Normal 'concert/show' arrangement is to have chairs on the floor with some folks allowed to stand near stage...depending on the event.

107 would be better if it was me

There are three downtown hotels connected to the Van Andel Arena via skywalk enclosure for inclement weather. No need for a coat or umbrella should you choose this route. The closest would be the Courtyard Marriott, followed by the J.W. Marriott, and the furthest away is the Amway Grand Plaza. The average walking time would be 5-15 minutes depending on the hotel you choose. Added note. There is a sprawling nightlife that surrounds the arena in all directions; 15 minute walk or less for, micro breweries, entertainment, dining etc.

There's a u shaped drive and parking reserved for employees and tour buses on the south side of the Van Andel. No guarantees they'll be out there but you may be lucky enough to catch them going to a sound check or rehearsal mid day if it's an evening show. Some artists have been know to visit "The Bob", "Founders" and other downtown hot spots. Depends on where their next show is. Many artists kick off their tour at the Van Andel because of the great acoustics there where they use it as a template for other arenas when they're dialing in their sound so the may arrive a couple days early.