1st Mariner Arena is the top arena of its size in the U.S., according to industry publications Billboard Magazine and Venues Today. After a star-studded year including performances from Bruce Springsteen, Beyonce and Jay-Z, the aging venue took the No. 1 spot for arenas with capacities from 10,001 to 15,000. The results were based on the number of tickets sold and gross revenue, according to Frank Remesch, 1st Mariner's general manager. "We had a heck of a run this year," Remesch said. "I wouldn't say I'm surprised, but I'm proud." Last year, Billboard Magazine ranked 1st Mariner No. 3, behind Boardwalk Hall Arena in Atlantic City, N.J., and the MGM Grand's Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

- Sam Sessa