FAQs & Venue Policies
Below you will find a list of our top most commonly asked questions.
In order to maintain a safe and secure environment at Wells Fargo Arena, we have implemented a bag policy that limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into our venue.
Guests will be able to carry ONE of the following bags into the venue:
- One bag that is clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and does not exceed 12''x12''x 6''.
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
- Small clutch bags, which CANNOT exceed 4.5"x6.5", with or without a handle or strap.
- All bags within clear plastic bags cannot exceed 4.5"x6.5" in size.
Exceptions will be made for medical, family, or child care bags.
Wells Fargo Arena is a cashless facility. All concessions will only accept debit, credit, and gift cards, with the exception of Overtime Tap (Section 108). Guests are able to transfer cash onto a gift card at the Overtime Tap stand (Section 108) if you do not carry a debit or credit card.
Tickets for most events at the Iowa Events Center will be distributed through mobile delivery and must be added to a phone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Wallet) for entry. Barcodes will no longer be displayed on tickets. Tickets will be scanned by tapping your phone on the scanner at the door. Learn more about mobile ticketing.
With 1,300 parking spots on-site and another 10,000 spots available downtown, there is ample parking available for our events. With metered street parking surrounding the Iowa Events Center and parking garages located less than two blocks away, you will find accessing the Iowa Events Center is easy. Learn more about parking at the Iowa Events Center.
We ask all guests to arrive early and travel light, as you may be subject to search, which includes walk through metal-detecting and/or hand wands upon entry. Wells Fargo Arena has a clear bag policy. All clear bags must be 12"x6"x12" or smaller. Bags larger than 4.5"x6.5" will not be permitted. Clear bag exceptions will be made for medical or childcare needs. For safety reasons, prohibited items include but are not limited to:
- Alcohol, drugs, illegal substances, or any paraphernalia associated with drug use
- Animals (except trained service animals and service animals in training for guests with disabilities)
- Audio/Video recorders, professional cameras, tripods, GoPros
- Bags larger than 4.5"x6.5", except those that are clear or are used for medical or childcare purposes. All bags, clear and exempted bags, are subject to search.
- Cans, bottles, coolers, or other similar containers
- Electronic cigarettes/vape pens inside the facility
- Fireworks
- Flags/Signs with poles
- iPads
- Laptop Computers
- Laser pens/pointers of any type
- Noisemakers such as air horns
- Outside food or beverages
- Oversized bags, backpacks, duffel bags
- Pepper spray/Mace
- Strollers
- Umbrellas
- Weapons of any type, including chains, knives, firearms, and spiked jewelry (including permit to carry)
- Any other item deemed unacceptable by event/building management
If an item is revealed during a search, patrons may dispose of the item or they may return the item to their vehicle. Wells Fargo Arena does not safeguard any personal belongings or items of any type.
A-Z list of more commonly asked questions. If you have a question that isn't answered here, contact us.
Handicap accessible seating is available at various locations throughout Wells Fargo Arena and for ticketed events at EMC Expo Center. Handicap seating is available to the patron with the disability and one guest. To purchase handicap-accessible seating, please call 515-564-8300.
Each level of the Iowa Events Center is equipped with an automated external defibrillator (AED), which can save lives in the event of sudden cardiac arrest. AEDs at the Iowa Events Center are located outside Hall B in EMC Expo Center, east side of Level 3 in Community Choice Convention Center, and nine located throughout the main and upper concourse of Wells Fargo Arena. In the event of an emergency, please notify the nearest staff member.
Iowa and Federal Law prohibits the sale of alcoholic beverages to persons under the age of twenty-one (21). Therefore, guests are required to show proper identification and proof of age when purchasing alcoholic beverages at the Iowa Events Center. The number of alcoholic beverages served may be limited to two drinks per person, per purchase. Management reserves the right to refuse service to guests who appear intoxicated or who are disturbing other guests. Beer sales are discontinued approximately forty-five (45) minutes before the end of the event. We encourage guests to drink responsibly and not to drive after drinking.
Animals or pets of any kind are not permitted into Iowa Events Center facilities with the exception of trained service animals and service animals in training for guests with disabilities. Service animals must be leashed at all times unless performing a necessary task for their handler which requires the leash be removed. Handlers are responsible for cleaning up after their service animal and for any damages caused by the service animal. A guest whose service animal poses a threat to the safety of other guests and/or employees may be asked to escort the animal off the premises. In order to better accommodate guests with service animals, please notify our Guest Services department at matthew.cushman@oakviewgroup.com or 515-564-8054.
