Since its inception in 1997, the Arena District has developed into one of the brightest new spots in Columbus. Visitors flock to the unique restaurants and bars that give the Arena District its distinct, lively atmosphere, according to Brian J. Ellis, president and COO of Nationwide Realty Investors. Columbus is the 15th largest city in the United States and is within 550 miles of more than half of the nation’s population, making it a top weekend destination.
"Walking along the brick alleys in the Arena District, visitors can stop and have an Italian dinner at Buca di Beppo, enjoy the feel of an authentic Irish pub at O’Shaughnessy’s Public House, or try the seasonal beer and multi-ethnic dishes at Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant," said Ellis. "For those looking for fine dining, the Black and Blue offers a scenic, sunset view of the Columbus skyline. In addition, with two nightclubs playing live music weekly, there is no shortage of entertainment. Visitors can go to www.arena-district.com for weekly Arena District entertainment updates," Ellis added.
The centerpiece of the Arena District is Nationwide Arena. This state-of-the-art facility is home to the Columbus Blue Jackets, Ohio’s only NHL team. Inside the Arena, up to 18,500 people may attend during hockey games and up to 20,000 people during concerts. Shows held at the Arena have featured performances such as U2, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. , which opened in the Arena District last October, has unveiled its outdoor amphitheater. Voted the best concert venue in Columbus by CitySearch.com, PromoWest Pavilion is one of the largest indoor/outdoor concert venues in the United States. The building hosts a variety of seating configurations ranging from an indoor, 500-seat cabaret to an outdoor concert holding 5,000. This venue has already brought in the biggest names in the music industry while providing an intimate, club-like atmosphere for fans to enjoy their favorite bands and performers.
Across the street from the Nationwide Arena is the Arena District Television (ADTV), a large video screen that shows short films, event news and advertisements to keep onlookers both informed and entertained. The ADTV facade features a neon "Arena District" sign that illuminates evenings at the main crossroads of the development.
The Arena Grand Theatre is an exciting option for movie buffs, showing current blockbuster movies, as well as independent films. In the lobby, an elegant, sweeping staircase leads up to balcony seating where moviegoers can indulge in large, leather seats and upscale move fare such as sushi and sandwich wraps.