Wells Fargo Center visitor guide: everything you need to know

Whether it’s because of the many iconic moments in the city’s history or its famously boisterous (perhaps that’s a generous term) fanbase, Philadelphia is one of the best sports towns in the country. It has basically every major professional sports team imaginable and even a thriving college sports scene. This is reflected in the district south of downtown along the river known as the Sports Complex. Here, you’ll find a ballpark, a football stadium, and a multipurpose indoor arena called the Wells Fargo Center. 

The Wells Fargo Center is the home for the NHL's Philadelphia Flyers, the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers, the National Lacrosse League’s Philadelphia Wings, and both the Villanova men’s and women’s basketball teams. It also hosts the largest indoor concerts in Philadelphia, as well as comedy shows, professional wrestling, and every other event imaginable. Needless to say, it’s a busy arena year-round. 

If you’re visiting Philly and are looking to go to a game, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the Wells Fargo Center bag policy and other rules. If you’re with your luggage, you’ll want to make arrangements before heading to the gate to avoid any inconvenience. One of the best solutions would be a service like Bounce, which has Wells Fargo Center luggage storage locations across Philadelphia and a few on the way to the Sports Complex area.

Wells Fargo Center bag policy 

The Wells Fargo Center bag policy is slightly confusing but is fairly flexible compared to other arenas. Clutch purses and wallets smaller than 4.5” x 6.5” are allowed inside the arena without needing to be inspected by X-Ray. Bags larger than 4.5” x 6.5” but smaller than 14”x14”x6” are permitted but will need to be screened by X-ray. Bags and items larger than that are not permitted. These X-ray screening gates are located at the Broad Street and 11th Street entrances. 

All backpacks, luggage, totes, and larger items are prohibited. Luckily, Bounce’s South Philadelphia storage spot is the closest location to the Wells Fargo Center, and if you’re coming from downtown Philly, there are dozens of locations to choose from.

Wells Fargo Center food policy 

The Wells Fargo Center food policy prohibits all outside food and beverage. That includes water and all containers. Medical exceptions can be made with guest services.  

Luckily, the Wells Fargo Center has an incredible selection of concessions for fans to choose from. For carnivores (very common amongst the Philly faithful), the best options are the Broad Street Carvery locations for porchetta and short rib sandwiches. For tourists and locals alike, Campo’s Cheesesteaks should be your top option for an iconic Philly cheesesteak. For those with dietary restrictions and plant-based diets, Melissa’s Farm to Fan is in Section 104. 

While the Sports Complex in South Philadelphia is basically a dream come true for fans, the remote location makes it inaccessible from most of the best dining options in the city. The Wells Fargo Center is easy to reach from downtown and other bustling dining destinations, so you can easily explore the city’s restaurants before heading to the game.

Wells Fargo Center transportation 

The Wells Fargo Center is located in the southern part of Philadelphia in the Sports Complex area where other venues are situated. While it’s well outside of downtown, it’s still fairly easy to reach. Here’s how to get to the Wells Fargo Center:

SEPTA Broad Street Line

The SEPTA Subway system is Philly’s main train network, and its Broad Street Line (known locally as the Orange Line) has a station called AT&T Station right at the Wells Fargo Center. This is the most convenient way to get to the arena from downtown. 

Driving

If you're driving, the arena is accessible via major highways like I-95. There are parking lots and garages surrounding the arena, but they can fill up quickly during events. Parking costs vary based on the time of year and event, but you should typically expect to pay about $30-$40. Tailgating is popular for weekend games, especially when the weather cooperates. 

Rideshare and taxis

Uber and Lyft are extremely convenient but expensive ways to get out to the Sports Complex and Well Fargo Center. Taxis are common in downtown areas and will be easy to find. A taxi or Uber can cost up to $50 or even $75 during rush hour, and traffic can make the trip less convenient. 

Wells Fargo Center camera policy 

The Wells Fargo Center camera policy prohibits all professional equipment like monopods, tripods, and cameras with detachable lenses and lenses longer than 2.5”. Video recording equipment, including GoPros and contour cameras, are also not permitted. Selfie sticks are also prohibited.

Wells Fargo Center rules 

Banners, signs, and flags 

The Wells Fargo Center policy isn’t exactly clear about the specific dimensions allowed on site, but large banners, flags, and signs are prohibited. 

Entry 

Gates open 90 minutes prior to games, but these can vary based on the event. It’s best to check with the promoter of the show or concert ahead of time. 

Payment 

The Wells Fargo Center is now completely cashless, so you’ll need to use a credit card, debit card, or mobile payment option like Google Pay or Apple Pay. Reverse ATMs are also located at the Broad Street Atrium, where you can convert cash into a prepaid debit card that can be used anywhere. 

Conclusion 

Whether it’s a rainy day plan or you’re planning a whole trip around a game or show at the Wells Fargo Center, this venue is an absolute must-visit for sports or entertainment fans. The Sports Complex may be located just outside of downtown, but with so many convenient transportation options, you can fit plenty of sightseeing or nightlife adventures into your trip before heading to the game. Just don’t get caught with your luggage at the gate. Let Bounce take care of the bags so you can enjoy your time at this stellar arena!