About The Cotillion
The Cotillion is a historic live entertainment venue and ballroom on the west side of Wichita, Kansas. Built in 1960 by a group of local investors, it opened with a gala night of valet parking and formal attire. Over the decades it has hosted big names across every genre – from jazz legends like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington to rock stars, country singers, comedians and even political events. It is affectionately nicknamed Wichita’s “Round Mound of Sound” because of its unique circular design and outstanding acoustics. The building is 28,500 square feet with a soaring 24-foot-high domed ceiling over an 11,000-sq-ft maple dance floor. A distinctive neon-lit band shell frames the stage, supported by large wooden beams. All together this gives The Cotillion a one-of-a-kind look and feel that locals treasure. The venue can hold up to about 2,000 people for a standing room main-floor event, with flexible chair arrangements for seated shows. It’s raised the profile of the Wichita music scene for generations and remains a beloved landmark for live performance and community events.
Throughout its history, The Cotillion has served many roles: it remains a popular concert hall and dance floor, yet is also available for weddings, banquets, corporate functions, proms and community gatherings. By mixing national touring acts with local flavor (polka dances, country and rock nights, family-friendly shows, and more), The Cotillion has become woven into Wichita’s cultural fabric. Visitors often find themselves dancing under the dome to the same music that drew crowds in the 1960s. The enduring vintage charm – clear maple floors, a ring of balconies on the outer rim, and a retro neon stage canopy – helps The Cotillion stand out among modern venues. Today it still regularly sells out big-name concerts and stays busy hosting everything from rock and country concerts to comedy tours and charity events. For music lovers and party-goers, it’s a must-see piece of Wichita lore with a warm, inclusive vibe that keeps crowds coming back year after year.
Events and Programming
The Cotillion’s calendar is busy year-round with a wide variety of live events. Concerts are perhaps most common: it regularly books country legends, rock and metal bands, hip-hop acts, tribute nights and alternative music. Touring bands of all scales stop here; recent years have seen acts like Filter, Theory of a Deadman, Troop 41 (hip-hop), and even rock tributes like “Dad Rock Night.” Country and Americana artists are frequent guests as well – acts like Melissa Etheridge, Gary Allan, Kolby Cooper or local favorites have taken the stage. Big stand-up comedy tours also make The Cotillion a stop, with comedians such as Gabriel Iglesias, Kevinn Hart or Jeff Dunham appearing in past lineups. Special family-oriented shows and variety acts (like magic revues or movie screenings with cast appearances) also appear on the roster, keeping the programming eclectic.
Alongside nationally touring performers, The Cotillion is home to Wichita traditions. In the ’80s and ’90s it hosted weekly polka and dance nights (the local Over-28 club and polka club often met here), and many such dance events and community balls were staple events. Today you might find a cultural show or a local high school prom on the schedule alongside rock concerts. Unique one-off events like the annual Wichita Cat Fancy cat show or specialty car shows occasionally book the ballroom in the daytime, bringing families and hobbyists through the doors. It has also hosted sporting entertainment (like cage-fighting nights or wrestling exhibitions) and local roller derby bouts, showing the building’s versatility. With a flexible open floor plan, The Cotillion easily adapts from high-energy standing-room concerts to seated banquets or dance events.
In short, you can expect almost any genre here. Country and Western music nights pull in boot-wearing crowds, rock and metal shows draw the young and loud, Latin bands and Tejano groups serve Kansas’s Hispanic communities, and classic rock or dance nostalgia nights see multi-generational crowds. Ticket prices reflect the diversity: small local shows can be under $20 while larger touring acts run $30–$60 or more a seat. Family events like the cat show or holiday specials typically cost under $15 per person. The venue often offers general admission on the floor for lively, dance-friendly shows, while some events sell reserved seating or even VIP table packages near the stage for an upcharge. Frequent recurring events include benefit concerts, charity balls and community fundraisers. No matter what’s on stage, The Cotillion is known for a down-to-earth, affordable concert-going experience – fans of all ages can find a show, often at a lower price than downtown arenas.
Tickets and Booking
Buying tickets for a Cotillion event is straightforward. Tickets go on sale months in advance through the venue’s official channels and ticketing partners. Local fans can also buy tickets directly at the on-site box office (see below for hours and details). For big-name concerts, the venue sometimes offers pre-sales through mailing lists or fan clubs, so it pays to sign up for The Cotillion’s email list or follow their social media. Official ticket sales typically close when the show sells out, but unsold tickets are usually available at the door on the night of the event (first-come basis). Keep in mind popular shows can sell out early, so getting tickets well in advance is wise.
At the box office (11120 W Kellogg St), you can pay in cash or credit/debit card (major cards are accepted). There is a small service fee (about $1 per ticket) when purchasing with a credit card; cash buyers avoid that fee. The box office hours are Monday–Friday roughly 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, and Saturdays around 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. During busy concert weekends the box office may open additional hours, but it’s best to call ahead if timing is tight. If a show is sold out online, sometimes the box office still has a few standby tickets on show night (never guaranteed, but ask!).
Ticket pricing varies by performer. For most musical acts, expect general admission prices from about $25 up to $50 per person; reserve seating or special packages will cost more. Comedy and theater events generally range $20–$40. The Cotillion occasionally offers group or early-bird discounts through promotions, but usually tickets are a flat price per seat. The venue has a strict no-refund policy – unless the show is canceled or postponed, tickets are final sale. Exchanges are not offered, and lost tickets will not be reissued, so treat your tickets carefully. In short, check event details and buy early through official outlets to secure the best seats.
Seating and Layout
The Cotillion is essentially one huge circular hall with a stage along one wall and a giant dance floor in front. There are no permanent seats – the 11,000 square-foot maple dance floor can be kept open for standing-room concerts or filled with movable chairs and tables for seated events. Most music concerts use a center-stage approach: the stage is along one side under the neon-lit band shell, and the remaining floor area is either open standing or filled with rows of chairs. For big dance events, the entire floor is cleared so people can use the hardwood floor. Around the edges of the room there are raised aisles, rings, or chin-up bars (depending on the setup) where small cocktail tables or audience chairs can be placed.
Choosing the best spot depends on your preference. For highest energy and closest experience, standing near the front of the stage is ideal (if allowed). Fans often line up outside early for prime spots on the dance floor. If you prefer to sit, chairs are usually set up toward the back or sides – these offer a full view of the stage at a little distance. Because the room is relatively wide and open, there are very few blind spots. Even seats off to one side usually see the performer clearly under the dome lights. The dome and circular curvature help project sound evenly, so you’ll generally have good audio from any spot. Staging for large shows sometimes includes extra lighting rigs and speakers pointing into the crowd; vantage won’t change much except that the very back of the hall can feel slightly distant for quieter acoustic acts. In many shows, colorful lights and projections on the dome ceiling add to the experience. If you have a choice, an amphitheater-style table near the stage or a high-up position by the back wall will get you an unobstructed view and perfect sound at full volume.
Behind the stage is the dressing room area – not accessible to patrons – so the room is six-sided, not fully rounded. Along the room’s perimeter are a number of features: two full bars, a center drink station and concession stands, plus restrooms and merchandise booths. Because the space is open, people will approach the bar from all sides, so being off to front corners or near the exits can make for less shoulder-to-shoulder crowding. The layout is flexible: for seated shows The Cotillion can set permanent chairs or round tables wherever needed, even in “cabaret” style if requested. For general concerts, there’s typically either all-general-admission (no assigned seats) or a few reserved sections with numbered tickets. VIP or “table” seating (near the stage) is sometimes offered for purchase at premium price. One unique feature is the large neon band shell above the stage – it frames the performers with glowing color. It is mostly decorative, but it also affects the lighting and acoustics. Overall, most visitors find that nearly every vantage point offers a solid view. The main limitations are: avoid standing directly behind a speaker stack if one is used, and note that late-arrival guests must stand or sit wherever is available since there’s no fixed seating plan.
Getting There and Parking
The Cotillion is located at 11120 West Kellogg (the name for highway I-235) in west Wichita, about 2½ miles west of the Eisenhower National Airport. Directions from downtown are: take I-135 south to the Kellogg (I-235) westbound ramp, then stay in the right lane and exit at Maize Road. Drive east on the access road alongside Kellogg for about 0.4 miles – The Cotillion will be on your right. Note: Do **not** exit at 111th Street. The venue specifically instructs visitors to use the Maize Road exit. If you're exiting Kellogg westbound at 119th Street, you’ll need to make a U-turn at 119th to come back east and then exit at Maize. Signs and an open driveway along the frontage road lead you directly into the parking areas.
