Have you ever driven to a concert or a sporting event, full of anticipation, only to have your excitement slowly drain away as you circle endlessly, searching for a parking spot? We've all been there! Parking at popular venues like the Allstate Arena can sometimes feel like a daunting task, but with a little planning and insider knowledge, it doesn't have to be.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about parking at the Allstate Arena, ensuring your visit starts and ends on a high note. So, buckle up, and let's conquer Allstate Arena parking together!
Your Ultimate Guide to Parking at Allstate Arena
Step 1: Are You Prepared to Park Smart?
Before we even talk about specific lots, let's get you in the right mindset! Parking smart at the Allstate Arena means being proactive, flexible, and informed. Are you someone who likes to arrive just in the nick of time, or do you prefer to have a leisurely stroll to the entrance? Your preference will influence your best parking strategy.
Think about this for a moment: What kind of experience do you want before and after the event? A smooth, stress-free arrival and departure, or are you willing to brave some potential delays for a closer spot?
Once you've considered that, you're ready for the next steps!
Step 2: Understanding Your Parking Options at Allstate Arena
The Allstate Arena offers a variety of parking options, primarily focusing on on-site lots. Familiarizing yourself with these is key.
2.1: The Official Allstate Arena Parking Lots
The most straightforward and often recommended option is to utilize the official parking lots located directly on the Allstate Arena property. These lots are generally well-maintained and offer the closest proximity to the entrances.
- Convenience is Key: These lots are designed for direct access to the arena, minimizing your walking distance.
- Security: Official lots are typically well-lit and often have security personnel, offering a greater sense of safety.
- Cost: Parking fees for official lots are standard for most events. It's important to note that these fees can vary slightly depending on the event, but they are generally clearly posted upon entry. Cash and credit card payments are usually accepted.
2.2: Parking Lot Entrances and Flow
Knowing how to enter and exit the parking lots efficiently will save you a lot of time and frustration.
- Primary Entrances: The main parking lot entrances are typically located off Mannheim Road and Lunt Avenue in Rosemont, Illinois. Depending on your direction of approach, plan your route accordingly.
- Following Signage: Once you're near the arena, pay close attention to the electronic signs and traffic controllers. They will direct you to available lots and guide you through the flow of traffic. These directions are specifically designed to minimize congestion.
- Pre-Event Traffic: Be prepared for heavier traffic closer to event start times. Arriving earlier can significantly reduce your wait in line to enter the lots.
Step 3: The Pre-Purchase Advantage: Saving Time and Stress
Did you know you can often purchase parking in advance? This is a fantastic way to streamline your arrival.
3.1: How to Pre-Purchase Parking
- Event Ticket Vendors: Many event tickets sold through platforms like Ticketmaster or the official venue website will offer the option to add parking to your purchase. Look for this option during the checkout process.
- Specific Parking Websites: Sometimes, the Allstate Arena or its parking management partner will have a dedicated website for pre-purchasing parking. A quick search for "Allstate Arena parking pre-purchase" will often yield the correct link.
- Digital Passes: After purchasing, you'll typically receive a digital parking pass via email or through the ticketing app. Have this ready on your phone when you arrive. Print a backup copy if you're concerned about phone battery life or signal issues!
3.2: Benefits of Pre-Purchasing
- Guaranteed Spot: You'll have a confirmed parking spot, eliminating the anxiety of searching upon arrival.
- Faster Entry: Often, there are dedicated lanes for pre-paid parking, allowing for quicker entry into the lots.
- Potentially Lower Cost: While not always the case, sometimes pre-purchasing can offer a slight discount compared to day-of pricing.
Step 4: Arriving Early and Game Day (or Concert Night) Strategies
Even with a pre-purchased pass, arriving early is a golden rule for a stress-free parking experience.
4.1: The Early Bird Gets the Best Spot
- Buffer Time: Aim to arrive at least 60-90 minutes before the scheduled event start time. This gives you ample time to navigate traffic, park, walk to the arena, clear security, and find your seats without rushing.
- Tailgating (If Applicable): For certain events, particularly sporting events, tailgating might be permitted in designated areas. Arriving early is essential if you plan to partake in this tradition. Always check the Allstate Arena's official website or the event details for specific tailgating policies.
4.2: Navigating the Lots on Event Day
- Follow Attendant Instructions: Once in the lots, follow the directions of the parking attendants. They are there to guide traffic efficiently and fill spaces strategically. Do not try to bypass their instructions.
- Note Your Location: This is crucial! Take a photo of your parking spot number, the nearest landmark, or even the aisle you're in. It's surprisingly easy to forget where you parked in a large lot, especially after a long and exciting event.
- Consider a Landmark: Look for a unique light pole, sign, or section marker that can help you remember your car's location.
Step 5: Post-Event Exit Strategies
Leaving the Allstate Arena can be just as challenging as arriving if you're not prepared.
5.1: Patience is a Virtue
- Expect Delays: After a sold-out event, thousands of cars will be trying to exit simultaneously. Expect some delays. Take a deep breath and be patient.
- Follow Exit Signs: Just as with entry, follow the designated exit signs and the directions of traffic controllers. They are designed to funnel vehicles out as efficiently as possible.
- Alternative Routes: If you're familiar with the area, consider looking at alternative routes before the event. Sometimes, taking a slightly less direct route can bypass the main congestion points.
5.2: Post-Event Gatherings
- Designated Pick-Up/Drop-Off: If you're being picked up, ensure your driver knows the designated pick-up areas. These are often separate from the main parking lots to reduce congestion.
- Rideshare Services: For ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, there will be designated zones. Follow the in-app instructions to meet your driver. This is typically a more organized process than trying to hail a ride from a random spot.
Step 6: Accessibility Parking
The Allstate Arena is committed to providing accessible parking for guests with disabilities.
6.1: Designated Accessible Spaces
- Location: Accessible parking spaces are available in all official parking lots and are located closest to the arena entrances.
- Permit Required: A valid state-issued disability parking placard or license plate must be clearly displayed. These spaces are strictly enforced.
- Early Arrival Recommended: While there are designated spaces, they can fill up, especially for popular events. Arriving early is still highly recommended to secure an accessible spot.
Step 7: Off-Site Parking Alternatives (Use with Caution)
While official lots are generally the best bet, some visitors might consider off-site parking.
7.1: Nearby Businesses and Lots
- Private Lots: Some private businesses or small lots in the surrounding area may offer parking for a fee.
- Risks: Be aware that these options may be less secure, further away, and potentially more expensive or unregulated. Always verify the legitimacy and safety of any off-site parking option before using it.
- Walking Distance: Factor in the additional walking distance and potential safety concerns if choosing an off-site option.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find the Allstate Arena parking map?
You can usually find a detailed parking map on the official Allstate Arena website under their "Directions & Parking" or "Guest Services" section.
How to pay for parking at Allstate Arena?
Most official Allstate Arena parking lots accept both cash and major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover). Pre-purchasing online is also an option.
How to pre-purchase parking for an event at Allstate Arena?
Look for the option to add parking during the checkout process when buying your event tickets online, or visit the Allstate Arena's official website or its parking partner's site directly.
How to find accessible parking at Allstate Arena?
Accessible parking spaces are located in all official Allstate Arena lots, closest to the entrances. A valid state-issued disability parking placard or license plate is required.
How to avoid traffic when parking at Allstate Arena?
The best way to avoid heavy traffic is to arrive at least 60-90 minutes before the scheduled event start time. Consider alternative routes if you know the area well.
How to remember where I parked at Allstate Arena?
Take a photo of your parking spot number, the nearest landmark (like a light pole or sign), or the aisle number to easily locate your car after the event.
How to get picked up by a rideshare service after an event at Allstate Arena?
Check the Allstate Arena's website or your rideshare app for designated pick-up zones. Follow the in-app instructions to meet your driver at the specified location.
How to determine the cost of parking at Allstate Arena?
Parking costs can vary slightly by event. The fee is usually clearly posted at the lot entrance. Pre-purchasing might also display the cost online.
How to get a refund for pre-purchased parking if an event is canceled?
If an event is canceled, contact the point of purchase for your parking pass (e.g., Ticketmaster, Allstate Arena box office) to inquire about their refund policy.
How to find out if tailgating is allowed at Allstate Arena events?
Check the official Allstate Arena website or the specific event details on their website for information regarding tailgating policies, as they can vary by event.
