The opening of Wells Fargo Arena in July 2005 put Des Moines, IA back on the map in the entertainment world. The new, state-of-the-art arena holds up to 17,000 guests for sports and entertainment events, and is a venue unlike any other in the Midwest.

The moment visitors enter the building, they know they have walked into an extraordinary facility. The open design of the building provides great sight lines from every seat, a view of the action from concourse areas, and tremendous vistas of downtown Des Moines, including the skyline, Principal River Walk and Capital building.

In addition to hosting large concerts and family events, Wells Fargo Arena is the home to two minor league sports franchises, including:

- Iowa Energy - NBA-D League affiliate of the Bulls and Suns
- Iowa Barnstormers - AFL Football Team

The building also continues to host the annual State Wrestling, Boys’ State Basketball, and Girls’ State Basketball Tournaments each spring.

Wells Fargo Arena provides seating and entertainment options for everyone, and includes The Principal River's Edge (a 180 seat restaurant), 36 corporate suites, 20 loge boxes, and 600 club seats offering the finest in fan amenities. In total, the arena has a capacity of 16,980 for center-stage concerts, 16,285 for end-stage concerts, 16,110 for basketball, and 15,181 for hockey.