Let me first begin with a quick retort, it's a bummer that your employment situation is less than pleasurable, however it really doesn't speak to the quality of the stadium, and or the experience of the events here. Of course $8 for a hot dog is ridiculous, and you'll run into bad customers anywhere but let's really talk about Rio Tinto for what it is.
Being a season ticket holder for the U of U Football and our ReAL Salt Lake I feel I can speak to the quality, and experience at both stadiums easily.
I can honestly say there's not a bad seat in the house at Rio Tinto. From the highest price seats on the west side of the stadium to the upper deck seats on the east side, from behind either goal, you have an up close and amazing view of the pitch.
If you plan to go let me help with some info about the seating areas. Starting on the west side of the stadium. These seats are typically out of the sun, and you'll pay for it! Directly across the pitch on the east side you will look into the sun a little during an early game, but this is where my season tickets are, and I promise it's not a burden at all! Especially at almost half the price of the western equivalent. The upper deck is usually filled with the local soccer teams, and their families. There's an abundance of kids, and not to mention the travel section for the away fans (BOO). However these are great seats, and you have an amazing view of the game. The north goal area is yet another great place to watch a game, the view is a little different, but still a great vantage point, and fun to watch when the action is at the goal in front of you! Watching a goal being scored that close is amazing, and or watching Rimando stretch out and knock down an opposing attempt on goal, WHAT A SITE TO SEE! The south end is the rowdy section, a plethora of local fans that start hours before kick off and don't stop until well after the final whistle. It's a great section if you wanna get rowdy, and dance to the beat of a drum! (probably not best for the little ones) The box seats on the upper west side are immaculate! Great view, great service, and it's so much fun to sit back and enjoy the luxury! Try it at least once!
Rio Tinto delivers on other occasions as well. The Bud Wiser/Royal Club is top notch, the staff are great, the bartenders really know how to take care of you, and the chef's are great! The acoustics, for concerts, and such are much better than expected, and lets be honest, it's no concert hall, but they deliver a great venue for a concert.
All in all, I have to give Rio Tinto a 5 star review for all that it delivers on a consistent basis. Let's be real with ourselves, if you're looking for cheap food, and fun go to the mall and ride the carousel in the food court. If you're looking for a world class stadium, a top notch MLS team, and a great experience you will not be disappointed at Rio TInto!
P.S. If you're at the stadium, look for the guy standing up waving my STH (Season Ticket Holder) scarf, and cheering for our ReAL Salt Lake. ...oh yeah I'll be the only one with my Yelp sunglasses on! read more