What the Upper Concourse at Capital One Arena Means for Your Seating and Movement

The Upper Concourse is the hallway and common area on the arena's upper level

The Upper Concourse at Capital One Arena is the walkway and gathering space that runs around the upper deck of the building. It's where you walk when you enter through an upper-level entrance, where you find restrooms and concessions on that level, and where you move between different sections of upper-deck seating. Think of it as the "ring" that connects all the upper-level areas of the arena.

If your ticket is for an upper-level seat — anything in the 400 level — you will spend time in the Upper Concourse when you arrive, when you leave your seat to buy food or use a restroom, and when you exit the building. The Upper Concourse also gives you views of the court or ice from certain spots, though you won't have a seat-level view unless you're actually in your assigned section.

Capital One Arena's Upper Concourse wraps around the entire upper bowl and includes multiple concession stands, restroom facilities, and access points to different seating sections. The layout is designed so that you can move from one area to another without going back down to the main concourse level.

Key Takeaways

• The Upper Concourse is the walkway and common area on the arena's upper deck where you walk between sections and find restrooms and food.
• If you have an upper-level ticket (400-level seating), you enter and exit through the Upper Concourse and use its facilities.
• The Upper Concourse runs in a ring around the entire upper bowl, connecting all upper-level sections to each other.
• You can see the court or ice from some spots in the Upper Concourse, but you won't have a full view unless you're seated in your section.

How the Upper Concourse connects to your seating section

When you arrive at Capital One Arena with an upper-level ticket, you enter through a gate that opens into the Upper Concourse. From there, you walk to your specific section number. Each section has an entrance from the concourse, and ushers or signage will direct you to the right one.

The Upper Concourse itself is not part of your seating area — it's a shared public space. Your actual seat is inside your section, which branches off from the concourse. Once you're in your section, you're in a more enclosed area with your row and seat number.

What you'll find in the Upper Concourse

The Upper Concourse includes multiple concession stands where you can buy food, drinks, and merchandise. Restroom facilities are distributed around the concourse so you don't have to walk the entire ring to find one. There are also standing areas where people gather during events, and some spots offer views of the action below.

The exact location and number of concession stands and restrooms varies depending on which part of the Upper Concourse you're in. If you're looking for a specific service, ask an usher — they know the layout and can point you to the nearest option.

Differences between the Upper Concourse and the main concourse

Capital One Arena also has a main concourse on the lower level, which serves the 100-level and 200-level seating. The Upper Concourse is separate from this and only serves the upper deck. You won't move between the two during an event unless you're walking to a completely different part of the building.

The main concourse is typically more crowded and has more concession options because it serves more seating sections. The Upper Concourse is usually less congested, which can make it easier to move around and find what you need.

Accessibility and movement in the Upper Concourse

If you need wheelchair access or have mobility concerns, Capital One Arena has elevators that serve the Upper Concourse. These elevators connect the main entrance level to the upper deck. When you purchase your ticket or arrive at the arena, staff can direct you to the accessible entrance and elevator route.

The Upper Concourse itself is designed as a continuous walkway, so once you're on it, you can move in either direction around the ring to reach different sections or facilities. If you're unsure about the best route for your needs, ask an usher at your entrance — they can guide you to the most direct path.

How to navigate the Upper Concourse during an event

When you first arrive, take a moment to note which section entrance you came through. This makes it easier to find your way back to your seat if you leave during the event. The section numbers are clearly marked on the concourse, and they run in order around the ring.

If you need to leave your seat — to use a restroom, buy food, or step outside — just walk back into the Upper Concourse. You can move in either direction around the ring to find what you need. When you're ready to return to your seat, follow the section numbers back to your section entrance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I walk around the entire Upper Concourse without a ticket?

No. You need a valid ticket to enter the arena and access the Upper Concourse. Once you're inside with your ticket, you can move freely around the Upper Concourse as long as you're in the arena during the event.

Is the Upper Concourse open before the event starts?

Yes. The Upper Concourse opens when the arena opens its doors, which is usually 30 minutes to an hour before the event begins. This gives you time to find your seat, use restrooms, and buy food before the action starts.

What if I can't find my section from the Upper Concourse?

Ask an usher. They're stationed throughout the Upper Concourse and know every section number and location. They can point you to your section entrance or walk you there if needed.

Are there fewer food options in the Upper Concourse than the main concourse?

Generally yes, because the upper deck has fewer seats than the lower levels. However, there are still multiple concession stands around the Upper Concourse, so you should be able to find food and drinks without much difficulty.

Can I bring outside food into the Upper Concourse?

Capital One Arena's outside food policy applies throughout the building, including the Upper Concourse. Check the arena's website or your ticket confirmation for the current policy on outside food and beverages.