
Santander Arena
A versatile arena hosting major concerts, hockey games, and family shows, known for good acoustics and a lively atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Santander Arena
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A versatile arena hosting major concerts, hockey games, and family shows, known for good acoustics and a lively atmosphere.
"The arena itself was great, but the parking and walking to get to it WAS TERRIBLE."

🚗 Parking Patience
Expect slow exits from parking garages. Street parking further out might be an option, but watch for uneven sidewalks.
🪑 Stand Seats for Space
Floor seating rows are tight. Consider stand seats for more legroom and easier access.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Music Extravaganza
Experience electrifying concerts from global artists across genres like reggaetón, regional Mexican, and bachata.

Hockey Action
Catch the thrilling games of the local minor league hockey team, bringing fast-paced sports entertainment.

Comedy & Special Events
Enjoy stand-up comedy specials and unique events like monster truck rallies and Disney on Ice.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Parking & Access
Seat Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience
Expect slow exits from parking garages. Street parking further out might be an option, but watch for uneven sidewalks.
🪑 Stand Seats for Space
Floor seating rows are tight. Consider stand seats for more legroom and easier access.
💧 Hydration Station
Bring an empty water bottle to refill at stations inside, saving money on drinks.
🎒 Bag Policy Check
Be aware of the clear bag policy to speed up security checks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience
Expect slow exits from parking garages. Street parking further out might be an option, but watch for uneven sidewalks.
🪑 Stand Seats for Space
Floor seating rows are tight. Consider stand seats for more legroom and easier access.
💧 Hydration Station
Bring an empty water bottle to refill at stations inside, saving money on drinks.
🎒 Bag Policy Check
Be aware of the clear bag policy to speed up security checks.
🎶 Genre Variety
From reggaetón to regional Mexican, the arena hosts diverse musical acts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise the Santander Arena for its good acoustics and comfortable seating in the stands, making it a great venue for concerts and hockey games. The helpful and professional staff contribute to a positive onsite experience. However, the parking situation and the condition of sidewalks leading to the arena are frequently cited as significant drawbacks.
"I sat in the front row of the stands and had a great view. Floor seating rows are really tight, and I observed the entire row frequently having to empty out in order for someone seated in the middle of the row to be able to get out. Restrooms are clean. Seats in the stands are comfortable. There are also a lot of different food options."
Lisa
"This arena was a great sounding venue for a metal show. Parking was really easy, and we waited in line for only about 15 minutes. Lots of food spots inside, and there are plenty of bathrooms. The merch table was a bit cramped into one corner, I wish they could spread the tables out a little. Overall, the food was pretty good "ballpark" food. The ushers were very helpful and kind. I will happily return for another metal show!"
John Mertz
"I have attended several hockey games and most recently saw Nate Bargatze (who was great by the way). The arena staff do an excellent job moving large volumes of people in a short amount of time. They are very helpful very professional and super nice. All the food is of course expensive it was at least good. The parking garage is quite close and easy to get in and out of for the most part. Overall I always look to see what comedians or other acts are available as once you go here going to Philadelphia or Baltimore is a total drag."
Glenn W Robinson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Santander Arena is located in downtown Reading, PA. It's accessible by car via major highways like US-422. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving or ride-sharing services are common. Parking is available in nearby garages, though exiting can be slow.
Several parking garages are located near the arena, including the Santander Arena Parking Garage. Street parking is also available, but be mindful of sidewalk conditions in Reading. Expect potential delays when exiting garages after events.
While specific routes can vary, local bus services may serve the downtown Reading area where the arena is located. It's best to check with the local transit authority for the most up-to-date information on routes and schedules.
To avoid peak traffic, aim to arrive at least an hour before your event starts. This gives you ample time to find parking and navigate to the entrance without feeling rushed.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft typically operate in the area. Designated drop-off and pick-up zones are usually available near the arena entrances, but confirm with your driver and be aware of event-specific traffic patterns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for Santander Arena events can be purchased through Ticketmaster, the official ticketing partner, or directly from the Santander Arena box office. Many artists also link to their preferred ticketing platforms in their promotional materials.
The Santander Arena enforces a clear bag policy. Only clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags up to 12" x 6" x 12" are permitted. Small clutch bags are also allowed. This helps expedite the security screening process.
Discounts can vary by event. Keep an eye on the arena's official website and social media, as well as artist fan clubs, for potential pre-sale opportunities or special offers.
Yes, the Santander Arena box office is typically open for in-person ticket purchases. It's advisable to check their operating hours before visiting, especially on event days.
Door opening times can vary depending on the event. Generally, doors open 60-90 minutes before the scheduled start time. It's always best to check the specific event details for accurate information.
🎫 🎚️ Onsite Experience
While most seats offer a good view, floor seating rows can be very tight. For more legroom and comfort, consider seats in the stands. The 'best' seat often depends on the event type and personal preference.
Yes, the arena offers a variety of food and drink options, often described as good 'ballpark' food. Expect typical arena fare like hot dogs, nachos, and beverages. Prices are standard for venue concessions.
The Santander Arena is noted as a great-sounding venue, particularly for genres like metal. The acoustics are generally well-regarded for live music performances.
Restrooms at the Santander Arena are generally reported as clean. The ladies' room, in particular, has been noted for having a good number of stalls, which helps minimize wait times.
While Wi-Fi availability can vary, many modern arenas offer guest Wi-Fi. It's recommended to check with venue staff upon arrival or look for signage indicating Wi-Fi access points.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal cameras with no flash are allowed for most events. However, professional cameras with detachable lenses are usually prohibited. Always check the specific event's policy, as restrictions can vary.
For a general overview, the upper concourse can offer a good vantage point of the entire arena. During concerts, capturing the stage lights and crowd energy from your seat can be effective.
Video recording is typically not allowed during events, especially for professional use. Personal phone recording for non-commercial purposes might be permitted, but it's best to err on the side of caution and check event-specific rules.
Photos often feature energetic crowds, stage performances, and the arena's interior during events. Many users share their 'view from my seat' photos to give others an idea of the sightlines.
If allowed, a telephoto lens can help capture performers from a distance. Otherwise, focus on the atmosphere and stage presence. Many attendees share photos of the overall spectacle rather than close-ups.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, consider the clear bag policy to streamline entry. For parking, be prepared for potential delays when leaving, and if walking from a parking spot, be aware of the uneven sidewalk conditions in Reading. Opting for seats in the stands might offer more comfort for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Exploring street parking options further from the arena might offer a cheaper alternative to garage fees, but always prioritize safety and be aware of the sidewalk conditions. Checking for pre-sale opportunities or special offers through the arena's website or artist fan clubs could also lead to ticket savings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Concert Experiences at Santander Arena
When planning for a concert, be aware that floor seating can be quite cramped, with rows being very tight. Many attendees recommend opting for seats in the stands for better legroom and easier access. The venue's clear bag policy is also important to note for a smoother entry process. While parking can be a hassle with slow exits, the overall experience of seeing a show at the Santander Arena is often described as positive and memorable.
Navigating Reading's Sidewalks and Parking
Parking is another area that requires patience. While there are garages close to the arena, exiting after an event can be a slow process, with some visitors reporting long waits. Street parking further away might be an alternative, but it's crucial to be aware of the sidewalk conditions. The arena staff are generally praised for their professionalism and efficiency in managing crowds, but the external access points are an area where improvements are needed to enhance the overall visitor experience.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit