When a comic sells enough tickets to skip theaters entirely, the Jacksonville stop is usually VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. It is the biggest room on the local comedy calendar and the home of the Jacksonville Icemen and the Jacksonville Sharks, and it hosts arena comedy tours and big touring shows between concerts and games.
Seats far from the stage come with a show this size, and so does the sound of thousands of people laughing at the same moment. If you want the comic up close, a theater date at The Florida Theatre or the Moran Theater is the other way to go.
From Coliseum to VyStar
The arena opened in November 2003 as Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, replacing the old Jacksonville Coliseum as part of the Better Jacksonville Plan. The city owns it. VyStar Credit Union's name went on the building in 2019 under a 15 year naming deal that also pays into a fund for veterans programs.
Parking at the Sports Complex
The arena sits at 300 A. Philip Randolph Boulevard in the Sports Complex, just east of the downtown core. It has more than 5,400 parking spaces on site with overflow parking next door, and the lots open at least three hours before most events. Tailgating is allowed under the arena's rules, which limit you to one space per vehicle, ban charcoal grills and glass, and keep drinking to those 21 and over. The preferred drop off spot is the corner of A. Philip Randolph Boulevard and Duval Street.
The Bag Rule and Other Policies
Bags must be 12 by 6 by 12 inches or smaller, and every bag is searched. Backpacks, outside food and drinks, video cameras and audio recorders are not allowed, and neither is recording or streaming on a phone. Personal cameras without detachable lenses are fine. There is no re-entry except for medical emergencies. Concessions and merchandise stands are cashless, and smoking is limited to the designated patios. Check your ticket for the night's rules.
Getting Around Inside
Wheelchair seats are available at every price level, with one companion ticket per wheelchair seat. Four elevators serve the building, two at the main entrance, one in the southeast corner and one at the Duval Street entrance. Assistive listening devices are at the section 106 Guest Services desk on the main concourse, and sign language interpreters are free when requested two weeks ahead. Nursing parents can use a private pod on the main concourse near section 111.
For more downtown shows, see the downtown area page, or check the full calendar for the next arena date.