Getting to Bridgestone Arena early enough before an event is crucial to having the best experience possible. While every event is different, there are some general guidelines people should follow for when to arrive at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.
How early do doors open at Bridgestone Arena?
In most cases, doors at Bridgestone Arena open 1-2 hours before the scheduled start time of an event. This can vary though based on the specific event. Larger concerts or sporting events will often open doors even earlier to accommodate the huge crowds. It’s always smart to check the Bridgestone Arena website for the specific doors opening time before heading over.
When should you get to Bridgestone Arena to avoid lines?
Getting to Bridgestone at least 1 hour before doors open is recommended to beat long lines. The lines to get through security and enter the arena get very long leading up to doors opening. Arriving early gives you plenty of time to get through security screening and find your seat without having to rush.
What time should you arrive if you want to catch the pre-game or warm up?
For sporting events like Nashville Predators games, getting to Bridgestone Arena 1.5-2 hours early allows you to catch the pre-game warm ups on the ice. The players start warming up about 45 minutes before game time. If you want to see the players up close as they get ready, aim to be in your seat by then.
How early for concerts at Bridgestone Arena?
Concerts have more variation in when you need to arrive. Getting there 1-2 hours before showtime ensures you’ll catch any opening acts and be in your seat well before the headliner takes the stage. Superstar acts like Taylor Swift or Paul McCartney will draw capacity crowds, so arriving on the earlier side is wise.
When is the latest you can get to Bridgestone Arena?
You should never aim to just arrive right as an event starts at Bridgestone Arena. Leaving extra time for travel, parking, lines and finding your seat is crucial. If an event has reserved seating, arriving within 30 minutes of start time is doable but not ideal. For general admission shows, at least an hour before is better to get a good spot.
Should you get there extra early for sold out or playoff games?
Absolutely. If a concert, Predators game, or other event is sold out or a big playoff game, getting to Bridgestone Arena even earlier than normal is recommended. Extra crowds mean longer lines at parking and security. Go 2-3 hours early if possible to stress less and get in faster.
Does it matter what entrance you use?
Yes. Bridgestone Arena has multiple entrances, including through the Ovation building attached next door. Some have shorter lines than others depending on the event. Checking ahead of time to see which entrance has less congestion can help you get in quicker.
Is arriving early essential for kids events?
Definitely. Bringing kids to Bridgestone Arena means needing extra time for a few reasons. Kids may need to use the restroom or get food once inside, so arriving early gives you time to take care of such needs without missing anything. Arriving early also helps make sure antsy kids aren’t stuck standing in line too long.
Should you get there later for weekday or daytime events?
Sometimes. Events during weekday daytimes or afternoons, especially kid focused shows like Disney on Ice, won’t draw as huge of crowds. Arriving 30-60 mins early may be enough for quicker entry. But it still pays to give yourself extra time in case of traffic or other delays.
Do you have to arrive early if you have VIP tickets?
Having VIP, backstage or suite tickets means you’ll likely access different entrances than general admission. But fans with these special tickets still need to ensure they arrive early enough to park, get screened if necessary and be escorted to their exclusive seats timely. Cutoff times apply, so don’t be late!
Can you pre-screen to speed up entry?
Unfortunately Bridgestone Arena does not offer any pre-screening options currently to help expedite getting into events. All guests have to go through security and ticket scanning at the venue itself. Arriving early, using lesser used entrances and avoiding bags remains key for fast entry.
Is parking easier if you arrive early?
Absolutely. Bridgestone Arena has limited parking in attached garages and nearby lots. For big games and shows, these fill up fast. Arriving 2-3 hours early or even earlier if possible gives you the best chance at getting one of the closer, more convenient parking spots before they sell out.
Can you enter early with a club or suite ticket?
Some premium tickets do allow earlier arena access. The Bud Light Zone offers early admission a half hour before regular doors. Lexus Lounge, Diageo Club and loge box ticket holders also get early entry. Perks like these provide a major incentive to arrive well in advance of general admission.
Is arriving early extra important for post-event crowds?
Yes. Just like getting into Bridgestone Arena is smoother when you arrive early, leaving later is also easier. If you stay in your seat until crowds thin out at the end of an event, parking garages and downtown streets won’t be as congested as when everyone leaves at once.
Does public transportation help with arrival time?
Potentially. Using a rideshare service or public transportation like Nashville’s WeGo bus system can mitigate some stress about arrival time since you aren’t parking yourself. But lines after events will still be long, so don’t cut it too close if using transit.
Can you get concessions faster if you arrive early?
Absolutely. Concession stands and restaurants inside Bridgestone Arena get extremely crowded right as events start. Arriving early gives you time to get food and drinks well before the rush. Mobile ordering via the Bridgestone Arena app also helps you skip concession lines when you order early.
Conclusion
Navigating crowds at popular Bridgestone Arena events requires proper planning and awareness. Arriving early makes the process of parking, security, finding seats and more much smoother. Aim to get to Bridgestone Arena at least 1 hour before doors open, 2-3 hours for sold out events. This ensures you’ll have the best experience from start to finish!