Viaero Center

The Kearney Events Center (also known as the Viaero Center) is a modern multipurpose arena located in the heart of Kearney, Nebraska, USA. It is the hub of the region's sporting and cultural life, capable of seating up to 5,000 spectators for major events. The arena is renowned for its versatility, hosting hockey battles, basketball games, and spectacular shows with equal success.

Opened in 2000, the arena has undergone several name changes but has remained a primary point of attraction for residents and visitors of the state. Today, it serves as the home ice for the Tri-City Storm hockey club. The facility is equipped with 20 luxury suites, providing enhanced comfort for spectators, making it an excellent venue for both family outings and corporate gatherings.

Beyond sports, the center is actively used for major concerts, business conventions, and annual festivals, such as the popular Freedom Fest. Thanks to its high visitor ratings and convenient location, this complex is considered one of the most significant entertainment venues in the central part of the country.

To check event schedules, book tickets, or for organizational inquiries, you can use the official communication channels. The center's staff will help you with seat selection and provide the latest information on upcoming events.

The main draw for visitors to the arena is the thrilling hockey matches of the Tri-City Storm. As a sports fan, you can feel the incredible energy of the stands and witness the skill of the USHL Clark Cup champions. In addition to hockey, the venue periodically hosts basketball and football competitions, offering guests dynamic entertainment on both ice and hardwood.

For those who prefer cultural leisure, the center regularly organizes concerts by popular artists, large-scale trade exhibitions, and themed conventions. One of the highlights is the Freedom Fest, an annual tradition that attracts many guests. The center's infrastructure allows you not only to watch events but also to spend time comfortably in modern food zones or exclusive VIP suites.

The center's versatility makes it an ideal place for family outings or attending specialized exhibitions. State-of-the-art sound and lighting equipment ensure high quality for any show, turning an ordinary evening into an unforgettable event in the heart of Nebraska's cultural life.

The most convenient way to reach the Kearney Events Center is by car. The arena is located at 609 Platte Rd in Kearney, Nebraska. Travelers arriving via interstate I-80 should take the nearest exit toward the city. The drive from Lincoln or Omaha takes about three hours through the scenic plains of central Nebraska.

If you are arriving by plane, the nearest hub is Central Nebraska Regional Airport (GRI), which is just a 10–15 minute taxi or Uber ride away. Public transport within Kearney is quite limited, so renting a car or using ride-sharing services is the most practical solution for tourists.

For those traveling by private vehicle, a great bonus is the ample free parking located directly on the complex grounds. Finding your way is very simple using navigation systems with the address or coordinates of the facility.

The history of the complex began in August 1998, when ambitious plans were announced to build a modern hockey arena in Kearney. The $3 million project faced legal hurdles regarding Buffalo County's participation, but the disputes were successfully resolved in favor of construction, which officially broke ground in November 1999.

The facility officially opened on November 18, 2000, under its original name, the Tri-City Arena. Despite challenges in its early years and changes in private investors, the arena quickly established itself as the region's premier sports venue. In 2004, the complex was renamed the Kearney Event Center, and management transitioned to professional sports venue operators.

The arena received its current name, the Viaero Center, in 2009 following a naming rights agreement with Viaero Wireless. Over the years, the center has become home to several professional teams and the venue for hundreds of significant cultural and sporting events, firmly cementing its place in the modern history of Nebraska.

The amount of time you should set aside for a visit to the Kearney Events Center largely depends on the type of event. If you are attending a Tri-City Storm hockey game, plan for 2–3 hours. This is enough time to enjoy the fast-paced game, including intermissions and visits to the food courts.

For concert-goers, trade show visitors, or convention attendees, the stay can range from an hour to a full day. Organizers recommend arriving at the arena 30–60 minutes before the event begins to park comfortably, pass through security, and find your seats without a rush. Thus, an average visit usually fits within half a day.

The operating hours of the Kearney Events Center depend directly on the scheduled events. The arena opens its doors to visitors during matches, concerts, and exhibitions. Typically, evening events begin between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM, and the building is accessible in advance for the convenience of guests.

Since there are no fixed daily visiting hours for tourists (like a museum), it is highly recommended to check the event calendar on the official website before your visit. You can also find ticket office hours and schedules for specific festivals or sporting games there.

After attending an event at the center, it is worth taking some time to explore the surroundings, which offer interesting culinary finds and outdoor recreation opportunities. Its proximity to the city center makes it easy to combine a sporting event with a walk through local parks or historical sites.

Below are some interesting spots located near the arena: