Sames Auto Arena (Laredo Energy Arena) | Laredo

The Sames Auto Arena, formerly known as the Laredo Entertainment Center and Laredo Energy Arena, is a large multi-purpose venue in Laredo, Texas. Here's a more detailed look:

Key Features and Information:

• Address: 6700 Arena Blvd, Laredo, TX 78041, USA.
• Phone: +1 956-791-9192.
• Operator: The arena is managed by SMG, which oversees operations, scheduling, ticketing, and marketing.
• Capacity: The seating capacity can be expanded up to 9,622 for concerts. For hockey and arena football, the capacity is around 8,065. For basketball, it's approximately 8,665.
• Size: The facility boasts 178,000 square feet of space, including 32,000 square feet of continuous open floor space, making it the largest indoor convention space in South Texas.
• Amenities:
  • Luxury Suites: 14 available.
  • Meeting Rooms: 6 spacious rooms. Two can be combined into a larger space of approximately 1360 sq ft.
  • Private Club: An exclusive area for premium ticket holders.
  • Concessions: 8 stands with accessible countertops and TV monitors.
  • Restrooms: Accessible restrooms on every level, including family restrooms.
  • ATM: Located on the Main Concourse near Gates B and C, and outside the Main Entrance.
  • Public Telephones: Available free of charge at the Guest Services table.
  • Drinking Fountains: Accessible fountains throughout the building.
  • Elevators: Two passenger elevators on the Main Concourse.
  • First Aid: Located across from Section 109, adjacent to Gate B, with certified medical professionals.
  • Guest Services: Located at the Main Entrance for assistance, including wheelchair assistance and lost and found.
  • Assistive Listening Devices: Available for most events free of charge with valid ID (request at least a week prior).
  • Sign Interpreters: Can be provided for guests with hearing disabilities (request 30 days prior and subject to performer approval).
  • Parking: Over 2,000 well-lit parking spaces. Accessible parking in Lot B and the VIP Parking Area (with permit).
  • Guest Drop-off/Pick-up: Area on the east side of the arena on Arena Blvd.
• History: The project was funded by a sales tax increase approved in 2000. Groundbreaking was in June 2001, and the arena opened in October 2002 as the Laredo Entertainment Center. It was renamed Laredo Energy Arena in 2010 and became Sames Auto Arena in 2018 after Sames Auto Group purchased the naming rights.
• Tenants (Past): The arena has been home to various sports teams, including the Laredo Bucks (hockey), Laredo Law and Lobos (arena football), and Laredo Rattlesnakes (indoor football). Currently, it does not have any permanent tenants.
• Bag Policy: Only clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" are allowed. One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags are also permitted. Small clutch purses are allowed. Prohibited items include large bags, outside food and beverages, weapons, laser pointers, etc.
• Payment: Primarily operates on a cashless basis. Debit cards and NFC are accepted.

Upcoming Events (as of May 10, 2025):

• May 17, 2025: Pound 4 Pound (Boxing) - 7:00 PM
• May 24, 2025: Ramon Ayala (Concert) - 8:30 PM
• July 18, 2025: Palomazo Norteno (Concert) - 8:00 PM
• August 16, 2025: Jorge Medina & Josi Cuen "Juntos" (Concert) - 8:00 PM
• October 10, 2025: Alicia Villarreal (Concert) - 8:00 PM
• November 26, 2025: Bobby Pulido (Concert) - 8:00 PM

Accessibility Details:

Sames Auto Arena is committed to providing accessible facilities for all guests:

• Accessible Parking: Available in designated areas of Lot B and the VIP Parking Area.
• Accessible Entrances: Gates A, B, and the Main Entrance are easily accessible.
• Elevators: Two passenger elevators serve all levels.
• Accessible Seating: Available on all levels in an integrated setting. Contact the Box Office for specific needs. Floor seating accessibility may vary by event.
• Accessible Restrooms: Located on every level, including family restrooms.
• Accessible Concession Counters: Designed for comfortable access.
• Accessible Drinking Fountains: Located throughout the building.
• Wheelchair Assistance: Available through Guest Services. Escorts to parking areas can also be arranged.
• Listening Devices: Available at Guest Services for most events.
• Sign Language Interpretation: Can be arranged with advance notice (30 days prior, subject to performer approval).
• Automated Teller Machines (ATMs): Accessible locations.
• Public Telephones: Accessible to guests in wheelchairs at the Guest Services table.
• Service Animals: Allowed.
• Strollers and Baby Carriers: Generally not allowed.
• Emergency Evacuation: Staff is trained to assist in emergency situations. Areas of Rescue Assistance are available, and visual/audible alarms are present. Guests needing special assistance should inform an usher.

In summary, the Sames Auto Arena is a large and versatile venue with a significant capacity, hosting a wide array of events. It offers numerous amenities and is committed to providing a comfortable and accessible experience for all visitors.