Desert Diamond Arena completes extensive $42M renovation

Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale just completed a massive renovation. The focus was transforming the 22-year-old venue, an already popular destination, into a "key hub for live music and entertainment events in Arizona." Fans will see the changes at the Chris Stapleton concert on August 8.

The $42M transformation is more than an expensive makeover; it's an extensive transformation that includes four new premium spaces: Bassline Bar, Encore Club on Three, Studio 623 and The View Lounge & Bar. Each has its own set of features that provide specific experiences, from more intimate group settings to larger mix-and-mingle spheres.

At a recent media event, we had the opportunity to walk through the new spaces and check out the luxury options and latest amenities for general admission fans, including efficient food and beverage options that allow fans to grab tasty eats and drinks without missing the performance or event.
City of Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers kicked off the presentation that shared the city's excitement about the changes and working with venue managers, Legends/ASM Global.

"When you look around, you can see how much change was made in such a short time. Less than a year ago, these renovations were just getting underway — it seems like we were just talking about it, and now we're standing in a world-class venue," he said.

He was also enthused about the "economic energy" the entertainment hub can bring to the city; he noted that it goes beyond "a fresh coat of paint," as he talked about how much the fans were considered during the planning process.

The newly designed areas are stylish and maintain a nightlife vibe with dim and warm lighting. The decor differs in each area, but warm hues and soft color palettes thread through the spaces. Even with bolder colors like orange, the environment remains inviting.
One of the standouts is the Studio 623 Booths. These spots are built for a party of four to six people, and each looks like a small recording studio. The glass-topped tables have decorative studio gear etched into the wood beneath. A nearby wall has an array of vinyl records placed upon its shelves. There are also some cozy chairs for those who don't want to sit at the high-top table. Of course, like in all these new areas, you have a solid view of the show.

Chef Steve Tilder gave a little rundown on some of the food items before we tried them as we made our way through The View. Nachos with pulled pork, burgers and hot-honey-drizzled chicken sandwiches are just part of the menu, along with a smoked brisket sandwich and more. We also saw some signature cocktails created, including a smoky concoction served in a diminutive treasure chest.

The entire place has a sleek vibe, and it's evident that the staff is proud of the new look and feel.

Desert Diamond Arena's new Director of Marketing, Eric Jurcak, is a fairly recent Arizona transplant with extensive experience in the business. He wants the venue to be a beacon for the community. To him, that involves seeing how different arms of the music world work together, and he likes what he has seen here. "I am really impressed with how everyone works together and the sense of mutual respect I've seen."

Here are more pictures of the newly renovated Desert Diamond Arena: