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Attending a New Orleans Pelicans game or concert at Louisiana’s premier indoor arena requires understanding strict security protocols that have evolved to prioritize fan safety. The Smoothie King Center bag policy restricts what you can bring inside, with clear bag requirements and size limitations that differ from many other venues. Knowing these rules before arrival prevents gate turn-aways and helps you pack appropriately for your entertainment experience.
Smoothie King Center Clear Bag Policy: What’s Allowed
The Smoothie King Center clear bag policy permits three specific bag types and prohibits everything else. Security staff strictly enforce these rules at all entrances.
Approved Bags:
| Bag Type | Maximum Dimensions | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Clear vinyl bags | 14″ W x 14″ H x 6″ D | Must be transparent, no tinted bags |
| Gallon-size Ziploc bags | Standard gallon size | Limited to one per person |
| Small clutch purses | 4.5″ x 6.5″ | Does not need to be clear |
You can bring ONE clear bag (vinyl or Ziploc) OR one clutch purse. The arena prohibits combining a clear bag with a clutch, you must choose between them.
Prohibited Bags:
- Backpacks of any size
- Purses larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″
- Luggage and suitcases
- Beach bags and tote bags
- Diaper bags (unless clear and meeting size limits)
- Camera bags
- Fanny packs and belt bags
Bag Policy Smoothie King Center: Event-Specific Variations
The bag policy Smoothie King Center occasionally changes based on event requirements. Certain high-security concerts implement stricter no-bag policies where attendees may only bring cell phones, keys, and wallets carried in pockets.
The standard maximum bag size of 14″ x 14″ x 6″ applies to most events, though specific tour management may impose different restrictions. Always check the specific event information page on the Smoothie King Center website before attending to verify current policies.
Smoothie King Center Bag Policy for Concerts
The Smoothie King Center bag policy for concerts typically follows standard arena rules, though touring artists occasionally request enhanced security measures. Major concerts featuring high-profile performers may implement:
- No-bag policies (pockets-only entry)
- Additional security screenings
- Extended entry times
- Metal detector requirements beyond standard protocols
Concert attendees should arrive earlier than sporting events to accommodate potentially longer security lines, especially for sold-out shows where thousands enter simultaneously.
Smoothie King Arena Security Procedures
Beyond the Smoothie King bag policy, all guests pass through metal detectors before entry. Pat-down searches may be required, and security staff reserves the right to inspect all permitted bags thoroughly.
What to Expect:
- Metal detector screening at all entrances
- Visual inspection of permitted bags
- Possible pat-down searches
- Confiscation of prohibited items
- No re-entry policy once inside
The venue maintains a no re-entry policy, once you leave the arena, your ticket becomes invalid for that event. Plan accordingly and ensure you have everything needed before entering.
Smoothie King Center New Orleans: Location and Access
Smoothie King Center New Orleans sits at 1501 Dave Dixon Drive in downtown New Orleans, adjacent to the Caesars Superdome. The location places you just over one mile from the French Quarter and within walking distance of numerous downtown hotels.
Getting There:
- Louis Armstrong International Airport: 10 miles (15-20 minute drive)
- French Quarter: 1.2 miles (20-25 minute walk or 5-minute rideshare)
- Warehouse District hotels: 0.3-0.8 miles (walkable)
Designated rideshare zones are located on Poydras Street north of the campus, within 5-minute walking distance. Public transportation stops operate on Poydras Street across from the Superdome at Gate A Ground Level.
Medical and Accessibility Exceptions
The arena accommodates medical necessities despite general bag restrictions. Medical bags or supply kits gain entry but face thorough inspection and possible X-ray screening.
Guests requiring assistive listening devices can obtain them complimentary at Guest Services across Section 108, though valid government photo ID is held until device return. Wheelchairs and mobility devices don’t count against bag policies.
What to Pack in Your Approved Bag
Maximizing your permitted 14″ x 14″ x 6″ clear bag or 4.5″ x 6.5″ clutch requires strategic packing:
Essential Items:
- Phone and portable charger
- Wallet and ID
- Keys
- Medications (in original containers)
- Small snacks (arena-permitting)
- Glasses or contacts case
- Lip balm and small cosmetics
Items to Leave Home:
- Outside food and beverages (not permitted)
- Cameras with lenses exceeding 6″
- iPads and laptops
- Video recording devices
- Selfie sticks and poles
- Laser pointers
- Artificial noisemakers
The arena operates cashless, credit and debit cards only for all purchases including concessions, merchandise, and parking. Cash conversion to MasterCard is available at Section 108 near Guest Services, with $20 minimum and $500 maximum.
Smoothie King Center Concerts: What Makes It Special
Smoothie King Center concerts benefit from the venue’s 13,000+ capacity for end-stage configurations and 18,000+ for center-stage events. The arena hosts major touring acts across all genres, from hip-hop and R&B to rock and country.
Recent renovations completed before the 2014-15 season included new entrances, exterior improvements, and upgrades to clubs and suites, creating a modern entertainment experience in the heart of New Orleans.
Family Considerations
Families attending with young children face challenges under current policies. Non-clear diaper bags are prohibited, though clear diaper bags meeting the 14″ x 14″ x 6″ limit are permitted. Each family member, including children, may carry one approved clear bag and one clutch purse.
Strollers are prohibited inside the venue, families with infants must use carriers or plan to hold children throughout events. Baby changing stations are available on multiple levels throughout the arena.
Travel Light with Radical Storage
Arriving in New Orleans hours before event time or exploring the French Quarter with bags that don’t meet arena requirements creates frustrating situations. Radical Storage provides secure luggage storage throughout New Orleans, including locations near the Smoothie King Center, French Quarter, and major hotels. Drop bags at verified partner locations for a flat daily rate with comprehensive insurance coverage, then enjoy the arena and surrounding entertainment district hands-free.
FAQs
No, backpacks of any size are prohibited; only clear bags (14x14x6″), Ziploc bags, or small clutches (4.5×6.5″) are allowed.
Only clear diaper bags meeting the 14x14x6″ size limit are permitted; non-clear diaper bags are prohibited.
You can place a small purse inside an approved clear bag, but the clear bag must meet size requirements.
Security confiscates prohibited items with no storage facilities; guests must return items to vehicles or discard them.
Most events follow standard policies, though specific concerts may implement stricter no-bag requirements; always check event pages.
Conclusion
The Smoothie King Center bag policy prioritizes safety through strict, clear bag requirements and size limitations. Understanding approved bag types, clear vinyl bags (14x14x6″), gallon Ziploc bags, or small clutches (4.5×6.5″), prevents entry issues and ensures smooth arena access.
Always verify event-specific policies before attending, arrive early to accommodate security screenings, and consider using luggage storage services if exploring New Orleans before or after events with bags that don’t meet arena requirements.