Was in town for the Virginia International Tattoo festival in April. We had such a great time with the multiple outside vendors and the actual show. It was our first time attending and we were impressed with the various US military groups and from other countries like Canada, France, South Korean Army (Hoshi! ), to name a few. The actual arena had seats that were comfortable enough. Just a little confusing with the numbering/arrangement of the seats. Restrooms were clean. We Ubered to the place so we really don't know about the parking situation. read more

See all

First time at this venue. We went for an Admirals game. Can't speak to parking since we took a Lyft (which was six dollars than Uber). We ate wings at the Pub. The bartenders were nice and they came out quickly. We had a couple drinks each and shared the wings. They also had a buffet option. There are plenty of vendors and other choices to eat. We had a nice time. All of the attendants were nice. The arena attendance was low. We got a cowbell and a first game certificate. Thanks Vet Tix for the tickets. It was expensive not like minor league baseball games used to be. read more

See all

Great seats, good event staff made everything flow well to get to seats. Ease of entry and departure are always on the top of my must haves for venues. read more

As a local, the Scope is one of my go-to spots for concerts and events. I've been here many times and I'm always impressed with how well this venue handles big crowds. The place is clean, organized, and really capable of hosting just about anything. Whether it's a concert, circus, or monster truck show, everything usually runs smoothly. One thing I really appreciate is that the restrooms are well stocked and clean, even when the place is packed. The atmosphere is great, the staff is helpful, and it always feels like a solid experience from start to finish. If you're in the area and have a chance to attend an event here, you should! read more

See all

The first annual Cousinz Festival was hosted at the Norfolk Scope Arena and it was the perfect location for such an, amazing event. The Scope Arena Grounds included food trucks, DJ sets, and vendors. I loved that they also had a designated cooling station area as well. Since we decided to eat before coming to the event, we grabbed some bottles of water and listened to a few songs from the DJs before heading inside. A few artists were performing on the main stage, including Erykah Badu, so once we found our seats, we were excited to enjoy the show. The seats were pretty comfortable and to me, there was no bad seat in the arena. Erykah Badu definitely did her thing. I'd never seen her in concert and she did not disappoint. Overall, we had a great time at the festival and I hope the Scope Arena hosts it again next year. read more

See all

Before I begin let me start off by saying that this review is based solely upon my personal experiences and my personal experiences alone, so with that being said let's begin!. My wife and I and two other couples visited this establishment for a concert. It was a decent experience. Music and performances were great and the atmosphere and crowd were fantastic! I left off one star because the prices for the food and drinks were ridiculous! I understand this is a business and money has to be made but I believe the prices were outrageous! Other than that the experience was very nice. I would definitely recommend going there if you're in the area for any event. Just be prepared to spend some money! They don't accept cash payments other than to tip the workers... read more

It's been over five years since my last review. I visited this venue for a different type of event. This was not a sporting event, no concert, but the RnB Block party was held here on the first Saturday in December 2023. No issues getting to the parking lot and parking was cool. Free parking this night, definitely did not expect this, but was happy! The venue itself is dated, but it does the job. The event itself was definitely unorganized and it seemed the venders were not prepared for the huge crowd. Nevertheless, I will always be a fan of the scope, but this event, nah. Have fun and enjoy life :) read more

See all

We visited this venue for a comedy show on a Saturday evening. I came to the venue the day before to buy the tickets. Since I paid with a card I had to pay an extra fee for the tickets. The clerk was nice and advised me to get there early since there was another event at the same time. When we arrived the main parking lot was already full so we had to park in another parking structure. Parking was $10 to park in the lot. The venue was large and the ushers were helpful in finding our seats. During the show we got mudslide drinks. They were tasty and strong. After the comedy show we got stuck in the lot for about an hour after the show. Unfortunately no one was out assisting with traffic control. read more

