Wells Fargo Center Review: A Cozy Night Out in Philly

The Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia is a top sports and entertainment venue. I’ve been to many events there over the years. It’s home to the 76ers and Flyers teams. The arena also hosts big concerts and shows.

The Wells Fargo Center can hold over 20,000 fans and has great views from most seats. I like how the seats are set up. Even in the upper levels, I feel close to the action. The big screens help too. They show replays and stats during games.

Fans often say the crowds are fun and lively. I agree. The energy at Flyers games is amazing. But 76ers games and concerts are just as exciting. There’s always a buzz in the air, no matter the event.

Key Takeaways

  • The Wells Fargo Center hosts pro sports, concerts, and other big events
  • Most seats offer good views of the action
  • The atmosphere is exciting with energetic crowds at games and shows

Overview of Wells Fargo Center

I’ve been to Wells Fargo Center many times. It’s a big arena in Philly that hosts lots of cool events. Let me tell you about its history and how to get there.

History and Significance

Wells Fargo Center opened in 1996. I remember when it was called CoreStates Center! The arena has had a few name changes over the years. It’s home to the Flyers hockey team and 76ers basketball team. I love watching games there.

The center holds about 20,000 people for most events. It’s hosted some big moments in Philly sports history. I’ve seen concerts, family shows, and other events there too. The arena has different layouts for each type of event.

They’ve made upgrades to keep it modern. New screens and better food options make the experience even better now.

Location and Transportation

I find Wells Fargo Center easy to get to. It’s in South Philadelphia, right off I-95. The sports complex area has other stadiums nearby too.

Driving is an option, but parking can be tricky for big events. I usually take public transit. The Broad Street Line subway goes right there – the stop is “NRG Station”.

There are also buses that stop at the arena. For out-of-towners, it’s about a 15-minute drive from Center City or the airport.

The arena’s central location makes it a great spot for events. I can grab a cheesesteak before or after too!

Attending Events

The Wells Fargo Center hosts a variety of events year-round. I’ll cover the different types of events you can enjoy, how to get tickets, and where to find the best seats for a great experience.

Types of Events

I’ve seen so many exciting events at the Wells Fargo Center! It’s home to the Philadelphia Flyers and 76ers, so you can catch thrilling NHL and NBA games here. I love the energy of the crowd during big games.

But that’s not all. I’ve also enjoyed awesome concerts from top artists across many genres. The sound system is great, and the stage setups are often impressive.

Other events I’ve attended include family shows, comedy acts, and even wrestling matches. There’s truly something for everyone at this venue.

Ticket Purchase and Pricing

When I want to buy tickets, I usually check the Wells Fargo Center website first. They often have presales for members, which can be a good way to snag seats before they sell out.

Prices vary a lot depending on the event. I’ve paid anywhere from $30 for nosebleed seats at less popular events to over $200 for premium seats at big concerts or playoff games.

Here’s a rough guide to ticket prices I’ve seen:

  • Nosebleed seats: $30-$60
  • Mid-level seats: $80-$150
  • Premium seats: $150-$300+

Remember, prices can be higher for big-name acts or important games.

Best Seats and Views

I’ve sat in various spots around the arena, and here’s what I’ve found about the best seats:

For concerts:

  • Lower bowl, centered: Great overall view
  • Floor seats: Up close, but can have obstructed views

For sports:

  • Center ice/mid-court: Best for following the action
  • Behind the benches: Fun to see players up close

I avoid seats behind the stage for concerts – the view is often blocked. For any event, I check if my seat has a restricted view before buying.

The upper levels are budget-friendly but can feel far from the action. I bring binoculars if I’m sitting up high.

Experiencing the Game

Going to a game at the Wells Fargo Center is super exciting. The energy in the arena is amazing, and there’s always so much to see and do. I love how the crowd gets into it, no matter what kind of game I’m watching.

Philadelphia Flyers Games

When I go to a Flyers game, the atmosphere is electric. The sound of skates on ice and pucks hitting sticks gets my heart racing. I can’t help but cheer along with everyone else when the Flyers score. The giant scoreboard keeps me up to date on all the action.

Between periods, I like to grab a snack and stretch my legs. There are lots of food options to choose from. The arena has great sight lines, so I don’t miss any of the fast-paced hockey action when I’m back in my seat.

Philadelphia 76ers Games

76ers games are always a blast. The music, the lights, and the crowd noise make for an awesome experience. I love watching the Sixers run up and down the court. The players are so talented, and it’s amazing to see them up close.

During timeouts, there’s always something fun happening on the court. Dance teams, contests, and even acrobats keep me entertained. The energy at Sixers games is non-stop. I often find myself standing up and cheering with thousands of other fans.

College Basketball Matches

College basketball at the Wells Fargo Center has a different vibe, but it’s just as fun. The student sections are always loud and full of school spirit. I enjoy seeing the passion of young players giving it their all on the court.

These games often feature local teams, which adds to the excitement. The arena feels more intimate during college games, even though it’s the same size. There’s usually a good mix of die-hard fans and casual spectators, creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.

