Nationwide Arena
Nationwide Arena: Columbus' premier venue for thrilling Blue Jackets hockey, electrifying concerts, and family entertainment.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the buzz of live events
Nationwide Arena
Best Time
Experience the buzz of live events

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nationwide Arena: Columbus' premier venue for thrilling Blue Jackets hockey, electrifying concerts, and family entertainment.
"Visitors rave about the vibrant atmosphere and helpful staff, making it a top spot for events."
🎯 Bag Policy Awareness
Check the arena's bag policy before you go to ensure smooth entry. Clear bags are often preferred. :handbag:
🦵 Legroom Considerations
If you have long legs, be mindful of seating. Some areas offer more space than others. :person_standing:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Columbus Blue Jackets Hockey
Ice Rink
Experience the electric atmosphere of an NHL game with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Feel the roar of the crowd!

A-List Concerts
Main Stage
Nationwide Arena hosts major touring artists, from rock legends to pop sensations. Catch your favorite band live!

Family Entertainment
Main Stage/Ice Rink
Enjoy spectacular shows like Disney on Ice or thrilling Monster Jam events. Fun for all ages!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Seating for Comfort
Bag Policy & Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bag Policy Awareness
Check the arena's bag policy before you go to ensure smooth entry. Clear bags are often preferred.
:handbag:🦵 Legroom Considerations
If you have long legs, be mindful of seating. Some areas offer more space than others.
:person_standing:🎶 Special Event Cocktails
Look out for unique themed cocktails during special events for a fun twist!
:cocktail:🎟️ Ticket Resale Options
Consider official resale markets for tickets if primary sales are sold out.
:ticket:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bag Policy Awareness
Check the arena's bag policy before you go to ensure smooth entry. Clear bags are often preferred.
:handbag:🦵 Legroom Considerations
If you have long legs, be mindful of seating. Some areas offer more space than others.
:person_standing:🎶 Special Event Cocktails
Look out for unique themed cocktails during special events for a fun twist!
:cocktail:🎟️ Ticket Resale Options
Consider official resale markets for tickets if primary sales are sold out.
:ticket:👕 Team Store Finds
Grab official Columbus Blue Jackets gear at the team store for authentic fan apparel.
:shopping_bags:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Nationwide Arena for its vibrant atmosphere, especially during Columbus Blue Jackets games and major concerts. The staff is often described as helpful and kind, and the venue is noted for its cleanliness and good sound quality. Some guests find the seating legroom to be a bit tight, and like most arenas, concessions can be pricey.
"Visited here for the Matt Rife comedy show. Everything was amazing! Restrooms were clean and plenty of stalls. I really liked that for this show they had special cocktails for purchase. Unsure if it is a "Nationwide Arena thing" or a "Matt Rife thing".. but loved it. I've been to tons of arenas and I've never seen anything besides the basic white claw, beer, etc. All the people working the show were helpful + kind. I REALLY enjoyed connecting with the young lady at the staircase heading to the floor section. She was such a bright light and a joy to connect too. All in all --> I'd recommend this arena and will be booking future shows + concerts here."
Danielle Lavender
"About the only thing that could get me to come hangout deep in enemy territory is Wu Tang. Run the Jewels and a *surprise showing of Dave Chappelle helped too. As such I was here for their final tour. It's sad this will be the 1st and last(?) time I'll ever see them all at once. The show was awesome though, they did all the songs. Not much in the way of special effects, but the sound was excellent. I had floor seats and didn't have issues seeing the stage from where I was. I didn't have any interactions with security, but let's just say they were not allowing any 'passing of bones'. Getting through security and navigating to my seat was painless. I didn't use the restrooms or concessions so can't speak on that. I was able to pregame at a bar nearby and then walk to things afterwards for food and drinks."
Malcolm Earhart
"Came up here to visit family and hotwheels monster trucks was in the area and we thought why not! Glad we did! Had a great time I want to got to a bigger monster truck show at some point now. It was one of the cars birthday the day we went.
The arena was nice and clean. The staff was helpful and prices were not terrible."
Christopher Pedersen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nationwide Arena is located in downtown Columbus, Ohio. It's accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby that can be prepaid for convenience. Public transportation options are also available, and it's a walkable area from many downtown hotels.
There are numerous parking garages surrounding Nationwide Arena, including the Arena Parking Garage and nearby city garages. Pre-paying for parking online can save time and sometimes money.
Yes, Nationwide Arena is served by COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority) bus routes, making it accessible via public transportation from various parts of Columbus. Check the COTA schedule for specific routes and times.
Yes, there are designated drop-off zones near the arena entrances, which is convenient for ride-sharing services or personal drop-offs. This is especially helpful for those with mobility concerns.
John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) is approximately a 15-20 minute drive from Nationwide Arena, depending on traffic conditions. Taxis, ride-shares, and shuttles are readily available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for events at Nationwide Arena can be purchased through Ticketmaster, the official ticketing partner, or the Nationwide Arena box office. Resale markets are also an option for sold-out events.
