Araneta Coliseum (inside)
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Smart Araneta Coliseum

4.5
·3k reviews·Quezon City, Philippines

The iconic 'Big Dome' in Cubao, a legendary venue for concerts, PBA games, and UAAP championships, offering electrifying experiences.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Event Nights

Experience the buzz of live events

CrowdHigh
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Araneta Coliseum (inside)

Smart Araneta Coliseum

Best Time

Event Nights

Experience the buzz of live events

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The iconic 'Big Dome' in Cubao, a legendary venue for concerts, PBA games, and UAAP championships, offering electrifying experiences. TikTok+1

4.5
(3k reviews)

"Perfect venue for concerts…o love “The Script” so much that i would love to share with you the memories we had. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Gate Guide is Key

Check your ticket for the correct gate to enter; multiple gates serve different sections.

💰 Bring Extra Cash

Food and drinks inside can be pricey, so pack extra cash or a sanitizer.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

PBA Opening Ceremony

PBA Opening Ceremony

Smart Araneta Coliseum

Witness the electrifying start to the PBA season with dazzling performances and team introductions.

TikTok+1
Major Concerts & Fancons

Major Concerts & Fancons

Smart Araneta Coliseum

Experience world-class artists and K-Pop sensations in this iconic venue.

TikTok+2
UAAP Basketball Games

UAAP Basketball Games

Smart Araneta Coliseum

Feel the intense energy of collegiate basketball as top teams battle it out.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Big Dome

Smart Araneta Coliseum, affectionately known as 'The Big Dome,' hosts a variety of events. Plan your entry by checking which gate is assigned to your ticket to avoid confusion, as multiple gates serve different sections. TikTok

Concert Comfort Tips

While the coliseum offers a great concert experience, reviews suggest bringing cash for expensive concessions and a sanitizer, as cleanliness in some areas can be an issue. Reddit

Best Times

When
Event Nights
Why
Experience the buzz of live events
Crowd
High
When
PBA Season Games
Why
Catch thrilling basketball action
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pogi na, lakas pa ng dating! RAAA! 🔥 Get ready for TOMORROW’s Ticket Selling at 10AM! Secure your seats early and be part of this epic night on December 5 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum! For inquiries, visit www.ticketnet.com.ph or contact VAA LIVE: +639317082115 | (02) 8687-5853 loc. 841 #RAAAConcert #TaRAAAConcertsaAraneta
@viva_records
50.1K likes • 296.9K views

🎯 Gate Guide is Key

Check your ticket for the correct gate to enter; multiple gates serve different sections. TikTok

💰 Bring Extra Cash

Food and drinks inside can be pricey, so pack extra cash or a sanitizer. Reddit

SOLID ANG GANDA!👸✨ Twelve muses, twelve teams — all bringing glam, grace, and game-day energy to the hardcourt for the PBA Season 50 Opening Ceremony at the Smart Araneta Coliseum! #PBA50 #PBA50LID #ChelseaManalo #ChelseaFernandez #AhtisaManalo
@mr.ms.philippines
29.8K likes • 678.8K views
AHOF will gonna go up! 💫 @ahof_official performed SB19's song,'Go up' at their first Philippine fancon 🫶🏻 #AHOF #AHOFinMANILA #SmartAranetaColiseum
smartaranetacoliseum
2.7K likes • 20.9K views

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You might be doing a lot of walking, especially if you have General Admission tickets. TikTok

📍 Seat View Reference

Save seat view guides for future concert planning. TikTok+1

#Morissette #MorissetteAmon #embermorissette #SmartAranetaColiseum @itsmorissette @solidmowienatics
mrjeromecinco
0 likes • 18 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Gate Guide is Key

Check your ticket for the correct gate to enter; multiple gates serve different sections. TikTok

💰 Bring Extra Cash

Food and drinks inside can be pricey, so pack extra cash or a sanitizer. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You might be doing a lot of walking, especially if you have General Admission tickets. TikTok

📍 Seat View Reference

Save seat view guides for future concert planning. TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Stays

Consider nearby accommodations for convenience, often a short walk away. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Smart Araneta Coliseum is a well-loved venue, particularly for concerts and sports events, praised for its atmosphere and sound quality. While it's seen as a great place for memorable experiences, some areas show signs of age, and concessions are noted as being expensive. Reddit

"Best concert venue for smaller crowd! Was here for AHOF Rendezvous in Manila. Though we only secured GA Tix it was still pretty close compared to other venues. Love the speakers! Maybe you could improve GA area more. Open more entry and exit ways. And maybe airconditioning in the hallways."

