I recently visited the Footprint Center in Phoenix and wanted to share my experience. This arena hosts a variety of events, from sports games to concerts. The Footprint Center offers a mix of good and not-so-great features, depending on where you sit and what event you attend.
I found the entry process smooth, but seating comfort varied. Some spots had great views, while others felt cramped or had obstructed sightlines. The sound quality also differed across the arena. During a recent concert, I noticed some areas had muffled sound.
On the plus side, the center has plenty of food options and clean facilities. I enjoyed exploring the arena and found the staff helpful. If you’re planning a visit, I recommend checking out seat reviews beforehand to pick the best spot for your event.
Key Takeaways
- The Footprint Center hosts diverse events with varying experiences based on seating location
- Sound quality and views can differ significantly depending on where you sit
- Checking seat reviews and arriving early can improve your visit to the arena
Overview of Footprint Center
I recently visited the Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix and was impressed by this modern arena. It’s a great spot for both sports events and concerts.
The building has a beautiful, welcoming entrance. When I walked in, I saw a well-stocked bar and a team store right away. The design is sleek and up-to-date.
I found the arena easy to navigate. The staff were friendly and helped me find my seat quickly. The seats were comfy, and I had a good view of the action.
Food and drink options were plentiful. I tried a few snacks and was happy with the quality. Prices were what you’d expect at an arena.
The sound system was top-notch for the concert I attended. Every note came through crystal clear. For sports fans, there are big screens to catch all the game details.
Formerly known as US Airways Center, this venue has kept up with the times. It’s a key part of downtown Phoenix’s entertainment scene.
Parking was easy to find nearby. I also noticed it was close to public transport, which is handy for big events.
Events and Attractions
The Footprint Center hosts a variety of exciting events year-round. From thrilling basketball games to amazing concerts, there’s always something fun happening here.
Phoenix Suns Games
As a huge Suns fan, I love watching games at the Footprint Center. The energy is electric when the Phoenix Suns take the court. The arena seats over 18,000 people, but it feels intimate.
I’ve seen some incredible moments here. The crowd goes wild for clutch shots and amazing dunks. Even if you’re not a big basketball fan, the entertainment and atmosphere are worth experiencing.
The sound system and giant screens make you feel part of the action. There are also fun activities and giveaways during timeouts. I always have a blast cheering on the Suns with fellow fans.
Concerts and Performances
The Footprint Center isn’t just for sports. I’ve seen some amazing concerts here too. The acoustics are great, and there isn’t a bad seat in the house.
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Big names like Rod Stewart have played here. The arena transforms for music events, with impressive lighting and sound setups. I love how versatile the space is.
Summer is an especially busy time for concerts. I’ve been to shows that were a complete sellout. The atmosphere is always electric, whether it’s a pop star or rock band performing.
Special Events
Besides games and concerts, the Footprint Center hosts all sorts of unique events. I’ve been to comedy shows, family-friendly performances, and even a circus here.
During the holidays, there are often seasonal events. I once attended a great New Year’s Eve party at the arena. It’s also used for conventions and expos sometimes.
The staff always does a great job setting up for different types of events. I’m always excited to see what new and interesting things will be coming to the Footprint Center next.
Seating and Views
The Footprint Center offers many seating choices. I found some sections have better views than others. Let’s look at the options and what you can expect to see from different areas.
Seating Options
The arena has lots of seats to pick from. I noticed comfy floor seating for concerts. The lower bowl has great views. I liked the Dos Equis Beer Garden in rows 6-15 of some sections.
For basketball games, I’d go for rows 1-6 in the lower level. They’re part of special club areas. The upper deck isn’t bad either. I found decent views even from high up.
There are also two levels of suites. These give a nice mix of comfort and good sightlines.
Views from Different Sections
I checked out views from all over. Center court seats in sections 203 and 219 are great for basketball. You can see both sides of the court well.
Some spots have issues. I noticed seats by exits can be noisy with people walking by. A few seats have walls partly blocking the view.
For concerts, I liked the floor seats. You’re close to the action. But upper levels work too. I could see both stages clearly from side seats up high.
Legroom varies. I found some seats feel cramped, with cup holders too close to the people in front.
Ticketing and Entry
Getting into Footprint Center is easy and quick. I’ll share what you need to know about buying tickets and entering the arena smoothly.