Nationwide Arena has a clear bag policy. Guests are typically allowed one clear bag (e.g., vinyl or plastic) that does not exceed 12" x 6" x 12", or a small clutch purse no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". Always check the specific event's policy.
Most events are all-ages, but specific shows may have age restrictions (e.g., 18+ or 21+ for certain concerts). It's best to check the event details on the Nationwide Arena website or your ticket provider.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside Nationwide Arena. Concessions are available for purchase throughout the venue.
Door opening times vary by event, but typically, doors open 60-90 minutes before the scheduled start time. It's advisable to check the specific event information for exact timings.
🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience
The 'best' seats depend on your preference. For a clear view of the stage and sound, lower bowl seats are often ideal. For a unique perspective, consider club seats. Always check seat view charts online.
Yes, Nationwide Arena offers club seats that provide a premium experience with enhanced amenities, often including better views and access to exclusive lounges.
Nationwide Arena features various concessions, restrooms, merchandise shops, and often offers special themed drinks for specific events. Wi-Fi is usually available.
Yes, restrooms are plentiful and well-maintained throughout Nationwide Arena, ensuring convenience for all attendees.
Refund policies are typically determined by the event promoter and the ticket seller. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless the event is canceled or significantly rescheduled. Check your ticket purchase agreement.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Nationwide Arena offers a variety of concessions, including classic arena fare like hot dogs and nachos, as well as local favorites and specialty items. Some events feature unique themed cocktails.
Concession stands often have vegetarian options. Vegan choices may be more limited but are becoming more common. It's best to check the arena's website or inquire at the concession stands for current offerings.
No, outside food and beverages are generally not allowed inside Nationwide Arena. This policy helps ensure safety and revenue for the venue.
Yes, the Arena District surrounding Nationwide Arena is packed with restaurants, bars, and eateries, offering a wide range of dining experiences before or after your event.
Concession prices at Nationwide Arena are typical for large venues, meaning they can be on the higher side. Budgeting for food and drinks is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal cameras (non-professional) and phone cameras are allowed for most events. However, professional cameras with detachable lenses are usually prohibited. Always check the specific event's photography policy.
Yes, flash photography is typically prohibited during performances and games, as it can be distracting to performers and other attendees. It can also interfere with professional photography.
For iconic shots, consider the exterior of the arena, especially at night when it's lit up. Inside, the ice rink during a Blue Jackets game or the stage setup during a concert offer great photo opportunities.
Selfies with your phone are generally permitted, as long as you are not obstructing other guests' views or using professional equipment. Be mindful of your surroundings.
During hockey games, the atmosphere on the ice and the crowd's energy provide great photo ops. For concerts, the stage lighting and artist's performance are key. Some events might have designated photo areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🎤 Concert Goers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Columbus Blue Jackets Experience
When planning your visit for a game, consider the CBJ arena's seating arrangements. While many seats offer excellent views, some Redditors have noted that legroom can be a concern for taller individuals, suggesting that checking seat dimensions or opting for specific sections might enhance comfort. The arena's location in the vibrant Arena District also means pre-game and post-game activities are abundant, with numerous bars and restaurants to enhance your game day experience.
Beyond the games, the arena frequently hosts special hockey-related events, including playoff games and fan appreciation nights, which amplify the already exciting atmosphere. For dedicated fans, the Columbus Blue Jackets stadium offers a memorable way to connect with the team and the sport.
Concerts and Live Performances
When attending a concert, understanding the nationwide arena seat view is crucial for maximizing your enjoyment. While floor seats can offer an immersive experience, some attendees prefer the elevated perspective of the lower or upper bowls for a better overall stage view. Online seat viewers and reviews can help you choose the best spot for your budget and preference. The arena also sometimes features special themed cocktails for concerts, adding a unique touch to the event.
Beyond music, Nationwide Arena hosts a variety of other performances, including comedy shows like those by Kevin Hart or Matt Rife, and theatrical productions. The nationwide arena event schedule is constantly updated, so checking it regularly is key to catching your desired performance.
Family-Friendly Fun
When bringing children, it's important to be aware of the arena's policies, such as the bag policy, to ensure a smooth entry. The venue is designed to accommodate families, with ample restrooms and various concession options. For those concerned about seating comfort, especially with younger children, exploring different seating tiers or inquiring about accessible seating at guest services can be beneficial.
Other family-oriented events, such as WWE or special holiday shows like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO), also grace the Nationwide Arena stage, offering diverse entertainment options throughout the year.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit