Desert Financial Arena
ASU's 14,000-seat venue for electrifying basketball games, major concerts, and community events, recently enhanced with $42M in renovations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience electrifying games
Desert Financial Arena
Best Time
Experience electrifying games
Highlights
Must-see attractions
ASU's 14,000-seat venue for electrifying basketball games, major concerts, and community events, recently enhanced with $42M in renovations.
"A versatile venue with a vibrant atmosphere, recently upgraded for an even better fan experience."
🎟️ Book Tickets Early
For concerts, secure tickets in advance to guarantee entry and best seats.
🚗 Parking Strategy
For ASU games, parking is convenient. For major concerts, consider rideshares or overflow options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
ASU Sun Devil Basketball
Main Arena Floor
Experience the electric atmosphere of college basketball games with the passionate Sun Devil fanbase.
+1
Concert Performances
Main Stage
From global superstars like Billie Eilish to rising stars, catch major music acts in this vibrant venue.
Special Events & Graduations
Main Arena
Witness significant moments like ASU graduations and cultural events such as the ASU Pow Wow.
+2Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Tickets & Entry
Navigating the Arena
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Early
For concerts, secure tickets in advance to guarantee entry and best seats.
🚗 Parking Strategy
For ASU games, parking is convenient. For major concerts, consider rideshares or overflow options.
🎒 Check Bag Policy
Be aware of size restrictions and prohibited items to avoid entry delays.
🎶 Arena Renovations
The arena is undergoing multi-year renovations to enhance the fan experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Early
For concerts, secure tickets in advance to guarantee entry and best seats.
🚗 Parking Strategy
For ASU games, parking is convenient. For major concerts, consider rideshares or overflow options.
🎒 Check Bag Policy
Be aware of size restrictions and prohibited items to avoid entry delays.
🎶 Arena Renovations
The arena is undergoing multi-year renovations to enhance the fan experience.
🤝 Friendly Staff
While most staff are helpful, some visitors report rude encounters during large events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Desert Financial Arena is a versatile venue praised for its atmosphere during ASU games and its capacity to host major concerts. Recent renovations have significantly improved amenities and visual experiences. However, some visitors have encountered issues with rude staff during large events like graduations, and seating can be uncomfortable for some.
"We had an excellent time at ASU powwow. I also love seeing alum plaques like Velasquez, Frye, Severn, and Hendo."
Maximus D. Meridius
"The arena was nice. Parking was ok. But the real and only issues were the employees. The hospitality staff was horrible and hostile and very RUDE. They wouldn't listen because they all were on a power trip."
Charlene Taylor
"I was here on 11/17/23 for the Oregon vs ASU volleyball game. It was a nice venue for it's age with plenty of capacity for our event. Bathrooms were clean and well maintained and descent selection of concessions. I look forward to coming back for other events."
Matthew Ferrick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Desert Financial Arena is located on the ASU Tempe campus. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options, including light rail and bus services, also serve the campus area. For major events, consider rideshares or public transit to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, parking is available, especially for ASU sporting events. However, for large concerts or special events, parking can fill up quickly. Overflow parking and shuttle services may be available, and rideshare drop-off/pick-up zones are designated.
Absolutely! The ASU Tempe campus is well-served by Valley Metro Rail and bus routes, making it a convenient option for reaching Desert Financial Arena without dealing with parking. Check the Valley Metro website for routes and schedules.
Traffic can be heavy around the arena during major events. It's advisable to check real-time traffic apps and consider routes that bypass main thoroughfares. Arriving early is always a good strategy to mitigate traffic stress.
Yes, there are typically designated areas for rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. These are usually clearly marked and can be found near the main entrances to help manage traffic flow.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for ASU events can often be purchased at the arena box office or through official ASU athletics channels. For concerts and other special events, tickets are typically sold through Ticketmaster or other authorized vendors. It's always best to buy from official sources to avoid counterfeit tickets.
For some ASU sporting events, tickets may be available at the door. However, for popular concerts and high-demand events, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance as they can sell out.
Desert Financial Arena has a clear bag policy for most events. Typically, only small clutch purses and clear bags up to a certain size are allowed. Check the specific event's policy beforehand to avoid issues at security.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside Desert Financial Arena. There are concessions available for purchase inside the venue. Some exceptions may apply for specific events, but it's best to confirm.
The arena's operating hours vary depending on the event. Doors typically open 1-2 hours before scheduled events. It's best to check the specific event details on the official Desert Financial Arena website or your ticket for exact timings.
🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience
Desert Financial Arena has a seating capacity of approximately 14,000 for basketball games and can accommodate larger crowds for concerts and other events, sometimes utilizing overflow seating.
Yes, Desert Financial Arena has undergone renovations that include new premium spaces like the Encore Club, Studio 623, Bassline Bar, and The View Lounge, offering enhanced viewing and amenities for select events.
Concessions at Desert Financial Arena offer a variety of food and beverage options, including classic arena fare. Recent renovations have also focused on upgrading the food and drink experience.
Desert Financial Arena is committed to accessibility. It offers accessible seating, restrooms, and other amenities for guests with disabilities. It's recommended to contact the arena in advance to arrange any specific needs.
The atmosphere during ASU Sun Devil basketball games is known to be energetic and passionate, with a strong student section and fan base creating a lively environment.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography policies can vary by event. For most concerts, personal cameras with small lenses are often allowed, but professional equipment is usually prohibited. For ASU games, non-flash photography is typically permitted. Always check the specific event's policy.
Yes, especially during events like ASU games or concerts, the vibrant atmosphere, crowd energy, and stage setups offer great photo opportunities. The recent renovations also include enhanced visual elements like an LED dome.
For concerts, the best photo opportunities often come from your seat, capturing the stage and the artist. If permitted, standing closer to the stage can offer dynamic shots, but be mindful of security and other attendees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For graduation ceremonies, while the events are significant, some visitors have noted that seating can be stiff with limited legroom and steep steps, which might be a consideration for very young children or those with mobility issues. Staff interactions during these events have also been mixed, with some families reporting rude encounters regarding personal items like posters and water bottles.
It's always a good idea to check the specific event's guidelines regarding age restrictions or recommendations for children. Concessions offer standard arena fare that usually appeals to younger palates.
🎶 Concert Goers
To make the most of your concert visit, buy tickets from official sources to avoid scams, and arrive early to navigate parking and security smoothly. Be aware of the venue's bag policy and prohibited items to prevent any last-minute issues at the entrance.
Keep an eye on the arena's schedule for upcoming performances. With the ongoing improvements, Desert Financial Arena is solidifying its position as a key concert venue in the region.
+1🎓 Graduation Attendees
However, it's important to be aware of potential challenges. Some attendees have reported that staff outside the seating areas can be rude and enforce rules strictly, sometimes confiscating personal items like balloons and water bottles, which can be upsetting for families. Seating itself has been described as stiff with limited legroom and steep steps.
To ensure a smoother experience, familiarize yourself with the event's specific rules regarding what can be brought in, and be prepared for potentially strict security checks. Arriving with ample time can also help reduce stress.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of Desert Financial Arena: Renovations and Future
Beyond the premium clubs, the renovation also focused on improving the overall arena infrastructure. Visitors can expect refreshed concourses, faster entry points, and upgraded food and drink options. A notable visual enhancement is the introduction of an LED dome, promising bigger and more immersive visuals during events. These improvements signal a commitment to modernizing the venue and attracting a wider range of events beyond ASU's own programming.
Looking ahead, Arizona State athletic director Graham Rossini has indicated that further multi-year renovations are planned, with a focus on prioritizing the game-day experience and attracting non-ASU events to campus. The arena is considered a 'great university asset,' and significant investment is being made to ensure it remains a premier destination for entertainment and athletics in the region.
+1Experiencing Concerts at Desert Financial Arena
When attending a concert, it's wise to be prepared. Some attendees have noted that security can be strict, with instances of fans being denied entry if they don't have the correct tickets or if they violate venue policies. It's crucial to double-check your ticket information and be aware of any specific rules for the event you're attending.
For those looking to catch a show, keeping an eye on the Desert Financial Arena schedule is key. The venue hosts a diverse range of genres, so there's often something for every music lover. The recent renovations, including upgraded sound and visual systems, aim to provide an even more impactful live music experience.
ASU Events: Basketball and Beyond
+1Beyond basketball, the arena is a central hub for various ASU events. It hosts graduations, celebrating the achievements of students, and cultural gatherings like the ASU Pow Wow, which showcases Native American traditions and performances. These events highlight the arena's versatility and its importance to the university community.
+2Recent renovations are also aimed at improving the experience for all ASU events, making the venue more comfortable and modern. This includes upgrades to seating areas, concourses, and concessions, ensuring that whether you're cheering on the Sun Devils or attending a cultural celebration, your experience is a positive one.
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