
Once the schedule drops, things move quickly—especially for fans travelling from overseas. Here’s why it pays to act fast:
- Tickets for top games go fast, particularly for rivalry matchups or popular teams.
- Flight prices start rising as demand kicks in.
- Hotels near arenas fill up early, especially for weekend games and big events.
- Premium seats (like glass-side or VIP hospitality) are often limited.
If you’re planning a North American hockey trip, schedule release week is your signal to start locking things in.
NHL Travel Ideas for the 2026–27 Season
Not sure where to go or how to fit hockey into your travel plans? Here are some popular trip ideas for UK fans:
City Breaks with a Hockey Twist
Combine sightseeing with a night at the rink:
- New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden
- Toronto Maple Leafs in Canada’s hockey heartland
- Montreal Canadiens in a city full of culture and history
Multi-City Hockey Tours
Fancy seeing more than one team? Plan a longer break and catch three or four games in:
- The US Northeast (Boston, New York, Philadelphia)
- Western Canada (Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton)
Add a Game to Your Holiday
Already heading to the US or Canada for another reason? Why not add a game?
- Florida Panthers or Tampa Bay Lightning while enjoying the sun
- LA Kings or Anaheim Ducks during a West Coast adventure
One team certainly worth seeing is the Florida Panthers, who recently made history by winning the Stanley Cup. They secured the title in style with a dominant 5-1 victory in the final, capping off a season to remember. If you’re in the Sunshine State, catching the reigning champions live could be the highlight of your trip.
Go Big: Special Events
- Winter Classic: Outdoor spectacle with a festive vibe
- All-Star Weekend: The NHL’s version of a party with all the top players
How MVP Travel Makes It Easy
We specialise in North American sports travel, and hockey is one of our biggest passions. Here’s what you get when you book with us:
- ATOL protected for peace of mind
- Flexible payment options to suit your budget
- Custom itineraries tailored to your team, city, or dates
- Access to premium tickets, including glass seats and VIP options
- Expert knowledge from people who love the sport as much as you do
We’ll take care of everything from flights and hotels to game tickets and even bar recommendations near the arena.
Be First to Know When the NHL Schedule Drops
Want to be one of the first fans to get your hands on the 2025–26 NHL schedule?
Fill out our short interest form, and we’ll send you the schedule as soon as it’s released. We’ll help you choose the best games, plan your itinerary, and book your ultimate hockey getaway.
Make this the year you finally see the NHL live. We’ll help you do it right.
