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Nationwide Arena

Columbus, OH · Pro Hockey

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Member cap: 18,500
Cost to join: Free
Verification: Email + Phone
Status: Open

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Venue encyclopedia

Independent, no paid placements

What attending a pro hockey game at the Columbus, OH venue is actually like: seating, arrival, weather, food, and the seats we'd point a friend toward (or away from).

Capacity: 18,500
Roof: Indoor / climate-controlled

What it feels like

Urban atmosphere with a mix of pre-game tailgating and game-day excitement. Fans gather in the surrounding area, creating a lively pre-game environment. Inside the arena, the seating is steep but offers good sightlines from most sections.

Seating tiers

Lower bowl

Rows General rows

Closest rows offer the best sightlines, but can be crowded. the lower rows provide a good balance of proximity and space.

Mid-level seating

Rows General rows

Offers a good view with less crowd interference compared to the lower bowl. the lower rows are particularly comfortable.

Upper deck

Rows General rows

Steep seating, but still offers decent sightlines for most games. The upper deck is a good choice on colder nights as it provides more insulation from the elements.

Sections we'd pick

Lower bowl the lower rows between the goal lines for optimal viewing.
Mid-level seating in sections 65 to 75 for a comfortable and less crowded experience.
Upper deck behind one of the end of the bowls for an elevated view.

Sections we'd skip

Lower bowl the lower rows, which can be too close and crowded.
Upper deck, as they are further from the action and can feel less engaging.
Mid-level seating behind the benches, where sightlines may not be ideal.

Arrival

Primary route: Accessible via Front Street and N High St, with public parking lots nearby.
Rideshare: Designated drop-off and pickup zones on the north side of the arena.

Parking: No on-site lots . Prepay recommended.
Walk to gates: ~ minutes (median)

Weather and timing

Best months to attend

Oct, Nov

Toughest months

Jan, Feb

Roof

Indoor

While the arena has climate control, cold weather can still make for a chilly experience. Layer up with warm clothing and consider bringing a jacket or sweater.

Food inside

Standard arena fare with a focus on quick bites. The Blue Jackets' official concessions offer a variety of hot dogs, burgers, and salads. There are also several food trucks that set up outside the arena for pre-game meals.

Food and pre-game outside

The surrounding area has numerous dining options, including full-service restaurants and bars within walking distance.

Accessibility

ADA ramps and seating available throughout the venue. Designated parking spaces and restrooms with accessibility features are present. Companion seats can be requested at the box office.

Worth knowing before you go

Cashless transactions are accepted for both concessions and parking.
Bag policy: clear bag, size limited to 12 by 6 by 12 inches. Full search at the designated gate required.
Re-entry is allowed after halftime if you leave through designated gates.
Restrooms in sections 300-400 are generally less crowded during games.

What Blue Jackets fans get

A permanent member number that reflects when you joined. The lower the number, the higher your standing — forever.
Priority access to seat opportunities at Nationwide Arena. Seniority determines order. No luck involved.
First look at every new perk, partner offer, and member event — founding members always hear before anyone else.
Founding Member status. This tier closes when the roster fills at 18,500. It doesn't reopen.

Blue Jackets fans: your spot is waiting.

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