Photo: Baxter Arena
Photo: Priyanker
Photo: Michelle S
Baxter Arena
★4.6(2,552 reviews)$$Sports
🕑 2.5-3 hours for sporting events including pre-game activities; concerts vary by performer but typically 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Younger elementary kids get thrilled by the fast-paced hockey action and mascot Durango, while tweens and teens appreciate the concert lineup and high-energy basketball games. Toddlers can enjoy events too, though the noise level may be overwhelming for very young or sensitive children.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Baxter Arena is Omaha's premier family entertainment destination, home to exciting UNO Mavericks hockey and basketball games plus year-round concerts and special events. Located in the vibrant Aksarben Village, this modern 7,500-seat arena offers an electric atmosphere perfect for introducing kids to live sports and entertainment in a comfortable, accessible setting.
Highlights
- ✓Watching fast-paced UNO Mavericks hockey games with Durango the mascot leading cheers
- ✓Kids' zone activities and interactive games during intermissions
- ✓Clean, modern facilities with excellent sightlines from every seat
- ✓Special family events like Disney on Ice, Harlem Globetrotters, and monster truck shows
- ✓Post-game opportunities to meet mascots and occasionally players
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive 30-45 minutes early for hockey games to watch warm-ups through the glass,kids love seeing players up close and it's free entertainment before the game starts
- 2.Check the event calendar for Family Fun Nights with discounted tickets, pre-game activities, and post-game skates on the ice
- 3.Parking fills quickly for popular events; use the Aksarben Village parking garages and arrive early, or consider the free shuttle from satellite lots
- 4.Bring ear protection for younger children during hockey games,the crowd gets loud and the goal horn is exciting but intense
- 5.Download the UNO Mavericks app before attending to access mobile tickets, view the arena map, and find family restrooms quickly
Best Time to Visit
Friday evening or weekend afternoon games offer the best family atmosphere with special promotions and halftime entertainment. Hockey season (October-March) provides the most consistent family-friendly programming, while summer concerts vary in appropriateness,always check the event details first.
What to Know
Ticket prices vary by event but UNO games are budget-friendly (often $10-25 for kids). The arena offers multiple concession stands with standard arena fare, family restrooms, and is fully ADA accessible with designated seating areas and elevators.
Seasonal Notes
Hockey season runs October through March with the most family programming. Basketball season is November-March. Summer brings touring family shows and concerts. Holiday events like December hockey games feature festive themes, giveaways, and visits from Santa.
Nearby Eats
Walk to Stokes Grill & Bar in Aksarben Village for a full kids menu and casual atmosphere, or grab quick bites at Pitch Pizzeria with brick-oven pizza that kids love,both are within easy walking distance in the same complex.
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