The Bank Atlantic Center: A Comprehensive Guide to the South Florida Sports and Entertainment Hub

Nestled amidst the vibrant streets of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the Bank Atlantic Center stands as a beacon of entertainment and athletic excellence. This state-of-the-art facility has been the home to the NHL's Florida Panthers, the NBA Development League's Sioux Falls Skyforce, and numerous other professional and amateur sports teams since its opening in 1998.

History and Ownership

The Bank Atlantic Center, originally known as the National Car Rental Center, was constructed by Blockbuster Entertainment Corporation at a cost of $193 million and acquired its naming rights from BankAtlantic in 2002. In 2012, the venue was sold to Sunrise Sports & Entertainment, a consortium led by Matthew Caldwell.

Capacity and Features

The Bank Atlantic Center boasts a seating capacity of 19,250 for hockey games and 20,000 for basketball and concert events. Its spacious arena features a 60-by-30-foot video scoreboard, 324 luxury suites, and a club-level concourse offering a premium experience for attendees. The venue also houses a full-service restaurant, retail store, and private event spaces.

Sports Events

As the home of the Florida Panthers, the Bank Atlantic Center plays host to 82 regular-season NHL games and occasional playoff series each year. The arena has also hosted the NHL All-Star Game twice (2003 and 2015), the ECHL All-Star Game (1999), and numerous NCAA and IIHF tournament games.

In addition to hockey, the Bank Atlantic Center has been the venue for home games of several professional basketball teams over the years. These include the Sioux Falls Skyforce (2007-2018), Fort Wayne Mad Ants (2014-2015), and Miami Heat (selected regular-season games).

Concerts and Entertainment

Beyond its role as a sports venue, the Bank Atlantic Center has become a premier destination for concerts and other entertainment events. The arena has hosted performances by some of the world's biggest stars, including Elton John, Beyoncé, Bruce Springsteen, and Taylor Swift. It has also served as the site for family shows, comedy specials, and circuses.

Accessibility and Transportation

The Bank Atlantic Center is conveniently located just off Interstate 95 and State Road 84. It is easily accessible by public transportation, with Broward County Transit buses serving the venue and the nearby Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Abundant free parking is available for both guests and employees.

Economic Impact

The Bank Atlantic Center has a significant economic impact on the South Florida region. According to a 2019 study by the Broward County Economic Development Council, the venue contributes over $1.2 billion to the local economy annually, supporting 8,000 jobs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When attending events at the Bank Atlantic Center, it is important to avoid certain common mistakes:

• Not arriving early: Allow ample time for parking and security checks.
• Bringing prohibited items: Check the venue website for a list of restricted items.
• Smoking: Smoking is prohibited throughout the arena.
• Reselling tickets: Only purchase tickets from authorized sources to ensure their validity.

Tips and Tricks

• Sign up for the Bank Atlantic Center newsletter: Receive exclusive offers and event announcements.
• Use the mobile app: Access event information, purchase tickets, and order concessions from your smartphone.
• Consider using alternative modes of transportation: Public transportation and ride-sharing services can help you avoid traffic and parking hassles.
• Take advantage of the arena's amenities: Explore the concourse, visit the retail store, and enjoy the dining options.

FAQs

1. What is the capacity of the Bank Atlantic Center?
- 19,250 for hockey games, 20,000 for basketball and concerts

2. Can I bring food and drinks into the venue?
- Outside food and drinks are prohibited. Concessions are available for purchase within the arena.

3. How much does parking cost?
- Parking is free for guests and employees.

4. What is the best way to get to the Bank Atlantic Center?
- Interstates 95 and 84 provide easy access to the venue. Public transportation and ride-sharing services are also available.

5. Is the Bank Atlantic Center wheelchair accessible?
- Yes, the venue is fully wheelchair accessible and offers accessible seating.

6. What are the prohibited items at the Bank Atlantic Center?
- Weapons, backpacks, coolers, camera bags, and any other items deemed unsafe by security. Refer to the venue website for a full list.

Tables

Table 1: Bank Atlantic Center Capacity

Table 2: Bank Atlantic Center Economic Impact

Table 3: Bank Atlantic Center Prohibited Items