Quick Facts
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 500 David J Stern Walk, Sacramento, CA 95814 |
| Venue type | Indoor arena and entertainment complex |
| Basketball capacity | ~17,500 |
| Concert capacity | Up to 19,000 |
| Opened | 2016 |
| Primary tenant | Sacramento Kings (NBA) |
| Website | golden1center.com |
Overview
Golden 1 Center opened in 2016 as the centerpiece of Downtown Commons (DOCO), a retail and entertainment district in the heart of downtown Sacramento. It was built with sustainability in mind, earning LEED Platinum certification and drawing much of its power from solar energy. The arena’s most recognizable feature is a set of five glass hangar-style doors at the main entrance, each five stories tall, that can open in good weather to let outside air move through the plaza and concourses.
Seating and Layout
- Floor (GA or reserved): Directly in front of the stage, either general admission standing room or assigned rows extending to the mix position, depending on the show.
- 100-Level (Lower Bowl): Sections 101 through 126 wrap around the lower tier. Side sections, roughly 106 to 108 and 119 to 121, offer direct elevation and central sightlines.
- Club tiers and loft suites: Premium seating between the lower and upper bowls, with private lounges, upscale food service, and wider seats.
- 200-Level (Upper Bowl): Sections 201 through 221. The steep incline keeps sightlines clear across the stage without pillar obstructions, despite the higher elevation.
Most touring concerts use an end-stage setup, placing the stage at one end of the floor and closing off the rear sections behind it. Some shows go in-the-round instead, with the stage at the center of the floor and the full 100 and 200 levels opened around it. Floor configurations vary by promoter, from standing-room GA to fully seated reserved rows.
Capacity
Golden 1 Center holds about 17,500 for Kings games. For concerts and other live productions, capacity can expand to around 19,000, depending on the stage footprint and how the floor is configured.
Sound and Production
The arena uses sound-dampening treatments along the ceiling and upper walls to reduce echo. High-capacity roof trusses support heavy touring equipment, letting productions bring in large LED video panels, custom lighting rigs, and suspended audio clusters.
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible seating and companion positions are available across all seating tiers. Accessible entry points include ramps, wide concourses, escalators, and elevators connecting every level. Assistive listening devices and sensory assistance supplies are available at Guest Services, and accessible parking is available in connected garages.
Venue Policies
- Bags: Any bag larger than 8″ x 6″ x 1″ isn’t allowed into the building. This is a genuinely small limit, closer to a wallet or small clutch than a typical purse, and it applies whether or not the bag is clear. Medical and parental bags above that size are permitted with additional security screening.
- Bag storage: The arena partners with a third-party service for secure off-site bag storage near the venue for anything that doesn’t meet the size limit.
- Tickets: Digital entry only, scanned via smartphone.
- Payment: Fully cashless. Concessions, bars, and merchandise take cards or mobile payment only.
- Outside food and drink: Not permitted.
- Cameras and recording: Professional cameras with detachable lenses and audio recording equipment aren’t allowed.
- Other prohibited items: Laser pointers, weapons, and signs or banners larger than 11″ x 17″ or attached to a rigid pole.
Because policies can be adjusted slightly for specific tours or events, it’s worth checking your ticket or the event page close to showtime.
Getting There
- SacRT light rail: Stops within two blocks of the arena at St. Rose of Lima Park (7th & K and 8th & K stations).
- Amtrak: Capitol Corridor service stops at Sacramento Valley Station, a short walk to the northwest.
- Driving and parking: The arena is accessible via I-5 and Business 80. Multiple city and private garages operate throughout DOCO and the surrounding downtown blocks.
- Rideshare: Drop-off and pickup zones are set up along downtown streets near J Street and L Street.
Nearby
The arena sits within Downtown Commons, surrounded by outdoor plazas, shops, and restaurants. Old Sacramento Waterfront is an easy walk to the west, and the K Street corridor extends to the east, both offering pedestrian paths and public gathering spots.
Before You Arrive
Plan to arrive 60 to 90 minutes before showtime to allow for downtown traffic, security screening, and finding your section before the show starts.
What to bring:
A smartphone with your digital tickets loaded in your wallet app
A valid ID and a credit card, debit card, or contactless payment method
Little to no bag, since the size limit is much smaller than at most arenas; use off-site storage if you need to bring something larger
Weather-appropriate clothing, since delta breezes can cool the outdoor plaza in the evening
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Golden 1 Center for concerts?
Up to around 19,000, depending on the stage configuration and floor setup.
Where is Golden 1 Center located?
500 David J Stern Walk, in downtown Sacramento.
Is Golden 1 Center a cashless venue?
Yes, all concession stands, merchandise stores, and bars accept card or mobile payment only.
What light rail stop is closest to Golden 1 Center?
SacRT light rail stops at St. Rose of Lima Park (7th & K and 8th & K stations), within two blocks of the entrance.
What are the best seats for sound at Golden 1 Center?
Lower-bowl sections directly opposite the stage, such as those around 106 to 108 or 119 to 121, tend to offer balanced acoustic clarity.
Does Golden 1 Center have a clear bag policy?
Not exactly. Bags don’t need to be clear, but they can’t be larger than 8″ x 6″ x 1″, a stricter limit than most arenas use. The safest bet is to bring as little as possible.
Is Golden 1 Center accessible by train?
Yes, Amtrak’s Capitol Corridor stops at Sacramento Valley Station, a short walk from the arena.
How early should I arrive for a concert at Golden 1 Center?
Arriving 60 to 90 minutes before showtime allows time for parking, entry, and security screening.
More Venues:
- Chase Center
- Kia Forum
- Crypto.com Arena
- Rogers Centre
- Comerica Park
- American Family Field
- Great American Ball Park

