Iowa Wild road trip guide

Best seats

The hockey layout (about 8,100 seats, with upper areas tarped off) leaves no obstructed views. Lower-bowl seats are wider than upper-deck ones, so if you buy upstairs, grab an aisle.

Parking

The Iowa Events Center lot between 3rd and 5th (enter from 3rd St or 5th Ave, northwest of the north entrance) is first-come and cashless. You can reserve ahead on JustPark. City garages at 4th & Grand, 5th & Keo, 7th & Center and 3rd & Court are a 9–13 minute walk, all with skywalk access. ($13)

Getting there

The arena is downtown along the Des Moines River off I-235. Take Exit 8A to 3rd Street eastbound or 7th Street westbound. Lyft is the official rideshare partner.

Bar scene

The arena is downtown with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, and the skywalk connects the garages to the arena. Inside, the Yuengling 1829 Tap House has river and downtown views.

Pre-game bars

• Yuengling 1829 Tap House — Inside Casey's Center, with cocktails, beer, signature food and views of downtown and the river

Insider tips

• Clear bags only (max 12x6x12 in). Clutches up to 4.5x6.5 in are OK.
• Concessions are cashless, except the Exile stand at Section 108, which also loads cash onto gift cards.
• There's no re-entry except through the barricaded smoking areas outside the north and south entrances.
• Fridays are $2 beer nights, and Tuesdays have $2 hot dogs and popcorn.
• General doors open 60 minutes before puck drop.

Nearest big-league teams (great to pair up)

Also nearby: pro, minor & junior