Bridgestone Arena visitor guide: everything you need to know

It may only have been built in 1996, but Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena has gone by many names since it was first opened. Originally the Nashville Arena, it then became known as the Gaylord Entertainment Center and Sommet Center.

This is the home stadium of the Nashville Predators National Hockey League team, and the stadium is owned by the team. It was also the location of the NHL draft in 2003 and the NHL All-Star game in 2016.

But in Music City, hockey isn’t the only thing the arena is used for. Bridgestone Arena occupies a prime location in downtown Nashville on Broadway and 5th, and its architectural design pays homage to the legendary Ryman Auditorium.

Bridgestone Arena also hosts many musical events, including the Country Music Association or CMA annual award ceremony. Additionally, this nearly 20,000-seat arena has hosted some of the biggest names in country music, along with performers representing many different musical styles.

Whatever event you are in Nashville to attend, you’ll find it a lot easier to enjoy yourself if you’re not carrying more than you need to. It’s important to know the bag policy of the stadium, but you can save yourself a lot of hassle by leaving your things behind at a convenient Bridgestone Arena luggage storage in Nashville, where your things will be safely looked after until you’re ready to pick them up again.

Bridgestone Arena bag policy

Understanding the Bridgestone Arena bag policy will make it much easier to have a pleasant visit, whether you’re attending a hockey game or a concert.

Bridgestone Arena operates a clear bag policy, which means any bag you want to bring inside needs to be transparent so security staff can see what’s inside. Your clear bag can be up to 12” x 12” in size, but no bigger. There is an exemption for medical bags.

Backpacks of any size are not allowed. You can bring a non-clear bag if it’s 6.5” x 4.5” or smaller. Essentially, that’s equivalent to a small purse or wallet.

Security staff have the right to refuse entry if your bags do not comply. The arena advises that trying to get through security with non-compliant bags can cause delays. You should also note that there is no bag storage are Bridgestone Arena, so the best course of action is always to leave your bags behind at a convenient Bounce luggage storage facility.

Bridgestone Arena food policy

The Bridgestone Arena food policy prohibits any outside food or drinks, including but not limited to alcohol. That means if you want to enjoy a drink or a snack with your game or concert, you’ll need to buy it inside.

Fortunately, the Bridgestone Arena food options are quite good. The arena has a food court inside that provides a good range of different places to eat.

For example, Pete and Terry’s Tavern provides a relaxed sports bar atmosphere with big screens, bar snacks, and a great selection of beer on tap. The Barrel House provides a similar atmosphere, while the MGM Sports Lounge provides a more upscale atmosphere with delicious food options and also allows you to indulge in the excitement of betting on the game.

Along with these large establishments, you’ll find a range of smaller kiosks offering classic stadium foods like hotdogs, nachos, popcorn, and pizza. You’ll also find some vegetarian options in the form of wraps and veggie burgers. The food at Bridgestone Arena might not be the healthiest in the world, but it’s certainly satisfying.

Bridgestone Arena transportation

Thanks to its extremely central location, it’s not hard to figure out how to get to Bridgestone Arena. The arena is located right across the street from Ryman Auditorium, next to the Country Music Hall of Fame, and right beside the National Museum of African American Music. That means the station is well within walking distance of some of the main attractions in Music City.

It also means parking can be a challenge, especially when there’s a big event in town.

There is public parking at a multistory garage at 5th and Broadway. Bridgestone Arena also has its own parking on 6th Avenue. Plus, the First Baptist Church, located right next to the arena, provides parking during events for $25, which you can book in advance online.

A cheaper option is the Fifth Avenue of the Arts garage which is just a couple of blocks from the arena and can be booked in advance for only $10. Or, you can park at Nissan Stadium for free in Lot R, then take a three-dollar shuttle bus to and from the arena.

Bridgestone Arena public transportation

Because it’s so centrally located, Bridgestone Arena is really easy to reach by public transportation. Bus routes 3, 7, 8, and 18 all stop at the station on Broadway and 8th, just a few blocks from the arena. And if you’re coming into Nashville by train, Riverside Station is also just a few blocks away at the other end of Broadway.

Bridgestone Arena camera policy

The Bridgestone Arena camera policy varies according to the event you’re going to see. For some events, small cameras are allowed. However, it’s a safe bet that no matter what brings you to the arena, you won’t be allowed to bring a professional camera or equipment like a tripod, monopod, or selfie stick inside. Better to leave that equipment in luggage storage near the arena.

Bridgestone Arena rules

Along with the restriction on professional camera equipment and large bags, Bridgestone Arena policies prohibit various other items. These include:

·        Clothing with obscene or offensive images or slogans

·        Banners larger than 2’ x 3’

·        Animals, with the exception of service animals. If you have a service animal that doesn’t fit under your seat, you’ll need to purchase a ticket for the animal to have their own seat.

·        The Bridgestone Arena Covid rules do not currently require the use of facemasks or proof of vaccination for attending events. But these rules can change and tend to follow the guidelines established by the health authorities of the State of Tennessee.

Conclusion

There are plenty of reasons to visit Nashville, and seeing a game or a show at Bridgestone Arena is just one of them. You can also enjoy the best hikes in Nashville, incredible nightlife, or excellent street food.

But however you plan to enjoy this always lively city, don’t forget to leave your bags behind in a convenient luggage storage so that you won’t have to worry about breaking the Bridgestone Arena bag policy.