Located in downtown Tampa, Florida, Amalie Arena is a premier entertainment venue that hosts a wide range of events, including concerts, sports games, and family shows. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, getting to the arena on time is crucial to ensure you don’t miss any of the action. In this article, we’ll provide you with a detailed guide on how early you should arrive at Amalie Arena, as well as some valuable tips to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Understanding Amalie Arena’s Layout and Parking Options
Before we dive into the arrival times, it’s essential to understand the arena’s layout and parking options. Amalie Arena is situated in a bustling downtown area, surrounded by several parking garages, lots, and street parking options.
Parking Garages and Lots
The arena has several parking garages and lots within walking distance, including:
- The Amalie Arena Parking Garage: This is the closest parking option to the arena, with over 1,000 parking spaces available.
- The Tampa Convention Center Parking Garage: This garage is located just a block away from the arena and offers over 2,000 parking spaces.
- The South Regional Parking Garage: This garage is about a 5-minute walk from the arena and has over 1,500 parking spaces.
Street Parking
In addition to the parking garages and lots, there are also several street parking options available in the surrounding area. However, be aware that street parking is limited, and spaces fill up quickly, especially during peak events.
Arrival Times: How Early Should You Get to Amalie Arena?
The arrival time at Amalie Arena depends on several factors, including the type of event, the day of the week, and the expected crowd size. Here are some general guidelines to help you plan your visit:
Weekday Events
For weekday events, it’s recommended to arrive at the arena at least 1-2 hours before the scheduled start time. This will give you enough time to park, go through security, and find your seat before the event begins.
Weekend Events
For weekend events, it’s best to arrive at the arena at least 2-3 hours before the scheduled start time. Weekends tend to attract larger crowds, and traffic in the downtown area can be heavier.
Peak Events
For peak events, such as concerts or sports games, it’s recommended to arrive at the arena at least 3-4 hours before the scheduled start time. These events tend to attract massive crowds, and traffic in the surrounding area can be extremely heavy.
Security Checkpoints and Bag Policy
Amalie Arena has several security checkpoints located throughout the venue. To ensure a smooth entry process, it’s essential to be aware of the arena’s bag policy and security procedures.
Bag Policy
Amalie Arena has a clear bag policy, which allows guests to bring in clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12 inches x 6 inches x 12 inches. Small clutch bags and wallets are also permitted. However, large bags, backpacks, and coolers are not allowed.
Security Checkpoints
The arena has several security checkpoints located at the entrances, where guests will be required to go through metal detectors and have their bags checked. To speed up the process, it’s recommended to arrive early and be prepared to remove any prohibited items from your bag.
Traffic and Road Closures
Traffic in the downtown area can be heavy, especially during peak events. To avoid congestion, it’s essential to plan your route in advance and be aware of any road closures.
Traffic Patterns
The arena is located near several major highways, including I-275 and I-4. However, traffic patterns can change depending on the event and time of day. To get the latest traffic updates, you can check the arena’s website or follow them on social media.
Road Closures
During peak events, some roads in the surrounding area may be closed to accommodate pedestrian traffic. To avoid any disruptions, it’s recommended to check the arena’s website or follow them on social media for the latest road closure information.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Visit
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Amalie Arena, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
Plan Your Route
Plan your route in advance, taking into account traffic patterns and road closures. Consider using a GPS or mapping app to get the latest traffic updates.
Arrive Early
Arrive at the arena early to avoid congestion and long lines at the security checkpoints.
Be Prepared
Be prepared to remove any prohibited items from your bag and have your ticket ready to be scanned.
Stay Hydrated
Stay hydrated throughout the event by bringing a refillable water bottle or purchasing water from one of the arena’s concession stands.
Follow Arena Rules
Follow the arena’s rules and regulations, including the bag policy and security procedures.
Conclusion
Arriving at Amalie Arena on time is crucial to ensure you don’t miss any of the action. By understanding the arena’s layout and parking options, arrival times, security checkpoints, and traffic patterns, you can plan your visit and make the most of your experience. Remember to arrive early, be prepared, and follow the arena’s rules and regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
| Event Type | Arrival Time |
|---|---|
| Weekday Events | 1-2 hours before start time |
| Weekend Events | 2-3 hours before start time |
| Peak Events | 3-4 hours before start time |
By following these guidelines and tips, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable visit to Amalie Arena.
