Crypto.com Arena is a top-notch venue in downtown Los Angeles. I’ve been to many events there, and it never fails to impress. The arena hosts basketball games, concerts, and other exciting shows.
The arena offers great views from most seats, especially in the lower bowl sections. I found the lower rows of the 100 Level seats give a perfect mix of being close to the action while still having a good overall view.
The atmosphere at Crypto.com Arena is electric. Whether you’re watching the Lakers play or enjoying a concert, the energy is always high. I love how easy it is to get food and drinks, with lots of options to choose from.
Key Takeaways
- Crypto.com Arena offers amazing views and a lively atmosphere for various events
- The venue is easy to access in downtown LA with plenty of amenities
- Tickets can be pricey, but the experience is often worth the cost
Crypto.com Arena Overview
Crypto.com Arena is a massive venue in downtown Los Angeles. It hosts big games and concerts. I’ll tell you about its history and seating options.
History and Renaming
I remember when this arena first opened as Staples Center in 1999. It quickly became a landmark in LA. The arena has seen many championship games and concerts over the years.
In 2021, it got a new name: Crypto.com Arena. This was a big deal! The cryptocurrency company paid a lot of money for the naming rights.
Some fans weren’t happy about the change. They’d gotten used to calling it Staples Center. But the new name is catching on now.
Seating and Capacity
I’ve been to events here, and the seating is pretty good overall. The arena can hold about 20,000 people for basketball games. For concerts, it fits even more.
There are different seating areas:
- Floor seats (closest to the action)
- Lower bowl
- Upper levels
The lower bowl seats are a good mix of view and price. But if you want to splurge, floor seats are amazing for concerts or games.
The arena has luxury suites too. These are fancy and give you a great view.
For big concerts, there’s often a General Admission area on the floor. It’s standing room only, but you can get close to the stage.
Event Experience
Going to an event at Crypto.com Arena is always exciting. I’ve had some amazing experiences there, from watching NBA games to rocking out at concerts. Here’s what I’ve learned about making the most of your visit.
Types of Events
The arena hosts a variety of events. I’ve seen Lakers and Clippers games, which are always a thrill. The energy during NBA matchups is electric. Hockey fans can catch Kings games too.
But it’s not just sports. I’ve been to some incredible concerts here. The sound system is top-notch, and even big-name artists sound great.
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There are also special events like awards shows and family entertainment. No matter what you’re into, there’s probably an event for you at Crypto.com Arena.
Seating Tips
Choosing the right seat can make or break your experience. I’ve sat in various sections, and here’s what I’ve found:
- Premier seats offer a luxurious experience with great views.
- For basketball, I love seats in the 100 level, especially sections 108 and 119.
- Hockey fans might prefer the ends of the rink for the best view of the action.
- The 300 level is budget-friendly and still offers decent views.
If you’re going to a concert, try to get seats facing the stage directly. Side views can sometimes be obstructed.
View from the Seats
I’ve had some great views from different parts of the arena. Here’s my take:
Premier levels like Premier 1, 2, 5, and 17 offer fantastic sightlines. You’re close enough to see players’ expressions during games.
In the 200 level, I’ve had good experiences in Section 207. It’s a nice balance of view and price.
Even in the 300 level, like Section 301, I could still follow the action clearly. The arena’s design ensures most seats have decent views.
For concerts, I’ve found Section 112 to be a sweet spot. You’re close to the stage without being right up front.
Amenities and Facilities
Crypto.com Arena offers a wide range of amenities to enhance the fan experience. I’ve found the food options, accessibility features, and premium seating to be top-notch. Let me break it down for you.
Food and Drink Options
The arena’s food and drink options are impressive. I love the variety – there’s something for every taste. You’ll find classic arena snacks like hot dogs and popcorn, but also gourmet meals.
Some of my favorites include:
- Local LA food trucks
- Craft beer stations
- Healthy options like salads and smoothies
The bars are great too. I’ve enjoyed grabbing a drink before the game starts. Happy hour deals are sometimes available, so keep an eye out for those.
Comfort and Accessibility
Comfort is a priority at Crypto.com Arena. The seats are padded and provide good legroom. I appreciate the cup holders – it’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
Accessibility features are well-thought-out:
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Assisted listening devices
- Service animal relief areas
Families with kids will find changing tables in restrooms. The arena is stroller-friendly too.
VIP and Premium Offerings
For those looking for a luxury experience, the VIP and premium offerings are impressive. I’ve had the chance to check out some of these areas, and they’re truly special.
Premium seating options include:
- Private suites with catering
- Club seats with access to exclusive lounges
- Premier seating with the best views
VIP sections often come with a private entrance, which is great for avoiding crowds. The suites I’ve seen are spacious and offer top-notch service.
Tickets and Pricing
Buying tickets for events at Crypto.com Arena can be tricky. I’ve learned some tips to help you get good seats without breaking the bank. Let’s look at how to buy tickets and which sections offer the best value.
Ticket Purchasing
I always start by checking the official Crypto.com Arena website for tickets. They often have presales for members. If I can’t find what I want there, I try trusted resale sites.
For concerts, I’ve noticed ticket prices vary a lot. Some shows sell out fast, so I set price alerts. I also look for last-minute deals if I’m flexible.
Sports tickets are usually easier to get. I can often find good deals for weeknight games. For big games, I buy early to avoid high resale prices.
