Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Charlotte

I could only give this venue 3 stars.  Too bad because I LOVE going to outdoor concerts.  I actually PREFER lawn seats because it makes the experience so much more personal and casual.  The sound system for lawn seats at Verizon, along with the huge screens, makes this a 5-star operation.  However . . . I couldn't go there because the beer prices are so unbelievably high (higher than Panther's stadium).  $11 and $13, depending if it's local or imported.  Yes, the can quantity is also huge, but unless you are a really big beer drinker, the beer is gonna get to be room temp before you can finish it.  Especially in warm months (which coincidentally   ;-)  is the only time outdoor concerts are offered.)  Note to VWA, offer regular sized beers and charge less.  You will likely make a bigger profit overall!!  ALSO, this is a designated-smoking-area venue.  BUT IT IS NOT ENFORCED.  At a recent concert, people all around us were smoking, with a CMPD officer standing 30 feet away.  Perhaps that wasn't what he was there for, or perhaps one actually has to notify him that it's a problem.  Nevertheless, someone ought to be monitoring it if it is a venue rule!

Just saw Zac Brown band on Oct 11, 2013.  We had 3rd row center seats, about 10 feet from the front of the stage.  One would think the sound would be great.  NOT SO !!!!!  We know most of the songs they sang, and even knowing the songs you could not understand the words.  It sounded like listening to a very bad and very loud radio.  We go to a lot of concerts; Alan Jackson at the Hollywood bowl, Rod Stewart in Devore, CA., and many more, here and abroad.  The sound has always been great.  Not in Charlotte!!!!!!!  Don't know if it is the fault of the venue or the band.  I just know we won't be seeing anyone else at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Charlotte.

I wasn't sure if I was at Charlotte Motor Speedway or not.  Holy freakin traffic nightmares.  The show ended at 11:00, didn't get home until 2:30...and I live 40 minutes away.

As far as venues go, the setup at Verizon is actually pretty nice.  Major kudos to the sound technicians too.  Way above average!  The downside to the venue is the cramped seating and concession prices.

If you're hungry or thirsty for some cold ones, get it done in the parking lot.  Git er Done!!  Sorry, couldn't help myself.

Overall, the experience is great until you have to leave.  The traffic leaving can turn a great night into one that made you wish you stayed home.