Footprint Center Guide
Entry, transit, rideshare, parking, and game-day logistics for Phoenix.
Last updated: 3/4/2026
Key logistics
| Bag policy | Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags not exceeding 12 inches x 6 inches x 12 inches are permitted. Small clutch bags or wallets no larger than 5 inches x 8 inches are also allowed. Diaper bags and medically necessary bags are permitted but subject to thorough inspection. Standard backpacks are generally not permitted, but exceptions may be made for single-compartment bags, purses, and diaper bags measuring below 14 inches x 6 inches x 12 inches. |
|---|---|
| Doors open | Doors typically open between 75 to 90 minutes before the scheduled event start time for the general public. For Phoenix Mercury games, doors open 75 minutes prior, while PayPal X-Factor members may enter 90 minutes early. For Phoenix Suns games, season ticket holders may enter 2 hours prior to game time. |
| Cashless? | Footprint Center operates on a cashless basis for most transactions, accepting all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) and debit cards with major credit card network logos. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted in parking, concessions, and retail departments, but not at the ticketing booth. |
| Rideshare zone | Designated rideshare pickup and drop-off zones are located at the Footprint Center Plaza (corner of First Street and Jefferson Street). Additional zones include the Southwest Corner (Jefferson Street, between 2nd and 3rd Streets) and the Northwest Corner (1st Street, between Washington and Jefferson Streets). |
| Re-entry | Re-entry is generally not permitted at Footprint Center events. |
| Transit | The Valley Metro Light Rail is a recommended option, with the 3rd Street/Washington Station (westbound) and 3rd Street/Jefferson Station (eastbound) located near the arena. Tickets to events at Footprint Center often serve as free light rail passes on event days through the Rail Ride Event program. Several Valley Metro bus routes, including 1, 3, 7, and 84, also serve downtown Phoenix with stops near the Footprint Center. |
Parking
The Footprint Center is connected to a five-story parking garage (700 spots), primarily for suite holders and premium seat owners, with limited public access. The adjacent Jefferson Street Garage offers over 1,400 spaces for the general public. Pre-purchasing parking passes online through sites like SpotHero or ABM Parking is recommended. Utilizing ride-sharing services or the light rail (where event tickets can act as passes) is also advised to avoid traffic and parking costs.
Family & accessibility
- Strollers: Strollers are permitted but may be subject to additional screening and might need to be stored in designated areas or checked at bag valet locations for a nominal fee.
- Family perks: The Footprint Center offers a $2 value menu at Phoenix Suns home games, which includes hot dogs, bottled water, fountain soda, chips, and popcorn.
Culture layer
- Signature food: Signature food options include items from 'larder + the delta' (local farm-to-table with various chicken offerings, po'boy sandwiches, and snacks), Benihana (hibachi and poke bowls), Spinatos Pizzeria, Wetzel's Pretzels, Uncle Jerome's Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich, and Big Chicken Dunks.
Verified places nearby
- Tom's Watch Bar - Phoenix Chase Field20 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 · Downtown PhoenixWhat to order: Extensive drink menu and elevated pub fare.
- Majerle's Sports Grill24 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 · Downtown PhoenixWhat to order: Appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees like Sir Charles Southwest Chicken Pasta.
- Crown Public House333 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 · Downtown PhoenixWhat to order: Elevated pub fare including loaded nachos, juicy burgers, and craft beer on tap.