Assisted listening devices are available to hearing-impaired guests at no cost. The assisted listening device is a headset that broadcasts the Iowa Events Center’s sound system on an FM frequency. Any patron checking out an assisted listening device must leave a driver’s license or a valid form of identification to receive the headset. They are available at the Guest Services booth located behind section 107. It is encouraged to make arrangements prior to the performance by calling 515-564-8054.
Three ATMs are located in Wells Fargo Arena at the south entrance near the Ticket Office, near the Guest Services Office behind section 107, and near section 120. Three ATMs are located in the Iowa Events Center on the skywalk level outside the administration office, on the grand concourse of Community Choice Convention Center, and near the EMC Expo Center Ticket Office on Level 2.
Backstage passes may not be purchased and are not available through Wells Fargo Arena.
In order to maintain a safe and secure environment at Wells Fargo Arena, we have implemented a bag policy that limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into our venue.
Guests will be able to carry ONE of the following bags into the venue:
- One bag that is clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and does not exceed 12''x12''x 6''.
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
- Small clutch bags, which CANNOT exceed 4.5"x6.5", with or without a handle or strap.
- All bags within clear plastic bags cannot exceed 4.5"x6.5" in size.
Exceptions will be made for medical, family, or child care bags.
Banners and signs are permitted as long as they do not block the view of others, interfere with the event, contain advertising of any form, present a safety hazard, or contain political or obscene material. Banners may not be affixed with any type of material that is permanent in nature or that alters the facility in any manner. Poles and sticks are prohibited. Building management reserves the right to remove any banner or sign. Signs may also be prohibited, if requested by the event.
For most events, at the request of the artists and/or leagues, small point & shoot cameras are allowed. Professional cameras (specifically cameras with professional/detachable lenses and flash) are not permitted. The Iowa Events Center reserves the right to examine and prohibit the use of any camera that conflicts with the policy set by the event.
Audio recorders, video recorders, and digital cameras with video capabilities are prohibited during all events.
In the event a performance is cancelled or rescheduled, information is placed on the Iowa Event Center website, posted on Wells Fargo Arena or Iowa Events Center social media, and sent via email to the ticket purchaser if tickets were purchased through Hy-VeeTix.com.
If an event is cancelled, refunds will be available at the original point of purchase. If the event is rescheduled, tickets purchased for the original date will be honored at the new date. In most cases, refunds will also be available at the original point of purchase up until the new date has passed.
PLEASE NOTE: In the event of a cancellation, the paid ticket price will be refunded.*
*Fees and charges associated with the ticket purchase may be retained.
Tickets purchased with a credit card will be refunded to the original card used to purchase the tickets. The Iowa Events Center is not responsible for tickets purchased through unauthorized sources.
Wells Fargo Arena is a cashless facility. All concessions will only accept debit, credit, and gift cards, with the exception of Overtime Tap (Section 108). Guests are able to transfer cash onto a gift card at the Overtime Tap stand (Section 108) if you do not carry a debit or credit card.
Cell phones are permitted provided their use does not prevent other guests from enjoying the event. The use of camera and video features may be restricted if requested by the event.
Children twenty-four months and older must have a ticket in order to gain entrance to events at Wells Fargo Arena. Children under twenty-four months of age may enter without a ticket but must sit on their parent or guardian’s lap.
PLEASE NOTE: Some events will require all attendees regardless of age to present a ticket for entry into Wells Fargo Arena. Please check the event’s ticket policies at the time of purchase.
Offering prime locations in the lower bowl, Wells Fargo Arena Club Seats put you in the center of all the action. In addition to spectacular sightlines and comfortable seats, Club Seat ticket holders receive access to the exclusive Coors Light Club Lounge located directly behind the seating bowl. Contact Matt Abrams at mabrams@oakviewgroup.com to receive more information.
There are a variety of permanent concession stands located throughout the main and upper concourses of Wells Fargo Arena. Additional “portable” stands are open for select events. View a map of concessions at Wells Fargo Arena.
