Quick Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue | Smoothie King Center |
| Location | New Orleans, LA |
| Address | 1501 Dave Dixon Dr, New Orleans, LA 70113 |
| Venue Type | Multi-Purpose Arena |
| Capacity | Varies by event configuration |
| Opened | 1999 |
| Main Events | NBA (New Orleans Pelicans), Touring Concerts, College Basketball |
| Seating | Floor, Lower Bowl, Premium Seating, Suites, Upper Bowl |
| Official Website | smoothiekingcenter.com |
Venue Overview
Opened in 1999, Smoothie King Center is part of New Orleans’ major sports and entertainment complex alongside Caesars Superdome. It serves as the home of the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans and hosts concerts, college basketball, family entertainment, and other large events.
Its location near the city’s central business district also puts visitors within a short drive of the French Quarter and other major attractions.
What Is a Concert Like at Smoothie King Center?
The concert experience depends on the artist’s stage configuration. Floor seating puts fans closest to the performers, while lower-bowl sections provide a broader view of the stage and screens.
Upper-level seats are farther away but can work well for visitors who want a complete view of the production at a lower ticket price.
Smoothie King Center Seating Chart & Layout
- Floor: Concerts can use general-admission areas, reserved seating, or a combination depending on the tour.
- 100 Level: Lower-bowl seating surrounds the floor and provides closer stage views.
- Club & Premium Areas: Premium seating and suites offer additional amenities.
- 300 Level: Upper-level seating provides an elevated view of the entire production.
Best Seats at Smoothie King Center for Concerts
| Seat Type | Recommended Area | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Centered lower-bowl sections | Good balance between stage view and proximity. |
| Best View | Lower bowl facing the stage | Better alignment with the main production. |
| Best Value | Front rows of the upper level | Elevated perspective at generally lower prices. |
| Closest to Stage | Floor pit or front floor sections | Closest positions to the performers. |
Seats to Consider Carefully
- Highest upper-level rows: Greater distance from the stage.
- Extreme side sections: Can have more angled views depending on stage placement.
Smoothie King Center Capacity
The venue uses different capacities for basketball, concerts, and other events. Concert capacity depends on the stage footprint, floor seating, and portions of the bowl opened for the show.
Concerts & Events at Smoothie King Center
Smoothie King Center hosts touring artists across hip-hop, R&B, pop, rock, country, Latin, and other genres. Comedy, family entertainment, basketball, and other events also take place throughout the year.
Smoothie King Center Parking
Parking is available in the Superdome/Smoothie King Center complex and nearby Downtown New Orleans facilities. Event traffic can become heavy, particularly when events at both venues overlap.
How to Get to Smoothie King Center
- Driving: The complex is accessible from I-10 and major Downtown New Orleans streets.
- Public Transportation: Regional bus and streetcar services provide options for reaching the downtown area.
- Rideshare: Follow the event-specific instructions for the designated pickup and drop-off areas.
Smoothie King Center Entrances & Arrival Tips
Check your ticket and event information for the recommended entrance. Arriving around an hour before showtime gives you time to deal with parking, security, and finding your seats.
Smoothie King Center Bag Policy & Venue Rules
Bag and prohibited-item rules may change. Check the current policy before attending rather than relying on an older bag-size limit.
Accessibility at Smoothie King Center
The arena provides accessible seating, companion seating, accessible restrooms, elevators, and other accommodations for guests with disabilities. Contact the venue before the event if you need a specific service.
Food & Drinks at Smoothie King Center
The arena offers standard concessions and New Orleans-inspired food and beverage options. Visitors can also find a much wider selection of local restaurants throughout Downtown New Orleans.
Things to Do Near Smoothie King Center
The arena is close to Caesars Superdome and within a short drive of the French Quarter, Central Business District, restaurants, hotels, and New Orleans attractions.
What Makes Smoothie King Center Different?
Its location within the city’s main sports complex makes it easy to combine a concert with other Downtown New Orleans activities. The nearby Superdome also creates a particularly busy event district when both venues are hosting events.
Tips for Going to a Concert at Smoothie King Center
- Check the latest bag rules before leaving for the arena.
- Allow extra time for traffic when another event is taking place at Caesars Superdome.
- If you’re visiting New Orleans, leave time to explore the surrounding downtown area before or after the show.
Smoothie King Center FAQ
What is the capacity of Smoothie King Center for concerts?
Concert capacity varies according to the stage and seating configuration used for the event.
Where is Smoothie King Center located?
Smoothie King Center is located at 1501 Dave Dixon Dr in New Orleans, Louisiana.
What is the bag policy at Smoothie King Center?
Bag restrictions can change. Check the current venue policy before attending your concert.
Is Smoothie King Center next to the Superdome?
Yes. Smoothie King Center and Caesars Superdome are part of the same downtown sports and entertainment complex.
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