Amenities and Concessions

The Wells Fargo Center offers a wide range of amenities and concessions to enhance the fan experience. From tasty food to cool merch, there’s something for everyone.

Dining Options

I love the variety of food at Wells Fargo Center. They’ve really stepped up their game! The main concourse has tons of choices, from classic stadium fare to local Philly favorites. I always grab a cheesesteak when I’m there – it’s a must!

For a fancier meal, I head to the club level. There’s a Garces Eats spot that serves up some killer tacos. And don’t miss the new Buena Onda outpost – their guac is to die for!

Beer lovers, rejoice! There are plenty of bars scattered throughout the arena. I like to grab a local craft brew before the game starts.

Shopping and Merchandise

I never leave without picking up some new Flyers or Sixers gear. The team stores are massive and have everything you could want.

Here’s what I usually see:

  • Jerseys (home and away)
  • T-shirts and hoodies
  • Hats and beanies
  • Novelty items (keychains, foam fingers, etc.)

Pro tip: Check out the specialty kiosks for game-specific merch. I’ve snagged some cool limited edition items there.

Additional Amenities

The Wells Fargo Center really knows how to treat its fans. The club level is super comfy, with leather seats and great views. I love hanging out in the lounges before the game.

For a unique experience, I’ve tried the Liberty Lofts section. It’s a bit pricey, but you get:

  • Comfy couches and chairs
  • Fireplaces for a cozy vibe
  • Private bars

Just keep in mind, you can’t see the ice from some spots in the lounge areas. But it’s perfect for socializing during breaks!

Fan Experience

The Wells Fargo Center offers an exciting atmosphere for sports and events. I’ve found the fan experience to be top-notch, with great seating options, impressive audio-visual effects, and strong community ties.

Seating and Comfort

I love the variety of seating choices at Wells Fargo Center. The lower level seats are perfect for getting close to the action. I can see players’ expressions and hear the squeaks of sneakers on the court.

The club seats are super comfy. They have extra padding and more leg room. Plus, I get access to exclusive lounges and food options.

For a budget-friendly option, I sometimes sit up high. The view is still good, and I can see the whole arena. The seats are a bit smaller, but the atmosphere makes up for it.

Audio-Visual Effects

The center’s audio-visual setup blows me away every time. The massive scoreboard is crystal clear. I can see replays and stats from anywhere in the arena.

The sound system is powerful. It pumps up the crowd during exciting moments. Music and announcements come through crisp and clear.

Light shows during player intros and halftime are awesome. They create a fun, electric vibe that gets everyone hyped up.

Interaction with the Community

I’m impressed by how Wells Fargo Center connects with Philly fans. They often host special events and giveaways. It makes me feel like part of a big community.

The crowd is friendly and energetic, especially at Flyers games. We cheer together and share high-fives with strangers when our team scores.

The center also supports local charities. I’ve seen booths for fundraisers and awareness campaigns. It’s great to see my favorite teams giving back to the city.

Planning Your Visit

Getting ready for an event at Wells Fargo Center can be exciting. I’ll share some tips to make your visit smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you need to know about parking, getting in, and having a great time.

Parking and Accessibility

I’ve found that parking at Wells Fargo Center can be tricky if you don’t plan ahead. The arena has several lots, but they fill up fast. I recommend arriving early to snag a spot. If you prefer public transit, SEPTA is a great option. The Broad Street Line stops right at the arena.

For those with mobility concerns, accessible parking is available. Just look for the designated spaces near the entrances. The arena also offers wheelchair assistance if needed.

Remember, parking fees can be steep. I usually budget about $20-$30 for event parking. If you’re looking to save some cash, consider parking a bit further away and walking.

Entry and Security

When I go to events, I always check the arena’s bag policy beforehand. Small clutches and wallets (4.5″ x 6.5″ or smaller) are allowed without inspection. Larger bags up to 14″ x 14″ x 6″ need to be screened.

Security lines can get long, so I try to arrive at least an hour before the event starts. This gives me plenty of time to get through security and find my seat without feeling rushed.

Pro tip: Leave prohibited items at home or in your car. It’ll make getting through security much faster.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

I always check the Wells Fargo Center website for event-specific info before I go. Sometimes, they have special rules or promotions you’ll want to know about.

Eating before the event can save you money, as arena food tends to be pricey. But if you do want to grab a bite inside, I recommend exploring the concourse early to avoid long lines during breaks.

Comfortable shoes are a must! You might be doing a lot of walking or standing, especially if you’re attending a concert.

Lastly, I suggest taking a photo of your parking spot or writing down the section number. It’s easy to forget where you parked after an exciting event!

After the Event

Leaving Wells Fargo Center and enjoying the surrounding area can be just as fun as the event itself. I’ve got some tips to make your exit smooth and find great spots to keep the night going.

Exiting the Venue

I always try to beat the rush when leaving. If I’m not in a hurry, I’ll hang back in my seat for a few extra minutes. This helps avoid the crowd at the exits.

The staff is great at directing people out. They point the way to different exits, which keeps things moving. I’ve found the wait time to leave is usually pretty short, around 10-15 minutes tops.

For a quicker exit, I head to the parking lots farthest from the main entrance. These tend to clear out faster. If I took public transit, I make sure to have my ticket ready before I get to the station.

