We have been to a couple roller derby matches in other cities but not in Madison. We had talked…read moreabout going with friends so we finally purchased some tickets online and made our way to the Alliant Energy Center. The parking lot was quite full due to a big event in the exhibition hall but at least there was no charge for parking. After finally figuring out where this event was being held we made our way into the bleachers (I know why people brought their own chairs). Not being fans it took us awhile to figure out the flow of the match and some of the rules (thanks to nearby fans who filled in the blanks). Unfortunately the PA system was so poor it was almost impossible to follow any helpful information they might have been announcing. The match last almost two hours which was pretty long and a bit repetitive- one half would have been enough. Some good action at times but a bit slow. Interesting enough to go once but I won't be rushing back.

Good family fun. Dad gets to see pretty girls is short shorts wrestle for position. children get to…read morewatch the girls play the game and want to put the Internet down and go outside for a change. Mom, ask about joining! More exercise size then spin class, get a great name and all profits go to charity!

Local sports are always a fun time. My friend occasionally gets tickets through work for…read moreRoughriders or their neighbors, the Kernels. The games are really fast paced and entertaining, but we haven't yet seen a win. Tickets are relatively affordable and there's a good chance you could sit somewhere better if you sneak around lol. They get ya on the snacks though $$. Bathrooms are a little janky and you can expect a line. Standard good time sports outing for a winter evening in CR.

A Roughriders game is still one of the most fun things you can experience in Cedar Rapids (or the…read moreentire Corridor for that matter) during the winter months. If you've never seen a hockey game, or you're just looking for something different to do, I highly recommend visiting. I've always loved that CR has been home to minor league sports teams for so many years. We're lucky. Uber family-friendly atmosphere. Roughriders ticket prices have increased by several $'s since my last review in 2014, but those extra dollars are worth it. I believe there are six different ticket price points now ($13-$25), and if you're really into hockey you may even consider season tickets. Roughriders season ticket holders are a hoot...I always seem to be seated next to them. :) From what I saw, staffing has definitely decreased over the years. I didn't notice any employees except for those scanning tickets, working in the concessions stands and those manning various booths along the concourse. Back in the day (10+ years) they used to have ushers that would help you find your seats. I don't know if these ushers were volunteers from the Roughriders booster group or if they were actually paid, but it was SO nice to have them there. Within the next 5 years or so the seating in the ice area might need to be evaluated (in the very least all seats could all use a deep clean). There is very little leg room and no cup holders. I saw many patrons using the seats as steps to get from one row to the next. Yikes. Talk about wear and tear. I also agree with another Yelper's statement (see Cedar Rapids Ice Arena reviews) that if you're paying for premium seats it would be nice to see the plexiglass cleaned more regularly. Also, the men I was with stated that the men's room near sections L & N was absolutely rank. After I heard this I opted not to use the ladies room. Concessions: stick with the cheese curds. They desperately need a new soft pretzel supplier. Bar: above average selection of beer, etc. available. Expect arena prices on all food and drink. Overall, 5/5 stars. You won't have perfection across the board given how many guests go through here on a nightly basis. Expect to spend at least $50-$100 per couple (dependent upon ticket prices, drinks/food). Parking is free! Recommend.