Rose Anne Aquino

"I attended a benefit concert by Alay Kapwa with Ben&Ben and several others here. It is quite fun! As a wide and heavy person, I must say that my lower box seat is quite comfortable, and not that far from the stage. The sound quality is okay, as well as the air conditioning. However, it is quite obvious that the coliseum is aging and needed some improvements. Such as the flooring and the bathroom. I saw the railings still have tarpaulin tapes from the previous concerts. They do not clean it! Plus, the food and drinks inside are very expensive, even those basic hotdog sandwiches that's not even toasted at all. But overall, it is great! Just make sure that you brought a bit more cash with you and a sanitizer."

Leonard Waga

"Perfect venue for concerts…o love “The Script” so much that i would love to share with you the memories we had."

Lyn Cucio

What People Like

Great concert atmosphere
Good sound quality
Convenient location

What People Dislike

Aging facilities
Expensive food/drinks
Cleanliness concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Smart Araneta Coliseum is a short walk from the Cubao MRT station. Exit the station and head towards the Araneta City complex. You can also take a short tricycle ride. TikTok

From SLEX, you can take a bus heading to Cubao. Alight at the Cubao bus terminal and the coliseum is a short walk away. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to the venue. Reddit

Yes, there are parking facilities available within the Araneta City complex. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on event days, as parking can fill up quickly.

Absolutely! Grab and other ride-sharing services are readily available and a convenient option for getting to and from the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Just set your destination to 'Smart Araneta Coliseum'.

Yes, it's very accessible. You can reach it via MRT (Cubao Station), numerous bus routes that pass through Cubao, and jeepneys. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are typically sold online through TicketNet.com.ph and at the TicketNet box office located at the Yellow Gate of the Smart Araneta Coliseum. TikTok+2

Your assigned gate will be clearly indicated on your ticket. It's recommended to check this before arriving to ensure a smooth entry. TikTok

Yes, the coliseum offers various seating categories, including VIP, Lower Box, Upper Box, and General Admission, each with different price points and views. TikTokReddit

The TicketNet box office usually operates from 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays and may have extended hours or different schedules on weekends and event days. It's best to check their official website for the most current information.

Ticket availability on the day of the event depends on the popularity of the show. For high-demand events, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance to secure your spot. TikTok

🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience

Views vary by section. Lower Box seats offer a good balance of proximity and elevation, while Upper Box provides a wider perspective. General Admission areas can be crowded but offer a lively atmosphere. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, the main arena is air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment during events. However, hallways might be warmer. Reddit

There are concession stands selling various snacks and beverages. However, prices can be quite high, so some attendees opt to eat before or after the event. Reddit

Restrooms are available throughout the venue. While generally functional, reviews suggest that maintenance could be improved in some areas. Reddit

The coliseum has accessibility features, but it's always best to contact the venue directly in advance to discuss specific needs and arrangements for seating and access.

📸 📸 Photography & Videography

Generally, personal cameras with detachable lenses are often prohibited for concerts. However, phone cameras are usually allowed. Always check the specific event's policy beforehand. TikTok

Yes, especially during performances and when the crowd is engaged. The stage setup and lighting can create dramatic backdrops for photos. TikTok

Depending on your ticket, Lower Box seats often provide a clear, unobstructed view. For General Admission, arriving early can secure a better vantage point. TikTok+1

Professional photography and videography are typically restricted to accredited media personnel. Attendees should adhere to the venue's policy on recording devices.

