Event USA
BackLocated in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin, Event USA has carved out a very specific and dominant niche in the world of sports tourism: providing experiences for fans of the Green Bay Packers. For years, this company operated as Packer Fan Tours and was known as the "Official Game Package Company of the Green Bay Packers." While research indicates the official partnership with the team may have concluded in 2017, the company continues to be a major tour operator for fans seeking tickets and comprehensive travel packages for both home and away games. With decades of experience, Event USA presents itself as a one-stop shop for the ultimate fan experience, but customer feedback reveals a more complex picture with both significant advantages and notable drawbacks.
The Strengths: Convenience and Customer Service
For many fans, especially those traveling from out of state or even internationally, the primary appeal of Event USA is the convenience of its event packages. The company bundles game tickets with lodging, tailgate parties, and sometimes exclusive player autograph sessions. This all-in-one approach to trip planning eliminates the logistical headaches of sourcing each component separately. Many clients have found this service to be invaluable. One long-time customer, who purchased a large package in 2016, described the experience as a "dream come true for a Packer fan," stating it was worth every penny. He specifically praised that the seats were better than expected and the player meet-and-greet was a highlight, demonstrating that when the packages are well-executed, they deliver memorable moments.
Another significant strength lies in their customer support during the booking travel process. Multiple reviews highlight exceptionally positive interactions with staff members. One client, Randy Everette, gave a special mention to an employee named Kristi for being "polite, professional, calm, informative, and helpful" while arranging a package that included a room at the Lodge Kohler and game tickets. Similarly, another customer, Linda Ludy, praised an employee named Melissa for her assistance via the website's chat feature, which helped resolve a booking issue and secured the desired tickets. This level of attentive and effective customer service is a recurring theme among satisfied clients and builds a strong foundation of trust for first-time and repeat buyers.
Areas of Concern: Inconsistent Execution and Rigid Policies
Despite the positive aspects, not all customer experiences have been flawless. A notable area of criticism revolves around the consistency and quality of the ancillary services included in their vacation packages. While the core offering—the game tickets—is consistently lauded as reliable, the add-ons can sometimes fall short of expectations. One patron, J Foster, offered a mixed review, calling Event USA a "Great place to get Lambeau tickets" but expressing disappointment with the rest of the package. The player autograph event was described as feeling "a little cheesy" and rushed, while the tailgate party was deemed "totally disorganized" with "below average" food and some "snotty" employees. This feedback suggests that while the company excels at securing tickets, the execution of the experiential parts of the packages can be inconsistent, potentially diminishing the overall value for the price paid.
Perhaps the most significant concern for potential customers is the company's reportedly rigid policies, particularly regarding cancellations. In a post-COVID world where travel plans can change unexpectedly, flexibility is a key consideration. A review from James Gamble, who purchased a Christmas Day package, rated his experience poorly due to what he described as "very poor policies." He warned that in the face of unforeseen circumstances like travel restrictions, the company "just washes their hands of it once they accept your money." He concluded that it is likely a better deal to book everything separately to retain the ability to cancel. This inflexibility represents a substantial financial risk for customers, making it imperative for anyone considering a package to thoroughly read and understand the terms and conditions before making a purchase.
The Verdict for Potential Customers
Ultimately, Event USA operates as a specialized travel agency that offers a valuable service, but it comes with certain trade-offs. For fans whose primary goal is to secure legitimate tickets to a Packers game without hassle, the company stands as a reliable and reputable source. The convenience of their bundled tourist services is undeniable and can create a seamless and enjoyable gameday weekend, particularly for those unfamiliar with the Green Bay area.
Who Should Use Event USA?
- Fans prioritizing convenience and seeking an all-in-one package.
- Out-of-state or international visitors who want a structured itinerary.
- Individuals who value the security of getting tickets, lodging, and pre-game events from a single, experienced provider.
Who Should Be Cautious?
- Travelers who require flexibility and are concerned about losing their investment due to unforeseen cancellations.
- Customers for whom the quality of peripheral events like tailgate parties and player receptions is as important as the game itself.
- Budget-conscious fans who may find it more cost-effective to arrange their travel components independently.
In conclusion, Event USA remains a major player in Green Bay's sports tourism landscape. Its long history and focus on Packers experiences provide a solid foundation. The positive reports on booking assistance are reassuring, but the criticisms regarding package execution and inflexible policies should not be overlooked. Potential clients should weigh the convenience against the risks and decide whether the premium paid for a package is justified by their personal travel style and priorities.