Hey there, fellow event-goer! Ever wondered how immense the Allstate Arena truly is when you're planning to catch a concert, game, or show near Chicago? It's more than just a building; it's a massive hub for entertainment, and understanding its scale can really enhance your experience. Let's dive in and explore just how big this iconic venue really is, piece by piece!
Unveiling the Grandeur: How Big is the Allstate Arena in Chicago?
The Allstate Arena, nestled in Rosemont, Illinois, just northwest of Chicago, is a multi-purpose arena renowned for its ability to host a wide array of events, from thrilling sports matchups to world-class concerts and family shows. Its sheer size and versatility make it a cornerstone of entertainment in the Chicagoland area.
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| How Big Is The Allstate Arena In Chicago |
Step 1: Setting the Stage - Understanding the Allstate Arena's Purpose
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of measurements, let's appreciate why the Allstate Arena is so significant. It's not just a big building; it's designed to accommodate large crowds and diverse productions. Think about the last major concert you attended or a thrilling hockey game. The scale of the venue plays a huge role in the atmosphere and the overall experience. The Allstate Arena was built with that in mind, aiming to provide excellent sightlines and an immersive environment for every patron.
1.1 A Legacy of Entertainment:
Opened in 1980 as the Rosemont Horizon, the arena was envisioned to be a premier entertainment destination. It has consistently ranked among the top-selling venues globally, a testament to its capacity and appeal. This history of hosting major events speaks volumes about its capabilities.
Step 2: The Core Metric - Seating Capacity
When most people ask "how big is it?", they're usually curious about how many people it can hold. The Allstate Arena's seating capacity is impressive and varies depending on the type of event, thanks to its flexible design.
2.1 Concerts and Shows:
For concerts and other live entertainment, the Allstate Arena can accommodate a significant crowd, typically ranging from 18,500 to 22,000 people. This flexibility allows for various stage configurations, from end-stage setups to full 360-degree productions, maximizing the audience experience. Imagine the roar of that many fans for your favorite band!
2.2 Sports Spectacles:
The arena is a beloved home to professional sports teams, and its configuration adapts for these events:
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- Basketball: For basketball games, the capacity is around 17,500 seats. It was notably the home of the DePaul Blue Demons men's basketball team for many years.
- Ice Hockey: When the ice is laid down for hockey, such as for the Chicago Wolves (AHL), the capacity is approximately 16,692 seats.
- Arena Football: For arena football, the capacity is around 16,143.
This adaptability is a key indicator of its "bigness" – not just in static size, but in its dynamic ability to transform.
Step 3: Beyond the Seats - The Physical Footprint
While seating capacity gives us a good idea of how many people can fit inside, the actual physical dimensions also contribute to its "bigness."
3.1 Overall Structure and Layout:
The Allstate Arena is a multi-purpose facility, and its design reflects this versatility. While a precise total square footage for the entire complex isn't readily available, we can infer its scale from various aspects:
- Main Lobby Area: There's a 3,000-square-foot main lobby area which includes full-service restaurants and bars, providing ample space for pre-event mingling and concessions.
- Luxury Suites: The arena boasts forty-eight luxury suites, each capable of seating up to 20 people. These private spaces add another layer to its capacity and premium offerings.
- Concourse Expansion: A significant renovation in 1999 (when it became the Allstate Arena from the Rosemont Horizon) included expanded concourses and widened aisles, indicating a substantial internal footprint designed for comfortable movement of large crowds.
3.2 Modern Technological Enhancements:
Recent upgrades further illustrate its scale and commitment to a grand experience. In 2025, over 13,500 square feet of digital signage will be delivered. This includes:
- A four-sided centerhung display system with each of the four main displays measuring 16.5 feet high by 21.5 feet wide.
- Two underbelly displays, each nearly 6 feet high by 16.5 feet wide.
- A full 360-degree ribbon display measuring 2.5 feet high by 899 feet around, circling the seating fascia.
- Two additional auxiliary video displays at the ends of the arena, each roughly 10 feet high by 20.5 feet wide.
These massive displays are a physical manifestation of the arena's expansive interior, ensuring that everyone, no matter where they are seated, has a great view.
Step 4: Locating the Arena - Its Place in the Chicagoland Landscape
The Allstate Arena's location also contributes to its perceived size and importance, acting as a gateway for entertainment in the region.
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4.1 Strategic Positioning:
It's conveniently located at 6920 North Mannheim Road in Rosemont, Illinois, just northwest of Chicago. This strategic placement, minutes from major expressways and about 3 miles north of O'Hare International Airport, makes it highly accessible for both local and out-of-town visitors. The ability to draw from such a wide geographical area underscores its significant role.
4.2 The Rosemont Vision:
The arena was a key part of Rosemont founding mayor Donald Stephens' vision to expand the village into a destination, offering a venue that was more accessible to the suburbs than other Chicago-based stadiums. This foresight established its large-scale presence within the broader metropolitan area.
Step 5: Historical Context and Impact
Understanding the arena's history sheds light on its enduring "bigness" and its role in shaping entertainment in the Midwest.
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5.1 From Horizon to Allstate:
Opened in 1980 as the Rosemont Horizon, it underwent a significant renovation in 1999, costing $20 million, and was renamed the Allstate Arena after a 10-year naming rights contract with Allstate Insurance company. This consistent investment demonstrates its ongoing importance and large-scale operations.
5.2 A Venue for Legends:
Over the decades, the Allstate Arena has hosted an incredible roster of events and performers, solidifying its status as a major venue. This includes:
- Multiple WrestleManias: It's one of only two venues (along with Madison Square Garden) to host WrestleMania three times (WrestleMania 2, 13, and 22).
- Iconic Concerts: From The Rolling Stones and Fleetwood Mac to Taylor Swift and BTS, countless musical legends have graced its stage, requiring a venue of its considerable size and technical capabilities.
- Championship Sports: It has been the site of numerous AHL Calder Cup Finals, IHL Turner Cup Finals, and WNBA Playoffs, showcasing its ability to handle high-stakes sporting events.
The sheer volume and caliber of events hosted highlight its "bigness" not just in terms of physical space, but in its cultural impact and consistent ability to attract massive audiences.
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In conclusion, the Allstate Arena is indeed a very big venue. Its size is best understood through its substantial seating capacity that flexes for different events, its comprehensive internal facilities, its strategic location, and its rich history of hosting large-scale, impactful entertainment. It's a testament to thoughtful design and continuous investment, ensuring it remains a premier destination for years to come.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 "How to" FAQs about the Allstate Arena with quick answers:
How to find out about upcoming events at the Allstate Arena?
You can find out about upcoming events by visiting the official Allstate Arena website (allstatearena.com) or checking major ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster and Live Nation.
How to get tickets for events at the Allstate Arena?
Tickets can typically be purchased online through authorized ticket vendors like Ticketmaster, Live Nation, or in person at the Allstate Arena Box Office (open three hours prior to events and one hour after an event).
How to get to the Allstate Arena by public transportation?
While directly accessible public transportation is limited, the arena is located near major expressways, making it relatively easy to reach by ride-sharing services or taxis from CTA or Metra stations in the broader Chicago area.
How to find parking at the Allstate Arena?
Plenty of on-site parking is available close to all entrances of the Allstate Arena. Parking fees usually range from $25-$50 (cash or credit card accepted). Parking lots typically open two hours before an event.
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How to know the bag policy for the Allstate Arena?
Generally, backpacks, totes, mid/large-sized bags, and coolers are not permitted. Diaper bags (with child) and bags for medical needs are allowed after a security search, but approved bags must be no bigger than 12" x 12". Always check the specific event page for any additional restrictions, as policies can vary.
How to find accessible seating at the Allstate Arena?
Accessible/disabled seating is available on the lower level of the arena. Tickets for these areas can be purchased through Ticketmaster and the Allstate Arena Box Office. It's important to specify your need for accessible seating when purchasing.
How to request a sign language interpreter for an event?
Allstate Arena makes efforts to provide sign interpreters for hearing-impaired guests upon request. It's recommended to contact the Allstate Arena at least two weeks prior to the event to arrange this service.
How to find food and beverages inside the Allstate Arena?
The arena offers a variety of concession stands and full-service restaurants and bars within its main lobby area and concourses, providing a range of food and beverage options for attendees.
How to locate restrooms at the Allstate Arena?
Restroom facilities throughout the Allstate Arena are accessible and clearly marked on all levels of the venue.
How to know if cameras are allowed at an Allstate Arena event?
Generally, detachable lens cameras, video or audio recording equipment, selfie sticks, iPads, and GoPros are prohibited. However, this policy can vary by event, so it's always best to check the specific event page for detailed camera policies.
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