Purchasing Tickets
I found that buying tickets for Footprint Center events is simple. The arena uses digital tickets now. I just download the Ticketmaster or Suns app on my phone.
This makes it easy to get my tickets and enter. No more paper to keep track of!
I like that I can often find good deals, especially for weeknight games. It’s worth checking a few different sites to compare prices.
Entry and Security Policies
When I arrive at Footprint Center, I head to the main Pavilion Entrance. The doors usually open 90 minutes before the event starts.
Security checks are quick but thorough. I make sure not to bring any banned items. A sealed water bottle is okay to bring in.
I always have my phone ready with my digital ticket pulled up. This helps the line move faster.
The staff is friendly and helpful if I have any questions. Once inside, I’m ready to enjoy the game or show!
Amenities and Facilities
Footprint Center offers a range of great amenities to make my visit comfortable and fun. I found plenty of food choices, clean bathrooms, and easy parking options.
Food and Beverage Options
I love the variety of food at Footprint Center. There are lots of tasty options to satisfy any craving. I can grab a quick hot dog or pizza, or try something fancier from local restaurants.
The arena has over 30 concession stands, so lines move fast. My favorites are the nachos and the ice cream sundaes.
For drinks, I have many choices. There are several bars serving beer, wine, and cocktails. I also like the soda fountains and fresh lemonade stands.
Restrooms and Accessibility
I never have to wait long for a bathroom at Footprint Center. There are plenty of restrooms on every level. They’re always clean and well-stocked.
The arena is very accessible too. I’ve seen wheelchair ramps and elevators throughout. There are also special seating areas for fans with disabilities.
Staff members are always around to help if I need directions or assistance. They’re friendly and quick to lend a hand.
Parking and Transportation
Getting to Footprint Center is easy. I usually drive and park in one of the nearby garages or lots. Prices are reasonable, and I can often find spots close to the entrance.
If I don’t want to drive, I have other options. The light rail stops right by the arena. There are also plenty of rideshare pickup spots.
For big events, I’ve seen the arena offer shuttle services from remote lots. This helps avoid traffic jams around the venue.
Fan Experience
I had an awesome time at the Footprint Center! The crowd’s energy was electric, and the staff made me feel welcome. Let me tell you about my visit.
Atmosphere During Events
The arena was buzzing with excitement. I felt the energy as soon as I walked in. The modern design and well-stocked bars caught my eye right away.
During the game, the crowd stayed involved. We cheered, clapped, and stomped our feet. The game announcer kept us pumped up. Their voice boomed through the arena, adding to the fun.
The sound system was great. I could hear everything clearly. The mix of music and crowd noise created a lively vibe.
Services and Staff
I was impressed by how friendly the employees were. They greeted me with smiles and helped me find my way around.
Getting in was a breeze. I scanned my own ticket and went through security quickly. No long waits here!
The staff kept the arena clean and tidy. They were always ready to help if I needed anything.
Food options were good, but a bit pricey. Still, I enjoyed my snacks while watching the game. The short lines at concession stands meant I didn’t miss much action.
Accessibility and Comfort
I found the Footprint Center to be pretty welcoming for all fans. They’ve made some nice updates to make sure everyone can enjoy events comfortably.
Special Accommodations
I was impressed by the accessibility options at Footprint Center. They have wheelchair spaces with great views in different sections. I noticed companion seats next to the wheelchair spots too.
The staff seemed well-trained to help fans with disabilities. I saw them assisting people to their seats and explaining amenities.
For hearing-impaired guests, there are assistive listening devices available. I think it’s cool they offer sign language interpreters if you request one in advance.
Comfort and Cleanliness
The seats at Footprint Center felt comfy to me, even for longer events. I had enough legroom in my section. The cupholders were a nice touch.
I found the arena to be really clean. The bathrooms were well-maintained when I visited. There were plenty of them too, so lines moved quickly.
The temperature was just right – not too hot or cold. The air felt fresh, which I appreciated in a big indoor space.
For extra comfort, I checked out the club seats and premium areas. They looked super plush with more space and amenities. If you want to splurge, those could be worth it for a special night out.
Additional Information
The Footprint Center has rules about cameras and sells cool stuff to remember your visit. Let me fill you in on what you need to know before going.
