Well, it’s about that time of year again. The hockey season is about to begin and Joe Louis Arena is about to be crammed from wall to wall with Red Wing fans. The arena was completed in 1979 as a replacement for the old Olympia Arena, which housed the Red Wings for some 50 years previously. Joe Louis Arena or “the Joe” as it is so affectionately referred to in the Detroit area was not always a hit with many die-hard Red Wing fans. It had great shoes to fill, as any arena would, in replacing the venue where many of us watched hall-of-famers such as Gordie Howe, Alex Delvecchio and Frank Mahovolich play against the likes of Bobby Hull, Bobby Orr or Maurice Richard. It took several years and the demolition of the old Olympia to warm the hearts of area fans. A few Stanley Cups also have helped given rise to a new Detroit tradition.

The Joe Louis Arena has a capacity of just under 20,000 and you can bet every seat is occupied during each regular season game since the lion’s share of tickets are spoken for on a season ticket basis. I have heard it said a number of times, about a number of venues around the country, that there’s not a bad seat in the house. This really is the case as I have seen a number of games from the “cheap seats” and not missed a bit of action. Joe Louis Arena was one of the first of the newer style arenas which eliminated any obstructed views by large columns as was the case in the old Olympia. Additionally, you will feel a bit closer to the action, as most venues built since this time have slightly taller and shorter steps between rows which compact the seating area in a closer ring around the ice surface. This design also allows patrons to see a bit more action by offering a clearer view over the seat or seats in front. An usher mans each aisle entrance, and the tradition is to keep patrons from entering the seating area while play is in action. This eliminates the necessity of staring at the back of a fan with a couple of beers in his hand instead of the winning goal. Once the whistle is blown to stop play, fans are permitted to return to their seats, making the experience that much more enjoyable.

Concession stands are plentiful and I seldom had to wait behind more than three or four customers, if at all. There is a nice assortment of options available at the stands including, owner Mike Illitch’s, Little Caesar’s Pizza. The arena even has concession stands with full bars for those who may be interested in an adult beverage or two. There is a no smoking policy in effect for the entire arena, although 2 designated areas are available outside, one at the east and one on the west entrance.

Joe Louis Arena does have a parking garage available with plenty of spaces. I have only used the structure on just a couple occasions when I showed up near game time and live to regret it each time. Be prepared to spend some extra time exiting the structure, although I have not found it necessary to use it in some years, my last experience was not pleasant. For those who are local or have access to good maps, there are plenty of free spaces available along Lafayette or Howard Streets in the blocks near 1st, 2nd or 3rd Streets. In addition to being free, they make it easy to exit to M10, (John Lodge expressway) I-75 or I-96. Should you arrive a bit late for the free spots, there are still a number of parking lots in the area costing no more than parking structure prices yet still offering quick exit at game’s end.

The ticket prices range from $20.00 to $80.00 but they are a true commodity. The $20.00 tickets comprise the top 3 or 4 rows of the upper bowl, those sitting in the seat in front of you will be paying $42.00. Tickets can be purchased at the box office between the hours of 10:00AM and 6:00PM Monday through Friday or several hours prior to an event. The box office phone number is 313-983-6606.

Although I list prices for NHL hockey, other events are regularly scheduled at the arena. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, as well as Disney on Ice are scheduled for the months of October and November. While not as often as years gone by, Joe Louis Arena still does feature concerts such as a performance by Elton John this month. For additional information on prices and upcoming events, you may go online at: http://www.olympiaentertainment.com/jlahome.htm

After over 21 years, Joe Louis Arena has become Hockeytown central, finally replacing the old Olympia ghosts. Even as I write this review, I am aware of the movement to replace this arena with a new one. Mr. Illitch would like nothing better than to place the new “Yzerman Arena” (my guess as to the fans choice) next the Tiger’s shiny new Comerica Park and Ford Field, the future home of our beloved NFL Lions. Most local area fans are generally happy with Joe Louis Arena as a clean, safe and convenient place to watch the 2001/2002 Stanley Cup Champions.


Recommended: Yes

Parking Availability: Busy But Manageable
Seat Location: Upper Level