PNC Arena – Carolina Hurricanes Stadium
PNC Arena is an indoor arena located in Raleigh, North Carolina, United States. It serves as the home venue for the National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes and the NCAA Division I men’s basketball team, the NC State Wolfpack.
This article will provide key facts about PNC Arena and discuss how to get there, where to park near it, and its history.
PNC Arena – Key Facts
PNC Arena is a multi-purpose arena located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It opened on October 29, 1999 and has a capacity of 18,680 for hockey. The architecture of the facility was designed by Odell Associates. It is owned by the Centennial Authority and operated by Gale Force Sports & Entertainment.
The primary tenants of PNC Arena are the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes and NCAA’s NC State Wolfpack. However, the arena also serves as host to various concerts, shows, conventions, and other events throughout the year.
PNC Arena features several amenities for attendees. It has an attached practice facility with two regulation rinks, as well as locker rooms for both teams and their opponents’ fans. The arena also boasts an extensive concourse with concession stands offering local craft beers on tap from many North Carolina breweries.
With its convenient location near downtown Raleigh and state-of-the-art infrastructure, PNC Arena provides guests with a premier experience for attending any event held there.
Where Is PNC Arena Located?
Situated in Raleigh, North Carolina, PNC Arena is a sports arena located just west of downtown. This location is close to the North Carolina State University campus and the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, and can be reached easily via I-40, I-440, or Wade Avenue.
The venue offers an ideal setting for events such as basketball games and concerts due to its proximity to the city and universities. It has a capacity of 19,722 seats for basketball games and up to 21,000 seats for concerts. Additionally, it offers over 140 luxury suites that are available for rent during major events.
With its modern amenities and convenient location, PNC Arena is a popular destination for many activities in the area.
How to get to PNC Arena?
Visitors to the PNC Arena can reach the venue by car, public transportation, rideshare, or taxi. The arena is located off Interstate 40 and 440, bordered by Wade Road to the north and Trinity Road to the south.
To get there by car from the west, take I-40 East to exit 289 for Wade Avenue. From the east take I-440 West to exit 4B for Wade Avenue.
GoRaleigh Transit provides bus service with routes 4, 6 and 26; schedules are available on their website.
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in Raleigh as well as taxi services throughout the city.
The administration of PNC Arena advises all guests to tune in to 1630 AM PNC Arena Traffic Radio for any traffic updates.
Where to Park Near the PNC Arena?
Parking is available in the lots surrounding the venue, with a range of fees depending on the event. For most Carolina Hurricanes games, general parking costs $20 per vehicle. Accessible parking is also available for those with disabilities, as well as designated spaces for limousines and buses. Parking spaces open three hours before game time which allows plenty of time to enter the arena.
Locals often opt to park at the fairgrounds due to its affordability relative to directly parking at PNC Arena. Additionally, street parking can be found in nearby neighborhoods; although it may require some extra walking.
1) General Parking: $20 per vehicle
2) Accessible Parking: Available for patrons with disabilities
3) Fairground Parking: Affordable alternative
4) Street Parking: May require additional walking
History of PNC Arena
The PNC Arena, originally known as the Raleigh Entertainment & Sports Arena, opened in 1999 and is an entertainment and sports complex located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Spanning a total of 700,000 sq. ft., the arena has seating for basketball (19,722) and hockey (18,176). It also features 71 luxury suites and special provisions for handicapped spectators. The project cost $158 million to complete with 30,000 cubic yards of concrete poured and 250 miles of wiring installed.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | Basketball – 19,722; Hockey – 18,176; Wheelchair/Companion – 197/183 |
| Luxury Suites | 71 Suites including 3 Party Suites |
| Special Provisions | Wider Concourses; Excellent Sightlines; Large Student Section for Basketball; Media Accommodations |
| Jobs Created | 75 Full-time Employees with a Payroll of $1.7 Million; 600 Part-time Employees with a Payroll of $2 Million |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the concession options at PNC Arena?
The arena offers a wide range of concession options, including burgers, pizza, hot dogs, salads, nachos and more. Additionally, there are vegan and vegetarian items on the menu as well as alcoholic beverages. Fans can also purchase desserts such as ice cream and candy.
Is PNC Arena a smoke-free venue?
PNC Arena is a smoke-free venue due to North Carolina’s Smoke Free Air Act. All indoor venues are required to adhere to the no smoking policy, with designated outdoor areas available for smokers.
Are there any restrictions on the items that can be brought into PNC Arena?
Items that can be brought into PNC Arena must conform to its clear bag policy. Prohibited items include large bags, backpacks, weapons and other hazardous materials. Outside food and beverages are also not allowed.
Does PNC Arena offer any special discounts or deals?
PNC Arena offers a variety of discounts and deals for patrons. Specials are available for military personnel, seniors, students and groups. Additionally, there are promotions that offer discounted tickets or concessions throughout the year.
Does PNC Arena have any special events or activities for kids?
PNC Arena offers a variety of special events and activities for children, such as family fun nights with interactive games, on-ice activities, hockey clinics, live mascots and more. Additionally, the arena hosts birthday parties that feature exclusive access to the ice and locker rooms.
