AO Arena, also known as Manchester Arena, is a hub of music, sports, and culture located in the city centre of Manchester. Over the years it has become one of the premium destinations for live events in the UK with a history spanning three decades of fantastic experiences. 

If you’re looking forward to your first visit to AO Arena, or you’re eyeing up a VIP ticket to some of their upcoming events such as Taemin, Katy Perry, or Kylie Minogue, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to Manchester Arena.

Discover how to get there, what food and drink they have available, and what to do nearby Manchester Arena. Plus, explore the range of events at AO Arena in 2025 that you can get VIP tickets and hospitality for today!

Buy AO Arena VIP tickets

What is AO Arena called?

The original name of the venue is Manchester Arena, however it is currently called AO Arena for sponsorship reasons.

AO Arena Quick Facts

Capacity

The capacity at AO Arena is 21,000, making it the fourth largest in Europe.

Address

AO Arena’s address is Victoria Station Approach, Hunts Bank, Cheetham Hill, Manchester M3 1AR.

Historical Information

Manchester Arena was first constructed in 1995, as an attempt by the city of Manchester to be chosen as the hosts of the 2000 summer Olympics. While unfortunately Manchester has yet to host an Olympic game, the arena has become one of the best places to catch live events in the UK.

In 2017, 22 guests were killed and 500 injured in a terrorist attack during an Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena. The venue was closed for four months, after which time it was reopened with a benefit concert starring Noel Gallagher, Ariana Grande, and other musical guests. 

Best Seat At Manchester Arena

The Mezz Bar

  • Early access via dedicated VIP entrances
  • Direct access to your seat in Block 108/109 from The Mezz
  • All inclusive bar food and premium drinks
  • Panoramic views of the stage
  • Fully serviced cloakroom
  • Dedicated host service

The Terrace

  • Enjoy uninterrupted, elevated panoramic views of the stage
  • Only seats in the house with a fully stocked bar delivered direct to your seat
  • Dedicated exclusive VIP entrance
  • Complimentary drink on arrival brought to your seat
  • Access to an exclusive after-show party (over 18's only)

The Gin Lounge

  • VIP entrance
  • Access to The Gin Lounge
  • Choose from an extensive range of premium and local gins before and during the show
  • Includes access to an exclusive aftershow (over 18's only - 2 drink package)
  • Prime view seat in Block 114

The Beautiful North

  • Dedicated VIP entrance
  • Roaming small plates crafted by AO Arena's executive chef
  • Champagne on arrival
  • Some premium drinks (wines, beers, soft drinks)
  • Drinks outside the package will be available to purchase
  • Executive balcony seating with unrivalled views of the stage
  • Host service throughout
  • En-suite restroom and cloakroom facilities
  • The Beautiful North will remain open for half an hour after the show

Premium Suite Package

  • Your own private suite for up to 12 guests
  • Hot and Cold buffet
  • Balcony seated area with incredible views of stage
  • Dedicated suite host
  • Inclusive of house beers, lagers, wines, spirits, and soft drinks
  • Access to the AO Electric Lounge Aftershow Bar (over 18's only)

How To Get to Manchester Arena

By Bus

Shudehill bus station is only a five-minute walk from AO Arena and Piccadilly bus station is just 10 minutes away.

By Train

Manchester Piccadilly is the main train station for Manchester city centre, and is just a short walk, bus, or tram journey away from AO Arena.

By Car

At peak times, such as on event days, the roads surrounding AO Arena become very congested. The arena suggests you find another mode of transport to travel to Manchester city centre.

What Support Services Are Available at Manchester Arena?

Ticket Office

The AO Arena box office is situated in the Trinity Way tunnel located next to the CitiPark AO Arena Car Park entrance. This box office is open on show days from 4pm and will close 15 minutes after the main act has gone on stage.

Opening times for the Manchester Arena ticket office will vary based on show times, so please buy your tickets in advance.

Accessible Facilities

AO Arena has dedicated access platform seating areas in Blocks, 105, 108, 109. The arena is also equipped with accessible toilets and lowered counters at merchandise and concession counters.

AO Arena is equipped with many amenities including toilets and free Wi-Fi. Please note there are no cash points inside the arena as it is a cashless venue. The arena will try and provide a faith room upon request.

What Safety and Security Measures are in Place at AO Arena?

Prohibited Items

  • Glass, cans, aluminium bottles or thermoses of any kind including liquid products which can be consumed.
  • Flammable liquids in any container
  • Laser pens/pointers
  • Video cameras, recording devices and professional cameras
  • Laptop computers, tablet devices, Go Pro’s or tablets with filming and recording capabilities
  • Large/golf/metal tipped umbrellas
  • Knives or weapons of any kind
  • Illegal drugs or substances. The AO Arena has a zero tolerance policy toward drug use. Searches will be in operation, as well as sniffer dogs for some events.
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Signs, banners or flags on poles, poster tubes, staffs or selfie sticks
  • Animals (except ADUK registered service dogs)
  • Air horns, whistles, cowbells or other noise-making distractions
  • Projectiles (frisbees, beach balls, footballs etc)
  • Aerosol cans (hairspray, deodorant etc )
  • Fireworks, confetti, glitter bombs or flares
  • Balloons
  • Use of wheeled footwear, skateboards
  • Food and drinks
  • Helmets and full face masks 
  • Large studs and chains

Bag Policy

One small bag 30cm wide x 40cm long x 20cm deep is allowed per person. Backpacks are not permitted.

Things To Do Near AO Arena?

Accommodation

Some of the hotels near AO Arena are Stock Exchange Hotel, BrewDog DogHouse Manchester, King Street Townhouse, Leven Manchester, Dakota Manchester, and Hotel Football, Old Trafford.

Shopping

The closest place to go shopping to AO Arena is Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre, where you can find plenty of high street shops.

Dining

Some of the places near to Manchester Arena where you can purchase food and drink are The Printworks, The Corn exchange, and San Carlo.

Buy AO Arena VIP tickets