My visit to American Airlines Center was another last minute adventure but a highly anticipated one. As a person that loves all sports, I am open to the opportunity to witness something for the first time. Over the years, I have watched hockey on television and online more times than I can count but never in person.
This last minute adventure only occurred because I was in the Dallas-Fort Worth area with my wife and I have an obsession with checking mobile ticketing applications when traveling.
Here are my thoughts on American Airlines Center.
Pros
When walking up to American Airlines Center the first thing you notice is the building structure. The high arches stand out and add a different appeal to the venue. The large screens at the Victory Plaza entrance also adds to the entertainment value of American Airlines Center.
Upon entering American Airlines Center, you will notice the large amount of variety the concession areas have. Everywhere you turn there is a different restaurant in the venue. This may be something that is overwhelming for some visitors but it is honestly the best thing you could imagine. Also, with the wide variety of food and drink options within American Airlines Center the lines are shorter than most venues.
The prices are standard to what you will see at other venues so you won’t spend too much. American Airlines Center is also the home of 11 full service bars and restaurants. This is ideal for the casual fan that wants to eat and watch while being in the game atmosphere. For the health conscious eaters, the arena has food options for you as well. There are some concession areas that have vegetarian food options so if the traditional arena food isn’t of your liking you’re not out of luck.
With me not being familiar with hockey fans, I didn’t know what to expect before entering the arena. The Dallas Stars fan base is more exciting than crowds you witness at basketball games. They were into the action the entire game and informed me of some things I did not know. The crowd for Dallas Stars games made me want to suit up and hit the ice although I haven’t skated in over a decade.
Cons
Honestly, I do not any many negatives from my experience at American Airlines Center. The food, the fans and the atmosphere were amazing. If I had to choose one thing to nitpick about it would be the lack of intermission entertainment. With it being hockey and the game being played on ice, I didn’t expect much entertainment during period intermission.
Although I didn’t expect much in regards to entertainment, I also didn’t expect to just see two Zamboni’s resurfacing the ice for 14 of the 18 minutes during intermission. This isn’t really a negative but if I had to choose something to point out it would be that
Overall Game Day Experience
I would give American Airlines Center a 9.5 out of 10. Absolutely amazing arena with a lively fan base that gives their all at every game. The downtown setting works for the arena and really ties into the atmosphere and culture. The ticket, parking and concession prices are very reasonable so it is definitely family friendly.
If you are looking for some entertainment during October and June, a visit to Dallas to watch the Stars is definitely something that you should check for and add to your agenda.
