Van Andel Arena
Grand Rapids' premier arena for electrifying concerts, thrilling hockey games, and spectacular family entertainment.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Van Andel Arena
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Grand Rapids' premier arena for electrifying concerts, thrilling hockey games, and spectacular family entertainment.
"Great venue with helpful staff, though seats can be a bit snug."
Check Bag Policy First
Confirm bag size restrictions before arriving to avoid entry issues. :handbag:
Arrive Early for Parking
Lots fill up fast; plan to arrive 30-60 mins before doors open. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Concert Spectacles
Main Arena Floor & Seating
Experience electrifying performances from country stars to rock legends and pop icons.
Grand Rapids Griffins Hockey
Ice Rink
Cheer on the home team in a thrilling AHL hockey game.
+1
PBR Bull Riding
Arena Floor
Witness the raw power and skill of professional bull riders in an adrenaline-pumping event.
Family Entertainment
Main Arena
Enjoy spectacular shows like Disney on Ice or Monster Jam that delight audiences of all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bag Policy & Entry
Seat Comfort & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Bag Policy First
Confirm bag size restrictions before arriving to avoid entry issues. :handbag:
Arrive Early for Parking
Lots fill up fast; plan to arrive 30-60 mins before doors open. :car:
Consider Seat Size
Seats can be snug. If you're a larger person, be prepared for a cozy fit. :chair:
Food & Drink Variety
Explore diverse concessions and bar carts for your cravings. :ice_cream:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Bag Policy First
Confirm bag size restrictions before arriving to avoid entry issues. :handbag:
Arrive Early for Parking
Lots fill up fast; plan to arrive 30-60 mins before doors open. :car:
Consider Seat Size
Seats can be snug. If you're a larger person, be prepared for a cozy fit. :chair:
Food & Drink Variety
Explore diverse concessions and bar carts for your cravings. :ice_cream:
Sound Quality is Great
Enjoy well-mixed audio for concerts, not too loud or quiet. :musical_note:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Van Andel Arena for its diverse event offerings, from concerts to hockey and family shows. The helpful staff and good sound quality are frequently highlighted positives. However, some attendees find the seats to be uncomfortably small and closely spaced, which can detract from the overall experience for larger individuals.
"Took our 2 boys to their first concert! Van Andel was the perfect venue to go to! Staff was all very helpful and kind. Seating was great. Kids had an amazing time. We watched: Periphery, Mastadon and Coheed and Cambria"
Jessica Stearns
"Visited for a 7:00 PM Grand Rapids Griffins game. I looked online before the game for when the doors open and it said 90 minutes prior so we found parking and shoed up at 5:30. We were told that doors open at 6:00 for non-season pass holders and we were told VERY rudely. I could not find that information anywhere on the website or ticket. They should post that kind of information.
That being said, everyone inside was helpful. The bartenders were especially kind and funny.
The game was awesome, music was fun, and we really enjoyed it."
Gwenevere Mueller
"Very nice venue. Big arena feel with a more intimate setting. Our seats were great.
The chairs could be just a little bigger or placed just a bit further from each other. I had a rather large person next to me and ended up only having half a chair to sit in. And they're connected, so I couldn't even scoot over a little bit.
However, everything else was great. Clean bathrooms & helpful staff."
Laura Santo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Van Andel Arena is located in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options are also available.
There are multiple parking garages surrounding the arena, including the DeVos Place Convention Center parking ramp and the Market Avenue parking ramp. Street parking is also available but can be limited.
Yes, The Rapid, Grand Rapids' public transit system, serves the area around Van Andel Arena with several bus routes. Check their schedule for specific routes and times. :bus:
Yes, there are designated drop-off zones near the arena entrances for ride-sharing services and personal vehicles. This is a convenient option to avoid parking hassles. :taxi:
Yes, Van Andel Arena is connected to the downtown skywalk system, offering a convenient and weather-protected way to access the arena from nearby hotels and parking structures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Van Andel Arena generally prohibits bags larger than a small clutch or wallet. Clear bags may be permitted for some events, but it's best to check the specific event's policy on their website or social media.
