America First Center (Formerly Lifeguard Arena)

The Complete Tournament Parents Guide – Henderson, Nevada

America First Center is one of the premier youth hockey facilities in North America. Opened in 2020, the 120,000-square-foot complex serves as the official practice facility of the Henderson Silver Knights (AHL affiliate of the Vegas Golden Knights) while operating as a major community hockey venue for tournaments, leagues, public skating, and figure skating. It features two NHL-sized ice sheets, modern amenities, meeting space, and a professional hockey atmosphere.

Arena Information

Address
222 S. Water Street
Henderson, Nevada 89015

Telephone
725-201-3032

Main Intersections

• Water Street & Atlantic Avenue
• Water Street & Lake Mead Parkway
• Minutes from Interstate 215
• Approximately 15–20 minutes from Harry Reid International Airport (depending on traffic)

The arena is located in Henderson’s revitalized Water Street District, making it one of the most walkable tournament locations in the Las Vegas Valley.

Inside America First Center

Families can expect:

• Two NHL regulation-size ice rinks
• Elevated spectator viewing
• Large lobby
• Modern locker rooms
• Meeting rooms
• Team gathering areas
• Skate rental
• Learn-to-Skate programs
• Figure skating
• Youth hockey leagues
• Adult leagues
• Public skating
• Tournament operations
• Excellent climate control
• Clean washrooms
• Accessible entrances
• Elevator access
• Free Wi-Fi throughout much of the building

Home of the Henderson Silver Knights

The facility serves as:

• Official Henderson Silver Knights practice facility
• Vegas Jr. Golden Knights programs
• Learn to Skate
• Learn to Play Hockey
• Figure Skating
• Adult Hockey
• Stick & Puck
• Public Skating
• Youth Tournaments

Team Store

The Livery

Official merchandise includes:

• Henderson Silver Knights jerseys
• Vegas Golden Knights apparel
• Hats
• Hoodies
• T-shirts
• Souvenirs
• Pucks
• Mini sticks
• Collectibles
• Gifts

Phone:
725-201-3004

Restaurant & Café

The arena includes a full-service restaurant overlooking the ice and Water Street, along with café-style food and beverages. Offerings typically include:

• Fresh coffee
• Espresso drinks
• Hot chocolate
• Breakfast sandwiches
• Pizza
• Burgers
• Chicken fingers
• Fries
• Pretzels
• Nachos
• Soft drinks
• Snacks

Menus and operating hours vary according to the skating and event schedule.

Parking

One of the biggest advantages of America First Center is its parking.

Arena Lot

• Free parking
• Convenient front entrance
• ADA parking

Public Parking Garage

• Large free municipal parking garage directly across the street
• Frequently used during tournaments when the main lot fills up

Walking Distance

One of the arena’s biggest strengths is that you can walk to numerous restaurants and businesses along Water Street.

Within a few minutes:

• Coffee shops,
• Ice cream,
• Pizza,
• Mexican,
• Burgers,
• Breakfast restaurants,
• Breweries (adults),
• Family restaurants,
• Local boutiques,

This creates an excellent tournament experience because families can leave the arena without driving.

Tournament Tips

Arrive Early

• Parking is generally easy.
• Allow extra time during large tournaments.

Bring Layers

Although Henderson can exceed 100°F (38°C) outside, the rinks are kept cold.

Visit the Team Store

It offers one of the best selections of Henderson Silver Knights merchandise in the valley.

Explore Water Street

Water Street has become one of the nicest downtown districts in Southern Nevada and is worth exploring between games.

Facility Highlights

Stay in the City™ Recommendation

America First Center is one of the strongest arenas for the Stay in the City™ concept because families can combine hockey with Henderson’s walkable downtown. Between games, they can enjoy cafés, restaurants, parks, local shopping, and community events without traveling to the Las Vegas Strip. It aligns well with the program’s objective of turning a required hockey trip into a memorable family experience.