See all

Over many years, we have been to the Scope Arena for different events from hockey, the circus and more. We came here most recently to attend Cirque Du Soleil on a Saturday evening. We parked in the garage adjacent to the arena which cost $10. We arrived early so we could have dinner on Granby Street at Codex. It is nice that the arena is walking distance to a plethora of dining options for before or after your event. Getting in to the arena was easy and fast with mobile ticket scanning. They seem to have that system down for ease of entrance. Finding our seats was also easy. Ushers were available but we did not need assistance. Seating was great and it seems to be one of those venues where all the seats have a decent view. When departing the show, they didn't have all of the exits open so there was a bit of a bottleneck and wait as you shuffle like cattle to get out. We didn't purchase any food or drinks since we had just enjoyed dinner downtown, but we did see vendors for popcorn (huge line), tacos, pizza, ice cream and beverages. read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - Cirque Du Soleil - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

It seems smaller than I remember . . . probably because I was a smaller human (ie 10/11 years old) during my last visit. We visited Norfolk Scopre to check out Cirque du Soleil and had an amazing time. While the seats were a bit tight, the chairs were somewhat comfortable. Actually I'll elaborate on this. I think we have been spoiled with larger seats and aisles in movie and expect the same for arenas. So, the seat were pretty normal/average sized. Of course, if you like a little more leg room, you should try to get an aisle seat. The Scope's sound and lighting were pretty much on par with other venues in the area. I thought the ushers were very helpful and friendly (especially dealing with a few rude attendees). While The Scope has ample parking, I was a bit surprised that parking was $10. I dunno, it seemed pretty pricey since other parking garages in the area charge around $2-$5 for parking. read more

See all

Today has been exceptional! My first Tattoo event and I can't wait until next year!! Thank you to our armed forces and allies for their contributions and amazing talents! Today will be one for the books read more

See all

Came here to see the Norfolk Admirals play hockey. While we had a good time, this stadium has some drawbacks that could be improved upon. First, there is only one ticketing area that isn't on the main level, so if you're outside walking around the concourse level, you won't find it. Second: the concessions are both lacking in variety or change from location to location and simultaneously priced expensive, even for a stadium. Finally: the people sitting on either end of the hockey rink by the goalies will have their view limited by a net above the boards, which I found far more annoying than I thought I would. Perhaps it's a league requirement, but it was a hindrance to following the action more than I anticipated. End of the day though: there's decent parking nearby, tickets are relatively inexpensive to get in, the arena is kept at a comfortable winter time temperature, so there are some pluses to coming here as well. read more

Attended Sebastian Maniscalco concert the other night, first time at this venue. Walking to the Arena, it was very aged, not well maintained, grasses growing through pavers, mold on the cement, it looked very unkept. I don't live in Norfolk, travelled fromOBX and was extremely disappointed with the venue. It really shows signs of aging and quite frankly should be torn down and replaced. The seats on the floor were extremely uncomfortable and the steps going down were extremely dangerous. The city of Norfolk should definitely be embarrassed, even the comedian referred to the area as "I Am Legend ", the movie ....a type of apocalypse city!! read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - View of arena from my hotel - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

My family and I always love coming to the scope to watch the admirals play. It's a great atmosphere and we always have fun when we come. read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - Ice rink - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

See all

I was pleasantly surprised with the New (to me) digital screens and sound system at the Norfolk scope for an Admirals game. It has been some time since the last time I visited and I was very pleased. The employees were very nice. The Sri is were cold but the selection was limited (1 kind of beer). I don't know if this was this particular stand but I made due. Definitely will be coming back! read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - Norfolk's own Admirals - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Came here for a hockey game with my boyfriend. It was one of the Breast Cancer awareness ones so the ice was pink and our guys were decked out in pink and white. Very cute. Since I'm a Mammographer it was rather fitting. Not much of a hockey girl, but the atmosphere was very welcoming and I actually had a good time! There were plenty of spots to grab a beer and some food outside of the inner stadium (not leaving the building). So we grabbed a few and really just enjoyed ourselves. This was my first time at the Scope and I really liked it! Would totally come again. read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - Breast Cancer awareness game! Lots of fun! - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

