Pinnacle Bank Arena

by Julie Nichols and photos Tom Tidball

For over a decade, Pinnacle Bank Arena has delivered world-class entertainment to Lincoln for Nebraskans and visitors. Built as part of the West Haymarket Redevelopment Project, this 15,500-seat venue is a now-familiar landmark on Lincoln’s west side, a silver cloud hovering over the historic neighborhood. A fixture in the eclectic architecture of the Haymarket District, Pinnacle Bank Arena has come into its own. 

Designed by Lincoln architecture firm DLR Group BVH, the arena’s distinct silver disk hovers at the north end of the historic district, with sweeping views of Memorial and Saltdog Stadiums. The public plaza on Canopy Street features multiple entrances to a multi-story glass lobby featuring Candy Box, a large-scale piece by Philadelphia sculptor Donald Lipski. 

A spacious open-air roof deck provides a panorama of downtown and the Nebraska State Capitol. Multiple entrances, restrooms, and concessions on each floor minimize waiting for guests. The arena’s design includes high-efficiency systems and green building materials, saving Lincoln taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars in energy costs per year. PBA is Energy Star-rated, delivering a 35 percent reduction in energy use, and a recycling grant from the Nebraska Environmental Trust established a comprehensive recycling/composting/compacting program with the ambitious goal of reducing landfill waste by 75 percent, in line with Lincoln’s climate action plan. 

With adaptable stage setups, upscale audio/video technology, the loading bay capacity to accommodate large shows and a max seating capacity of 15,500, many luminaries return to Pinnacle, including Sir Elton John, who made Lincoln a stop on his farewell tour. In past seasons, Pink, Maroon 5, Blake Shelton, Fleetwood Mac, Shania Twain, Carrie Underwood, Cardi B, Garth Brooks, and Snoop Dog have graced the arena’s stage. Conceived with versatility and technical ease in mind, Pinnacle Bank Arena is the choice in Lincoln for other large-scale entertainment: the Harlem Globetrotters, PRCA Rodeo, Cirque du Soleil, WWE Smackdown, Monster Truck Jam, Disney on Ice, Professional Bull Riding, Paw Patrol, and Sesame Street Live!

The arena offers many choices for its audience: first-level premium box seating brings viewers close to the performance or sports event. Visitors can pre-order from an upscale menu; drink service is included, with a wet bar in an enclosed furnished suite equipped with flat screen TV, adjacent parking and private restrooms. Loge seating, also on first level, provides four luxury chairs, buffet, refrigerator, TV, parking and restrooms. With multiple entrances, reserved arena seating and general admission floor tickets have quick access to beverages and many food choices, including gluten and allergy-free options. Elevators and accommodations provide for guests who need mobility assistance or require special seating; contact the arena in advance to make arrangements.

Pinnacle Bank Arena also hosts the Nebraska Huskers men’s basketball and women’s basketball and volleyball teams, and opened its doors to NSAA high school state basketball (men’s and women’s), volleyball, and wrestling tournaments. Graduates of the University of Nebraska, Southeast Community College and UNMC dental and nursing program graduates receive their degrees here. In spring, Lincoln’s high school commencements also fill the schedule as families celebrate their students’ milestone.

Visitors seeking excellent shows in a smaller setting can look to Pinewood Bowl, the arena’s sister venue, which continues the groundwork of original director Tom Lorenz, who nurtured and increased the number of events at the popular outdoor concert space. Major artists play Pinewood each year, among them: Bob Dylan, Steely Dan, Willie Nelson, Paul Simon, Jackson Brown, Beck, Jack White, Mavis Staples, Earth Wind and Fire, Bonnie Raitt, Black Keys, and Chicago. Pinewood Bowl’s natural amphitheater is located directly west of Lincoln in nearby Pioneers’ Park. Summer evenings in the this intimate setting make Pinewood memorable. Pinewood still serves its original role: offering community theatre, youth programs and touring theatre performances during its season from spring to fall. Parking is plentiful and easy. 

The arena also provides a hub for community events and engagement, hosting the People’s City Mission’s largest annual fundraiser, Starry Nights Christmas Tree Festival. The Mayor’s Arts Awards, Women’s Leadership Awards, job fairs, community galas and fundraisers like Haymarket in White and Chocolate Lovers’ Fantasy have become yearly events. ASM Global, Pinnacle’s managing company, offers school groups and local non-profits fundraising opportunities working concessions at games and concerts; over $100,000 has been raised per season for schools and civic organizations in recent years. Project Connect Lincoln packs the arena one day a year with professional volunteers who assist houseless or at risk-individuals and families. A one-stop event, Project Connect offers legal resources, help with employment and housing applications, personal and dental care, pet care, health care resources, substance abuse treatment options and mental health care connections for those needing support.

Building such a large venue in a small midwestern city might be risky, but its multiple uses, variety of events, and world-renowned performers make Pinnacle a destination for out-state visitors and Lincolnites alike. Many nearby hotels offer lodging for vacationing travelers as well as Nebraskans attending tournaments or commencement ceremonies. A thriving restaurant/bar scene with proximity to shops and convenient parking makes for a walkable experience with plenty of meeting places before or after events.     

To check schedules during your visit or view ticket information, menus, guidelines and guest policies, see www.pinnaclebankarena.com.