Nov 4, 2025
·Mary Callahan
In the heart of downtown Columbus, Ohio, stands Nationwide Arena, the home of the Columbus Blue Jackets and one of the premier multi-purpose venues in the Midwest. Since opening its doors in 2000, the arena has been the centerpiece of the city’s Arena District, sparking development, nightlife and year-round entertainment. Whether you’re there to catch an NHL showdown, a major concert or a family-friendly event, Nationwide Arena offers an atmosphere that blends modern amenities with hometown pride.
About Nationwide Arena
Address: 200 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215
Nationwide Arena has a seating capacity of 18,500 for hockey, expandable to over 20,000 for concerts and special events. The venue was one of the first modern NHL arenas built without obstructed-view seats, ensuring that every fan enjoys a clear line of sight.
The arena also stands out for its architectural design. Its brick façade pays homage to Columbus’s industrial past, while its glass-fronted atrium welcomes fans with natural light and a modern feel. Inside, wide concourses, fan-friendly seating and top-notch amenities make it a go-to destination for sports and entertainment.
History of Nationwide Arena
1997: Construction begins as part of Columbus’s effort to secure an NHL expansion team.
2000: Arena officially opens and becomes the home of the newly formed Columbus Blue Jackets.
2013: Major upgrades include a new HD scoreboard and enhanced sound and lighting systems.
2015: Hosts the NHL All-Star Game, showcasing Columbus on the league’s biggest stage.
2020s: Continued improvements to fan amenities, premium seating and technology have kept the arena state-of-the-art.
Nationwide Arena has also hosted NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament games, wrestling championships, UFC events and top-tier concerts from artists like Elton John, Beyoncé and Bruce Springsteen.
Getting to Nationwide Arena
By Car: Located in downtown Columbus, the arena is easily accessed via I-670, I-70 and I-71.
Parking: More than 15,000 parking spaces are available within a 10-minute walk, including garages, surface lots, and metered street parking. Popular options include the McConnell Garage, Front Street Garage, and Marconi Garage.
Public Transit: The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) runs bus routes that stop near the arena, and ride-share drop-off zones are designated nearby.
Arena District Walkability: One of the perks of attending an event here is the walkable neighborhood. Restaurants, bars and entertainment spots are just steps away, making it easy to enjoy a full night out.
Game Day Traditions at Nationwide Arena
The Blue Jackets may be one of the NHL’s youngest franchises, but they’ve developed traditions that make Nationwide Arena a unique hockey destination:
The Cannon: One of the most iconic features of the arena is the replica Civil War cannon, which fires (with a loud boom and smoke) every time the Jackets score a goal or win a game. It’s become a beloved—and intimidating—symbol of Blue Jackets hockey.
Union Blue: Fans proudly sport the team’s deep blue jerseys and rally behind chants of “C-B-J!” throughout the night.
Goal Song: After every goal, the crowd erupts to “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” by AC/DC, amplifying the arena’s energy.
Nationwide Arena Plaza: Outside the venue, fans often gather before games for music, food trucks and festivities, especially during playoffs.
Seating at Nationwide Arena
With multiple levels of seating, premium options and family-friendly sections, Nationwide Arena caters to every type of fan:
Lower Bowl: Close to the ice and great for high-energy experiences.
Upper Bowl: Affordable tickets with excellent views of the full rink.
Club Level: Offers wider seats, private restrooms and premium dining.
Suites: Ranging from luxury suites to loge boxes, providing upscale food, drinks and private spaces.
Party Tower: A unique multi-level space available for group outings and special events.
No matter where you sit, the arena was designed with unobstructed sightlines, ensuring you won’t miss a second of the action.
Food & Drink
Nationwide Arena goes beyond standard stadium fare, offering a mix of local Columbus flavors and game-day classics:
Hot Chicken Takeover: A local favorite serving Nashville-style hot chicken.
Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace: Creative and loaded hot dog options.
Donatos Pizza: A Columbus staple available throughout the arena.
Stadium Eats: Classic concessions like burgers, nachos, pretzels and chicken tenders.
Craft Beer: With Columbus known for its craft beer scene, Nationwide Arena features a rotating selection of local brews alongside national brands.
Premium areas include expanded menus with gourmet dishes, wine and cocktails.
Arena Policies
Bag Policy: Only clear bags 12” x 6” x 12” or smaller are permitted. Small clutches (4.5” x 6.5”) are allowed.
Cashless Venue: All concessions and retail operate on cashless payments.
Mobile Tickets: The arena uses mobile ticketing for all events.
Accessibility: ADA seating, elevators, ramps and accessible parking are available. Assistive listening devices can also be requested.
Notable Events at Nationwide Arena
Nationwide Arena has been the backdrop for some of Columbus’s most memorable sports and entertainment moments:
2001: Hosts its first Blue Jackets home game, marking the NHL’s debut in Ohio.
2015: The NHL All-Star Game brings the league’s biggest stars to Columbus.
2018 & 2024: Hosts first- and second-round games of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.
UFC & Wrestling: The arena has welcomed marquee UFC fights and NCAA wrestling championships.
Concerts: From Taylor Swift to U2, virtually every major touring act has played Nationwide Arena.
Nearby Attractions
The Arena District surrounding Nationwide Arena is one of Columbus’s most vibrant areas:
Huntington Park: Home of the Columbus Clippers (Triple-A baseball), just a short walk away.
KEMBA Live!: A popular indoor/outdoor concert venue next to the arena.
North Market: A historic public market featuring dozens of food vendors and local artisans.
Short North Arts District: A trendy neighborhood with galleries, shops, bars and restaurants.
Why Nationwide Arena Is Special
Nationwide Arena isn’t just where the Blue Jackets play—it’s a symbol of Columbus’s growth as a sports and entertainment city. From the thunderous boom of the cannon to the lively pregame energy of the Arena District, attending an event here feels like a true community celebration.
Whether you’re catching an NHL matchup, cheering on your favorite band or enjoying a family event, Nationwide Arena delivers an experience that’s big, bold and distinctly Columbus.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
Ready to hear the cannon fire and join the Union Blue faithful? SeatGeek has your tickets to Nationwide Arena covered. Whether it’s a big Blue Jackets rivalry game or the next must-see concert, SeatGeek makes it easy to find the best seats and soak in everything this world-class arena has to offer.