Gainbridge Fieldhouse is a top sports and entertainment venue in Indianapolis. I recently visited for a Pacers game and was blown away by the experience. The throwback design gives the arena a classic feel while still offering modern amenities.
The seating is comfortable, with good views from most sections. I sat in Section 13 and had a great view of the action. The staff was friendly and helpful, making entry and finding my seat a breeze.
Food options are plentiful, though a bit pricey. I enjoyed the local beer selection. The atmosphere during the game was electric, with an enthusiastic crowd. Overall, I’d highly recommend catching an event at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Key Takeaways
- The arena blends classic design with modern features for a unique experience
- Most seats offer good views, with helpful staff to assist visitors
- The lively atmosphere and varied amenities make for an enjoyable outing
Venue Overview
Gainbridge Fieldhouse is a top-notch sports and entertainment venue in Indianapolis. I’ve been there many times and love its mix of modern amenities and classic basketball atmosphere.
History and Transition from Bankers Life Fieldhouse to Gainbridge Fieldhouse
I remember when this place was called Bankers Life Fieldhouse. It changed names to Gainbridge Fieldhouse in 2021. The switch came with big upgrades.
They added comfy new seats and cool tech features. I love the giant scoreboard – you can see replays from anywhere in the arena.
The place still has that classic basketball feel, though. It’s kept its charm while getting some nice updates.
Location and Accessibility
I find Gainbridge Fieldhouse super easy to get to. It’s right in downtown Indianapolis, which is great.
There’s lots of parking nearby. I usually park in one of the garages a block or two away. It’s a short walk, and I avoid traffic near the arena.
Public transit is an option too. Several bus lines stop close by.
Inside, it’s easy to move around. Wide concourses mean no crowding. I like that it’s cashless now – lines move faster at concession stands.
Seating and Comfort
I found the seating at Gainbridge Fieldhouse to be pretty comfy overall. There are some good options for different needs and preferences.
General Seating Information
The seats at Gainbridge Fieldhouse come in a few types. I noticed the lower bowl has padded seats that felt nice. The upper levels have regular plastic seats, but they weren’t bad.
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Leg room was decent in most areas I tried. I could stretch out a bit without bumping the row in front. The armrests were okay, but I had to be quick to claim them sometimes!
Views varied depending on the section. I had great sightlines from the sideline seats. Behind the baskets was still fine, just a different angle.
Accommodations for Larger Size People
For bigger folks, I’d suggest checking out the Terrace level seats. I saw they have bar-style seating with stools that have backs. This gives more space and comfort.
The regular seats might be a bit tight for larger people. The width isn’t huge, and the armrests don’t move. But I did notice some sections had wider seats available.
If you’re worried about fit, it’s worth calling the box office. They can help find the best spots for your needs.
Accessibility for Wheelchair Users
Wheelchair access at Gainbridge Fieldhouse seemed pretty good to me. I spotted dedicated spaces in various sections, both high and low.
The aisles looked wide enough for easy movement. Elevators were available to reach upper levels. I didn’t see any major obstacles that would cause problems.
Companion seats were right next to the wheelchair spots. This lets friends or family sit together comfortably. The views from these areas looked clear too.
Event Experience
Attending events at Gainbridge Fieldhouse is a blast. I’ve had the chance to enjoy different types of shows and games there. The atmosphere is electric, and the venue has something for everyone.
Watching a Pacers Game
I love watching Pacers games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The energy is incredible, especially when the team is doing well. I’ve sat in different areas, but my favorite spot is Section 13. It’s close to center court and gives a great view of the action.
The big screens make it easy to catch replays. During timeouts, there’s always fun entertainment to keep the crowd engaged.
Food and drink options are plentiful. I like grabbing a slice of pizza and a local craft beer before the game starts.
Tip: Arrive early to watch warm-ups and maybe snag an autograph from your favorite player.
Attending Concerts
Concerts at Gainbridge Fieldhouse are amazing. The sound quality is top-notch, and the stage setups are always impressive. I’ve seen rock, pop, and country shows here.
For the best concert experience, I recommend seats in Section 12. It’s not too far from the stage but high enough to see everything.
The staff is friendly and helps everyone find their seats quickly. There are plenty of restrooms and concession stands, so lines move fast during intermissions.
One cool feature is the ability to order food and drinks from your seat using their app. It’s super convenient!
Indiana Fever and Family Shows
I’ve taken my kids to see the Indiana Fever play and to family shows at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. It’s always a fun time for all ages.
Fever games are exciting and more affordable than Pacers games. The team puts on great halftime shows and has lots of family-friendly activities.
For other family shows like Disney on Ice or the circus, the venue transforms beautifully. Every seat has a good view of the performances.
There are often special photo ops and meet-and-greets for kids. I suggest checking the Gainbridge Fieldhouse website before you go to see what extra activities are planned.
Amenities and Facilities
Gainbridge Fieldhouse offers great food options and comfortable seating. I was impressed by the VIP areas that made me feel like a celebrity.
Food and Eating Areas
The food choices at Gainbridge Fieldhouse are awesome. I loved the variety of snacks and meals available. There are stands selling classic arena fare like hot dogs, popcorn, and nachos.
But I also found some fancier options. Local restaurants have spots inside, serving up tasty Indiana specialties. The eating areas are comfortable, with plenty of tables and chairs.
I never had to wait long in food lines. The staff was quick and friendly. Prices were what I expected for an arena – not cheap, but not outrageous either.
Private Club and VIP Experience
For a real treat, I checked out the private club level. Wow! The padded chairs were super comfy. I felt like I was sitting in my living room.
The club had its own fancy food options. I munched on gourmet appetizers and sipped craft cocktails. The views of the court were amazing from up there.
VIP perks included shorter lines and exclusive entrances. I also got access to special lounges where I could relax before and after the game. It was pricey, but worth it for the royal treatment.
Ticketing and Entry
Getting into Gainbridge Fieldhouse is easy and pretty fast. I’ll share what I know about ticket prices and how to buy them. I’ll also tell you about the security checks when you go in.
Ticket Price and Buying Guide
Tickets for Pacers games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse can fit different budgets. I’ve found that prices start around $20 for the upper level seats. The best seats near the court cost more, sometimes over $200.
I like to buy my tickets online. It’s quick and lets me pick my seat. The Pacers website is great for this. They use mobile tickets now, which is handy. I just show my phone at the gate.
If you’re on a budget like me, check out the last row seats. They’re often the cheapest but still give you a good view of the game.
Security and Entry Process
When I go to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, I make sure to arrive early. The security checks are thorough but move pretty fast. They check bags and use metal detectors.
I’ve found the staff to be friendly and helpful. Once, when I was confused about where to go, an usher gave me a quick tour. That was nice!
The arena has several gates. I like to use the one closest to my seat. It saves time walking inside. Remember, they only take mobile tickets now. I keep my phone charged just in case.
Fan Feedback and Ratings
Fans have a lot to say about Gainbridge Fieldhouse. I’ve looked at tons of reviews and ratings to get a sense of what people really think. Here’s what I found out about the fan experience.
Analyzing Detailed Reviews
I dug into the detailed reviews on Yelp to get the scoop. Many fans love the throwback design of the arena. They say it reminds them of the classic Hinkle Fieldhouse.
The most recent reviews are pretty positive. People talk about:
- Short wait times to get in
- Clean facilities
- Good sightlines from most seats
Some tips I saw pop up often:
- Arrive early to avoid traffic
- Check out the team store for cool merch
- Try the local food options inside
TripAdvisor Member Opinions
On TripAdvisor, Gainbridge Fieldhouse has a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating based on 643 reviews. That’s pretty impressive!
Most folks give it 4 or 5 “bubbles” (their rating system). Common praise includes:
- Great atmosphere for games and concerts
- Friendly staff
- Easy to navigate inside
A few downsides mentioned:
- Pricey concessions
- Some seats have obstructed views
I noticed couples seem to rate it highly for date nights. The location in downtown Indy is a big plus for many visitors too.
Practical Information for Visitors
Planning your visit to Gainbridge Fieldhouse? I’ve got you covered with some handy tips. Here’s what you need to know about getting there and finding your way around.
Parking and Transportation
Gainbridge Fieldhouse is easy to reach in downtown Indianapolis. I like to park in one of the nearby garages. My favorite is the Virginia Avenue Garage, just a short walk away.
If you’re not driving, there are plenty of other options. The IndyGo bus system has several stops nearby. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft can drop you off right at the entrance.
For those who enjoy a stroll, many downtown hotels are within walking distance. It’s a great way to soak in the city atmosphere before an event.
Navigating the Venue
Once inside, I find Gainbridge Fieldhouse easy to get around. Clear signs point the way to different sections and amenities.
Remember, it’s a cashless facility. I always bring my credit card or set up Apple Pay on my phone. If you only have cash, no worries! You can exchange it for a card at the Cash to Card machines.
Security is tight, so I make sure to arrive early. They use metal detectors and check bags. I keep my ticket handy, either on my phone or printed out.
Concession stands are plentiful. I love grabbing a snack before finding my seat. The ushers are super friendly if you need help locating your spot.
Special Features and Attractions
Gainbridge Fieldhouse has some cool extras that make going to events there really fun. I love how they go all out to entertain fans and create an exciting atmosphere.
Pacemates and Entertainment
The Pacemates dance team is one of my favorite parts of Pacers games. Their high-energy routines always pump up the crowd. I’m also impressed by the other entertainment during breaks, like acrobats and local performers.
The production lighting is top-notch too. I’ve seen some amazing light shows during player intros and halftime. It really adds to the excitement.
For the full season schedule, I always check the Pacers website to plan which games I want to attend. There’s usually a good mix of weekend and weeknight games.
Arena Highlights
I think the courtside experience at Gainbridge Fieldhouse is hard to beat. You feel so close to the action, it’s like you’re part of the game. I love watching players emerge from the away team tunnel too.
Some of my favorite arena features are the wide concourses and great sightlines from almost every seat. The huge center-hung scoreboard is awesome – I can see stats and replays clearly no matter where I’m sitting.
I also appreciate the local food options. It’s nice to get a taste of Indy while watching the game. The staff is always friendly and helpful if I need anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gainbridge Fieldhouse offers many great options for visitors. I’ve gathered answers to common questions about seating, preparation tips, amenities, tours, temperature, and Wi-Fi.
What are the best seating options at Gainbridge Fieldhouse?
The best seats depend on what you’re looking for. For basketball games, I like the lower level sideline seats for a close-up view of the action. The club level seats offer a great mix of comfort and sightlines.
For concerts, the floor seats are amazing if you want to be close to the stage. The lower bowl seats also provide excellent views.
Can you share tips on what to do before attending an event at Gainbridge Fieldhouse?
I always recommend arriving early to avoid traffic and parking hassles. It’s a good idea to check the Gainbridge Fieldhouse website for event-specific info and any restrictions on bags or items you can bring in.
Eating beforehand can save money, but there are plenty of food options inside if you get hungry. I like to review the seating chart so I know exactly where I’m going when I arrive.
What amenities are available at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for event attendees?
Gainbridge Fieldhouse has lots of great amenities. There are numerous concession stands with a variety of food and drink options. Clean restrooms are located throughout the arena.
I’ve found the staff to be friendly and helpful if you need assistance. There are also ATMs and merchandise stands if you want to grab some souvenirs.
Are there guided tours available, and how can one schedule a visit to Gainbridge Fieldhouse?
Yes, guided tours are available at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. I’ve taken one and really enjoyed it. To schedule a tour, you can check the Gainbridge Fieldhouse website or call their main office.
Tours typically cover the locker rooms, press areas, and other behind-the-scenes spots. It’s a great way to see parts of the arena you wouldn’t normally access during an event.
What are the temperature conditions like during events at Gainbridge Fieldhouse?
In my experience, the temperature at Gainbridge Fieldhouse is usually comfortable. They do a good job of climate control during both summer and winter events.
I still recommend bringing a light jacket or sweater just in case. Some areas can get chilly, especially if you’re sitting still for a while.
Does Gainbridge Fieldhouse offer free Wi-Fi to guests?
Yes, Gainbridge Fieldhouse does offer free Wi-Fi to guests. I’ve used it several times and found it to be reliable. The connection is usually strong enough to share photos or check scores during events.
To connect, look for the Gainbridge Fieldhouse network on your device. You may need to accept terms and conditions before using it.