Charities and other non-profit groups requesting donation or auction from items the Iowa Events Center should submit a written request on their organizational letterhead to:
Iowa Events Center
Attn: Donation Requests
730 3rd Street
Des Moines, IA 50309
Please allow at least three (3) weeks for processing.
For most events, doors open 60 minutes prior to the start time of the event. However, this can vary by event. For specific information, please check the event-specific page.
Three elevators are located in Wells Fargo Arena located at the southwest corner near section 124, the northwest corner at the VIP Entrance, and the southeast corner near section 120.
There are two elevators located in the Iowa Events Center on the east side of EMC Expo Center and on the south side of Community Choice Convention Center.
In the event of an emergency, please remain calm and walk to the nearest exit in an orderly fashion. Follow posted signs and listen to announcements for specific instructions. In some circumstances you will be directed to remain in the building and staff will direct you where to go. Please do not use elevator. If you are disabled, trained staff members will assist you in getting to safety.
To inquire about job opportunities, visit our Employment page for an up-to-date listing of available positions.
The escalator in Wells Fargo Arena is located near section 120 that provides access to the upper concourse. The Iowa Events Center has escalators throughout EMC Expo Center and Community Choice Convention Center.
The First Aid Station at Wells Fargo Arena is located on the main concourse behind section 113. In the event of an emergency, please go to the first available officer or staff member for assistance.
For information about fundraising opportunities for non-profit organizations at Wells Fargo Arena, email Brett at brett.slaby@oakviewgroup.com.
Gift cards are redeemable for tickets at the Wells Fargo Arena Ticket Office and food and drinks at The Fort and select concession stands.
Terms & Conditions:This card can only be used for the purchase of tickets and food and beverage items for OVG at the Iowa Events Center. This card may not be used with unauthorized vendors for tickets not sold on Hy-Veetix.com. OVG and the Iowa Events Center are not responsible for lost, stolen, damaged cards or any unauthorized use. Gift Card void if not activated by the cashier at time of purchase. Some fees and restrictions may apply. Not good for merchandise.
For information about green initiatives at the Iowa Events Center, visit our Sustainability page.
In order to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment we ask that guests be courteous to those around them and abide by building policies. Guests using foul or abusive language, behaving in an unruly manner, or appearing intoxicated are subject to ejection and/or arrest.
The Wells Fargo Arena Guest Services Office is located on the main concourse behind section 107. Guest Services provide guests a convenient location to obtain information, offer suggestions, voice concerns, and request assistance during events.
Accessible parking is available in all of the parking lots surrounding the Iowa Events Center. To park in the spaces reserved for disabled guests, the vehicle must have a state issued handicapped window pass, sticker, or license plate. Any customer may drop off a disabled patron at the front of the Iowa Events Center, then park the car in one of the lots and meet that person inside the Iowa Events Center.
The distribution of promotional items, handbills, fliers, pamphlets, printed materials, as well as the solicitation of signatures, is not permitted on Iowa Events Center property without prior written authorization.
The Iowa Events Center is surrounded by a number of hotels in Des Moines. For a complete list of area hotels, please visit the Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Join our Cyber Club and receive the latest updates, presales, and promotions at the Iowa Events Center.
The Iowa Hall of Pride museum closed its doors on June 30, 2022 after 17 years in Level 1 of EMC Expo Center. Although the in-person celebrations ended, people can still learn about hundreds of talented Iowans as the program will live on through the Iowa High School Athletic Association's online program, Achieve.
Lost children should be escorted to the nearest officer or staff member. The lost child will be assisted at the Guest Services location behind section 107. In the event that you become separated from your child or a member of your party, you will also want to contact the nearest officer or staff member.
During an event, you may inquire about lost or found items at our Guest Services location behind section 107. For inquiries following an event, please call 515-564-8000 (option 9) during normal business hours.
All tickets will be available to you in your Hy-VeeTix Account. Learn more on how to access your mobile tickets. If you cannot find your tickets, contact our Ticket Office at 515-564-8300 or ticketoffice@iowaeventscenter.com.
Merchandise or novelty booths are available throughout Wells Fargo Arena during events.
Tickets for most events at the Iowa Events Center will be distributed through mobile delivery and must be added to a phone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Wallet) for entry. Barcodes will no longer be displayed on tickets. Tickets will be scanned by tapping your phone on the scanner at the door. Learn more about mobile ticketing.
