Visiting the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio is an exciting experience! As the home of the Columbus Blue Jackets ice hockey team, it’s essential to be well-prepared and informed for a smooth entry and enjoyable time. I’m here to share some helpful tips and insights into the gates and entrances of this popular venue.
Navigating through the different gates and entrances can be tricky at times, especially when attending a massive event. With this guide, I’ll make it easier to understand. From accessibility features to security measures, I’ll cover everything you need to know to make your journey into the Nationwide Arena a breeze.
While there are multiple entrances to choose from, getting through security and staying within the rules is crucial. I’ll also discuss which entrance works best depending on your specific needs and preferred location within the arena. So, let’s dive in and learn more about the gate and entrance guidelines of the Nationwide Arena!
Overview of Nationwide Arena
As a visitor, I found Nationwide Arena to be an impressive multi-purpose indoor arena located in Columbus, Ohio. It is known for hosting a variety of events, such as concerts and sporting events, including the Ohio State Buckeyes Women’s Basketball and the Columbus Blue Jackets NHL games.
During my visit, I noticed how well-designed the arena was, with a focus on providing exceptional service to all guests. There are various amenities and attractions within and around the arena, making it a go-to venue for local residents and tourists alike.
Accessibility at Nationwide Arena is commendable, offering multiple entrances for guests, allowing a smooth flow of crowds, which can make entry into the venue swift and hassle-free. Parking options are also available, with a mix of on-site parking lots and nearby garages, so visitors can securely park their vehicles and enjoy their event.
With a capacity of up to 20,000 spectators depending on the type of event, the seating chart is designed to provide fans with a great view, no matter where they are seated. The arena is known for its top-notch entertainment and comfortable seating, making it an ideal choice for a memorable night out.
In summary, Nationwide Arena is a fantastic venue for various events and offers a welcoming atmosphere with its excellent guest services, modern facilities, and an assortment of amenities. So whether it’s a sports game, concert, or other special events, you can feel confident in your decision to spend a memorable evening at Nationwide Arena.
Entrance and Exit Points
Main Entrances
At Nationwide Arena, there are several main entrances available for fans and guests. The main entrances are well marked and easy to find. They’re usually staffed with friendly personnel who can help with any questions or concerns you may have. Remember, they’re there to ensure a smooth entry and exit process for everyone.
VIP Entrances
For those fortunate enough to have VIP access, Nationwide Arena offers separate entrances designed to provide a more exclusive experience. These VIP entrances are typically located near premium seating areas and may offer additional benefits such as expedited entry. Be sure to have your VIP tickets or credentials handy when approaching these entrances.
Accessible Entrances
Nationwide Arena is committed to providing accessibility for all guests, including those with disabilities. Accessible entrances are available at various points around the arena, and they are designed to make it easier for individuals with mobility devices or other accessibility needs to enter the venue. Be sure to look for signage indicating these entrances, or ask a staff member for assistance.
Emergency Exits
For your safety, Nationwide Arena has numerous emergency exit points throughout the venue. These exits are clearly marked and are strictly for use in case of an emergency, such as a fire or evacuation. Please familiarize yourself with the location of the closest emergency exit upon entering the arena and follow the directions of staff members in the event of an emergency situation.
Tickets and Entry Procedure
Ticket Purchase
Purchasing tickets for events at Nationwide Arena can be done through their official website or authorized ticket providers. It’s important to be aware of unauthorized ticket sellers as these may not grant you access to the event. Digital tickets can be easily transferred between individuals, making it convenient for group outings or gifting.
Entrance Requirement
Upon entering Nationwide Arena, each guest should have a valid event ticket. A child under 2 years old might not require a ticket, but it’s recommended to call 614-246-2000 beforehand to confirm the child ticket policy. Remember to have your digital or physical ticket readily accessible to avoid delays at the entrance.
Security and Bag Check
Security at Nationwide Arena is crucial to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment. Bag checks and x-ray screenings are conducted at dedicated lines in the entrance area. Items such as diaper bags and clutches will undergo screening, so it’s best to arrive early to allow time for these procedures. Additionally, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the arena’s security policies and prohibited items list before attending any event, so you can plan accordingly. Lastly, if you need assistance, complimentary wheelchair escorts are available upon request at the entry points without advance arrangements.
Amenities and Services
Food and Beverage Options
When I visited Nationwide Arena, I found a fantastic variety of food and beverage options to keep me satisfied throughout the event. Many concession stands around the arena offer a wide range of choices, from hot dogs and popcorn to more unique items like gourmet cheeseburgers and pizza. There were also several bars and restaurants located inside the arena, providing a more sit-down dining experience. Don’t forget to check out these options when you attend events at the arena!
Restroom Locations
At Nationwide Arena, I never had trouble finding a restroom when I needed one. Facilities are located throughout the arena on multiple levels, ensuring easy access for all guests. In addition to standard men’s and women’s restrooms, the arena also provides family restrooms which are a great feature for those attending events with young children.