Parking is very convenient and free of charge. The Cotillion owns and manages its own private parking lots on the north and east sides of the building. You can pull up and drop off passengers at the front door on the west side, then park nearby. For sold-out shows or big events, parking staff often direct cars into various lots to maximize space. Even at full capacity events (2000 people), there is usually ample parking in the three oversized lots. Shuttle services are not needed most of the time. If you’re being dropped off by taxi or rideshare, drivers often use the front-loading lane on the west side – this is clearly marked. The venue is on a busy expressway, but traffic is usually smooth. Allow an extra 10–15 minutes if coming during rush hour or on a weekend if there are large concerts that draw regional crowds. You can also exit at nearby Towne West Drive or Highway 96 (Beltway) and navigate via local roads to avoid highway congestion.
Public transportation to The Cotillion is limited. Wichita Transit buses do run along Kellogg Drive, but stops are a few blocks away. The closest routes would be the Kellogg/Greenwich buses or those stopping at Towne West Mall. From those stops you would have about a 10–15 minute walk. For evening concerts, note that bus service is sparse after 8pm. Most visitors find it easiest to drive, carpool or use rideshare. If you must use transit, plan your return in advance – the last buses often leave Wichita by 10–11pm. Many patrons coming from out of town stay in a nearby hotel (see below) and simply walk or taxi from there. In short, The Cotillion is most easily reached by car or rideshare, but if you live in Wichita you could also grab a taxi or Uber/ Lyft from the airport or downtown area to get dropped off right at the door.
Inside the Venue
Entering The Cotillion is straightforward. When you arrive, staff will check tickets at the main entrance (entry is usually through a lobby on the north side of the building). Security conducts quick bag checks and a light pat-down for safety. As mentioned, there is a strict no-re-entry policy – once you leave, you cannot come back in without buying another ticket. So during the event plan to keep small personal items in a coat-check or bring only what you need. The venue is carpeted near the entrance with smooth open floors inside, so strollers and wheelchairs navigate easily. The general atmosphere indoors is cozy and festive – subdued lighting on tables and colorful stage lights on the performers. Many old concert posters and local memorabilia decorate the walls, giving it a retro concert-hall feel. Staff and ushers are usually friendly and do a good job preserving a community vibe.
On entering, you’ll find several amenities. The coat check counter and merchandise booth are typically set up immediately to your right. The coat check is often free for small items (larger coats or bags might cost a buck or two), but check with staff. Most patrons use it to stow jackets, hats or any large bags that aren’t allowed on the floor. Just past the coat check is the main merchandise stand where the performing act’s T-shirts, CDs or memorabilia may be for sale. Both of these are conveniently located near the front door so you can drop items without missing any performances.
Moving into the hall, you’ll see two large bars along the far sides (north and south walls) and a smaller “island” bar in the center of the floor if it’s a big event. The bars are stocked with beer, wine, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. Cash and credit cards are accepted (many people may mention it’s handy they take cards even for drinks). Outside food/drink is strictly prohibited, so these are the only places to buy refreshments inside. For light snacks, The Cotillion often brings in a vendor called the “Artichoke Sandwich Bar” (a local Wichita sandwich company) during events – they set up a stall and serve deli sandwiches, snacks and pizza by the slice. Other nights may feature snack bars or food trucks parked near the interior entrance. You’ll want cash or card on you: the venue has ATM machines on-site by the bars (usually two machines), in case you need beer or snacks. Restrooms (women’s, men’s and an ADA-accessible restroom) are on either side of the room near the bars, and they remain open through the event (though there may be a line for big shows). Mastheads and exit signs keep everything easy to find.
The sound and light rig is comprehensive. The Cotillion has a full concert sound system built in, and house sound engineers are on hand for a quality audio experience. Stage lighting is suspended from the ceiling and can fill the entire round room with washes of color or spotlights. From your seat you’ll often see lights projected onto the dome or onto the crowd, adding excitement. The domed ceiling and wooden beams give the hall a lively acoustic character – expect music and announcements to carry well. For major concerts, additional portable chairs or risers might be brought in, but the default is a completely open floor. Mobile security staff walk the floor during the event to keep aisles clear. Expect a casual, friendly concert atmosphere inside: it’s darkened for shows with only the stage and bar areas lit, and you’ll hear chatter mixing with the music. Give yourself time to get a drink or visit restrooms early – lines build up once the show starts. Finally, know that The Cotillion is family-friendly: ADA entry is provided for wheelchair users (with early entry and seating for one companion), and there is an outdoor smoking patio at the rear of the venue for anyone who needs a cigarette break. Cell phone reception is typically good enough so you can text or take photos (remember, only discreet photos allowed). All in all, the inside of The Cotillion is a well-equipped, no-frills concert hall – just a great big dance room with bars and good vibes, rather than a plush arena or theater environment.
Nearby Amenities
If you’re heading to The Cotillion, you’ll find plenty of pre- and post-show options in the area. The venue sits in an older commercial corridor of west Wichita, so close by are fast-food and chain restaurants along Kellogg and at the I-235 exits. For example, there’s a Denny’s and Taco Bell just a mile west on the service road, and popular local burger spots within a few minutes’ drive. If you arrive early, many people take a quick drive up to Towne West Mall (about 4 miles east) for dining. Towne West’s nearby restaurants include steakhouses (Redrock Canyon Grill, KV Chophouse), sports bars, Mexican grills (such as Jose Pepper’s), and casual chains (Texas Roadhouse, Applebee’s, etc.). That area also has a movie theater and pizza places, if you want to grab dinner in a lively setting. Downtown Wichita is around 15 minutes east by car, where dozens of eateries and bars stay open late; some concertgoers head there for drinks after a show if they aren’t ready to call it night.
Hotels are plentiful near the venue. Because of the nearby airport, many chains and all-suite hotels cluster around I-235 and West Kellogg. Within 1–2 miles you’ll find places like Applewood Inn (an all-suite hotel), Holiday Inn Express Northwest, and Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham. These all offer comfortable rooms at a mid-range price and shuttle service from the airport. There are also extended-stay options (Candlewood Suites, Comfort Suites) if you need kitchen facilities. If you prefer something trendy, the West Wichita area (near Maize Road and K-96) has newer hotels like SpringHill Suites and Embassy Suites. Downtown Wichita’s hotels (e.g. Drury Plaza, Marriott, Ambassador) are also only a short drive away if you plan to enjoy the city’s nightlife after the show and don’t mind a 10-15 minute commute from the venue. For convenience, many concertgoers stay on the west side and get a quick taxi or Uber to The Cotillion.
In terms of practical tips: it’s usually wise to arrive at least 45 minutes before show time. Parking is easy, so timing depends more on beating the crowds at the box office and bar. If you want a table or floor spot, get in line early. After most concerts end around 11pm, traffic out of the lots is typically smooth – the highway is close enough for a quick exit. Just remember that taxi and ride-share can have a short wait for pick-up, as people tend to leave at once. Meanwhile, daytimes at The Cotillion often see events like weddings, trade shows or charitable auctions; if you’re attending one of those, the parking and nearby lunch spots (fast casual and coffee shops) make it easy to plan a full afternoon around the venue. The area isn’t known for scenic parks, but if you want a walkable break, the south side of Kellogg has a small square with a fountain (toward Towne West Blvd) which sometimes has food trucks or local vendor events in the evening.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Cotillion’s uniqueness lies in its blend of history, architecture and homegrown character. Architecturally, few music venues look like it – the soaring dome with wooden beams gives the main hall a warm, cabin-like feel while still feeling museum-worthy. The neon band shell, an artifact of late-1950s design, still glows behind each band on stage and is a crowd favorite for selfies. The giant wood dance floor invites people to shake off concert formality and mingle; even seasoned concertgoers admit there’s nothing like seeing people do the “Polka shuffle” and cowboy boogie all in one night under the same roof. That open floor, covered in glossy maple, is as much part of the experience as the live music itself. The venue’s long track record – more than 60 years – has created countless local legends. Wichita entertainment lore is filled with stories like “I saw BB King here in ’88” or “This is where I met my wife at a polka dance in ’75.” Many local musicians point to first big shows at The Cotillion as launching pads for their careers. When the venue celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2010, Wichita came out for sold-out Willie Nelson and comedy shows, proving the nostalgia and love run deep.