Best Value Sections
In my experience, the best mix of view and price is in the lower 100 Level sections. Section 112 is great for basketball – it’s behind the basket but not too far up.
For concerts, I like the 300 Level seats. They’re cheaper, but I can still see well. The sound is good too. If I want to be closer, I look for side stage seats in the 100 Level.
General Admission seats can be fun for some concerts. I get there early to grab a good spot. For sports, I avoid the very top rows – it’s hard to see details from up there.
Plan Your Visit
Visiting Crypto.com Arena is easy and fun. I’ll share some tips to help you get there and enjoy the area.
Arrival and Parking
I found parking near Crypto.com Arena to be pretty simple. There are lots of options for solo visitors, couples, and families. I like to park in the West Garage – it’s right next to the arena. If you’re on a budget, try the lots a few blocks away. They’re cheaper but require a short walk.
Public transit is great too. I’ve taken the Metro and it drops you off super close. The Pico station is just steps from the arena entrance.
Remember to arrive early, especially for big events. I aim to get there at least an hour before showtime. This gives me time to get through security and find my seat without rushing.
Surrounding Area
Downtown Los Angeles around Crypto.com Arena is bustling and fun. I love exploring before or after events. There are tons of great restaurants and bars within walking distance.
L.A. Live is right across the street. It’s perfect for a pre-game meal or post-show drinks. I’ve enjoyed tasty burgers at Yard House and amazing sushi at Katsuya.
For families, the Grammy Museum is nearby. It’s a cool spot to check out music history. If you have extra time, the Staples Center also offers tours. They’re fascinating and give you a behind-the-scenes look.
Just be aware of the area’s busy nature. Streets can get crowded on event days. I always keep an eye on my belongings and stay alert, especially at night.
Audience Reviews and Impressions
Fans have a lot to say about Crypto.com Arena. I’ve gathered some thoughts from people who’ve been there. Let’s look at what they liked and didn’t like.
Fan Sentiments
Many sports fans love Crypto.com Arena. They say it’s a great place to watch the LA Lakers, Clippers, and Kings play. I’ve seen lots of 5-star reviews praising the arena’s atmosphere. Fans often mention the cool lighting and great sound system.
But not everyone is happy. Some folks think the food is too expensive. Others complain about long lines for bathrooms during big events.
Parking can be a headache too. I’ve heard from many fans who wish it was easier to find a spot.
Personal Experience Sharing
I went to a concert at Crypto.com Arena last month. The views from the lower bowl were awesome. I could see the whole stage clearly. The sound was crisp and clear too.
The staff was super friendly. They helped me find my seat quickly.
One thing I didn’t like was how crowded it got during breaks. It was hard to move around.
But overall, I had a blast. The energy in the arena was electric. I’d definitely go back for another event.
Community and Business
The Crypto.com Arena plays a big role in LA’s business world. It helps local shops and hosts big corporate events. I’ve seen how it brings people together and boosts the economy.
Local Business Support
I love how the arena helps nearby restaurants and shops. On game nights, the LA foodie scene comes alive. Fans fill up local eateries before and after events. Small businesses get a boost from the crowds.
The arena also works with local vendors. They sell their goods inside during events. It’s great to see LA flavors represented. Food trucks often set up nearby too. It creates a fun vibe and supports local entrepreneurs.
Corporate Events
I’m impressed by how the arena hosts big business events. Companies rent out spaces for meetings and parties. The private entrance is perfect for VIP guests.
The suites are great for networking. I’ve been to a few corporate events there. It’s cool to mix business with sports or concerts. The arena staff really knows how to handle these events. They make sure everything runs smoothly.
Some companies even use the main floor for product launches. It’s a unique way to get attention. The big screens and sound system make for awesome presentations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s tackle some common questions about Crypto.com Arena. I’ll cover seating, game experiences, special events, concerts, amenities, and how it stacks up to its predecessor.
How many seats are available at the Crypto.com Arena?
Crypto.com Arena can seat up to 20,000 people for basketball games. For concerts, the capacity can vary. It depends on the stage setup and if they use the floor for extra seating.
What is the experience like at a Lakers game at the Crypto.com Arena?
A Lakers game at Crypto.com Arena is electric. The crowd’s energy is contagious. I love watching the famous players up close from the lower bowl seats.
The giant screens show cool replays. You might even spot some celebrities courtside.
Are there any signature events I should look out for at Crypto.com Arena?
The Grammy Awards are a big deal here. It’s amazing to see music’s biggest stars gather in one place.
The NBA All-Star Game has been held here too. It’s a showcase of basketball’s best talent.
Is the Crypto.com Arena considered a good venue for concerts?
Yes, I think Crypto.com Arena is great for concerts. The sound system is top-notch. The stage setups can be really impressive.
I’ve seen both huge pop stars and rock bands perform here. The atmosphere is always buzzing.
What amenities can visitors expect when attending an event at the Crypto.com Arena?
There are lots of food options. You can get everything from hot dogs to fancy meals.
Guest Services offers wheelchair escorts if needed. They’re really helpful.
The arena has good Wi-Fi. It’s handy for posting pics or checking stats during games.
How does the Crypto.com Arena compare to the Staples Center in terms of experience?
The change from Staples Center to Crypto.com Arena was mostly in name. The building is the same.
I think they’ve added some new tech features. But the overall feel and layout are familiar to long-time visitors.