By Ladona Weathers
Saturday night, I had the chance to go to Black Oak Amphitheater in Lampe, Missouri, to see Kansas and 38 Special. The weather was not exactly perfect, but honestly, it did not matter. It was still an incredibly fun evening and such an easy concert-going experience.
Arrive Early and Enjoy the Courtyard
One of my biggest recommendations is to arrive early. The fun actually starts before the concert even begins.
Out in the courtyard, Black Oak has live music before the main show, along with concessions and drinks available. It is a great way to get the evening started before the gates even open.
Getting In Is Simple
Once the gates open, getting inside is very easy. Black Oak does not have a clear bag policy, but they do recommend clear bags. My advice is to bring a small purse if you feel like you need a bag at all. It just makes the whole process even easier.
They do have metal detectors, so be prepared for that, but they are really well staffed, and it does not take long to get through.
I also highly recommend downloading your tickets before you get there. Cell service can be tricky in the Ozarks, and I tend to have issues with it just about anywhere around here. Having your tickets downloaded ahead of time makes things much smoother.
That said, even if you do have an issue pulling up your tickets, the box office is very helpful and will make sure you get taken care of.
Easy Parking Makes a Big Difference
One of the best things about Black Oak is that it is not a giant venue. That makes a big difference. Parking is simple, and no matter what time you get there, you are not going to feel like you have to walk five miles just to get to the entrance.
They also run golf cart shuttles, which makes getting in even easier.
The VIP Experience Is Worth Considering
For this concert, we opted for the VIP experience, and if you have the opportunity to do it, I highly recommend it.
The VIP experience included closer parking, a special entrance, and access to the VIP hospitality area before the show. It was such a nice place to sit, relax, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy a couple of drinks before the main acts started.
The food was excellent. I had the most delicious chicken fajitas, and everything was hot, fresh, and really good. The VIP area also had its own bar, so the lines were short, which was a big plus.
I was there with a group of friends, and we had the best time. We watched the show from a VIP box, which also came with an attendant. That was a really cool touch because you did not have to miss a minute of the show.
Great Seats From Anywhere
You absolutely do not have to be in a VIP box to have a great experience at Black Oak. I have also sat in the regular seating, and it is comfortable with great views from just about anywhere.
It is one of those venues where you can truly enjoy the show no matter where your seats are.
Concessions Are Easy and Well Staffed
The concession stands are easy to get to and centrally located, which makes a big difference during a concert. Whether I have been in the VIP area or general seating, I have never had to wait in a very long concession line.
They seem to be staffed really well, and the options are great.
If you want something with a little kick, they have you covered. If you just want water, you need to try StageWater. It comes in a can, and I do not know exactly what makes it so good, but it is amazing.
Their signature beer, American Rebel, is also a fun option to try if you are a beer drinker.
Do Not Miss the Details
If you are planning to go to a show, I also recommend joining the Black Oak Amphitheater Fan Club. It is a great way to keep up with concert details, updates, and helpful information before show night. With everything they have going on before and during the concerts, it is worth staying in the loop.
An Easy Night Out
Overall, Black Oak Amphitheater is just an easy, enjoyable place to spend an evening. Whether you are going with friends, someone special, or even by yourself, it is a great spot for a night out.
If you are looking for a fun concert experience without all the stress that can come with bigger venues, Black Oak Mountain Amp in Lampe, Missouri, is hard to beat. It just might be the easiest concert-going experience you will ever have.