Culturally, The Cotillion bridges generations. It’s not just a rock club or a ballroom; it’s both at once, depending on the night. An indie band one Saturday, a gospel choir the next. It has welcomed immigrant communities (hosting Tex-Mex dances and Latin bands) while still holding onto old-school Polka and waltz nights popular in decades past. For the city, that diversity means that almost every Wichita family has a memory tagged to it – a high school prom, a quinceañera, a family reunion, or a concert pit moment. It’s also volunteered as a civic hub: from Clinton-era town halls to tornado relief fundraisers, The Cotillion has opened its doors for community causes. Its cultural impact can even be measured in economic terms: every sold-out show brings visitors who stay in local hotels, eat in local restaurants and tell others about Wichita’s live music scene.
Yet what really makes The Cotillion special is its personality. Longtime staff and bartenders remember regulars by name. The simplicity of the space means there is no pretense – fans of every background feel at home. Musicians often comment how the crowd is unusually friendly and attentive here for the middle of America. The building itself seems to wear its age proudly; old concert posters hang alongside digital event screens. Few venues have a smoking patio tucked out back, a center bar right on the floor, and an upstairs mixing booth overlooking dancers. This mix of retro charm and modern production quality gives The Cotillion a distinctive atmosphere. Visiting artists often say the house sound is excellent (the dome acoustics are legendary locally) and the sightlines are broad. DJs and bands alike appreciate that the lack of fixed seating means they can encourage dancing and still have room to move crowds. In short, The Cotillion is special for being at once an old-school dance hall and an up-to-date concert venue. It’s old enough to feel reminiscent and new enough to keep up with the current scene. Residents treasure it because it feels like Wichita’s living-room-stage – a place where friends and families come together to make memories to music.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Cotillion is handicapped-friendly. There are ramps at the entrance and at least one elevator to the mezzanine level (for sound/video gear). Wheelchair users and guests with mobility issues are allowed to enter early with one companion, so they can get seated safely before general admission crowds rush in. Staff can assist with finding suitable seating near the stage or in an easily accessible area. All restrooms have accessible stalls. Hearing or visual aids are not officially provided, so front-row seating will give clearer sight and sound for those with sensory needs.
What to Bring: Bring a photo ID if you plan to drink. Also bring cash just in case – while cards are accepted at the box office and bars, some older performers’ merch tables and smaller food vendors might prefer cash. You may want earplugs for very loud shows (especially metal or electronic music nights). A small sweater or jacket is wise – large halls with high ceilings can be chilly (or very warm) depending on the crowd and HVAC settings. Dress is typically casual; Wichita style is often jeans and boots or a cowboy hat for country shows, or band tees and baseball caps at rock shows. Try not to wear heels if you plan to dance. Make sure your clothes don’t have loose straps or pockets, as staff security tends to pat-down anyone with anything hanging off their person for safety.
Prohibited Items/Policies: Avoid large bags or backpacks – if you bring one it will be searched and may be refused. NICETIES: Cameras are fine if they are small point-and-shoots or phone cameras. Professional DSLR cameras, video cameras, selfie sticks and detachable lenses are strictly forbidden. Likewise, no audio or video recording devices of any kind are allowed. Outside food, drinks, or coolers are not allowed (any water bottle must be empty before entering; security expects you to buy bar drinks or concessions inside). No bottles, no aerosol sprays and certainly no weapons or fireworks. If an artist announces a “no camera” policy for a show, you must comply – staff will enforce that at the door. And remember, once you enter, there is no re-entry: if you step out for any reason, you will need to buy another ticket to come back in. In short, pack light and plan to get what you need (ID, phone, wallet) before passing through the security check.