What are the parking options available near Amalie Arena?
Amalie Arena offers several parking options for visitors, including the South Regional Garage, the East Regional Garage, and the West Regional Garage. These garages are located within walking distance of the arena and offer a total of over 3,000 parking spaces. Additionally, there are several private parking lots and garages in the surrounding area that offer parking options for arena events.
It’s recommended to plan ahead and arrive early to secure parking, as spaces can fill up quickly, especially for popular events. Visitors can also consider using ride-sharing services or public transportation to avoid parking altogether. The arena’s website provides a parking map and directions to help visitors plan their trip.
What are the bag policy and prohibited items at Amalie Arena?
Amalie Arena has a clear bag policy in place to ensure the safety and security of all visitors. The policy allows for clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12 inches x 6 inches x 12 inches in size. Small clutch bags and wallets are also permitted, but must be no larger than 4.5 inches x 6.5 inches in size. All bags are subject to search upon entry.
There are also several prohibited items that are not allowed inside the arena, including outside food and drink, cameras with detachable lenses, and signs or banners that exceed 11 inches x 17 inches in size. A full list of prohibited items can be found on the arena’s website. Visitors are encouraged to check the list before arriving at the arena to avoid any issues.
What dining options are available inside Amalie Arena?
Amalie Arena offers a variety of dining options for visitors, including concessions stands, restaurants, and bars. The arena features a range of cuisine, from classic arena fare like hot dogs and popcorn to more upscale options like gourmet burgers and salads. Visitors can also enjoy a drink at one of the arena’s many bars, which offer a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.
In addition to the concessions stands and restaurants, Amalie Arena also offers a range of premium dining options for suite holders and VIP guests. These options include private dining rooms and personalized service. Visitors can also take advantage of the arena’s mobile ordering system, which allows them to order food and drinks from their seat and have them delivered to their location.
What accessibility features does Amalie Arena offer?
Amalie Arena is committed to providing an accessible and enjoyable experience for all visitors, regardless of their abilities. The arena features a range of accessibility features, including wheelchair-accessible seating, elevators, and restrooms. Visitors with mobility impairments can also take advantage of the arena’s wheelchair and Electronic Conveyance Vehicle (ECV) rental services.
In addition to physical accessibility features, Amalie Arena also offers a range of services for visitors with sensory or cognitive impairments. These services include sign language interpretation, assistive listening devices, and a quiet room for visitors who may need a break from the noise and crowds. Visitors can contact the arena’s accessibility services team in advance to request accommodations and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
What is the arena’s policy on re-entry?
Amalie Arena has a no re-entry policy in place, which means that visitors who leave the arena during an event will not be allowed to re-enter. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and security of all visitors, as well as to prevent overcrowding and disruptions to the event.
However, there are some exceptions to this policy. Visitors who need to exit the arena for medical reasons or to retrieve an item from their vehicle may be allowed to re-enter with permission from arena staff. Visitors can contact the arena’s customer service team in advance to request an exception to the re-entry policy.
Can I bring a camera or recording device into Amalie Arena?
Amalie Arena has a policy in place regarding cameras and recording devices, which varies depending on the event. For most events, visitors are allowed to bring in small cameras and smartphones for personal use. However, cameras with detachable lenses, tripods, and commercial-grade recording equipment are typically not permitted.
It’s always best to check with the arena’s customer service team or the event promoter in advance to confirm the camera and recording device policy for a specific event. Some events may have stricter policies in place, and visitors who bring in prohibited equipment may be asked to leave it at the door or return it to their vehicle.
How do I purchase tickets to an event at Amalie Arena?
Tickets to events at Amalie Arena can be purchased through a variety of channels, including the arena’s website, the box office, and authorized ticket sellers like Ticketmaster. Visitors can also purchase tickets in person at the box office, which is open on event days and during select hours on non-event days.
It’s recommended to purchase tickets from authorized sellers to avoid scams and ensure authenticity. Visitors can also take advantage of the arena’s ticket packages and promotions, which can include perks like VIP access, parking, and merchandise. Be sure to check the arena’s website for the most up-to-date ticket information and to plan your visit in advance.