Camera Policy
I found out that the Footprint Center lets you bring cameras, but there are some rules. You can take photos with your phone or a small point-and-shoot camera. I was happy to snap pics of the game and my friends.
Big cameras with detachable lenses aren’t allowed, though. I saw security turn away a few people with those. If you want to use a bigger camera, you might need special permission.
Flash photography is a no-go during games and events. It can distract players and performers. I stuck to non-flash pics and they turned out great!
Souvenirs and Merchandise
The Footprint Center has awesome stuff to buy. I saw lots of Phoenix Suns gear – jerseys, hats, and t-shirts were popular. There were also cool collectibles like signed basketballs and posters.
I picked up a Suns hat as a souvenir. The prices were a bit high, but that’s normal for arena merch. The quality was good, though.
There are shops all around the arena. I found the biggest one near the main entrance. It got crowded before the game and during halftime, so I’d suggest shopping early if you can.
Visitor Feedback
I’ve looked at what people are saying about Footprint Center. Fans have shared their thoughts on different platforms. Let’s check out some of their comments.
TripAdvisor Reviews
I found lots of reviews on TripAdvisor about Footprint Center. Many folks seem happy with their visits. They like the arena’s layout and how easy it is to get around.
One TripAdvisor member said the seats were comfy and had good views. Another praised the food options, saying there’s something for everyone.
Some people mentioned long lines at concessions. A few also thought parking was a bit pricey. But most agreed the staff was friendly and helpful.
Social Media Comments
I’ve seen lots of buzz about Footprint Center on social media too. Fans often post pictures of the cool atmosphere during games and concerts.
Many tweets talk about the great sound system for music events. Instagram posts show off the arena’s modern look and big screens.
Some Facebook comments mention how clean the place is. A few people have complained about crowded bathrooms during big events.
Overall, social media seems to paint a pretty positive picture of Footprint Center. Folks seem excited to share their experiences there.
Tips for Attendees
Going to an event at Footprint Center can be fun and exciting. Here are some helpful tips to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.
Preparation for the Event
Before heading to Footprint Center, I recommend checking the event start time. Doors usually open 90 minutes before games. I always arrive early to avoid long lines.
It’s a good idea to review the bag policy. Only small bags (14″ x 14″ x 6″) are allowed. I prefer bringing a clear bag to speed up security checks.
Dress is casual, so I wear comfy clothes and shoes. The arena can get chilly, so I bring a light jacket too.
For parking, I like to book a spot online ahead of time. It saves money and stress. There are also nearby public transit options if you want to skip driving.
During the Event
Once inside, I head straight to my seat to get settled. The seat locator app is super helpful for finding my spot quickly.
I always grab a venue map at the entrance. It helps me find food stands, restrooms, and exits easily.
If I’m bringing kids, I make sure to point out security staff locations in case we get separated.
For the best experience, I put my phone on silent and try to be respectful of others around me. The energy of live events is amazing when everyone’s engaged!
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve got answers to some common questions about attending events at Footprint Center. From finding your seat to parking options, here’s what you need to know for a great experience.
What’s the best way to find my seat at the Footprint Center?
When I visit, I always check my ticket before entering. It shows my section, row, and seat number. I look for signs and ask ushers if I need help. They’re friendly and point me in the right direction.
Is there a designated time to arrive before events at Footprint Center to avoid long lines?
I try to arrive about an hour early for big events. This gives me time to park, get through security, and find my seat without rushing. Lines are usually shorter then, and I can relax before the show starts.
Can you tell me who is responsible for the operation of Footprint Center?
The Phoenix Suns operate Footprint Center. They manage events and keep the arena running smoothly. I’m always impressed by how well-organized everything is.
Should I bring a jacket when attending events at the Footprint Center?
I usually bring a light jacket. The arena can get chilly with the air conditioning. It’s better to have one and not need it than to be cold during the event.
What is the maximum capacity for concerts or sports events at Footprint Center?
The exact capacity changes based on the event setup. For basketball games, I’ve seen it hold around 18,000 fans. Concerts might have different layouts, but it’s always a big crowd.
Are there any recommended parking options when visiting the Footprint Center?
I prefer the parking garages near the arena. They’re convenient but can fill up fast. Sometimes I use street parking or nearby lots. It’s smart to check the Footprint Center website for parking info before heading out.
