Heading to Capital One Arena for a thrilling game or an unforgettable concert? You're probably wondering, what's the damage going to be on drinks? Let's be honest, stadium prices can sometimes feel like you're paying for a piece of the arena itself! But don't fret, we're here to give you the lowdown on what to expect when it comes to quenching your thirst at this iconic Washington D.C. venue.
Understanding Capital One Arena's Beverage Scene
Capital One Arena, home to the Washington Wizards (NBA) and Washington Capitals (NHL), is known for its electric atmosphere. While the action on the court or ice is the main draw, the food and beverage offerings play a significant role in the overall fan experience. It's important to remember that stadium prices are generally higher than your local bar or grocery store due to factors like convenience, licensing, and operational costs.
Step 1: Set Your Expectations (and Budget!)
Before you even step foot inside, take a deep breath and mentally prepare for typical arena pricing. This isn't a dive bar, and the convenience of having your favorite beverage just steps away from your seat comes at a premium. Engaging with this reality upfront can help prevent sticker shock and allow you to strategize your sips.
- Consider your usual drink habits: Do you typically stick to one beer, or do you enjoy a few rounds? This will significantly impact your total spend.
- Think about pre-game options: Can you grab a drink or two at a nearby bar before heading in? This is often a cost-effective strategy.
- Don't forget the non-alcoholic options: Even water can carry a surprising price tag at these venues.
 |
| How Much Are Drinks At Capital One Arena |
Step 2: Unpacking the Drink Categories and Estimated Costs
While exact prices can fluctuate based on the specific event, supplier agreements, and even seasonal changes, we can provide a solid estimation for what you'll encounter. Remember, Capital One Arena is a cashless venue, so be prepared with credit cards, debit cards, or contactless payment via smartphone apps. They do offer "Reverse ATMs" to load cash onto a debit card, but it's always easier to be prepared.
Sub-heading: Beer - The Stadium Staple
Beer is arguably the most popular beverage at sporting events and concerts. You'll find a range from domestic to craft, and the prices will reflect that variety.
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
- Domestic Beers (e.g., Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, Budweiser): Expect to pay in the range of $14.00 - $17.00 for a standard (16-25 oz) can or draft. A recent study even cited a 16-ounce beer at Capital One Arena around $9.59, ranking it fairly affordable among NBA arenas. However, anecdotal evidence often suggests prices leaning towards the higher end for larger sizes.
- Premium/Craft Beers (e.g., Goose Island IPA, Elysian Space Dust, Bold Rock Hard Cider): These will typically be a bit more, likely in the $16.00 - $19.00+ range, especially for larger or more specialized options. You might find souvenir cups with these as well, which add to the cost.
Sub-heading: Wine - For the Oenophile
Wine options are usually available, though the selection might be more limited than a dedicated wine bar.
- Glass of Wine (e.g., Cabernet, Chardonnay, Moscato): A single glass will likely set you back $12.00 - $16.00, depending on the varietal and pour size.
Sub-heading: Mixed Drinks & Spirits - The Cocktail Corner
If you're in the mood for something stronger, the arena offers a variety of spirits and mixed drinks.
- Single Liquor Pours (e.g., Jameson, Jose Cuervo, Bacardi, New Amsterdam Vodka/Gin): Expect these to start around $15.00 - $18.00 for a standard pour.
- Double Souvenir Cups/Premium Cocktails: These will naturally be pricier, potentially ranging from $20.00 - $30.00+ depending on the liquor and whether it's a specialty cocktail. Brands like Fireball, Jim Beam, and Martell Blue Swift have been seen on menus.
Sub-heading: Non-Alcoholic Beverages - Staying Hydrated
Even if you're not drinking alcohol, staying hydrated comes with a cost.
- Bottled Water (e.g., Dasani): Anticipate paying around $5.00 - $7.00. A helpful tip: you can often bring an empty plastic water bottle into the arena and fill it up at filtered water fountains to save money.
- Sodas/Soft Drinks (e.g., Bud Light Seltzer, Mango Cart, etc. which are non-alcoholic at their core but often grouped with other concession drinks): Similar to water, expect $5.00 - $8.00 for a fountain drink or bottled soda.
- Specialty Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Some stands might offer unique lemonades or iced teas which could be in the $7.00 - $10.00 range.
Step 3: Capitalizing on Discounts and Perks
There are a few ways to potentially ease the sting of arena prices.
Sub-heading: Capital One Cardholder Benefits
If you're a Capital One cardholder, you're in luck! Capital One Arena offers exclusive benefits to cardholders. * 10% off Food & Beverage: When you present and use your Capital One credit or debit card at checkout at concession stands, you receive a 10% discount on your food and beverage purchases. This can add up if you're buying multiple rounds. * Uber Eats Promo: The Capital One Arena website mentions that you can input a specific promo code (DC10) on the Uber Eats app when using your Capital One card for concession orders to receive the discount and skip the line for express pickup.
Tip: Don’t just glance — focus.
Sub-heading: Look for Happy Hour Deals (Outside the Arena)
While not directly at Capital One Arena, many surrounding establishments in the Penn Quarter and Chinatown neighborhoods offer pre-game happy hour deals. This is a fantastic way to enjoy more affordable drinks and food before entering the venue. A quick search for "happy hour near Capital One Arena" on the day of your event can yield some great results.
Step 4: Making Informed Decisions
Now that you have a clearer picture of the prices, you can make informed decisions.
 |
- Pre-game Smartly: If cost is a major concern, consider eating and drinking at a local establishment before entering. There are many fantastic restaurants and bars within walking distance.
- Hydrate Strategically: Bring an empty, reusable water bottle to fill up inside. This is a simple yet effective way to save money on bottled water.
- Share Large Drinks: If available, consider purchasing larger souvenir-style drinks and sharing them with your group to optimize the per-ounce cost.
- Prioritize Your Sips: Decide what drinks are most important to you and budget accordingly. Is that premium craft beer a must-have, or will a domestic option suffice?
Step 5: Enjoy the Experience!
Ultimately, attending an event at Capital One Arena is about enjoying the atmosphere, the game, or the show. While beverage prices are a factor, they shouldn't overshadow the entire experience. Go in prepared, make smart choices, and then immerse yourself in the excitement!
Frequently Asked Questions about Capital One Arena Drink Prices
Here are 10 related FAQ questions, all starting with "How to," with quick answers:
How to find current drink prices at Capital One Arena? It's challenging to find a constantly updated, publicly available price list for every single drink item. Your best bet is to look at menu boards at concession stands once you're inside the arena or ask a concession worker.
QuickTip: Pause at lists — they often summarize.
How to save money on drinks at Capital One Arena? Use a Capital One credit or debit card for a 10% discount on food and beverage purchases. Consider drinking at bars or restaurants outside the arena before entering. Bring an empty, clear plastic water bottle to fill up at water fountains.
How to get a discount on drinks at Capital One Arena? The primary discount is for Capital One cardholders, who receive 10% off their food and beverage purchases when using their Capital One card. Look for special promotions or event-specific deals which are less common for general concessions.
How to bring your own water to Capital One Arena? You are generally allowed to bring in one empty, clear plastic water bottle. You cannot bring in outside beverages, including sealed water bottles, juice boxes, or sodas.
How to pay for drinks at Capital One Arena? Capital One Arena is a cashless venue. You must pay with a credit card, debit card, or contactless payment method (like Apple Pay or Google Pay). Reverse ATMs are available to convert cash to a debit card.
How to know if a specific drink is available at Capital One Arena? The arena features a wide variety of domestic and craft beers, wines, and spirits. Check the concession maps available on the Capital One Arena website or look for specific vendor signage once inside. Uber Eats also lists some of the arena's drink options.
QuickTip: Compare this post with what you already know.
How to avoid long lines for drinks at Capital One Arena? Arrive early, go to concession stands during less busy times (e.g., during gameplay instead of between periods/halves), or utilize mobile ordering services if available (like through Uber Eats with the Capital One discount).
How to find cheaper beer options at Capital One Arena? Look for domestic beer options, as these are typically the least expensive alcoholic beverages. Some stands might have smaller sizes available which can be slightly cheaper per serving.
How to find mixed drink prices at Capital One Arena? Mixed drink prices will vary based on the liquor and whether it's a single or double pour, or a specialty cocktail. Expect higher prices for premium brands and larger souvenir cups.
How to get free drinks at Capital One Arena? Unless you have access to a premium club or suite that offers all-inclusive food and beverage packages (like the Michelob Ultra Club), there are no free drink options for general admission. Some corporate events or special promotions might include drink vouchers, but this is not standard.
 |
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