I thought I had been to the Scope before - and maybe I have a long long time ago, but I don't remember it that well clearly. I've been to the Chrysler (next door and shares an underground parking deck) a bunch of times for shows - but I attended an Admirals hockey game here last weekend and really enjoyed it. I was also impressed with the condition of the stadium itself overall. Everything looked like it had recently been renovated and updated, it was very clean and well-kept, the overhead screens and scoreboards were in excellent condition and the seatbacks and chairs had fresh and new upholstery free of stains and holes. Impressive. The game was much less than crowded so I hope they get enough in attendance to support the spot and keep it around - but it was a great evening and a fun way to spend time with my dad who is visiting from out of town. read more

The Norfolk waterfront jazz festival rained out, new, they had a contingency plan ready, move the festival indoors to the nearby Norfolk Scope Arena. This was my 1st visit to this facility, and I found it to be exceptional. The acoustics for an event such as this was fabulous. Artists such as Peter White and Richard Elliott melodically echoed in this place. My only dig would be the food court area, which didn't allow for the four vendors to prepare their food indoors, causing them to improvise, cooking outdoors and shuttling food back an forth, causing a delay in service, and actually running out of my choices by the time I stood an waited in the list for over a half hour However, this would not prevent my returning to this venue for another such event. read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - Peter white @Norfolk jazz fest - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

This place is awesome! I came here for a Navy hockey game, Ford vs. Lincoln, and because it wasn't so crowded and I was there to take photos, I was able to move around freely and really explore the place. The price for beer and food is what you'd expect from a place like this, so no surprises there. There is a smoking area as well, just ask one of the security guys and they'll point you in the right direction. read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

The Scope has been around for as Long as I can remember. The last time was for the Ringling Brother's circus' last hurrah. This Time it was for Cirque de Soleil's OVO. It's still an arena, but not large that you are ever in "nose bleed" seats. Parking can be a pain-as it is with downtown parking, but there are tons of parking garages around. Usually $5 for special events so it is still pretty reasonable. MacArther mall and lots of eateries are all around. The Tide train stops about a block away so you can bypass driving into the city all together. The Norfolk Admirals also call this place home for many many years. read more

This arena is pretty average as far as sports arenas go. The reason it's a 4 star for me is the parking directly underneath the arena that only costs $10 for special events. Otherwise, it's another sports arena with over-priced concessions (including canned cocktails in addition to your typical beer selection), comfortable enough seats, and decent pricing for events. We really enjoyed seeing the Norfolk Admirals play recently, and a fun thing they did was give out beanies at the game. Only big downside is that the stadium is really old, so it's a bit in disrepair in parts, including the arm rests of the seats (many are missing and one came off while I was using it). Overall though, it's fairly easy to get to and the parking was easy, so it's a solid venue in my book. read more

At least 1/3 of the ticket holders were late to the show because of the pre-entrance phone lock. After our tickets were confirmed via phone and our purses checked, they locked our phones in a pouch. After the concert, we had to stand in another line to release our phones, which took a very long time as well. We purchased our tickets over four months in advance. In the meantime, my husband had an accident and was on crutches. There was no handicapped parking available, the only elevator had a locked door, there were no ramps, and we not offered handicapped seating. We will never attend another event here. read more

We were here for a university graduation. Nicely organized as far as getting in and getting decent seats, everything faced the stage that was set up somewhere near where the blue line would be if it wasn't covered up with tiles. The seats were reasonably comfortable. I wouldn't want to be here for more than an hour though. Nice layout and design, the Scope is the world's largest reinforced thinshell concrete dome. If that means anything to you, then you will have noticed the lack of support columns and the honeycomb of the concrete above. It's really quite interesting. Parking underneath. read more

