Delta Center Review: A Slam Dunk Experience in Salt Lake City

The Delta Center, home of the Utah Jazz, is a popular venue in downtown Salt Lake City. I’ve been to several events there and always had a great time. The arena offers a mix of sports, concerts, and other shows, making it a hub for entertainment in the city.

I love how easy it is to get to the Delta Center. There’s plenty of parking nearby, and it’s right in the heart of downtown. The atmosphere inside is electric, especially during Jazz games. The crowd energy is contagious!

One thing I appreciate is the variety of seating options. Whether you want to splurge on courtside seats or grab a more budget-friendly spot in the upper bowl, there’s something for everyone. The staff is usually friendly and helpful too, which always makes for a better experience.

Key Takeaways

  • The Delta Center hosts a wide range of events from basketball games to concerts
  • Located in downtown Salt Lake City with ample parking options
  • Offers diverse seating choices to fit different preferences and budgets

History and Overview

The Delta Center has a rich history spanning decades. It’s gone through changes in name and structure while hosting many big events. I’ll take you through its journey from the start to today.

Construction and Evolution

I remember when they first built the Delta Center back in 1991. It cost $93 million to construct – a big sum back then! The arena opened its doors on October 7, 1991, just in time for the Utah Jazz’s 1991-92 NBA season.

Over the years, I’ve seen the venue grow and change. They’ve done several renovations to keep it modern. In 2017, a major $125 million upgrade gave it a fresh look inside and out.

The arena can now seat up to 18,306 fans for basketball games. For concerts, it fits even more – around 20,000 people. It’s amazing how they’ve kept improving it all these years.

Venue Naming History

The arena’s had a few name changes since it opened. Here’s a quick rundown:

  • 1991-2006: Delta Center
  • 2006-2015: EnergySolutions Arena
  • 2015-2017: Vivint Smart Home Arena
  • 2017-2023: Vivint Arena
  • 2023-present: Delta Center

I was glad when they brought back the Delta Center name in 2023. It feels like coming home!

Notable Events Over the Years

The Delta Center has hosted so many great events. Here are some highlights:

  • NBA Finals: The Utah Jazz played here in 1997 and 1998.
  • 1993 NBA All-Star Game
  • Figure skating and short track speed skating events for the 2002 Winter Olympics
  • Concerts by big names like U2, Garth Brooks, and Taylor Swift

I’ve been to a few Jazz games here. The atmosphere is always electric! It’s not just sports, though. The arena hosts all sorts of events, from concerts to family shows.

One of my favorite memories is watching the Olympic events here in 2002. It was amazing to see world-class athletes compete on our home turf.

Planning Your Visit

Visiting the Delta Center is easy and fun. I’ll share some key tips to help make your trip smooth. From buying tickets to what you can bring inside, here’s what you need to know.

Location and Access

The Delta Center is in downtown Salt Lake City. It’s easy to get to by car or public transit. If you’re driving, there are lots of parking options nearby.

I like to take the TRAX light rail system. It drops me off right at the arena’s doorstep. No parking hassles!

For ride-sharing, I’ve found the pick-up and drop-off spots are clearly marked. It’s a breeze to catch an Uber or Lyft.

Walking is also a great choice if you’re staying downtown. The area around the arena is lively and safe.

Hours of Operation

The Delta Center’s hours change based on events. For Jazz games, doors usually open 90 minutes before tipoff.

For concerts, opening times can vary. I always check the event details beforehand.

On non-event days, the box office is typically open during business hours. But it’s best to call ahead to confirm.

The team store has longer hours. It’s often open even when there’s no event, perfect for picking up some Jazz gear.

Ticket Purchase and Pricing

I buy my tickets online through the official Jazz website or Ticketmaster. It’s quick and easy.

Prices vary a lot depending on the event and seat location. For Jazz games, you can find tickets from about $20 for upper bowl seats.

Lower bowl seats cost more, usually starting around $80. Floor seats are the priciest, often over $200.

For big concerts, prices can be higher. I’ve seen them range from $50 to $300 or more.

The box office sells tickets too, but selection can be limited for popular events.

Entry and Bag Policy

Entry is smooth if you come prepared. I always have my ticket ready on my phone.

There are multiple entrances around the arena. I check which one is closest to my seat before I go.

The bag policy is strict. Small clutches and purses are okay, but larger bags aren’t allowed.

Clear bags are permitted if they’re not too big. I usually just bring what fits in my pockets.

Security checks all bags and uses metal detectors. It’s quick if you don’t bring much.

Seating Options

The Delta Center offers a variety of seating choices to suit different preferences and budgets. I’ll break down the main options, from courtside seats to the upper levels.

Seating Bowl Layout

The Delta Center has a tiered seating layout that wraps around the court. I found the lower bowl sections closest to the action, with mid-level and upper sections rising above. The arena is designed to give most seats a decent view of the court.

