Relatively new to AZ (3 years) so we're still learning all of the music venues here. After trying Comerica Theatre a couple of weeks ago and being disappointed we came to Ak Chin last night for the Blake Shelton concert.
A little background about us:
Couple, Mid 30's, travelled across the US to different music venues.
I had read all of the previous reviews about access to Ak Chin so we expected traffic. What we didn't realize was just how bad it would be. Coming from the north we picked up I-10 at the 51 interchange and we rode through bumper to bumper traffic from downtown Phoenix on. I was sure it had to be an accident causing it but nope, it was the concert. That's 10+ miles of traffic folks!
We finally got to the off ramp after the concert was 45 mins past it's start and the lines were still ridiculous. We were dropped off at the gate and made our way inside.
Good
- Restrooms just inside the gates because you know you'll need to go after that drive!
- Plenty of alcohol choices. Prices weren't outrageous either. $11 for a 25 oz beer.
- Aisle space in the seating area. Didn't have to get up for people when they passed by us.
Bad
- Traffic, hopefully you caught my drift on that one.
- Seating setup, we were in section 203 which was dead center under the pavilion. I can't imagine paying for a 300 level seat and being exposed to the elements?
- Prices, yeah it's a concert venue but gouging people for bottled water when it's 100+ degrees outside is a bit much.
- Temperatures, the sun was down and it was still hotter than you know what. Sweat pouring off your body hot!
Overall
Definitely won't be back. We've seen concerts at too many venues that were ten times better than here and I'll never fight with traffic like that again. Just not worth it. Also, early September is still too early for an outdoor concert. Their season should be Oct-Mar.