See all

Came here to watch Impractical Jokers. We had great seats however we felt bad for this dude sitting in front of us because the chick sitting next to him was morbidly obese and was taking up some of his seat along with her own seat. He looked squished... We felt so bad for that dude! If that was me I would be so pissed.... like I need a discount for only being able to use half my chair the whole time. However, from the time we parked, the security check in, to the ushers guiding us to our seat; the staff was friendly and organized. The Impractical Jokers are so funny and delivered a hilarious live show! So freakn funny. read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - The pic I was able to get of the guys after the show. - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Norfolk scope. Easy driving access in and out the Scope area. First time at this arena. Need some modern outside building. The inside looks ok. Need more ladies bathrooms. Had to stand in line to use restroom. The seats are narrow and the rows are too close together. After a 2 hour event my knee was killing me. Felt like sardines in a can. read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - Picture of stage from the 2nd level. - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

This review is based on the I Love The 90s Tour I attended last Friday, 10/21. Location of the Scope is great because it's near parking, near restaurants, and the main streets are close enough for "drop off" service. It's set in the middle of a courtyard so pictures are always optimal in my opinion. Depending on the concert or show or event that's being held, usually the line is well controlled and maintained. There have been instances where it has gotten confusing and frustrating waking around in circles trying to figure out where to enter. This show, however was quick and easy. Many concert goers was appropriately dressed in 90s wear and it was fun to see throwback outfits. My friend scored AWESOME seats and we were right smack in the center of the stage in the 2nd row. We got great views of the stage and all the acts. Sound was actually good this time. There have been times when I've left a show with ringing ears. Not this time. Security was also great and professional. read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - I Love The 90s Tour. Rob Base, All-4-One, Kid 'N Play, Coolio, Salt N Pepa, and Vanilla Ice - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

My husband had purchased tickets back in January for the Valentine's Day ice skating event they had on February 16th. We decided to go to the later slot time which I think was 4-6. Honestly the scheduling was a mess, when we called they said it was 3:30-5:30 but on the website it said 4-6. Either way we got there about 4:45 and I could see what a disaster it was going to be. They didn't have a real skate rental hub. Instead they had a couple of guys who basically knew nothing about how skates fit and they had a whole bunch of skates that looked like they were donated from 1940. It's insulting that they charged for this event. I spent 45 minutes trying to find skates that fit and in between I was given two left skates, men's skates that were too big, men's hockey skates that were literally deteriorating, and hobbling back and forth to the table to ask if they had any women's figure skates that were turned in by another skater yet. It was a disaster. The skates I ultimately wore were so uncomfortable that I couldn't make it around the rink once before I thought my arches would explode. FYI I was stuck wearing men's hockey skates which the guy didn't know the conversion from women to men's so I had to try on like four pairs, painstakingly lacing up each one to find out it didn't fit. My husband had figure skates (because they didn't have any men's hockey skates in his size) and said it was digging into his ankle bone so much he also could barely make it around the rink. Ultimately I think we only skated for a total of ten minutes. The rest of the time was spent sitting down to rest our feet or going to the "rental station" to try a different pair of skates. I wish I could get my time and money back for this event and frankly whoever organized this event should be ashamed of themselves. If you are going to have such outdated and useless rental equipment, at least put that on the website more clearly and state it's really an event for people who already own ice skates. The only good was that the arena was nice, they had good music and there was a cool reddish lighting to make it feel more romantic. read more

I attended WWE's Smackdown last night and really enjoyed the show at the Norfolk Scope Arena. In previous events I sat at the second level or above. This time, I had a floor seat. Even better, I was pretty much in the front row. Regardless of the venue, a seat so close is always great. Getting into the arena was easy. There was a long line but we were inside in less than five minutes. Once inside, the staff was helpful to getting us to our seats. The venue itself is a bit dated. It's not like nothing needs to be changed but a couple upgrades couldn't hurt in the main lobby. Seating on the floor was spacious enough although the chairs were a little dated. Fun tidbit on WWE and the Scope. Kane threw Paul Bearer (RIP) down the stairs during a segment some 10+ years ago. I'm reminded of the TV segment every time I walk by those stairs. read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - Great seats for WWE Smackdown - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Attended the 2019 MEAC college basketball tournament, the parking garage was really accessible, to the event. The games were exciting especially with court side seating. I dont like driving in Norfolk but I will definitely attend other scope arena events. read more

