Are you curious about how many people can pack into Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, for a thrilling concert, an intense basketball game, or perhaps a high-energy hockey match? You've come to the right place! Understanding the capacity of a venue like Wells Fargo Arena isn't just about a single number; it's a fascinating look into how these spaces transform for different events. Let's dive in and uncover the seating secrets of this iconic Iowa venue!
Step 1: Discovering the Baseline Capacity – The "Big Picture" Number
First things first, let's get to the core of your question. The general seating capacity of Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, is approximately 17,000 people. This is the number you'll most commonly hear and it represents the arena's maximum potential for many types of events.
What does "approximately 17,000" mean?
It means that while 17,000 is the widely cited capacity, the actual number of people who can fit into the arena can fluctuate based on the specific event. Think about it: a monster truck rally needs a different setup than a symphony orchestra, right?
Step 2: Understanding Event-Specific Capacities – The Nuances of Seating
This is where it gets interesting! Wells Fargo Arena is designed to be highly versatile, meaning its seating configuration changes depending on what's happening.
Sub-heading: For Sporting Events
Sports typically utilize a fixed court or rink, which dictates the surrounding seating.
- Hockey and Arena Football: For fast-paced hockey games and intense arena football, the capacity is around 15,181 people. This configuration maximizes seating around the playing surface.
- Basketball: When the court is set up for basketball, the arena can hold about 16,110 people. The slight increase compared to hockey/football is due to the different court dimensions and how seating can extend around it.
Sub-heading: For Concerts and Live Performances
Concerts offer the most variability in seating, as the stage can be placed in different locations.
- End-Stage Concerts: This is the most common concert setup, where the stage is at one end of the arena. For these events, Wells Fargo Arena can accommodate around 16,285 people. The area behind the stage is usually blocked off.
- Center-Stage Concerts: When the stage is in the middle of the arena, allowing for 360-degree viewing, the capacity can reach its maximum of 16,980 people. This configuration allows for the most audience members to have a view of the performance.
Step 3: Exploring Seating Sections and Premium Options
Knowing the overall capacity is one thing, but understanding the types of seating available helps you visualize how those thousands of people are accommodated.
Sub-heading: Main Seating Levels
Wells Fargo Arena generally has three main levels of seating, each offering a different perspective and price point:
- Event Level: These are the seats closest to the action, sometimes even on the floor itself for concerts, or premium suites.
- 100 Level (Lower Level): Located directly above the event level, these sections provide excellent, close-up views. Sections typically wrap around the arena.
- 200 Level (Mid-Tier): These sections offer a balanced view of the stage or court.
- 300 Level (Upper Level): These are the highest sections in the arena, providing a panoramic view. They are often the most budget-friendly options.
Sub-heading: Premium Seating and Suites
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Wells Fargo Arena offers a variety of premium seating options that also contribute to the overall capacity:
- Luxury Suites: Private suites offering VIP amenities and an exclusive viewing experience. Wells Fargo Arena boasts 39 suites.
- Loge Boxes: A more intimate premium seating option, often with dedicated service. There are 20 Loge Boxes.
- Club Seats: These offer premium amenities and access to exclusive lounges. The arena has 630 club seats.
- The Fort Restaurant: This unique feature located on the Suite Level provides views of the Des Moines River and the Iowa State Capitol, and is open to all ticket holders, adding to the overall experience.
Step 4: A Glimpse into the Arena's History and Future
Wells Fargo Arena has a rich history of hosting a diverse range of events since its opening.
Sub-heading: A Landmark Since 2005
Opened on July 12, 2005, the arena has been a significant part of the Iowa Events Center complex. It replaced the Veterans Memorial Auditorium as the primary venue for large-scale events in Des Moines. Over the years, it has hosted:
- NCAA Division I Men's and Women's Basketball tournaments
- NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships
- State high school wrestling and basketball tournaments
- Concerts from world-renowned artists like Garth Brooks (who holds the multi-show attendance record with 94,214 fans over six shows in 2016) and George Strait (single-show record with 15,843 fans in 2014).
- Family shows like Disney On Ice and Monster Jam.
Sub-heading: A Name Change on the Horizon
It's important to note that the name "Wells Fargo Arena" is set to change! As of July 1, 2025, the arena will be renamed Casey's Center, following a new naming rights agreement with the Iowa-based convenience store chain, Casey's General Stores. So, while it's currently Wells Fargo Arena, keep an eye out for its new identity!
Step 5: Planning Your Visit to Wells Fargo Arena (or Casey's Center!)
Now that you know how many people Wells Fargo Arena can hold, you might be thinking about attending an event yourself!
Sub-heading: Getting Tickets
- Tickets for events are often available through Hy-VeeTix.com or direct ticket vendors like Ticketmaster and Live Nation.
- Mobile ticketing is standard, so be sure to add your tickets to your phone's digital wallet before arriving. Screenshots usually won't work for entry.
Sub-heading: Bag Policy and Prohibited Items
- The arena has a clear bag policy. Only one clear bag (no larger than 12"x12"x6") or one small clutch purse (no larger than 4.5"x6.5") is allowed.
- Exceptions are typically made for medical, family, or child care bags, subject to inspection. Always check the official Iowa Events Center website for the most up-to-date policy.
Sub-heading: Parking and Transportation
- Various parking lots are available around the Iowa Events Center, with differing payment options (cash and credit card accepted, but cash is often preferred for faster entry).
- Public transportation and rideshare options are also available.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check the specific capacity for an upcoming event at Wells Fargo Arena?
The best way is to visit the official Iowa Events Center website (iowaeventscenter.com) or the specific event's page on a ticketing platform like Hy-VeeTix.com or Ticketmaster, which often display the seating chart and general capacity for that particular configuration.
How to find seating charts for different events at Wells Fargo Arena?
Interactive seating charts for basketball, concerts (end-stage and center-stage), and other events are usually available on the Iowa Events Center website under their "Seating Charts" section, as well as on major ticketing sites.
How to purchase tickets for events at Wells Fargo Arena?
Tickets can be purchased online through Hy-VeeTix.com, Ticketmaster, Live Nation, or at the Wells Fargo Arena Ticket Office (though online is generally recommended for convenience).
How to know the bag policy for Wells Fargo Arena?
The arena has a clear bag policy. You can find the most current and detailed information on the official Iowa Events Center website under their "Plan Your Visit" or "FAQ" sections.
How to get to Wells Fargo Arena using public transportation?
Information on local bus stops and routes serving the arena can typically be found on the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) website or on the Iowa Events Center's "Plan Your Visit" page.
How to find parking at Wells Fargo Arena?
Details on parking lots, rates, and payment methods are available on the Iowa Events Center website, often with maps indicating the various options.
How to determine if an event is sold out at Wells Fargo Arena?
Check the event's listing on Hy-VeeTix.com or other ticketing sites. If tickets are no longer available, it will typically be marked as sold out.
How to rent a luxury suite at Wells Fargo Arena?
Information on luxury suite rentals and other premium seating options can be found on the Iowa Events Center's "Premium Seating" section of their website, or by contacting their sales team directly.
How to learn about upcoming events at Wells Fargo Arena?
A full schedule of upcoming events is usually available on the Iowa Events Center website, as well as on Live Nation and Ticketmaster's Des Moines event listings.
How to get information on the arena's new name, Casey's Center?
News and announcements regarding the transition from Wells Fargo Arena to Casey's Center, including the effective date (July 1, 2025), can be found on the Iowa Events Center website and local news outlets.