XL Center
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XL Center

4.3
·4k reviews·Hartford, United States

A versatile arena in Hartford, CT, hosting thrilling sports, concerts, and family shows. Now known as People's Bank Arena.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Hockey Season Evenings

Lively atmosphere for Wolf Pack games

CrowdHigh
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XL Center

XL Center

Best Time

Hockey Season Evenings

Lively atmosphere for Wolf Pack games

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A versatile arena in Hartford, CT, hosting thrilling sports, concerts, and family shows. Now known as People's Bank Arena.

4.3
(4k reviews)

"Easy to get in and out of the venue, and the staff was great, ensuring a wonderful experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check New Arena Name

The XL Center is now People's Bank Arena. Confirm event details under the new name!

🪑 Seat Comfort Concerns

Some seats may be broken or lack legroom. Inquire about accessible seating if needed.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hartford Wolf Pack Hockey

Hartford Wolf Pack Hockey

Ice Rink

Experience the thrill of AHL hockey with the Hartford Wolf Pack. A local favorite for sports fans!

UConn Huskies Games

UConn Huskies Games

Basketball Court / Ice Rink

Catch exciting NCAA basketball or hockey games featuring the UConn Huskies. A must-see for college sports enthusiasts.

Concerts & Live Shows

Concerts & Live Shows

Main Arena

From major music artists to family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice, the arena hosts a variety of entertainment.

Special Events & Expos

Special Events & Expos

Exhibition Halls

Discover unique events like bridal expos and monster truck rallies, offering diverse entertainment options.

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Planning Your Visit

Renovations & Rebranding

The XL Center has undergone significant renovations and is now known as the People's Bank Arena. While the name has changed, many still refer to it by its former name. Check for the latest event schedules under the new branding.

Seating & Accessibility

Some visitors report issues with broken seats and limited legroom. If accessibility is a concern, consider contacting the venue in advance to arrange for wheelchair assistance or inquire about accessible seating options.

Best Times

When
Hockey Season Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere for Wolf Pack games
Crowd
High
When
UConn Game Days
Why
Passionate college sports crowd
Crowd
High
When
Concert Nights
Why
See your favorite artists live
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Kk and Azzi’s reaction to the new locker room at People’s Bank Arena ✨ #kkarnold #azzifudd
@kkarnoldupdatess
13.2K likes • 55.2K views

🎯 Check New Arena Name

The XL Center is now People's Bank Arena. Confirm event details under the new name! TikTok

🪑 Seat Comfort Concerns

Some seats may be broken or lack legroom. Inquire about accessible seating if needed. Reddit

The arena in downtown #Hartford has a new name! What do you think of the PeoplesBank Arena concept? And what are your favorite memories of the former XL Center/Civic Center? #ConnectingYou #Connecticut
@nbcconnecticut
1.9K likes • 52.3K views
Layanan XL Center Cirebon ✨ Ganti Kartu & Aktivasi Nomor ? Cari nomor cantik ? Beli Paket Internet ? Setting Roaming ? Yuk datang ke XL Center Cirebon 👋🏻
xlcenter.cirebon
33 likes • 1.1K views

🚗 Parking Convenience

Easy to get in and out of the venue, making for a smooth experience. Reddit

🤝 Staff Assistance

Friendly staff can go above and beyond, like assisting with accessibility needs. Reddit

Hallo teman teman XL🤗 Nomornya hangus? Segera ke xl center ya untuk aktifkan lagi nomormu. Yuk ke xl center sekarang juga! #xlcenterjogja #xlcenter
xlcenter.yogyakarta
27 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check New Arena Name

The XL Center is now People's Bank Arena. Confirm event details under the new name! TikTok

🪑 Seat Comfort Concerns

Some seats may be broken or lack legroom. Inquire about accessible seating if needed. Reddit

🚗 Parking Convenience

Easy to get in and out of the venue, making for a smooth experience. Reddit

🤝 Staff Assistance

Friendly staff can go above and beyond, like assisting with accessibility needs. Reddit

🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance

Popular events sell out quickly, especially UConn games and major concerts. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find the People's Bank Arena (formerly XL Center) to be a convenient venue with a good atmosphere for sports and entertainment. While many praise the ease of access and helpful staff, some note issues with seat condition and restroom facilities. Overall, it's a popular spot for local events and major touring acts.

"Clean, and good parking however every fourth seat was broken and no legroom. The bathroom situation was horrible the first main entry Women’s-bathroom only had three stalls! So if you plan on seeing anything there, don’t get anything to drink because you’ll Spend the rest of your time in the bathroom line. Security didn’t allow signs for the graduation. I could see checking them, but not to allow you to bring them for a graduation is lame."

