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| - A common thread in my Yelp! reviews is the fact that I am familiar with most of the restaurants or establishments prior to writing anything. And I am no stranger to Gila River Arena. I remember when this west side venue was still the unsponsored "Glendale Arena". It was named after the Phoenix suburb that desperately wanted to prove they "got game" by getting involved with the development of a hockey arena and a football & baseball stadium.
For the record, I am a hard core Coyotes Hockey fan who has followed the team since their early days downtown. And I love bringing my sons and friends to catch a live hockey game here! Seeing how the Coyotes are the primary tenant of Gila River Arena, I can speak to the pros and cons of a facility that was designed specifically for hockey. And I'm going to attempt to NOT comment on the negative political climate that still resides in Glendale, in so far as it "doesn't affect operations".
While I have attended hundreds of Coyotes' games, for some reason, I've never attended a concert at Gila River Arena. Perhaps that's because Justin Bieber threw up on stage here. I'm not sure if I should add or deduct a star for that...
Speaking of food, Gila River Arena has provided concessions over the years that range from "typical stadium fare" to "is that a butcher over there?" carving stations. Lately, the quality of the offerings has improved significantly. The recent addition of Poutine (there are three types) is a welcome change. Unfortunately, the prices have gotten pretty high, even by "stadium standards".
Also, I've walked both upper and lower concourses during multiple games in search of variety. While there is variety, there is also unexplained inconvenience. Why should I have to go to the upper concourse for nachos if I'm sitting in the lower bowl? And if I'm in the upper deck, I shouldn't have to go to the lower concourse for a chicken Caesar wrap.
Then, there's the worst example of marketing math I've ever seen! If you buy the photographed Poutine & Souvenir Soda, it'll cost you $20.50. Or you could buy them a la carte for $20.50 (Poutine $12.50 + Souvenir Soda $8.00). What looks like a new combo item on the menu board is in fact just straight up math. I'm not sure what is more insulting? The fact that they seem to think the fans can't do basic math, or the fact that someone decided an actual combo discount was a bad idea.
Speaking of prices... One big change this season is the loss of Tim Hortons. Trust me, this absence may alienate the snowbirds. Yes, Dunkin' Donuts has great coffee and the Tim Bits were awful compared to the Munchkins. But for the rest of us who pay attention, this one inexpensive indulgence now costs 50% more. I use to be able to grab two coffees and some donut holes for less than $10. You're telling me that a Canadian company can sell their product in Gila River Arena for less than a domestic competitor? The $3 coffee is now $4.50.
Okay, I'm done venting. I need to balance this with the positives. No matter where I've sat in Gila River Arena, the view has always been amazing! You can tell the architects (HOK) knew what they were doing. The line of site is excellent from the upper or lower bowls, and particularly good in the corners. Oh, and the nearby attractions have improved at Westgate too! And don't forget The Den! It has a great selection of team merchandise.
Finally, let me address the parking. There is a lot of parking around Westgate and Gila River Arena, a lot of exits and three different ways to get on the Loop 101. However, unlike seasons past, it's just a free for all trying to leave any of the parking lots because no one is directing traffic or controlling the traffic signals. I empathize for those who wait an hour to get out of the lot and then have to drive back to the east valley. I'm pointing the finger at you Glendale.
Hopefully, the new (again) Coyotes ownership will settle down, the new stadium management will get in a groove, and Glendale will stop playing games. When everyone plays nicely, the fans win! Go 'Yotes!
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