Where is the box office?

The box office is in the lobby, which can be reached via the lower entrance on Centre Avenue near Washington Place. Tickets also can be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000 or visiting www.ticketmaster.com.

Do children need tickets?

Children under 2 years old who sit on an adult's lap typically will not need a ticket, but this may vary for each event.

Is public transportation nearby?

Buses 81A, 81B and 81C make stops on Centre Avenue by the arena. The Port Authority subway line makes stops on Wood Street and at Steel Plaza, Downtown. For more information: 412-442-2000 or www.portauthority.org.

Where to park?

Parking is available in the former north, south, east, west and Melody Tent lots around Mellon Arena north of Centre Avenue. For Penguins games, parking in the directional lots is $17 and $15 in the Melody Tent lot. Parking at all former Mellon Arena lots will run $15 for concerts and $10 for family shows.

Suite ticket holders can park in the private garage on the south side of Centre Avenue. Parking in this garage will be closed to the general public for Penguins games, but some parking may be available for $20 for concerts and $10 for family shows. Parking rates may vary for different events.

Where are the entrances?

There is an entrance at Fifth Avenue and Washington Place and an upper and lower entrance on Centre Avenue. Suite ticket holders can enter through the private parking garage.

What is the seating capacity?

While the seating capacity may vary with each event, hockey games will typically seat 18,087, end stage concerts will seat 14,536, center stage concerts will seat 19,758 and basketball games will seat about 19,000.

Are cameras allowed?

Video cameras are never permitted, but most nonprofessional cameras are allowed at Penguins games. Camera policies may vary for other events.

Is smoking permitted?

Smoking is not allowed inside the arena.

What kind of food will be sold?

ARAMARK will supply the food available at concession stands.

Is there a lost and found?

If you lose, or find, an item, see Guest Services on the lower concourse near seating section 104. After an event, call 412-642-1800. Lost items will be held for 30 days.

Other conveniences: There are ATM machines throughout the center. There also are two first aid stations: One on the lower concourse by Guest Services and one on the upper concourse at seating section 232.

For more information: www.consolenergycenter.com or 412-642-1800.

Critics Andrew Druckenbrod and Scott Mervis talk about music on "The Beat," available exclusively at PG+, a members-only web site of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Our introduction to PG+ gives you all the details.