Santander Arena

Overview

Santander Arena at 700 Penn Street in Reading, PA is an 8,800-seat multiuse venue hosting a minor league hockey team alongside concerts, theater productions and community events. Its mid-size layout delivers an intimate atmosphere where attendees feel close to the action, with a design that aims to minimize “bad” seats.

Parking and Accessibility (Positive)

Attendees consistently cite ample, conveniently located parking lots and clear traffic control, often supported by local police directing vehicles. Easy entry and exit routes reduce pre-event stress, making arrival and departure particularly smooth and safe.

Staff Friendliness and Helpfulness (Mixed)

Many visitors praise ushers and the Ice Angels team for courteous, personalized guidance that enhances first-time experiences. However, inconsistent interactions with some security personnel and other staff members leave a minority of guests feeling unwelcome or confused.

Security and Entry Policies (Negative)

Security procedures at Santander Arena can be unclear or perceived as overly strict. The cashless payment requirement at concessions and a strict no-re-entry rule have frustrated patrons, who report uneven enforcement and limited policy transparency.

Sound and Acoustics (Mixed)

Concert-goers often enjoy crisp, clear sound quality and strong acoustics that suit a variety of musical genres. A few reviewers note that certain performances skew too bright or unnatural, suggesting that audio balance may vary depending on event type and production setup.

Seating and Sightlines (Mixed)

While the arena’s design generally provides good sightlines from most sections, some guests in side or distant seats experience partial obstructions. Limited options to relocate or upgrade on event day can leave viewers with less-than-ideal perspectives.

Food and Concessions (Mixed)

The venue offers a broad range of concession options, highlighted by a popular Chickie and Pete’s stand praised for generous portions and quality fare. Overall food and beverage prices are frequently described as high, with some patrons questioning value relative to portion sizes and menu variety.

Cleanliness and Facilities (Mixed)

Santander Arena’s interior spaces and restrooms earn positive comments when well maintained, reflecting regular cleaning efforts. Conversely, a subset of visitors report encountering broken fixtures or areas where upkeep appears neglected.

Standout Highlights

The combination of secure, straightforward parking and the welcoming presence of exceptional ushers and Ice Angels staff is often cited as a reason customers return. The Chickie and Pete’s concession stand stands out amid mixed reviews of arena dining, and the venue’s intimate scale reinforces its reputation for engaging, close-up event experiences.