A method provides for using a wireless patron unit within a venue and within a vicinity of the venue. The method includes providing at least one patron with a wireless patron unit by either permitting the at least one patron to temporarily use a provided wireless patron unit that includes at least one venue specific application program, or by providing at least one venue specific application program to the at least one patron for downloading into a patron-owned wireless communication device that can be used during the at least one patron's visit to the venue. The method also includes connecting the wireless patron unit to a server enabling communication between the wireless patron unit and the server, entering a patron order for at least one item or service provided by the venue into the wireless patron unit, and determining a current location of the wireless patron unit.