Liz Fagan

"Came here for the first time 2 weeks ago to see Sabrina Carpenter in concert. Very nice experience and very nice venue. I enjoyed coming. I also enjoy the ease of getting in and out of the venue and the connivence of it (for me at least). Would totally come back"

Brandon Ruggiero

"We went here to see Cirque de Soliel 'Ovo'. We had bought tickets months before and we really looking forward to the event. Unfortunately, I broke my foot the night before and was on crutches. I was really scared to go because I was afraid I wouldn't be able to make it to my seat with all the stairs. When we got there, a worker named Jaren immediately got us a wheelchair cause he saw me struggling, he brought us to the service desk and requested our tickets to be changed to a seat that I could easily get to. We did not even ask him to do this, he went out of his way to ensure that I could see the show. After the show he was waiting for us with the wheelchair and got us out of the building with ease. Outside of how this young man ensured that I had a wonderful experience, all the staff was great. The venue is great with all the kiosks for food and beverages. I would definitely recommend this place repeatedly to people who are looking for a place to view events. I will definitely pick this place again and again for events. The show was amazing too!"

Jean Dowd

What People Like

Convenient location
Helpful staff
Good atmosphere for events

What People Dislike

Broken seats
Limited legroom
Long bathroom lines

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The XL Center (now People's Bank Arena) is located in downtown Hartford, CT. It's accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options, including buses and trains, also serve the downtown area, making it convenient for those looking to avoid driving. TikTok

There are multiple parking garages and lots surrounding the XL Center, offering convenient options for attendees. Prices can vary depending on the event. Some reviews mention ease of getting in and out of parking. Reddit

Yes, the XL Center is well-served by public transportation. Several bus routes stop in the downtown Hartford area, and the Hartford train station is also within walking distance, providing easy access for many visitors.

Yes, drop-off and pick-up are possible at designated areas near the entrances. This is a good option for those who are being dropped off by ride-sharing services or friends and family.

For UConn games, many fans opt to drive and park in nearby garages. Alternatively, public transport can be a good option to avoid traffic congestion. Consider ride-sharing services as well. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for events at the XL Center (People's Bank Arena) can typically be purchased through the official venue website, authorized ticket retailers like Ticketmaster, or at the box office. It's always best to buy from official sources to avoid counterfeit tickets. TikTok

Ticket prices for UConn basketball games at the XL Center can vary widely based on the opponent, seating location, and demand. Expect prices to be higher for premium seats and popular matchups. Checking resale markets might also be an option, but be cautious of inflated prices. Reddit

Discounts are not always available, but keep an eye out for special promotions, especially for less popular events or during off-peak times. Sometimes, package deals or group rates might be offered. Instagram

The XL Center has a clear bag policy. Generally, only small, clear bags are permitted. Oversized bags, backpacks, and non-clear bags are usually prohibited. Check the venue's official website for the most up-to-date policy before your visit. Reddit

Bringing signs into the XL Center may be restricted, especially for certain events like graduations. While security may check bags, they might not allow signs. It's best to check the specific event's policy or the venue's general guidelines beforehand. Reddit

🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience

The XL Center (People's Bank Arena) hosts a wide range of events, including professional hockey (Hartford Wolf Pack), college basketball and hockey (UConn Huskies), concerts by major artists, family shows like Disney on Ice and Paw Patrol Live, WWE events, monster truck rallies, and various expos. TikTok+2

Some visitors have reported issues with broken seats and limited legroom. If you have concerns about comfort or accessibility, it's advisable to inquire about seating options when purchasing tickets or contact the venue directly. Reddit

The venue offers various kiosks for food and beverages. Options can range from classic arena fare like hot dogs and popcorn to more diverse choices. Reviewers have noted the food can be good. Reddit+1

Hartford Wolf Pack games at the XL Center offer a lively and energetic atmosphere, typical of minor league hockey. Fans are passionate, and the games are a great way to experience local sports culture. TikTok

Yes, the XL Center hosts many family-friendly events like Disney on Ice, Paw Patrol Live, and Cirque du Soleil. These shows are generally well-received by families, and staff can be helpful in ensuring a good experience for children. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, personal cameras are allowed for most events, but professional cameras with detachable lenses are often prohibited. Policies can vary by event, so it's best to check the specific event's guidelines or the venue's website. TikTok

The arena itself can offer dynamic shots during events, especially with the lighting and crowd. For specific photo ops, some XL Center locations have unique spots like fish feeding areas. Instagram

For concerts, focus on capturing the stage presence and the energy of the crowd. If allowed, try to get shots that show the scale of the venue and the artist's performance. TikTok

Phone cameras are usually permitted for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted during certain performances to avoid distracting the artists or audience. Always be mindful of others around you.