Facility: The Cotillion is a non-smoking building. Smoking or vaping is only allowed on the outside patio area. Coat check is usually available at events, often for a nominal fee or donation; use it for any jackets or bags you can’t carry easily in the hall. There are ATMs on site if you need cash, and both bars accept credit cards. There is no official Wi-Fi network provided, but most customers find that their cell phones work (outside carriers generally cover the area). If your phone doesn’t work well inside, step outside to text or use data (the building’s thick walls can dampen signals toward the center floor). You will want to keep your phone on silent during performances out of respect for performers and other guests.
Catering to Families and Groups: All ages are welcome at most events unless otherwise posted. Family events like the annual cat shows even offer discounted child pricing and free admission for toddlers. For typical concerts, kids under 2 usually do not need a ticket if on parent’s lap, but check your specific show’s ticketing rules. There are no age-based seating restrictions beyond alcohol laws: if you bring children, consider that late-night loud music might not be comfortable for very young ears. If you have a big group attending, you might reserve a small table or section by calling the venue ahead (some shows allow table reservations for groups). When purchasing tickets, note that disabled or senior discounts are not standard; pricing is usually one price for everyone unless a specific promotion is offered. During the show, ushers will direct any wheelchair patrons to designated ADA spots. The venue staff have decades of experience making events inclusive, so don’t hesitate to ask them if you need assistance.
Arrival Tips: Aim to arrive early – at minimum 30 minutes before showtime – especially for headlining concerts. The Cotillion likes to start on time (often stage lights up right at 8:00pm or 9:00pm), and you don’t want to miss opening bands. Early arrivers will have first pick of standing positions or leftover chairs. If there’s merchandise items you want, lines can form early too. Getting in early also means you can avoid the busiest bar lines (though the bartenders are fast, everyone gets thirsty!). The doors are usually fully opened an hour before show time; well before it, the building stays quiet with just staff preparing lights and sound. Once the music starts, it can get crowded on the floor and in the aisles, so feel free to stake out a good spot early.
Insider Tips: If you want a table near the action, call ahead to the box office – sometimes a limited number of tables or booths can be reserved for premium ticket prices. For country shows, cowboy boots and hats are very common (most people fit right in). At rock or metal shows, black T-shirts and band logos dominate. There is no formal dress code, so just dress comfortably. Ear protection beeps are a pro tip to use during especially loud sets (some customers even bring foam plugs). Smoking breaks are pretty quick because the smoking patio is just outside – you’ll be admitted back in easily. And finally, remember that The Cotillion runs on a first-come-first-served model for general admission: once on the floor, you can move anywhere you like (except VIP areas). Just be courteous – don’t push or shove, and if someone needs to pass or sit down, make room where possible. The local crowd is generally friendly and the security is helpful, so don’t worry about rough behavior. Enjoy the show, dance if you like, and soak in what many consider an essential Wichita live music experience!
Where is The Cotillion located and how do I get there?
The Cotillion is at 11120 West Kellogg Street in west Wichita, just off the I-235 Kellogg Drive (K-96) at the Maize Road exit. Head west on Kellogg’s frontage road from I-235; you should exit at Maze (119th Street) and travel east to reach the venue. The venue is well signed from the highway. There is free parking on site. If using GPS, enter “11120 W Kellogg St, Wichita, KS”. Wichita Transit buses run along Kellogg, but stops are not right at the door, so most visitors drive or use a rideshare.
How do I purchase tickets for shows and what are the box office hours?
Tickets can be bought at The Cotillion’s box office or online through official ticket partners. The box office is open Monday through Friday roughly 10:00 AM–5:00 PM and Saturday 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (call ahead on event days for exact hours). You may pay in cash or credit/debit card at the box office (note there is a small $1-per-ticket fee for card purchases). On show nights, some tickets are usually available at the door until sold out. For popular acts, it’s best to buy early. Refunds are never offered except if a show is cancelled.
What are the parking options at The Cotillion?
The Cotillion provides lots of free parking right outside. You can pull up to the front entrance to drop off riders and then park in one of the nearby lots on the property at no charge. During big shows, staff direct parking to maximize space, and overflow usually still fits on site. There is no official valet, but attendants will guide you. Rideshare drop-offs are also convenient right at the door. No event parking fees are charged. If you live in Wichita, local bus routes run along Kellogg, but the nearest stops are a short walk, so most people drive or take a cab.
