Here to see Garth. Unbelievable how long to get in and no drinks while being held next door in Cobo Center. Confessions closed till in arena. 20000 people really?We do 90000 at OSU game an goes much smoother than this. Needs replaced!
The Joe is showing its age. The stairs going up to the entrances are crumbling, it's just past its prime compared to more modern arenas. The luxury boxes look small, the upper level isn't tiered above the lower level, so if you are in the cheap seats, you aren't even in the same zip code as the players. It's had a nice run, it's always easy to get tickets (including playoffs) although I feel sorry for the home team when the Canadian teams visit, it's easily 50/50 in fan support, not sure how detroit is going to support a larger venue, although I'm excited to see their plans, it's going to be a great destination. All the best Detroit!
It's getting old and tired....long lines for the bathrooms, and long lines for concessions....doesn't compare to the newer facilities that are being built in similar markets....its a Detroit landmark, and part of the community....much like Olympia was....better arena for watching hockey games, than it is for concerts...
Not a great venue. The seats make you long for the leg room of a coach seat on an airplane. The lighting is dated and horrible. The worst Detroit area venue I have been to. Although seats right next to the ice must be impressive for Red Wing games. Park at Greek town Casino and the People Mover will take you right to the front door.
What can be said other than we had a great time! Yes, it's dated and the seats could be better but if there is an artist that you want to see at the Joe.... Then GO!!! We drove four hours to see Garth Brooks in Detroit and I would do it again.
I actually loved my experience. I never really thought about how old the building was. The seats were on the small side, but I wasn't too bothered because I was having a great time. I apparently had the same idea as others and decided to go before the Red Wings went to a new arena. I think it is a must do for any Red Wings fan. Having come from Las Vegas, it always amazes me to see some many other fans when I go to Detroit because you don't really see any here. Even though the arena is old, the atmosphere is unmatched.
The arena is dated. We sat in section 106 and there is not much leg room (we stood a lot) and the seats are not the most comfortable things in the world. Getting in was fine. Getting out was horrible due to the next group of people coming in for the next concert. Tons of pushing and shoving just to get through. The organization was poor on that aspect. It was definitely worth it to see Garth but have been in nicer arena's before.
While the arena is a bit dated, it is still a great place to see the Wings play. The seats are relatively comfortable, leg room is adequate and even sitting near the top of the second tier provides a good view of the ice.
An NHL game at The Joe is "a must" for any hockey fan. It's not the lap of luxury that will get your there---it's the atmosphere. True fans...not corporate-type guests like Toronto. Seeing an Original 6 team come in just adds to the excitement. Tons of hockey history dripping from the walls and statues in the corridors. A great arena...go before the Wings move out.
Went to see Andrea Boccelli in concert in Dec.2014. LOVE him. However, this is NOT the venue for such a beautiful concert. Seats are old and tired. Acusitic are just OK. This arena should be used for sports only. Stayed at the Marriott in GM towers. Very convenient. Used the people mover elevated train that stops in the lobby of the hotel and just outside Joe Lewis. That was the best part of this arena.