Arena Attractions

Go behind the scenes at Climate Pledge Arena.

By Matthew Lombardi

In fall 2021, Seattle got a major sports and performance venue upgrade with the opening of innovative Climate Pledge Arena. It’s the home of the NHL’s Kraken and the WNBA’s Storm, and has hosted top-billed performers, including Rod Stewart, Iron Maiden, The Black Keys, and The Who.

Here’s what you’ll experience inside:

Brilliant lights, great sound. The arena has more LED lights than any other comparable venue in the world. They create giant panoramic displays in the outer concourses, encircle the seats, and bring to life two Jumbotrons (nicknamed The Twins). Innovative sonic design, including state-of-the-art baffling, results in exceptional acoustics.

Homegrown, smart-tech concessions. Food and drink, under the supervision of executive chef Molly DeMers, features local restaurants—serving everything from pizza to poke—and standout regional breweries and winemakers. Four marketplaces are equipped with Just Walk Out technology that eliminates waiting in line.

Commitment to the environment. Powered by on-site solar panels and with a hockey rink made from rainwater collected from the roof, the arena is a groundbreaking example of sustainability and is the world’s first arena to achieve Zero Carbon Certification by the International Living Future Institute (ILFI). Single-use plastics are minimized, with the aim of total elimination by 2024. And to minimize car travel, free public transit passes come with all Kraken and Storm tickets.

A PNW vibe. The building’s open, outdoorsy design aesthetic comes through in extensive woodwork and exposed brick—and especially in the Climate Pledge Living Wall, a 1,700-square-foot vertical landscape filled with 27 plant species.