Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids

Van Andel Arena is a multi-purpose arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan. It is home to the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League and the Grand Rapids Gold of the NBA G League. Established in 1996, the arena has a seating capacity of up to 12,000 fans. It is named after Jay and Betty Van Andel, who were the co-founders of Amway Corporation and made significant contributions towards the construction of the arena.

Apart from hockey and basketball games, Van Andel Arena also hosts concerts, family shows, and other events throughout the year. Some of the major concerts and events that have taken place here include Taylor Swift, Elton John, Paul McCartney, and Cirque du Soleil. The arena has a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, which makes it an ideal venue for large-scale events.

One of the interesting facts about Van Andel Arena is that it was built on the site of the former Grand Rapids Civic Auditorium, which was demolished in 1992. The arena is located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, which makes it easily accessible for visitors. There are several parking options available nearby, including parking ramps and surface lots.