Post-Event Dining and Activities

After the excitement, I love grabbing a bite nearby. There are tons of options within walking distance of Wells Fargo Center.

Xfinity Live! is right across the street. It’s got a bunch of restaurants and bars. Perfect for a post-game meal or drink. If I’m in the mood for something quick, there are food trucks often parked outside the venue.

For a change of scenery, I sometimes head to South Philly. It’s full of great local spots. Pat’s and Geno’s are famous for cheesesteaks, and they’re open late.

If I’m not ready to call it a night, there are cool bars in the area. Many stay open late after events, keeping the fun going.

Special Features

The Wells Fargo Center offers some cool perks that make watching games and shows even better. I’ve checked out a couple of these special features myself and they’re pretty awesome.

Behind-The-Scenes Tours

I love the behind-the-scenes tours at Wells Fargo Center. They let you see parts of the arena most people never get to. On the tour, I got to walk through the locker rooms where the Flyers and 76ers get ready for games. It was so cool seeing where the players hang out.

The tour also took me onto the main floor. Standing at center court was amazing – it looks way bigger in person than on TV! I even got to sit in the press box high above the arena. The views from up there are incredible.

My favorite part was peeking inside the luxury suites. They’re super fancy with comfy seats, TVs, and private bathrooms. The tour guide shared some fun facts about the arena’s history too.

VIP Experiences

For the ultimate game day, I recommend splurging on a VIP experience. The Wells Fargo Center has some great options to make you feel like a celebrity.

One of the best is the Club Seat package. I tried it once and loved it. You get access to exclusive lounges with fancy food and drinks. The seats are wider and cushier too. Plus, there are waiters who bring snacks right to your seat.

For concerts, they sometimes offer special VIP packages. I’ve seen ones that include meeting the artist or watching soundcheck. At hockey games, you can even get a package to ride the Zamboni during intermission!

My dream is to rent a luxury box someday. They come with a private bartender and amazing views of the action. It’d be perfect for celebrating a special occasion with friends.

Reviews and Feedback

The Wells Fargo Center gets lots of feedback from visitors. People share their thoughts on everything from the events to the food. I’ve looked into what critics and fans are saying about this big venue in Philly.

Critical Acclaim

I’ve found that many experts give the Wells Fargo Center high marks. They praise its modern facilities and great sightlines. Critics often mention the center’s top-notch sound system. It makes concerts and games sound amazing.

The venue’s versatility also gets a thumbs up. It hosts everything from hockey to huge music acts. I’ve read that critics love how smoothly it switches between different types of events.

Some reviewers point out the center’s efforts to stay current. They’ve added new food options and tech upgrades over the years.

Fan Reviews

When I look at fan feedback, I see lots of positive comments. Many folks love the energy during Flyers and 76ers games. The atmosphere gets high marks from sports fans.

Concert-goers often rave about the sound quality. They say it’s great no matter where you sit. I’ve noticed that fans appreciate the wide range of food choices too.

Some common gripes I’ve seen are about parking and crowds. Fans suggest arriving early to avoid traffic jams. A few mention that concession lines can get long during big events.

Overall, most people seem to have a good time at the Wells Fargo Center. The mix of sports, music, and other shows keeps fans coming back.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve got answers to some common questions about the Wells Fargo Center. Here’s what you need to know about seating, food, accessibility, parking, and more to make your visit awesome.

What are the seating options like at the Wells Fargo Center for concerts and events?

The Wells Fargo Center has tons of seating choices. I’ve sat in the lower and upper levels, and both give great views of the action.

For concerts, there’s usually a general admission pit area near the stage if you want to get up close. The arena seats are comfy too.

Can you tell me about the food and drink options available at Wells Fargo Center?

I’m always impressed by the food at Wells Fargo Center. They have classic arena fare like hot dogs and nachos, but also some fancier options.

There are bars throughout the concourse serving beer, wine, and cocktails. I recommend trying one of the local Philly food specialties they offer too.

What are some tips for getting the best experience at a Wells Fargo Center event?

Arrive early to avoid traffic and long entry lines. I like to get there when doors open to explore the arena and grab food before the event starts.

Bring only essentials, as there are security checks at entry. Check the venue website beforehand for any restrictions on bags or cameras.

How does Wells Fargo Center accommodate guests with disabilities?

The Wells Fargo Center is wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps throughout. They offer accessible seating options in various sections.

I’ve seen staff helping guests with disabilities to their seats. There are also assistive listening devices available if needed.

What are the parking and transportation options when visiting Wells Fargo Center?

There’s a huge parking lot at the Wells Fargo Center. I usually find a spot easily, even for big events.

Public transit is another good option. The Broad Street Line subway stops right at the arena. There are also rideshare pickup/dropoff zones.

Are there any recommended hotels or accommodations near Wells Fargo Center for event-goers?

I’ve stayed at hotels in Center City Philadelphia when attending events. It’s just a short subway or cab ride to the arena.

There are also some hotels closer to the stadium complex if you want to be within walking distance. Book early for big events as rooms fill up fast.

Scroll to Top