Van Andel Arena is a multi-purpose arena situated in the Heartside district of Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States. The arena attracted over five million patrons in its first 5 years, 1996–2001. It serves as the home of the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League and the Grand Rapids Gold of the NBA G League. It will also be the home of the Grand Rapids Rise of the Pro Volleyball Federation starting in January 2024. Seating 10,834 for ice hockey and up to 13,184 for concerts, Van Andel Arena is the fourth-largest arena in Michigan, as well as West Michigan's largest; only Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, the Jack Breslin Student Events Center in East Lansing, and Crisler Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, are larger.
Van Andel Arena
The Grand Rapids Griffins are a professional ice hockey team based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. They compete in the American Hockey League (AHL), playing their home games at Van Andel Arena. They are the AHL affiliate to the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League, and are the 2013 and 2017 Calder Cup champions.
The construction of Van Andel Arena paved the way for professional hockey's return to Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids was Pavol Demitra's last minor league stop before establishing himself in the NHL.
Glen Metropolit led the Griffins in scoring for the 1998–1999 IHL season. He played in over 400 NHL games with seven teams.
Griffins celebrate winning the 2017 Calder Cup.