Is The Cotillion wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Cotillion is ADA compliant. The entrance has a ramp and at least one elevator allows access to the main floor. Restrooms include an accessible stall. On event nights, wheelchair users are allowed to enter a few minutes early along with one companion so they can get seated comfortably. Staff will assist in seating – there are designated wheelchair spaces near the front for best viewing. The center-floor layout without permanent seats also makes it easy to move around. Always feel free to call ahead if you have specific accessibility needs.
What is The Cotillion’s bag, camera, and recording policy?
Security at The Cotillion is strict. Large bags and backpacks are not allowed – any bag you do bring will be searched at the door. You may bring small purses or smartphones. Cameras and recording devices are limited: point-and-shoot cameras and phone cameras are okay, but professional cameras (DSLRs), detachable lenses, video recorders, or anything with a flash are forbidden. Most concerts also have a blanket no-video policy – you can take photos for personal use only, but no video or audio recording of the show. If an artist specifically bans photos, obey the signage. The venue enforces these rules for everyone’s safety and performers’ rights.
Can I bring my own food or drink into The Cotillion?
No. Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the venue. The only drinks and snacks available are those you purchase at the bars or concession stands. Bottled water is typically sold at the concession or bar, so bring money if you may need it. If you have a medical need or baby food, inform security on entry for an exception. Otherwise, plan to buy any refreshments onsite – the Cotillion does not permit picnic baskets or outside coolers.
Are smoking or vaping allowed inside The Cotillion?
No. The Cotillion is a smoke-free building by law. Smoking and vaping are only permitted in the outdoor smoking patio at the back of the venue. You must step outside to use this area; indoor smoking is strictly prohibited. Staff will remind anyone attempting to smoke or vape inside to move to the patio.
Are children allowed at events at The Cotillion, or are there age restrictions?
Most events at The Cotillion are open to all ages unless specifically advertised otherwise. Children are welcome, and family shows often offer kid-friendly pricing or free admission for very young children. For example, the annual Wichita Cat Fancy show admits children under 5 free. For concerts and evening shows, minors usually need a ticket just like adults. Be aware that 21+ shows or those serving alcohol will be clearly marked, and under-21s would not be admitted. There is a zero-tolerance policy for anyone under 21 drinking alcohol. It’s always best to check the event listing: if it says “all ages,” under-18 guests can attend (with a guardian); if it’s “18+” or “21+,” those are the strict age limits. No matter what, anyone with ID showing legal drinking age may purchase alcohol at the bar inside.
What seating options are available and where are the best views?
The Cotillion usually offers general-admission on the main floor, meaning no fixed seats. Fans stand or find chairs in an open area. For some shows, reserved seating is arranged along the perimeter or in a few marked sections, so check your ticket type. The most popular viewing spots are close to the stage on the dance floor (if standing) or in the first few rows of chairs. Because the room is wide and open, even side or back positions have a clear view of the performers. As a rule, halfway back will give you the whole picture. VIP ticket holders sometimes get a small table near the front. If you prefer a quieter listen, try to stand or sit near the mixing area at the center of the room – it’s mildly elevated and often delivers crisp sound. Keep in mind that once a show fills up, you may be up close to other fans on the floor. For comfort, some attendees claim center-floor or stage-right as slightly more spacious. Ultimately, the best spot depends on whether you want to dance in the crowd (go front) or sit without obstruction (sit in a rear corner of chairs). All angles see the stage well under the dome’s lighting.
Does The Cotillion have a coat check or storage for personal items?
Yes. A coat check is typically set up next to the merchandise stand by the front door during events. You can leave coats, jackets and larger accessories there. The service is usually free or very low-cost (often a small tip is appreciated). Space is limited, so plan to store only what you need; small purses are preferably kept with you. Staff will provide you a claim ticket when you check your items and return them after the show. Having a coat check is handy on chilly nights or if the hall gets packed and you're carrying extra layers.
Does The Cotillion serve food and drinks inside?