Door opening times can vary by event. For Grand Rapids Griffins games, doors typically open 90 minutes prior to game time for season ticket holders and 60 minutes prior for general admission. Always check the specific event details online.
Yes, the Van Andel Arena box office is typically open for in-person ticket purchases. Hours may vary, so it's advisable to check their official website or call ahead for current operating hours. :ticket:
Age restrictions vary depending on the event. Most concerts and sporting events are open to all ages, but some shows, like certain comedy acts or PBR events, may have age recommendations or restrictions. Always check the event details. :child:
For popular events like major concerts or PBR, it's recommended to purchase tickets as soon as they go on sale through official channels like Ticketmaster or the Van Andel Arena website to secure the best seats and prices.
🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience
Yes, Van Andel Arena is an indoor arena and is air-conditioned, making it comfortable for events even during hot weather.
The seats at Van Andel Arena are generally considered comfortable but can be on the smaller side and closely spaced. Some visitors find them to be a bit snug, especially for longer events. +1
The arena offers a variety of concessions, including classic arena fare like hot dogs and nachos, as well as more diverse options. Bar carts and concessions are located throughout the concourse.
Concertgoers often praise the sound quality at Van Andel Arena, noting that it's well-mixed and not excessively loud.
The 'best' seats depend on the event. For concerts, floor seats offer an up-close experience, while lower bowl seats provide a good balance of view and proximity. For hockey, the lower bowl offers excellent sightlines.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies vary by event. Generally, non-professional cameras or phones for personal use are allowed, but professional equipment, flash photography, and video recording are often prohibited. Always check the specific event's guidelines. :camerawithflash:
The arena itself offers a dynamic backdrop, especially during live performances with stage lighting. Capturing the energy of a concert or the excitement of a hockey game can make for great shots.
The most visually striking moments often occur during the opening acts, the main artist's entrance, or during high-energy songs with impressive lighting. +1
Selfies with your phone are generally permitted, as long as they don't disrupt other attendees or violate any specific event rules regarding flash or video. :iphone:
Absolutely not. Drones are strictly prohibited inside Van Andel Arena for safety and security reasons. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When attending with kids, remember to check the bag policy beforehand, as larger bags are typically not allowed. Arriving a bit early can help avoid meltdowns in long lines.
🎸 Music Enthusiasts
To make the most of your concert experience, secure tickets early, especially for high-demand artists.
🏒 Sports Fans
offering an exciting AHL hockey experience. Fans can expect a lively atmosphere, with the arena's design providing good sightlines from most seats. Beyond Griffins games, the arena has hosted other major sporting events, including PBR bull riding
+1 showcasing a variety of thrilling competitions. For these events, arriving early is crucial due to potential crowds and parking challenges. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Concert Experiences at Van Andel Arena
When planning for a concert, it's wise to check the arena's bag policy and arrive early to account for parking and security lines.
For those looking to catch a show, keeping an eye on the Van Andel Arena schedule is key. Popular artists often sell out quickly, so securing tickets in advance is highly recommended.
Hockey Nights with the Griffins
Fans can enjoy fast-paced games, energetic crowds, and the thrill of professional hockey. The arena's size provides a significant crowd presence, making for a lively atmosphere, while still maintaining a relatively intimate feel compared to larger stadiums. Attending a Griffins game is a popular local activity, often recommended for date nights or family outings.
The arena staff are generally helpful, and the concessions offer a good variety of food and drinks to enjoy during the game. Beyond regular season games, the arena has also hosted special hockey events, such as the Detroit Red Wings' exhibition Red & White Game, drawing large crowds and showcasing the team's talent.
Beyond Concerts & Hockey: Diverse Events
+1 and has been a venue for touring comedians such as Jeff Dunham and Jim Gaffigan. The arena's capacity of over 12,000 seats makes it suitable for large-scale touring shows and sporting events.
Whether you're looking for a thrilling sporting event, a magical family show, or a night of laughter, Van Andel Arena offers a diverse calendar of entertainment options throughout the year.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit