Thinking about taking your crew to Monster Jam but not sure what to expect? We’ve been to Monster Jam more times than we can count, and we’ve got the inside scoop for you!
Whether your kids are obsessed with anything that has wheels or you’re just looking for a high-energy experience the whole family will remember, here’s what Monster Jam is really like—plus our favorite tips and answers to your biggest questions.
What Is Monster Jam?
Monster Jam is a live motorsport show where larger-than-life monster trucks race, jump, flip, and crush things. (Yes, it’s just as intense as it sounds—and kids LOVE it.)
Each show typically includes three major events:
- Wheelie Contest – Drivers try to pull off the most exciting jumps over a row of cars.
- Racing – Trucks go head-to-head to see who can cross the finish line first.
- Freestyle – Drivers have 60 seconds to perform crazy stunts and tricks. Fans help score this one!
The trucks themselves? They’re about 12 feet tall, 10,000+ pounds, and they can fly up to 35 feet in the air. Watching them flip and roar through an arena is unlike anything else your kids have ever seen.
What Happens at a Monster Jam Show?
We’ve taken kids as young as 4 and as old as teens—and honestly, they’ve all had a blast.
You’ll see trucks like Grave Digger, El Toro Loco, Megalodon, and more, with bright paint jobs and huge personalities. Many drivers interact with the audience, and it’s not unusual to see little fans in the front row get waved at or chosen for special prizes if they’ve made a cool sign.
Then, between events, you can enjoy dirt bike or quad bike stunts. These athletes launch off ramps and perform jaw-dropping flips.
There’s a short intermission (about 15 minutes) midway through while they clean up the arena and rearrange the dirt.
What Parents Need to Know (Tips from Our Team!)
We’ve been there. Here are our can’t-miss tips for surviving and thriving at Monster Jam with kids.
1. It’s LOUD. Seriously.
This isn’t just “concert loud”—it’s roaring-engine-vibrating-your-seat loud. We always bring ear protection (earmuffs + earplugs combo is great for young kids).
2. Ear Protection = Non-Negotiable
You can buy kids’ earmuffs on Amazon or at big box stores. Some venues sell them onsite, but it’s pricier.
3. Have a noise-sensitive child?
Skip this one or wait until they’re older. The sound and vibrations can overwhelm some kids, especially those under 5.
4. Some kids get bored between events
There are quick breaks while trucks get set up for the next stunt. Pack a small snack or mini coloring book if your child has a short attention span.
5. Arenas are often chilly
Monster Jam needs good ventilation for all that exhaust, so the venue can be cool inside. Bring layers—even scarves or blankets.
6. Buy tickets ahead of time
Box office lines can be LONG. Buying direct from the arena box office (in-person) can save you from high online ticketing fees, too.
7. Bring cash and card
Many vendors and parking lots are still cash-only. Bring cash for parking, souvenirs, and snacks. Some venues operate as card-only, so while you’ll want cash for parking, in the arena you might need a card.
8. Only clear bags are allowed
Leave your big purse at home and opt for a clear tote or backpack. Most arenas are clear bag only.
9. Want a free bonus?
Sometimes a Monster Truck will pop up at a public location before the show—like a shopping center or car lot. Keep an eye on local Monster Jam or venue social media pages for surprise appearances.
10. Everyone 2+ needs a ticket
Yup—even your toddler.
What’s the Pit Party?
The Pit Party is a special ticketed experience where you get to:
- Kids’ activities like coloring and playing with toys in the dirt
- Walk around the arena floor
- See the monster trucks up close
- Meet the drivers
- Take photos and get autographs
Cost: Pit passes usually run around $20 each, and you need a separate ticket for the actual show.
Totally optional—but if your child is a diehard truck fan, they will be in heaven.
How Long Is Monster Jam?
Most shows run about 2 hours, not including:
- Getting through security
- Pre-show activities
- Pit Party (if you added it)
- Intermission
You’ll want to arrive 30–45 minutes early to find your seat and get settled.
Is Monster Jam Good for All Ages?
We’d say it’s best for ages 4 and up.
Younger kids might struggle with:
- The volume
- Sitting still for 2+ hours
- The occasional crash or flip (which can look scary)
But if your preschooler is obsessed with trucks and doesn’t mind ear protection, they’ll likely love it.
Adults? We’ve seen plenty who came for the kids but left genuinely impressed. The skills these drivers have are wild—and yes, you may find yourself cheering louder than you expected!
So… Is Monster Jam Worth It?
For our crew? Absolutely. It’s exciting, it’s different, and it’s one of those events your kids will talk about for weeks.
If you’re on the fence, here’s what we suggest:
- Check out YouTube clips of recent Monster Jam events to get a sense of the vibe.
- Be prepared with the right gear (ear protection, clear bags, jackets).
- Plan for parking, snacks, and possible meltdowns from sensory overload.
But if your family is ready for big noise, big trucks, and big fun—it’s a YES from us.
2025 Monster Jam Dates This Summer & Fall
July – August 2025
- July 26–27 – Edmonton, AB (Rogers Place) & Raleigh, NC (Lenovo Center)
- August 1–3 – Las Vegas, NV (Thomas & Mack Center), Orlando, FL (Kia Center), Sunrise, FL (Amerant Bank Arena)
- August 8–10 – Newark, NJ (Prudential Center), Sacramento, CA (Golden 1 Center)
- August 15–17 – Tampa, FL (Amalie Arena)
Fall 2025 Tour Highlights
- September 20 – St. Louis, MO (The Dome at America’s Center)
- October 4 – Arlington, TX (AT&T Stadium)
- October 11 – Syracuse, NY (JMA Wireless Dome)
- October 17–19 – Spokane, WA (Spokane Arena)
- October 18 – Houston, TX (NRG Stadium)
- October 24–26 – Bridgeport, CT (Total Mortgage Arena)
- October 25 – Glendale, AZ (State Farm Stadium)
- October 31–November 2 – San Juan, Puerto Rico (Coliseo de Puerto Rico)
- November 1–2 – Hampton, VA (Hampton Coliseum)
- November 29–30 – Dayton, OH (Nutter Center), Omaha, NE (CHI Health Center)