Yes. Inside The Cotillion there are two main bars (on either side wall) plus a smaller center bar on the main floor. The bars serve beer, wine, mixed drinks and non-alcoholic beverages. Cash and cards are accepted at the bars. A few nights they bring in a local sandwich bar (often “Artichoke Sandwich Bar”) for light food like deli sandwiches, fries or pizza by the slice. On very large event nights you might even see food trucks in the lobby area. Outside of special concession nights, assume that the bars are the primary source of food/drinks. Restrooms are located along the sides. The venue does not have a restaurant inside, so if you want a full meal, plan to eat before you enter (see nearby restaurants above).
What time do events at The Cotillion usually start and when do doors open?
Showtimes vary by event, so always check your specific ticket for the official start time. Most concerts and comedy shows at The Cotillion begin between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Typically, doors open about 60 minutes before showtime (for example, an 8:00 PM concert might have doors at 7:00 PM). If multiple acts are scheduled, the headliner tends to go on later. Arrive early (30–45 minutes before doors) if you want to buy drinks, find parking trouble-free or grab a spot. The venue staff aim to start shows on schedule, so latecomers might miss the beginning and will have to enter quietly. Always double-check with the event organizer or The Cotillion’s announcements because special events can have different timing.
Is re-entry allowed if I leave during the event?
No. The Cotillion has a strict “no re-entry” policy. Once you enter the venue and your ticket is scanned, you cannot leave and then come back in on the same ticket. If you step outside (for a smoke break or any reason), you would need to buy a new ticket to re-enter. Plan accordingly by making sure you have everything you need before entering (like restroom breaks or snacks). The only exception is if the show is interrupted or cancelled; in that case you would be asked to return when it resumes. But under normal circumstances, once you go out, you’re out.
Does The Cotillion have free Wi-Fi or phone service inside?
No public Wi-Fi is provided at The Cotillion. However, most cellular carriers do have service inside the building, so you should be able to make calls or use data on your smartphone (coverage is usually good except possibly the dead center of a large crowd). If you rely on the internet, it’s best to pre-download anything you might need before the show. If you must exit to use your phone, you can step outside the rear lobby or patio where service is guaranteed. Inside, people typically switch their phones to silent and enjoy the show without distractions.
Are service animals allowed at The Cotillion?
Yes. The Cotillion, being ADA compliant, permits service animals (trained dogs or miniature horses) accompanying guests with disabilities. The animal must be harnessed or leashed. Other pets are not allowed inside unless explicitly part of an authorized event. If you use a service animal, feel free to bring it to the door and let staff know. They will help ensure you and your animal have access to a suitable area. If there is any doubt, you may be asked to show documentation of the animal’s status. Service animals can also access the outdoor smoking patio if their handler needs a break.
What is the refund or exchange policy for tickets?
The Cotillion has a strict no-refund policy. Once you purchase a ticket, it is final sale and non-transferable. Exchanges are not offered under normal circumstances. The only exception is if an event is cancelled or significantly postponed by the promoter. In that case, you would be able to redeem your ticket for the new date or receive a refund as per the official announcement. If you cannot attend a show, try to sell your ticket privately (though keep in mind scalping rules). Always double-check your event date and details before buying since tickets cannot be refunded or changed.
Which hotels and restaurants are near The Cotillion?
Several hotels are nearby, thanks to the close-by airport exit. Within a mile you’ll find accommodations like Holiday Inn Express Northwest (located at I-235 and 13th Street), Comfort Suites, Applewood Inn all-suite hotel, and Candlewood Suites. These offer easy highway access and often have free breakfast. Towne West Square mall area (about 4 miles east on Kellogg) has more chain hotels including Embassy Suites and SpringHill Suites if you are willing to drive a bit. As for dining, the surrounding area has popular Wichita chain venues. Nearthe venue there are a Denny’s, Taco Bell, and fast-food options for a quick meal. A short drive to Towne West Square yields casual and upscale options: Kansas favorites like 6S Steakhouse, Redrock Canyon Grill (steak and burgers), Texas Roadhouse, and local pubs. Closer in, strips along Kellogg have pizza places, barbecue joints, and Mexican grills. Downtown Wichita is 10–15 minutes northeast, offering dozens of restaurants, bars and breweries if you want to explore after the show. In summary: easily reachable are both affordable chains (Wendy’s, IHOP, etc.) and nicer sit-down spots, plus all major hotels. Concertgoers often eat near the airport exit or Towne West before driving to The Cotillion.
