Thunder Ridge Nature Arena

Dr. Richard Baker

2024-02

Terrible venue. Garth Brooks was great but the venue has no seats so you stand or sit in the dirt. Parking was terrible and traffic was even worse. Four of my group never made it and it months to get a refund. DO NOT GO HERE!

Jay P Knight

2023-07

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS!... by making it nearly impossible to enjoy. We were lucky- we got parking only three rows from the entrance and didn't have to deal with the shuttle, and it was hell. We got there SIX HOURS before the concert so we could actually get in. Garth was amazing. The airshow was great. The actual venue was nice, with plenty of booths to satisfy demand, but what ruined it was the most god-awful parking cluster-bomb I've ever seen! It took us almost two hours to leave right near the exit! There will be people who don't get to leave till 2 am! Emergency crews (which were constantly running) couldn't get into places to people. Safety wasn't even thought of, especially for ADA folks.Also, expect near ZERO phone service, even with priority service. Calling someone for an emergency? Forget it.Absolute nightmare and won't be back till this mess is fixed!

Kateri Cook

2023-05

Such an awesome view! Wear good shoes and be ready to walk. The fire pit area was really cool. They also had porta potty put there with pump sink and soap. Went there for a Garth Brooks concert and what pi**ed me off is the guy selling alcohol on the trail before you get all the way in. $18 for a tall can. He doesn't let you know that when you get to where they scan your ticket they won't let you bring the alcohol you just bought from the guy sitting there with a event shirt and wheelbarrow full of beer. (No, he wasn't a random guy he was event staff).

Justin Hedges

2023-10

I’ll be happy when the day comes when I come back and change my rating to 5 stars. Morris found the most beautiful piece of land for this “arena.” But vending, bathrooms (port-a-potties), and parking continue to be dismal, even a year after the Garth Brooks nightmare. Tonight there was ONE food stand (with limited options and poor quality) and ONE drink stand (with two lines that stretched forever) for PBR. They need to finish developing this place. When they do, it could be one of the most gorgeous event venues in the country. But for now it’s completely spartan.

A. Jurado

2023-05

What a sunset! so beautiful! The venue when completed has the potential for ANYTHING!

Bob B

2023-10

Ok here’s the low down on the PBR event at Nature Arena. You will walk at least 1/4 to 1/2 mile up and down hills from parking to the event area and there is no shuttle. You sit in the grass on a hillside and are not very close to the action unless you by the $100 vip ticket and those are great tables and chairs right by the action. Everyone uses porta potties and those were clean and plentiful. Water is $4.00 they do sell beer and some mixed drinks and the venue food was hot dogs, bbq sandwich, nachos ect. The place has beautiful scenery and will someday be nice but it primitive right now. Just know if physically you have trouble this is not handicap friendly and you will get your exercise whether it parking or going to the restroom you will get your exercise

Colleen Smith

2023-05

We were there Sat, Oct 1st for Garth Brooks. Amazingly gorgeous facility. That part gets a 5star review. HOWEVER...the loud squawking announcer for the air show and the HORRIBLE plan for exiting traffic would get a negative if there was one. Over 3 hours to move from our parking space after the concert! One way in and one way out. Not sure why they picked one of the biggest names in entertainment to reopen this venue. That really ruined the experience for us. Will not be back until that changes...Loved Garth tho!

Nathan Henderson

2023-05

I’m going to get some hate with this review but… I loved it! It was an amazing! Hater be haters. Every event will get better you learn and then adjust. As you can see in the pick they still enjoyed the show.

Tina Persinger

2023-05

Messy Already.....I purchased Garth Brooks tickets and realized 2 days later I did not have parking passes. When I went back online the only parking available was RV/Bus Parking for just under $100. I purchased this parking pass and it clearly stated that without a parking pass you will not be allowed to park. Only to find out 1 week before the event, they now have additional lots open and the cost is now $48. To make matters worse, now they inform the public that RV/Bus parking is down from the entrance, a LONG up and down walk to the arena, and there is no shuttle provided, now forcing me to purchase a $48 parking ticket so I can access the shuttle. There is no ability to sell, transfer or refund my money on the Bus/RV parking. So now, the $200 I thought I was spending to see a concert has turned into $350 so I am allowed to drive and park at the concert. If this is how they are going to be running events moving forward, I just want to make sure everyone is aware prior to buying tickets that the cost could be significantly more than just the tickets and be prepared for last minute changes.

L H

2023-05

Porta potties and $43 parking that still required taking a bus to get to the venue. Both of which were not disclosed when event tickets were sold. They also only had a bus every 10 to 15 minutes. Took over an hour to get from the parking lot into the venue. Some people didn't make it in until halfway through the concert. I hope Garth does something about it. Parking for PBR was only $15-$20. Basically Johnny Morris decided to price gouge everyone going to the Garth concerts. Website said you could bring empty non glass reusable water bottles. Nope. They were confiscating them. It was not ADA friendly. Would not recommend this venue. Will probably take a few hours to get out of the parking lot. The area is nice but Starlight in KC or Bonner Springs are far superior outdoor venues. Better parking, organization, prices , bathrooms, and water refill stations. Do not recommend this venue. 😡

Tammy K

2023-05

1) Garth Brooks was AMAZING.2) Arrive 3 hours early or you’ll miss the show. For real.3) Wear tennis shoes or hiking boots cuz you’ll be walking a ton no matter where you park. The $50 to shuttle from the fruit farm still didn’t get us to the venue and we had to walk on fresh, soft mulch for close to a mile (which was uphill after the concert).4) It’s a weird mix— prices like an airport, like $4 for a bottle of water and $14 for a pulled pork sandwich— and then seating is the ground and porta potties for bathrooms.5) Expect to stand in line (in weaving cattle fences) for a couple of hours to LEAVE.6) Garth was still worth it. But I doubt any other concert/event will tempt me to return unless they make some user-friendly changes.

Dj Motley

2023-05

I was there tonight and didn't realize there was no seating. Thank God we brought a blanket. My understanding is you're not allowed to bring chairs of any kind due to safety issues. Let me tell you, I walked with a cane and trying to get around people, their legs, their hands, and their blankets was a disaster waiting to happen. I can't tell you how many near misses there was. It was the most uncomfortable venue I have ever been to.Also, what is the purpose of even giving you a seat number??? There were no seats, and no numbers. People just sit willy nilly wherever they want. I feel sorry for anyone who pays high price for a seat because good luck getting it.I'm so glad that I was lucky enough to get a ride from the bus shuttle on a golf cart due to all the walking up and down hill. Like I said I use a cane. But there was no specified area where anyone with disabilities could go to wait for a ride. Most staff we talked to said they didn't know until we ran into a guy who asked us if we needed help and he got us a ride.We didn't stay for the whole concert just because we were so uncomfortable. It's not for the disabled or for the older generation that need more comfort than sitting on the ground. I was almost in tears and then attempting to get up again was another issue.The view was absolutely awful. There was equipment right in the middle of the view.The air show prior to the venue was amazing. The stands were great!Sadly I will not attend anything of any kind here ever again.

Donald Hossli

2023-05

Johnny Morris is a visionary and has been behind some magnificent developments. This venue will one day be a highly desired spot for entertainment. That being said, Johnny has some work to do. This is a gorgeous venue but the experience was less than satisfying. Access/egress, parking, control issues plagued everyone except for maybe Johnny and Garth Brooks. What could have been a delightful day was instead a day of apprehension, discomfort and dread. I found myself looking forward to getting out of there rather than fully enjoying the Garth experience. I look forward to returning some day but only after Johnny does his homework and Garth, I really hope to have an opportunity to see you again sometime in a more enjoyable venue

Autumn DeWoody

2023-05

Parking is not great. We have been 2. The 1st to PBR and everything went great! The Garth Brooks concert parking was crazy. We parked off site,the shuttle lines was very very long but it's to be expected. We definitely will go back. Beautiful place.

Sandra Jacquez

2023-05

Garth Brooks Bass Pro Concert was awesome!! He always lives up to his name and gives a great proformance!!! Way to go Garth!!Bass Pro also did a great job as well. Loved the fireworks at the end. As far as arena.... beautiful arena. They need to work on traffic going in and even more at end of show. We sat for 2 hours after the concert before even moving and still several cars not moving yet. They had people driving around on carts but they didn't do anything to help traffic in parking lot. The people on the main roads did a good job trying to keep it moving as best they could. Bigger roads woukd be best. Lines and traffic was a disaster. Please figure out rides for people with wheelchairs and walkers. We saw many drivers and empty carts. I saw lots of disabled people walking with walkers who couldn't make it up and down that long walk. Family struggled to help their loved ones while their feet were dragging barely walking and not a cart around!!! We even offer to help but couldn't do anything for them. Also... same as handicap seating for the handicap... put them in a good spot they they aren't on grass and not seats for them and their families. Sames as end of show. Several families with loved ones in wheelchairs and walkers trying to make it down to parking lot. All lined up walking together cause no one was around!!! This was sad. I'm glad I didn't take my paralyzed brother who's been a Garth fan over 50 years. We would have struggled and had more of a stress than it would have been worth it. I can't remotely imagine those families.It still was a beautiful arenaespecially as sunset starts.

Jeffrey Thurlow

2023-05

We were at the Garth Brooks concert Friday evening and the venue is nothing short of spectacular. The issue is the parking. The concert was over around 11, we were not able to get out of the parking lot until 2 am and didn’t get home until 4 am. If they can figure the parking out it would be so much better

Cathy Wild

2023-05

Being a lover of rodeos, saw the PBR in Ridgedale at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena posted while in KC visiting sick relatives. We drove to Branson and bought 3 day pass. Was at the very first inaugural opening night. Beautiful nite, great sunset, great scenery... great competition and rodeo. Amazing airshow....The problem however is the arena.... Got there really early first night. Was able to park close. Lucky us..Prices very high as mentioned before in other reviews for concessions. Even if you're65, bring your id. Even if you can't bring your purse. (Couldn't find a clear stadium bag anywhere in Branson) Once it opened, the walk is a big challenge for mature adults. Sat on the ground. No chairs. No back supports.... Saw young people sliding and slipping trying to get down to the concrete. I certainly did going and coming back from concessions. There is also rope down the concrete paths so you can get caught inside an area and have to maneuver the grassy hills... it was dangerous for several people. There will be falls and injuries. Guaranteed! It almost happened to us. We also bought Garth tickets before we went to the arena for the first time.Second night, parking was several parking lots below. Much more walking... bought merchandise, cushion seats, food and drinks...(btw... burnt end nachos were amazing) we have now spent 500.00. So much difficult walking the second night we didn't go to the Sunday performance. We were worn out and nervous that we were tempting our fate to a fall.Now we have Garth tickets we bought... the shuttle only goes to the 2 parking lot... not good. Stand for the entire concert? No seats to even sit a second. This will be a much bigger crowd than the pbr...more dangerous. Can't uber out... couldn't get parking tickets the day before... no info on where the uber and lift goes into. Website said there will be a designated place more to come. Concert is tonight. No further details... Due to all of the problems with the dangerous conditions and long tough walking for some of the members in our party... we are going to forfeit the tickets and stay safe some place else....Dang, how I love my Garthman!! Sorry I can't see you tonight!

Lisa Sommers

2023-05

The venue is amazing, but the parking is tight and far. After the Garth Brooks show it took us 3 HOURS to get out of there! They really need to re-think the setup of they want to be a viable venue.

Anne Kohnle

2023-05

Venue is beautiful but was unprepared to host the Garth Brooks concert. Their complete lack of planning resulted in delays that ruined the evening for many many people. The venue feels truly unsafe with long walks on uneven ground and poor lighting. I fear someone will truly be injured at Thunder Ridge Nature Center. I also wonder who they have hired to censor reviews as it had hundreds a day ago and now only 13. Do you research and be aware of the many concerns regarding this venue before you go.

FOSTER TV LLC

2023-05

No shuttles from parking to amphitheater. No cash. Price point on tickets plus parking to high. No lawn chairs. They want you to tailgate but no grills. If there was a catastrophic emergency this would be horrific. The traffic was not thought out at all. One would have thought they would have researched other venues emergency traffic plans before construction. Typicall Bass Pro BS. Johnny Morris says this amphitheater is so grand. Red Rocks folks, Red Rocks and you will not pay Bass Pro prices. They are definitely taking advantage of people.

LeShaya Campbell

2023-05

Most beautiful, peaceful place in the world to build a arena, the view was amazing! Went to see Garth Brooks we have family member that works for bass pro for the last 40 years. We had 4th row seats, free parking passes and we all got $10 food vouchers!! This was the BEST concert I've ever been to! Thanks Johnny Morris

Eddie V

2023-05

Could be a lot better. I was disappointed compared to what Johnny usually does. He definitely needs more planning involved, more lanes for traffic on 86 and in the venue, an overpass for 65, more sidewalks, more actual seating and just better coordination and execution. But it definitely is a nice venue. Hopefully he will improve this.

Andrew Schluenz

2023-05

Garth brooks concert was awesome . But when the concert got over I was in my car at 10pm and didn’t get out of the parking lot until 1am what a joke the workers directing traffic couldn’t direct 4 cars out of a empty parking lot what a Fu..ing joke I will never I attended a event at this place agin. 20k people 40 min wait to go to the bathroom . Two food stands what a joke

Brian Staack

2023-05

Yes, I gave it 5 stars, despite the traffic issues. We got there early and tailgated so no problem getting in. Easy walk to the hill. Great view, sound and facility.The negatives you have to expect horrible traffic and rediculously high drink prices. But prepare for that and you will have a great time.

Nick Taylor

2023-05

No doubt the parking situation was not ideal but I believe it will be rectified. Despite the headaches it was an absolutely amazing venue. Without a doubt the most serene venue I have ever attended. Knowing what I know now I'd still do it again. Full send.

John Clasby

2023-05

Beautiful place and Garth put on a great 2.5 hour show.We sat in our car for 4 hours waiting for them To let us out after the show It was the worst experience I have ever had! I’ve been stuck in traffic at arrowhead stadium that holds 80,000 people and never felt trapped like I did last night. I will never go back to this venue again

Chris Minor

2023-05

100$ concert tickets now 50$ to park 3/4 of a mile away at the fruit farm lot and ride a shuttle with 50,000 other folks trying to do the same thing. That's 8 million dollars for parking alone for a 4 day event,they need to take that money and take classes on organization lol

Cody Johnson

2023-05

Absolutely amazing and beautiful and the part I loved the most about it was we was at the PBR Teams event with our autistic son and he started having issues with the noise and the bass pro tent Staff was amazing and understanding and helped us get him so ear plugs so he could enjoy the event definitely recommend

Chuk B.

2023-05

Terrible setup, parking took an hour and then Garth Brooks didn't even start on time he was an hour late. No chairs available for the disabled, only for the managers and higher-ups in the company. My disabled sister had to sit on the ground.

Mark Steitz

2023-05

The venue is really great for the actual show. However, the parking situation is absolutely horrendous. They really need to figure out a more expeditious way to get heavy traffic in and out.