The venue was originally named the Garden State Arts Center when it opened in 1968.
The amphitheater's roof is a signature mid-century modern design that covers 10,800 fixed seats.
It is situated within a 400-acre tract of land that includes a surrounding park maintained by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority.
The venue frequently hosts high-profile multi-day music festivals and national concert tours.
Its unique structural design utilizes a tension-membrane canopy concept that was considered state-of-the-art upon its completion.
The PNC Bank Arts Center is a 17,500-capacity open-air amphitheater located directly off the Garden State Parkway in Holmdel, New Jersey. Designed by architect Edward Durell Stone, the structure features a dramatic roof supported by eight concrete piers without side walls, allowing for an indoor-outdoor acoustic experience. The venue hosts major touring acts, ranging from rock and pop concerts to comedy shows and orchestral performances. The seating is divided into a covered pavilion and an open-air lawn area. As of June 2026, the venue remains active as a premier summer concert destination in the New York metropolitan area. It is owned by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority and is notable for its proximity to the Telegraph Hill Park area.
The elevated walkway paths surrounding the venue providing a view of the white roof canopy against the evening sky.
Select lawn tickets to bring blankets and chairs, as the grass area offers a more relaxed social atmosphere compared to fixed pavilion seating.
Monitor local traffic reports for the Garden State Parkway, as event-day congestion near Exit 116 can be significant.
Bring a light jacket, as temperatures often drop once the sun sets in the open-air seating sections.
Do not attempt to park on the shoulder of the Garden State Parkway; arrive early to secure a spot in the designated lots.
Operates as a seasonal venue, typically hosting events from late spring through early autumn; closed during winter months.
Standard concert conduct applies; carry clear bags to comply with current venue security policies.