See all

Scope was originally built by the Egyptians to house dead royalty of minor importance. For instance, the 3rd cousin twice removed from the wife of the King's Brother. Over the years, since all of the trouble in Egypt, a couple of Hockey Teams and some traveling gun shows have taken over the spaces once occupied by Dead Egyptians. To give you an idea of how low on the org chart these Egyptians were, nobody from Cairo has called to complain about Brophy throwing trash cans at the same place where Honored Dead are entombed for eternity. And watching Brophy toss trash cans was certainly one of the highlights of that half moon known as Scope. The ECHL Admirals were arguably the most successful of the many tenants at Scope. Sure, the Virginia Squires played some games here with a 'fro headed Dude nicknamed Dr. J, but that was back when the basketball was Red, White, and Blue. But this is our Fenway. Don't touch it. Don't improve it. Certainly don't tear it down! The brick and mortar (as it were) that comprise that what is Scope is truly Norfolk. All Grit, little beauty. But entirely functional. Parking? Yes, underground. But...if you are attending a popular event, you will be forever stranded underground waiting your turn to exit. Instead, here is the Local's Secret.... Get a four wheel drive vehicle (mine at the time was a Ford Bronco II). Attend an event but park in the lot ACROSS the street...and park at the far end of the lot, facing Brambleton Avenue (in the Church Parking lot. Correct Change is appreciated). At the end of the event, jaywalk across the street, twist the key in the ignition, and drive over the barriers and sidewalk onto Brambleton and off to I264 you go. Easy in, easy out. read more

My guy and I went to the 2016 International Tattoo at the Scope on April 24th. Admittedly, I had no idea what a Tattoo was, other than the normal ink on skin kind. The shiw was beyond anything I was expecting!! The excitement started with the free Hubabloo outside before the show. We enjoyed checking out the vendors and food trucks. The drum battle really got the crowds going and got us excited for what we were about to see. Inside the Scope, the show started exactly on time, thanks to the count down clock! The entrance gave me chills that didn't stop throughout the entire show. It was an amazing display of music, signing and more. I've very happy that I learned this version of a Tattoo and already look forward to next year! read more

See all

The seats have an okay price tag on them if you're military of a student. The price for the food and drinks are outrageous... well, other than those beef brisket nachos. Those are on point! The fact they serve craft beer here is a plus but I don't want to spend the money on it. I've experienced plenty of hockey in this place and have found that you don't want to sit behind the teams. It's pretty hard to see. read more

GO ADMIRALS!! The Admirals are the Anaheim Ducks' AHL affiliated team (until 2016, when Edmonton will own them). The tickets are cheap ($14 for lower bowl), and the fans are passionate about their team. The seats are tight, and your knees will hit the seat in front of you. The corridors are narrow, and it can get congested when people are lining up for food or drinks. Every seat seems to be a good seat. In fact, it may be better to get higher seats so you can see the entire hockey game, as the lower seats can be obstructed with people standing, concession people moving around, and the players standing along the glass. read more