Merchandise Shops
During my visit to Nationwide Arena, I discovered multiple merchandise shops where I could purchase souvenirs to remember the event. Whether you are looking for a team jersey, a t-shirt, or a unique collectible, the arena has plenty of options available. Be sure to stop by one of these shops during your visit and grab a memento from your favorite team or performer!
Customer Service
In case I needed assistance during my visit to Nationwide Arena, customer service representatives were readily available to help. These friendly and knowledgeable staff members could be found at Guest Services booths located throughout the arena. From answering questions about seating to helping with accessibility needs, the customer service team at Nationwide Arena always made sure my experience was enjoyable and hassle-free. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them if you need any assistance during your visit!
Venue Regulations
Prohibited Items
As a visitor to Nationwide Arena, I want to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment, so there are certain items that are not allowed inside the venue. Some of these prohibited items include:
- Weapons of any kind
- Outside food and beverages
- Large bags or backpacks
- Drones or other remote-controlled devices
- Professional cameras or recording devices
This is not an exhaustive list, and security personnel have the right to refuse entry to anyone carrying items deemed unsafe or disruptive.
Smoking Policy
As a non-smoker, I appreciate that Nationwide Arena is a smoke-free environment. There are no designated smoking areas within the arena, and smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes or vape pens, is strictly prohibited.
Child and Adult Conduct
I believe it’s important for everyone attending events at Nationwide Arena to maintain respectful and responsible behavior. This means:
- No offensive language or gestures
- No fighting or aggressive behavior
- Enjoying alcoholic beverages responsibly (if of legal drinking age)
- Respecting the arena staff and fellow guests
Following these guidelines will ensure a pleasant experience for me and my fellow visitors at Nationwide Arena.
Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
At Nationwide Arena, I found that the needs of persons with disabilities are well catered to. They meet or exceed the requirements of compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Ohio accessibility mandates. Accessible tickets are available for purchase through Nationwide Arena’s Box Office or Ticketmaster. Remember to indicate the need for accessible tickets at the time of the order. Accessible ticket locations include:
- Lower bowl: Sections 101, 103-104, 106-111, 113-115, 117
- For events with a GA Floor, seating is subject to the individual show production.
I noticed, all restroom facilities at Nationwide Arena are wheelchair accessible. In addition, there are family/all gender restrooms on the main (100 level) and upper (200 level) concourses. Restrooms equipped with a Universal Changing Table can be found on the main (100 level) concourse at the family/all gender restroom near section 110 and on the upper (200 level).
Hearing Assistance
While visiting Nationwide Arena, I wanted to find out about hearing assistance options. Though I couldn’t find specific details about hearing assistance services in the search results, I would recommend reaching out to Nationwide Arena’s Guest Services team to find accurate information about the available services for individuals who require hearing assistance. By reaching out to them, you can rest assured that your audio needs will be accommodated while you enjoy your event at the arena.
Transportation and Parking
Public Transportation
For those of you who prefer using public transportation, there are bus routes available nearby Nationwide Arena. Just make sure to check the local transit website for specific routes and schedules. I remember spotting some bus stops near the arena on my last visit, which made my commute easier.
Parking Options
Now, if you’re driving to Nationwide Arena like I did last time, you’ll be pleased to know that there are over 15,000 parking spaces within a 10-minute walk of the venue in surface lots and parking garages. I noticed that the parking patterns seemed to vary from event to event. Parking fees are based on location and can be purchased in advance or on the day of the event. A list of available parking options includes:
- Parking garages
- Surface lots
- Accessible parking for guests with disabilities
Ride Share Pick-up Locations
For those who prefer using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, there’s a designated pick-up and drop-off area on West Street. I remember using this as a temporary parking spot while waiting for my friends to arrive at the arena. This area helps to streamline pick-ups and drop-offs, and keeps traffic moving smoothly around the venue.
To sum up my experience, navigating transportation and parking options around Nationwide Arena was quite hassle-free, and I was able to enjoy the event without any major challenges.
Conclusion
I hope you found this guide to Nationwide Arena’s gates and entrances helpful for your next visit. Before heading to an event, always remember to check the specific gate opening times as they may differ depending on the type of event. Having your mobile tickets ready in your digital wallet can ensure a smoother and faster entry.
As you plan your trip, keep in mind that there are over 15,000 parking spaces available within a 10-minute walk of the arena. You can also use Waze App for the most efficient driving directions and updates on any road closures.
Whether you’re visiting Nationwide Arena for a sports event or a concert, it’s a great idea to explore the various food and beverage options available within the venue. Make time to enjoy the many restaurants and attractions Columbus has to offer, all within close proximity to the arena.
Lastly, be sure to familiarize yourself with the venue’s policies and prohibited items to guarantee a smooth and enjoyable experience. I hope the information in this guide has made your visit to Nationwide Arena easy and hassle-free.