Yes, phone photography and short video clips are generally permitted for personal use, as long as they do not disrupt other attendees or violate specific event rules. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Smart Araneta Coliseum can be a fun outing for families, especially for sports events like UAAP basketball games or family-friendly concerts. TikTok The venue offers various seating options, so you can choose seats that provide a good view without being too close to the loud speakers if that's a concern for younger children. TikTok+1 Consider purchasing tickets in the Lower Box or Upper Box sections for a more comfortable viewing experience. Reddit

When attending with children, it's wise to bring snacks and drinks, as concessions inside can be pricey. Reddit Familiarize yourself with the gate assignments beforehand to ensure a smooth entry, and consider the walking distance from public transport or parking. TikTok The proximity to Gateway Mall also offers options for family meals before or after the event. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Smart Araneta Coliseum offers General Admission (GA) tickets for many events, which are the most affordable option. TikTok While these seats might be further from the stage, they still allow you to experience the event's atmosphere. Arriving early for GA tickets is recommended to get a decent spot. TikTok

To save on food and drinks, consider eating at the numerous affordable eateries in the Cubao area before heading to the coliseum, or pack your own snacks if allowed by the event organizers. Reddit Utilizing public transportation like the MRT or buses to get to Cubao is also a cost-effective way to reach the venue. TikTok Look for accommodations in budget-friendly hotels or hostels in the Cubao vicinity, which are often a short walk from the coliseum. TikTok

🎶 Concert Enthusiasts

Smart Araneta Coliseum is a beloved venue for concert-goers, known for its acoustics and ability to host a wide range of artists. TikTokInstagram+10 The 'Big Dome' has a reputation for delivering memorable live music experiences, with many attendees praising the sound quality and the overall ambiance. Reddit

To maximize your concert experience, research seat views for your chosen section beforehand to ensure you get the best possible perspective. TikTok+1 Familiarize yourself with the venue's entry gates and policies on cameras and bags. TikTok For a more comfortable experience, consider the proximity of your seat to restrooms and concession stands, though be prepared for potentially higher prices for food and beverages inside. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Concert Experience at The Big Dome

Smart Araneta Coliseum is a premier destination for concerts, hosting a wide array of local and international artists. From K-Pop fancons to OPM legends and international pop stars, the venue has seen it all. TikTokInstagram+10 Attendees often praise the venue for its ability to create an intimate concert atmosphere, even with large crowds, and the sound system is frequently highlighted as being quite good. Reddit

When planning for a concert, it's crucial to check your ticket for the correct entry gate, as the coliseum utilizes multiple entrances to manage crowd flow efficiently. TikTok For those with General Admission tickets, arriving early is key to securing a good spot. TikTok While the main arena is air-conditioned, some hallways might feel warmer, so dressing in layers is a practical tip. Reddit Remember that food and drinks inside can be expensive, so consider this when budgeting for your event day. Reddit

Sports Hub: PBA and UAAP Action

Beyond concerts, Smart Araneta Coliseum is a legendary sports arena, most notably for the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP). TikTokInstagram+3 The 'Big Dome' has witnessed countless thrilling basketball games, championship deciders, and iconic sporting moments. The atmosphere during a major PBA or UAAP game is electric, with passionate fans filling the stands. TikTok

Attending a game here offers a quintessential Filipino sports experience. The energy of the crowd, the cheers, and the competitive spirit make it a memorable outing. For those new to the venue, understanding the gate assignments for your specific seating section is important for a smooth entry. TikTok The coliseum's history as a sports venue adds to its charm, making it a must-visit for any sports enthusiast in Manila.

Accessibility and Nearby Amenities

Smart Araneta Coliseum is conveniently located in Cubao, Quezon City, making it highly accessible via public transportation. It's a short walk from the Cubao MRT station, and numerous bus and jeepney routes serve the area. TikTok This central location also means there are plenty of nearby amenities. The coliseum is directly connected to the Gateway Mall, offering a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options before or after an event. Reddit

For visitors looking for accommodation, the proximity to Gateway Mall also means there are numerous hotels and serviced apartments within walking distance, catering to various budgets. TikTok This makes it an ideal venue for out-of-town visitors or those who prefer to stay close to the event. The surrounding Araneta City complex is a bustling hub, ensuring you're never far from essentials or leisure activities.

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