Maximizing Your Concert Experience

Concerts and events at Allstate Arena offer unforgettable experiences that require some strategic planning to enjoy fully. You’ll want to research the performing artist’s typical setlist and stage setup to understand what to expect from the show. Many artists post stage diagrams on social media before tours begin, helping you visualize what different seating sections will experience.

Arriving early for concerts and events lets you explore merchandise stands before they get crowded and secure better positions if you have general admission floor tickets. You can also grab food and beverages without missing any of the opening acts. Most major tours feature talented supporting artists who deserve your attention and often become your new favorites.

The venue’s acoustics enhance performances across every musical genre, from classical to heavy metal, making Allstate Arena ideal for diverse concerts and events. You’ll notice how the timber roof construction eliminates the harsh echoes that bring down the experience at some concrete venues. This acoustic quality means even upper bowl seats deliver excellent sound that captures the full range of instruments and vocals.

Pre-Show Preparations

Checking the venue’s website or social media channels on event day provides updates on door opening times, parking situations, and any last-minute changes. You’ll avoid surprises by staying informed through official sources. Some concerts and events feature specific entry procedures or bag restrictions beyond standard policies.

Planning your arrival time accounts for traffic, parking, and security screening that can take 30 to 45 minutes during busy periods. You don’t want to rush through the entry process and miss the opening moments of your anticipated show. Giving yourself buffer time reduces stress and lets you settle into your seats relaxed and ready to enjoy.

Coordinating with your group before arriving establishes meeting points and communication plans if you become separated. You might lose cell service in crowded areas, making predetermined backup plans essential. Discussing expectations about using restrooms or concessions together versus splitting up prevents misunderstandings during events.

During the Event

Respecting other guests’ experiences means being mindful of your behavior during concerts and events. You should avoid excessive talking during performances, blocking views by standing when others are seated, or using phones in ways that distract nearby guests. Your consideration helps everyone enjoy the show they paid to experience.

Taking photos and videos for personal memories is acceptable, but living entirely through your phone screen diminishes your own experience. You’ll create more meaningful memories by being present in the moment rather than constantly recording. Balance capturing highlights with actually watching performances unfold in real time.

Staying hydrated throughout events, especially during high-energy concerts, maintains your comfort and energy levels. You can purchase bottled water at concession stands throughout the venue. The excitement and crowd density can make arenas warmer than expected, so having water accessible helps you stay comfortable.

Guest Services and Assistance

Allstate Arena’s guest services team stands ready to assist with various needs that arise during your visit. You’ll find desks on the main concourse near major entry gates. These centrally located stations serve as information hubs where staff can answer questions, provide directions, and address concerns.

These areas also handle lost and found, where you can report missing items or claim belongings. Staff members log all reported items and found objects, increasing the likelihood of recovery. Check with guest services before leaving if you realize you’ve lost something during the event.

Medical assistance is available through guest services for those experiencing health emergencies or requiring first aid. The arena maintains trained medical personnel and equipped first aid stations. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you or anyone in your party needs medical attention during events.

Accessibility Services

Beyond accessible seating, Allstate Arena provides comprehensive services for guests with various accessibility needs. You can request wheelchair assistance at entry points if you need help reaching your seats. The venue maintains wheelchairs available for temporary use by guests who can walk short distances but need assistance with longer treks.

Assistive listening devices help those who are deaf or hard of hearing fully experience events. You can obtain these devices from guest services with a refundable deposit. Staff members will explain proper use and ensure devices work correctly before you head to your seats.

Service animals may accompany guests throughout the venue with unrestricted access to all public areas. You’ll find designated relief areas outside the building, and staff can provide specific directions. The arena staff receives training on service animal protocols to ensure proper accommodation.

Family Services

Family restrooms provide convenient spaces for parents with young children requiring diaper changes or assistance. These facilities offer more space and privacy than standard restrooms. 

The arena creates family-friendly atmospheres for appropriate events with policies that maintain comfortable environments. Staff members monitor behavior and can address guests whose conduct creates uncomfortable situations for families. You can report concerns to any staff member or guest services personnel.

Special Event Considerations

Different event types at the Allstate Arena have unique characteristics you should consider when planning your visit. Hockey games feature three periods with two intermissions, giving you opportunities to stretch, use restrooms, and purchase refreshments. You’ll want to return to your seats before periods resume to avoid missing action.

Concerts and events vary dramatically in length depending on the artist and tour format. Some shows run 90 minutes while others exceed three hours with multiple encores. Researching typical show lengths for specific artists helps you plan transportation, especially if using services with time constraints.

Wrestling events typically run three to four hours with a mix of televised and non-televised matches. You might see additional content before and after the television cameras stop rolling. Arriving at the advertised start time ensures you catch every moment.

Year-Round Entertainment Calendar

Allstate Arena maintains an active schedule year-round, with concerts and events filling nearly every weekend and many weekdays. You can browse upcoming shows on the venue’s official website or through Ticketmaster’s event calendar. Signing up for email newsletters alerts you to newly announced concerts and events before the general public becomes aware.

The arena’s booking strategy brings diverse entertainment, ensuring something appeals to every demographic and interest. You might attend a heavy metal concert one week, a family ice show the next, and a comedy special the following weekend. This variety keeps the venue fresh and exciting for regular visitors.

Seasonal patterns influence the types of concerts and events you’ll find scheduled at different times of year. Winter months feature more indoor sports and family shows when outdoor entertainment isn’t feasible. Summer sometimes sees reduced activity as touring artists play outdoor venues, though the air-conditioned arena remains attractive during heat waves.