Van Andel Arena is a multi-purpose arena located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Built in 1996, it serves as the home of the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League. The Arena also hosts a variety of events, such as concerts, sports, and family shows. Let’s take a closer look at the history, location, capacity, and amenities of Van Andel Arena.
Overview of Van Andel Arena
i. Founding
Van Andel Arena was built in 1996 as a result of a partnership between the City of Grand Rapids and the Grand Rapids Griffins. The arena was funded largely by the donations of Peter and Helen Van Andel, who purchased the naming rights to the arena.
ii. Renovations
In 2008, Van Andel Arena underwent a major renovation, which included the addition of new seating, a new concession area, and new restrooms. In 2017, the arena underwent another renovation, which included the installation of a new scoreclock, as well as a new sound system.
B. Location
i. Address
Van Andel Arena is located at 130 West Fulton Street, Grand Rapids, Michigan.
ii. Directions
The Arena is conveniently located just off US-131. It is easily accessible via I-196 and I-96.
C. Capacity
i. Seating Capacity
Van Andel Arena has a maximum seating capacity of 11,842.
ii. Standing Room Capacity
The Arena also has a standing room capacity of up to 18,000.
II. Amenities
A. Seating
i. Sections
Van Andel Arena features a variety of seating sections, including lower and upper levels, club seating, and suite seating.
ii. Accessibility
Van Andel Arena is ADA accessible and features wheelchair accessible seating.
B. Parking
i. Accessible Parking
Van Andel Arena offers accessible parking in the Arena East parking lot.
ii. Parking Fees
Parking fees vary depending on the event.
C. Food & Beverage
i. Restaurants
Van Andel Arena features a variety of concession stands, as well as two full service restaurants: The Ripple Kitchen and Bar and The Shutesy’s Grille.
ii. Concessions
The Arena also offers a variety of concession stands offering burgers, hot dogs, popcorn, and other snacks.
III. Events
A. Concerts
i. Upcoming Concerts
Van Andel Arena hosts a variety of concerts, from EDM and pop music to country and rock. Upcoming concerts include The Killers, The Lumineers, and Lil Wayne.
ii. Ticket Information
Tickets for concerts can be purchased online at the Van Andel Arena website.
B. Sports
i. Professional Sports
Van Andel Arena is the home of the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League.
ii. Amateur Sports
The Arena also hosts college hockey games, as well as basketball and volleyball tournaments.
C. Family Shows
i. Upcoming Shows
The Arena hosts a variety of family shows, such as Cirque du Soleil, Disney On Ice, and Sesame Street Live.
ii. Ticket Information
Tickets for family shows can be purchased online at the Van Andel Arena website.
IV. Conclusion
Van Andel Arena is a multi-purpose arena located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Built in 1996, it is the home of the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League and hosts a variety of concerts, sports, and family shows. The Arena features seating sections, accessible parking, and a variety of concession stands. Tickets for upcoming events can be purchased online at the Van Andel Arena website.