The other night my husband and I went to see Daugthry at the Verizon Wireless Arena in Manchester. I’ve seen lots concerts in venues ranging from a crowded living room to a packed stadium. I tend to prefer, the smaller settings, but lets face it, the chances of getting Daughtry to set up in my family room or even my back yard are slim to non-existant.

The Verizon was a great addition to the New Hampshire landscape. Before the Verizon, New Hampshire sports and music fan’s choices were included driving to Massachusetts or summer shows at Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavillion in Gillford. I have a huge soft spot for outdoor venues, but the short summer season in New Hamsphire puts a damper on things. Plus, that type of venue isn’t suitable for certain types of performances (namely any of the Disney on Ice shows).

According to the web site, the Verizon was opened in November of 2001. Seating capacity is 10,000 to 11,000 plus depending on the show set up. Hockey and end stage concerts seat fewer while basketball and center stage shows seat more.

The Verizon Wireless Arena is easily accessible, from route 293. Parking isn’t too bad. Lots closer to the arena charge between $10 and $15 to park, but if there is a minor league basball game, at the same time, spots can be in short supply. If you are willing to walk a few blocks, you can utilize municipal parking garages or even street parking. My husband and I walked 5 blocks but we paid just $2.25 to park. For the price of a cup of coffee and a little exercise, we zipped right out of the garage and on to the highway to head home. Not bad at all.

There are lots of great restaurants with in a short distance of the Verizon and if you are inclined to make a night of it, there are several hotels within stumbling distance.

I’m not a huge sports person, but I’ve seen Toy Story on Ice, the Ringling Brothers circus and a handful of concerts at the Verizon. We had front row seats for Toy Story on Ice (thank you Grammy) which is hard to beat no matter where you see a show. Because it is a smaller arena, it was a perfect place for the circus. We had seats mid-way up for that which provided optimum viewing for the whole show.

As for concerts well, in my opinion, the acoustics leave a little to be desired, but that is to be expected from a building constructed out of concrete and steel. Depending on the act, I might choose to drive to Massachusetts if say the same band is performing at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium or Meadowbrook at a later date in the tour. Still, the Verizon Wireless fills a niche in the New Hampshire sports and entertainment landscape.

For more information on the Verizon Wireless Arena visit their web site. Tickets for most shows and events are available via Ticketmaster.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are my own and I was not compensated in any way for my words.