During a UConn game, consider capturing the action on the court or ice, the enthusiastic crowd, and the team's celebrations. The upper levels can offer a good overview of the entire arena. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The People's Bank Arena is a great destination for families, regularly hosting popular shows like Disney on Ice, Paw Patrol Live, and Cirque du Soleil. These events are designed to captivate younger audiences, offering a magical experience. TikTokReddit

When attending with children, consider seats that offer a clear view of the action and are easily accessible. While some reviews mention seat comfort issues, the venue's staff has been noted for their helpfulness, so don't hesitate to ask for assistance if needed. Planning for food and restroom breaks is also advisable to ensure a smooth outing for everyone. Reddit+1

🏒 Sports Enthusiasts

For sports fans, the People's Bank Arena is a prime location. It's home to the Hartford Wolf Pack AHL hockey team, offering an exciting minor league hockey experience with a passionate fanbase. TikTok+1

The arena also frequently hosts UConn Huskies basketball and hockey games, drawing large crowds of enthusiastic college sports supporters. Attending a UConn game here is a quintessential New England sports experience. TikTokReddit

🎶 Concert Goers

The arena attracts a variety of musical acts, from major touring artists to emerging performers. If you're planning to see a concert, check the schedule well in advance as popular shows can sell out quickly. TikTok

Consider the venue's acoustics and sightlines when choosing your seats. While the arena is versatile, some sections might offer a better experience for certain types of performances. Arriving early can help you navigate the venue and find your seats without rushing.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Evolution: From Civic Center to People's Bank Arena

The venue now known as the People's Bank Arena has a rich history, originally opening as the Hartford Civic Center in 1975. It was later renamed the XL Center in 2007. This rebranding reflects ongoing renovations and a new naming rights partnership. The transformation includes upgrades to fan amenities, locker rooms, and overall facility improvements, aiming to enhance the experience for attendees of sports, concerts, and other events. TikTok+1

Recent updates have focused on modernizing the space. For instance, the Hartford Wolf Pack, the arena's AHL hockey team, have seen improvements to their locker room facilities, signaling a commitment to the teams that call the arena home. These changes are part of a multi-million dollar renovation project designed to keep the venue competitive and appealing to a wide range of performers and sports leagues. TikTok+1

While the name has changed, the legacy of the venue as a central hub for entertainment in Hartford remains. Whether you're attending a UConn Huskies game, a major concert, or a family show, the People's Bank Arena continues to be a significant landmark for sports and entertainment in Connecticut. TikTok+1

Navigating Event Day: Tips for a Smooth Experience

Attending an event at the People's Bank Arena (formerly XL Center) can be a fantastic experience, but a little planning goes a long way. Many visitors highlight the ease of getting in and out of the venue, which is a significant plus. However, it's wise to be aware of potential issues like broken seats or limited legroom in some sections, so if comfort is a priority, consider your seating choice carefully or inquire about alternatives. Reddit+1

When it comes to amenities, the arena offers various food and beverage kiosks. While reviews suggest the food can be good, be mindful of bathroom lines, especially during peak times or intermissions, as one reviewer noted a particularly challenging situation with limited stalls. Planning your refreshments strategically can help you avoid missing key moments of the show or game. Reddit

For those with specific needs, the venue's staff has been praised for their helpfulness. One notable instance involved a staff member named Jaren who went out of his way to assist an attendee with a broken foot, arranging for wheelchair service and accessible seating. This kind of proactive customer service can make a significant difference in your overall experience, so don't hesitate to approach staff if you require assistance. Reddit

Beyond the Arena: Exploring Hartford

While the People's Bank Arena is a major draw, Hartford itself offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Consider exploring the Old State House, a historic landmark, or the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, the oldest public art museum in the United States. These cultural sites provide a deeper understanding of the city's rich history and artistic heritage. TikTok

For those interested in outdoor activities, Bushnell Park offers a beautiful urban oasis with walking paths, a carousel, and seasonal events. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the city's green spaces. The Connecticut Science Center is another excellent option, particularly for families, offering interactive exhibits that are both educational and entertaining. TikTok

If you're a fan of the Hartford Whalers, the city's former NHL team, you can still feel their legacy. While the team is no longer active, their history is a significant part of Hartford's sports identity, and attending a Wolf Pack game can evoke some of that old arena spirit. TikTok

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