Great Event! Not So Great Event Center
by rhpackfan on 3/31/15Dunkin' Donuts Center - ProvidenceRating: 3 out of 5This was my second time visiting the Duncan Doughnuts Center for the NCAA Men's Hockey East Regionals. While the three game set was probably the best hockey I've seen in years (Including Frozen Four's and Stanley Cup playoffs) the event center environment lacks a lot to be desired. First of all was the parking situation which was surreal. While there is more than adequate parking within walking distance of the event, the price to park was way too high. The signs around the parking facilities stated a fee of $30 per car, but attendants were charging $40 per car. When I questioned this, I was basically told "it is what it is" and still believe I was being ripped off. Others I spoke to felt the same way. Also of concern is the fact that both times I have visited this arena for this event, it never opens on time and the ushers and other employees do not seem to care that fans in some cases have gotten there early to be first in and have had to stand for hours and then even longer to gain admittance. The third complaint is the attitude of the merchants selling NCAA sponsered souvineers who are not patient and do not seem to care if they are providing customer statisfaction or not.
I have attended the NCAA regoinals and all Frozen Four events over the past 11 years. When this event is held two years from now in the Duncan Doughnuts Center, unfortunately it will cause me to travel elsewhere, Sad but true.