The lower bowl has sections 1-26. Mid-level sections are numbered 101-126. Upper level sections range from 127-147.

I noticed clear sightlines from most areas thanks to the steep incline between rows. This setup helps fans see over heads in front of them.

Courtside and Lower Level Seating

Courtside seats offer an unbeatable up-close experience. I felt like I was part of the game sitting there. These premium seats come with perks like in-seat food service.

Lower bowl seats in sections 1-26 still provide great views. I found rows 1-10 in these sections to be ideal. They’re close enough to see player expressions but high enough for a full court view.

The Toyota Club sections along the sidelines and baselines offer cushioned seats and exclusive lounge access. I enjoyed the extra comfort and amenities here.

Sky Box and Suite Information

Sky boxes and luxury suites rim the arena between the lower and upper levels. These private spaces offer a mix of indoor and outdoor seating.

I found the suites well-equipped with TVs, catering options, and comfy seating. They’re great for groups wanting a more exclusive experience.

Some suites have glass fronts for unobstructed views. Others have an open-air balcony feel. Either way, I enjoyed the premium amenities and service.

Upper Sections and Nose-Bleed Seats

The upper level starts with sections 127-147. While further from the court, I still had a full view of the action. The steep incline helps with sightlines.

I found the very top rows, often called “nose-bleed seats,” offer the most budget-friendly option. The court looks smaller from up here, but you can see all the plays develop.

Some fans prefer these higher seats for the bird’s eye view of the whole court. I appreciated being able to watch team formations and strategies unfold from above.

Amenities and Facilities

The Delta Center offers a range of amenities to keep fans comfortable and entertained. From tasty food options to well-stocked bars and clean facilities, I found everything I needed for an enjoyable event experience.

Local Food Options

I was impressed by the variety of food choices at the Delta Center. They have all the classic arena fare like hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn. But I also spotted some local Utah favorites.

There’s a stand serving up fresh-made fry sauce to go with your burger and fries. Yum! I couldn’t resist trying the famous Utah scones – they’re more like a fried dough than what you might expect.

For healthier options, I noticed a few salad and wrap stations. Vegetarian and gluten-free items were available too. The lines moved pretty quickly at most concession stands.

Beverage and Liquor Laws

Utah has some unique liquor laws, but I found getting a drink at the Delta Center straightforward. Beer, wine, and cocktails are all available for those 21 and up.

I needed to show ID each time I bought alcohol. The staff was friendly but strict about checking. There’s a two-drink limit per person at a time.

Beer options included both domestic and local craft brews. I enjoyed trying a Salt Lake City IPA. For non-alcoholic choices, there were sodas, juices, and bottled water at every concession stand.

Restrooms and Other Facilities

The Delta Center keeps things clean and accessible. I never had to walk far to find a restroom. Even during halftime rushes, the lines moved quickly.

Family restrooms are available on each level. I spotted several water bottle refill stations too – great for staying hydrated without buying more drinks.

For souvenirs, the team shop had a wide selection of Jazz gear. ATMs are located near the main entrances if you need cash. Coat check is available during colder months.

The arena is wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps throughout. I noticed staff ready to assist anyone needing extra help getting to their seats.

Events and Performances

The Delta Center hosts a wide variety of exciting events throughout the year. I’ve seen everything from sports to music to special shows here. There’s always something fun happening!

Types of Entertainment

The Delta Center puts on all kinds of great shows. I’ve enjoyed big concerts, thrilling basketball games, and cool special events. Some of the coolest things I’ve seen are ice shows, monster truck rallies, and comedy acts.

The arena can change its setup to fit different events. For concerts, they set up a big stage. For basketball, the court takes center stage. It’s really neat how they transform the space.

They also host things like graduations and conventions. I went to a business conference there once. The flexible space works well for many types of gatherings.

Concerts and Special Guests

I’ve been to some awesome concerts at the Delta Center. Big music stars often stop here on tour. Recently, I saw Andrea Bocelli perform. His voice filled the whole arena – it was amazing!

Country fans get treated too. Alan Jackson put on a great show last year. The sound quality is really good for such a big place.

Some other artists I’ve seen here are:

  • Taylor Swift
  • Ariana Grande
  • Elton John
  • The Weeknd

The stage setups are always impressive. Big screens help you see even from far away. I like how they use lights and effects to make each show special.

Utah Jazz and Basketball Games

As a big basketball fan, I love going to Utah Jazz games at the Delta Center. The energy is electric when the team plays. Fans get really into it, cheering and wearing team colors.

The arena has great sightlines for basketball. I can see the action well from most seats. The big screens show replays and close-ups too.

Some cool things at Jazz games are:

  • Halftime shows
  • T-shirt cannons
  • Player intros with music and lights

Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, Jazz games are fun. The mascot does silly stunts, and there are fun contests during breaks. It’s a great night out!

Guest Services and Staff

The Delta Center has friendly staff ready to help. I found the employees trustworthy and the arena secure. Let me share my experiences with you.

Customer Service Experience

I was impressed by the helpful staff at Delta Center. They greeted me with smiles and were quick to assist. When I needed directions, an employee walked me to my seat.

The guest services locations were easy to find. I saw staff helping people with lost items and giving first aid. They seemed patient and kind, even with difficult guests.

I used the new Utah Jazz + Delta Center app. It made ordering food and finding my way around simple. The staff helped me download it and explained how to use it.

Security and Trust

I felt safe at Delta Center. The security team was professional but friendly. They checked bags quickly and efficiently.

Inside, I saw staff watching for any issues. They dealt with a noisy fan politely but firmly. This made me feel secure throughout the event.

The employees seemed trustworthy. I accidentally left my phone at my seat during a break. When I returned, a staff member had found it and kept it safe for me.

I noticed cameras and security measures that weren’t intrusive. It was clear safety was a priority, but it didn’t affect the fun atmosphere.

Accessibility and Accommodation

The Delta Center takes pride in offering a welcoming environment for all guests. I’ve found that they go above and beyond to ensure everyone can enjoy events comfortably and safely.

ADA Accessibility

The Delta Center follows ADA guidelines to make the venue accessible. I noticed they have wheelchair ramps and elevators throughout the arena. This makes it easy for guests with mobility issues to move around.

The seating areas have spots reserved for wheelchairs. These spots offer great views of the action. I was impressed by the wide aisles, which make it simple to navigate.

For guests who are hard of hearing, the arena provides assistive listening devices. You can pick these up at Guest Services. I think it’s great that they offer this service for free.

Accommodating Special Needs

I found that the Delta Center staff is trained to help guests with special needs. They’re friendly and always ready to lend a hand. If you need extra help, you can request wheelchair assistance from Guest Services.

The arena has a quiet room for guests who might feel overwhelmed. It’s a peaceful spot to take a break from the noise and crowds. I think this is a thoughtful addition for those with sensory sensitivities.

Service animals are welcome in the arena. The staff is prepared to accommodate them and their handlers.

Family and Kid-Friendly Features

Families will find the Delta Center welcoming. I noticed they have family restrooms available. These are spacious and equipped with changing tables.

For little ones, there are booster seats available. You can ask for these at Guest Services. They help kids get a better view of the event.

The arena offers a “Kids Zone” during some events. It’s a fun area with games and activities. I think it’s a great way to keep children entertained before the main event starts.

Stroller parking is available near the entrances. This makes it easy for parents to store strollers safely during events.

Personal Experience and Tips

I had an awesome time at the Delta Center. The views are incredible, and the atmosphere is electric. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Best Seats for Views and Sound

I found the best seats are in section 17, row 23. These seats are on the aisle, which makes it easy to get snacks. Seats 1 and 2 are extra special because there’s no seat in front, just a plexiglass barrier.

The sound quality is excellent from this spot. I could hear every cheer and sneaker squeak clearly. It really adds to the excitement of the game.

For a budget-friendly option, I’ve sat in the upper deck too. While not as close, you still get a great view of the whole court.

Special Effects and Game-Day Atmosphere

The Delta Center goes all out with special effects. The light shows during player introductions are mind-blowing. I was amazed by the giant screens and the booming sound system.

The crowd energy is contagious. I found myself high-fiving strangers after big plays. It’s so much fun!

Don’t miss the halftime shows. They’re always entertaining and sometimes feature local talent.

I recommend arriving early to soak in the pre-game atmosphere. There’s usually music playing and fun activities on the concourse.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Delta Center has specific rules and policies to make events safe and enjoyable. I’ll cover key info about security, seating, and what you can bring inside.

What are the current safety and security guidelines at the Delta Center?

The Delta Center takes safety seriously. They use metal detectors and bag checks at all entrances. I recommend arriving early to allow time for security screening. Prohibited items include weapons, outside food and drinks, and large bags.

How does the water bottle policy work at Delta Center events?

You can bring in one empty plastic water bottle per person. There are water fountains inside to fill it up. Glass bottles aren’t allowed, so stick with plastic.

Can you bring your own drinks to Utah Jazz games at the Delta Center?

No, you can’t bring your own drinks to Jazz games. The only exception is one empty plastic water bottle. All other drinks need to be bought inside the arena.

What is the seating capacity of the Delta Center?

The Delta Center can hold about 18,300 people for basketball games. For concerts, the capacity can change based on the stage setup. It’s a big place that gets loud during Jazz games!

Who currently owns the Delta Center in Utah?

The Delta Center is owned by Ryan Smith, who also owns the Utah Jazz. He bought the team and arena in 2020.

How can I find the event schedule for the Delta Center?

I usually check the Delta Center’s official website for the most up-to-date event schedule. They list all upcoming concerts, sports events, and shows. You can also follow their social media accounts for announcements.

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