Next time your in Oklahoma City to see a Thunder game, you’ll notice many changes to the arena formerly known as the Ford Center.
A new entrance on the southwest side of the area is the biggest highlight of the renovations so far. There is a new dining option at Center Court Grill and a Kids Zone play area on the main concourse.
And more places for kids to play is always a great thing.
“We are excited to see our fans enjoy these new features at Chesapeake Energy Arena,” said Thunder Senior Vice President Brian Byrnes in a press release on Tuesday. “The investment this city has made to improve the arena and enhance our fan experience has been tremendous. Between our first-class arena and our fan-centric service, we believe Thunder game nights are second to none.”
A look at some of the new improvements for this season:
Grand Entrance: The southwest entrance to the building, also known as the Grand Entrance, features a soaring ceiling and a large Thunder logo on the floor. The built-out glass-and-metal structure creates an open, contemporary feel as fans approach and enter the arena.
The Grand Entrance will also function as a gateway to some of the arena’s premier spaces, including Center Court Grill and Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Club on the Main Concourse and Sunset Lounge on the Cox Club Level.
Center Court Grill: Center Court Grill, a new full-service restaurant, will open prior to every Thunder game and concert at the arena. Located just inside the Grand Entrance near Section 115, Center Court Grill features grilled entrees, sandwiches and house-made barbecue. The restaurant opens for reservations 2 1/2 hours before tipoff and to all ticketed guests when doors open.
Kids Zone: The kids zone offers families a place to bring their children for playtime before and during Thunder games. With interactive games such as Pop-A-Shot, Shoot Around, Touch Wall and more, the Kids Zone is designed for children ages 6-14 to enjoy. The Kids Zone will remain open from 1 1/2 hours prior to tipoff until the end of the third quarter.
Other new features: Skyboxes and summit boxes, private suites that are available to small groups on the arena’s top level, perched above Love’s Loud City. Fans interested in these suites are encouraged to call 405.208.HOOP (4667) for more information.
Improvements to Chesapeake Energy Arena have been funded by a one-cent sales tax, approved by voters in 2008. All renovations to team and fan spaces are now complete; the project is expected to be completed in 2013.
