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| - The Saddledome aka the ScotiaBank Saddledome (until the name changes again lol...) is Calgary's primary indoor arena for professional level hockey, lacrosse and figure skating. Beyond major sports it also serves as the primary venue for major concerts. Although still functional, it is one of the oldest arenas in the NHL and is expected to be replaced with a more modern arena/venue. Its dated infrastructure is not only the subject of criticism from the NHL but also many entertainment managers and companies. Its outdated design, poor acoustics and lack of modern infrastructure has actually led to several major music performers skipping over Calgary and instead stopping over in the smaller city of Edmonton in their tours across Canada.
As far as amenities go, it is still functional. They have concession options throughout the main concourse, line-ups and high prices are expected. Expect line-ups at the washrooms as well. The concourse is often quite crowded and getting out after a game or concert is always a slow process. There are a number of luxury and party suites (boxes), and a premium seat section known as the Avison Young Club which offers in-seat concession service. The Avison Young Club also features a private dining room. There is also a private Platinum Club and Chrysler Club that require memberships. For the public there is Dutton's Lounge, the Saddleroom Grill, the Alumni Lounge and The King Club.
The Saddledome itself seats about 19-20,000 people at full capacity, which happens quite often for Flames Games. Concerts generally hit their full capacity as well, and although they sell less seats in the bowls, they make up for it with floor seating. I've sat just about everywhere in the Saddledome; floor seats, the Avison Young Club section, box seats, lower bowl, upper bowl and even Press Level seating aka the nose bleeds! If you have access to box seats you got it made, otherwise aim for central seating locations for sporting events rather than behind the net or in the corners. This is less applicable if you're in the upper bowl, as you can see all the action; I'd even say a lower bowl corner seat or behind the net seat is probably worse than an upper bowl seat. For concerts you're pretty much okay anywhere TBH, just try not to be behind too in-line with stage so that you're looking stuck looking at the performers backside haha (why do they sell these seats?!). Also be careful of floor seats, unless you're tall or in the first 10 rows you're probably better off sitting in the bowl!
For parking, VIP is kinda a jip unless you leave early because you're just getting stuck behind everyone. You're actually better off doing regular parking as you'll get out quicker. Otherwise parking slightly off-site is a good option as well if you don't mind a short walk. The Saddledome is right on the LRT line as well, but expect big crowds! I personally prefer driving over stuffing myself in a train full of drunks.
To sum: Functional, but needs to be replaced to better serve a thriving city like Calgary. Despite being outdated it's still an iconic landmark and an important piece of Calgary's history. Hope it stays as part of Calgary's western facing skyline, but for our professional sports teams and for entertainment I hope Calgary gets an upgrade!
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