Well, not really, that would be a really famous building. Think about it, no nails, no cement, just staples. Millions and millions of staples. <Mike goes into deep thought about a building made totally of staples, only to rise a couple hours later and write this epinion>

Oops, I got a little side tracked there! Sorry people! <grin> Anyway, I’m writing on the relatively new Staples Center located in Los Angeles, California. It is mostly used for hockey and basketball games, with the hockey team being the Los Angeles Kings and the basketball teams being the Lakers and the Clippers. I was lucky enough to see two games, one game with the Kings and another that was Lakers vs. Clippers. Wow, lucky me!

I will review most of the aspects of the stadium, at least the ones that I took notice of. They are: (in not particular order :)
1. Seating
2. Food
3. Sound
4. Location
5. Conclusion

Great! Now lets get started……..


1. Seating
Since it is a relatively new stadium, I was expecting pretty good seating. And I got it. You could actually tell the stadium was new. By this I mean there was a minimal amount of gum on the ground, the floor wasn’t sticky (don’t you hate that? Geez!), and you could actually see above the head of the person in front of you. The seats themselves were pretty comfortable, and I found the leg room to be ok. I mean what do you expect, room to lie down? Anyway, I give the Staples Center a high five for their seating arrangement. Next topic.

2. Food
Woohoo! My specialty. Just kidding, but the food was really good. I was surprised about how many selections they offered. They supplied the essentials, such as McDonalds and others, but they got my vote when offered different foods from different cultures. Want Chinese food? No problem. You just might have to walk a little to the nearest one. The only downfall in this category was the price. Food was very expensive, but this is pretty much expected. I mean they have to pay for the stadium somehow right? On to the next topic.

3. Sound
Three words. State of the art. Oops! That’s four. <grin> Some complaints I’ve had with other stadiums is that I could not hear above the hollering crowd. Did I have a problem with this at the Staples Center? No way. Again, being so new, it had speakers everywhere, and I mean everywhere. With sound, I’m going to include the big video screen that hangs down above the ice/court, also known as the VideoTron. I could clearly see it from where I was sitting, and presume that you could from any angle. It provided the essentials such as score and time left, the only things I need. :) Anyway, I think that just about wraps up the sound category. On to the next.

4. Location
The Staples Center is located in the heart of Los Angeles. Most people think of a dangerous city when they hear Los Angeles, but I found it to be relatively safe when I was walking from my car to the stadium. Unless you have a parking pass, you will probably want to park in the parking garages in the area. The walk can range from medium to short, but I can guarantee you wont be walking a marathon. I even found it kind of fun, being surrounded by other fans on the walk to the game! Overall, I think they did a good job of locating the Staples Center.

5. Conclusion
Should you make the trip? Yes, I would encourage you too if your in the area. Remember your still getting to watch a game, and at the same time experience the Staples Center. Very cool. <grin> It’s purple color still amazes me, and I’ll be sure to make another trip as soon as I can. Staples Center, you get a double high five from me!




Recommended: Yes

Parking Availability: No Problemo
Seat Location: Lower Level