With 1,300 parking spots on-site and another 10,000 spots available downtown, there is ample parking available for our events. With metered street parking surrounding the Iowa Events Center and parking garages located less than two blocks away, you will find accessing the Iowa Events Center is easy. Learn more about parking at the Iowa Events Center.
Platinum Seats are premium tickets to concerts and other events made available by artists and event providers. They give fans fair and safe access to some of the best seats in the house.
We ask all guests to arrive early and travel light, as you may be subject to search, which includes walk through metal-detecting and/or hand wands upon entry. Wells Fargo Arena has a clear bag policy. All clear bags must be 12"x6"x12" or smaller. Bags larger than 4.5"x6.5" will not be permitted. Clear bag exceptions will be made for medical or childcare needs. For safety reasons, prohibited items include but are not limited to:
- Alcohol, drugs, illegal substances, or any paraphernalia associated with drug use
- Animals (except trained service animals and service animals in training for guests with disabilities)
- Audio/Video recorders, professional cameras, tripods, GoPros
- Bags larger than 4.5"x6.5", except those that are clear or are used for medical or childcare purposes. All bags, clear and exempted bags, are subject to search.
- Cans, bottles, coolers, or other similar containers
- Electronic cigarettes/vape pens inside the facility
- Fireworks
- Flags/Signs with poles
- iPads
- Laptop Computers
- Laser pens/pointers of any type
- Noisemakers such as air horns
- Outside food or beverages
- Oversized bags, backpacks, duffel bags
- Pepper spray/Mace
- Strollers
- Umbrellas
- Weapons of any type, including chains, knives, firearms, and spiked jewelry (including permit to carry)
- Any other item deemed unacceptable by event/building management
If an item is revealed during a search, patrons may dispose of the item or they may return the item to their vehicle. Wells Fargo Arena does not safeguard any personal belongings or items of any type.
TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT:
- Online at www.Hy-VeeTix.com.
- The Wells Fargo Arena Ticket Office located in the Southwest corner of Wells Fargo Arena. The Ticket Office can be accessed via the South entrance or the skywalk.
- Tuesday-Friday: 10am-5pm and 3 hours before game time for teams.
For your safety, once a person exits Wells Fargo Arena, re-entry is strictly prohibited.
There are restrooms located throughout the Iowa Events Center, located on all levels.
All guests are subject to be searched upon entering the facility. Cell phones, keys, and wallets (among other items) may need to be removed for additional screening if requested by security. These procedures are not a response to any specific threat, but rather recommendations made by Oak View Group and security partner, CSC, with consultation from local law enforcement officials and Polk County. Fans are encouraged to allow for extra time to enter Wells Fargo Arena and to leave non-essential items at home.
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted in all public areas at the Iowa Events Center including the arena and concourse. A designated outdoor smoking area is at the north entrance of Wells Fargo Arena.
Strollers are prohibited inside Wells Fargo Arena and stroller check is not available due to space and safety considerations for all guests. Wells Fargo Arena is not responsible for any damaged or stolen strollers in or outside the arena.
Wells Fargo Arena offers premium seating for businesses or individuals wishing to enhance their game or event experience. View our Premium Seating options or contact Matt at mabrams@oakviewgroup.com for more information on Suite availability.
Supporting acts are subject to change. No refunds will be offered regarding a supporting act change.
The Wells Fargo Arena Ticket Office is located in the Southwest corner of Wells Fargo Arena. The Ticket Office can be accessed via the South entrance or the skywalk. Parking is available for 10 minutes in front of Wells Fargo Arena while purchasing tickets.
Tuesday - Friday: 10am - 5pm and 3 hours before game time for teams.
For other events that fall on a Saturday, Sunday, or Monday, the box office will open at 12pm (or 2 hours before the event starts for morning shows).
Phone Number: 515-564-8300
All sales are final, there are no refunds or exchanges. Note that ticket prices and fees are subject to change at any time and there are no adjustments or exchanges for previously purchased tickets.
In order to pick up your tickets please be ready to show a government issued ID matching the name on the account, the credit card used for the purchase, and the confirmation number. Tickets will be released only to the person whose name appears on the ticket envelope.
*Please note: Some events have additional restrictions on picking up tickets at will call.