We went to the Norfolk Scope to see the Virginia international tattoo. To start it was easy to get to, a quick stop off 264 and we were there. The parking garage under Scope was full, so we went to the church parking lot across the street. A quick five dollars later and we are parked. We went across the street and at the entrance to the patio outside the Scope somebody checked our tickets and gave us a quick security wand. We went inside and enjoyed the camaraderie of the tattoo performance. After walking around for a bit we decided to go into the actual building. Just 100 yards later we were at our seats and ready for the show. My bride sprang for courtside seats. Even though the scope is an old building the acoustics and condition were up to par. The scope gets four stars for the overall condition of a building that is over 30 years old. As far as the international tattoo, it is a fantastic show. It's a very patriotic ensemble from various NATO countries. Colorful uniforms and different dance performers and vibrant colored outfits. Loved the tribute to women in the military for this year. The 2019 Virginia International tattoo was amazing. One of our favorite parts was when they play and have everyone sing along to the service songs, Army, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and last but not least, they save the best for last, the U.S. Navy! Highly recommend this annual performance, it changes every year. My wife and I got to meet a couple of guys from the Romanian Army band and the French army band. It was quite an experience definitely a must see in downtown Norfolk every April. Virginia International Tattoo is one of my favorite things to see and experience in downtown Norfolk. A great tribute to our brave military community. read more

it's actually fairly clean inside even though you look like you're in a cement dungeon. haha i've been here quite a few times now with my boyfriend who loves to watch hockey. we've had a few nice date nights. i'd recommend not eating and drinking here (unless you go to the stand with the bbq nachos) cause everything else is pretty high priced and low valued food. the bbq nachos are great though! they give a TON of food and it's actually quite tasty. waters, sodas, and beers are quite pricey so don't come parched! read more

Many events go on here. Came to watch ODU bs NSU basketball game with my son. Free tickets from my job .... clean arena, seats are tight, typical food vendors that are high priced. Not about the arena it's about the sport/team/event you came to watch!! read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - ODU vs NSU basketball game - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Norfolk Scope's iconic shape has become probably the primary defining characteristic of the Norfolk skyline (such as it is). It kind of looks like an alien ship that's tied down to the ground with cables so it won't fly off into the cosmos, which is not a bad thing. As an arena, it does its job well, even going on 40 years old. Parking underneath the arena (used for both Scope and Chrysler Hall) is convenient and safe, though not free. I think it's usually $5 for a special event. The interior space is versatile enough for everything from sports events (the Admirals hockey team plays there), to concerts to major theatrical productions like the groundbreaking play "Blackwatch" or the family favorite "Walking with Dinosaurs" or Cirque du Soleil. Most recently I've seen the Music of Star Wars (with a full symphony and light show) and the Virginia International Tattoo at Scope. read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Last Saturday night, March 23rd, I had the chance to catch the WWE house show at scope with a handful of my Yelp friends. As always scope was clean, easy to navigate and had plenty of concession stands (beer) and restrooms. I was equally impressed with the WWE. The last time I had attended a WWE show here was a Smackdown! taping about 8-9 years ago and they've come a long way. The show much more interactive now do to Twitter and other social media and it was much more of a family atmosphere than it was back during the "Attitude Era" of the organization. Kudo's to both Scope and the WWE. read more

See all

Norfolk Scope used to be the only place for large concerts in the area, before the amphitheaters were around. As a kid, I saw all kinds of shows here, like Whitney Houston and professional wrestling (oh, the 90s was an interesting decade). It's no longer the primary venue in the area, but it's definitely still very vital. Justin Bieber will be there in a few months, just to give you an idea. The scope has an underground garage that is very easy to get in and out of. You won't be waiting in an hour of traffic like you do when you go the Virginia Beach Amphitheater. Pretty much every seat in The Scope offers a great view. If you're going to a show for the kids, be sure to hit up nearby Doumars on the way in! read more

Norfolk Scope Arena - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

See all

Definitely enjoy watching the Admirals here, having military discount makes it well worth ticket pricing. Only need one person in the military and the whole group gets the discount! The seats a tight, like you'd find at any arena. The beers are way overpriced but I'm happy they have blue moon on draft. I've never eaten anything here but I'm sure it's overpriced as well. Looks like mostly fried chicken and fries as well as hot dogs. Come out and support your Admirals!! read more