Bryce Jordan Center: SeatGeek’s Complete Guide to University Park's Sports & Entertainment Epicenter

On the campus of Penn State University, the Bryce Jordan Center stands as the largest indoor arena in Pennsylvania between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. It’s a versatile venue that hosts everything from college basketball to major concerts, family shows and Penn State traditions like THON. Whether you’re a student, an alum, or just visiting State College for an event, the Bryce Jordan Center is a must-experience destination.

Venue Overview

• Address: 127 Bryce Jordan Center, University Park, PA 16802

• Opened: 1996

• Capacity: About 15,261 for basketball, up to 16,000 for concerts

• Primary Tenants: Penn State Nittany Lions men’s and women’s basketball teams

• Ownership/Operation: Penn State University

Events & Programming

The Bryce Jordan Center is a multipurpose arena that blends university athletics with major touring acts:

• Sports: Home to Penn State men’s and women’s basketball games, plus occasional wrestling and volleyball events.

• Concerts: A regular stop for major tours, having hosted artists like Bruce Springsteen, Beyoncé, Drake, Luke Bryan and Taylor Swift.

• Traditions: Best known for THON, Penn State’s annual 46-hour dance marathon, the largest student-run philanthropy in the world.

• Family Shows: Disney on Ice, WWE, monster truck shows and comedy tours frequently roll through the venue.

History & Highlights

The Bryce Jordan Center opened in 1996, named after Penn State’s 14th university president, Dr. Bryce Jordan. It quickly replaced Rec Hall as the university’s main indoor event space, offering much larger capacity and modern amenities.

Some highlights over the years include:

• Hosting sold-out concerts from top touring artists.

• Serving as a hub for NCAA basketball tournaments and Big Ten competition.

• THON’s annual fundraising for childhood cancer research, raising millions each year.

• Community and commencement ceremonies, making it a central piece of Penn State life.

Getting There

Driving & Parking

The Bryce Jordan Center is located on Penn State’s campus, adjacent to Beaver Stadium. Ample parking is available in nearby lots such as the Jordan East, Stadium West and Porter North lots. Event-day parking fees vary and it’s best to pre-purchase parking when possible.

Public Transit

CATA (Centre Area Transportation Authority) buses serve Penn State’s campus and downtown State College, offering an easy way to get to the arena without worrying about parking.

Rideshare & Drop-Off

Designated drop-off zones are available on Curtin Road near the arena, convenient for rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.

Seating & Ticketing

• Basketball: Seating runs from courtside seats to upper-level views, with great sightlines throughout the arena.

• Concerts: Flexible stage setups allow for full-arena, half-house, or end-stage configurations. Floor seating is popular for major tours.

• Capacity: Up to 16,000 for concerts, depending on stage layout.

• Premium Options: Club seating and private suites offer upgraded experiences with lounge access and food service.

Mobile tickets are the standard for entry, though will-call is also available at the box office.

Food & Concessions

Concessions at the Bryce Jordan Center offer a mix of classic stadium snacks and local favorites. Options include:

• Hot dogs, nachos, pretzels and popcorn

• Pizza and burgers

• Soft drinks, water and beer at select events

• Specialty items available during major concerts and family shows

Atmosphere & Fan Experience

The atmosphere inside the Bryce Jordan Center changes depending on the event:

• Penn State Basketball: Big Ten matchups bring out the Nittany Lion pride, especially when rivals like Michigan State or Ohio State come to town.

• THON: Few experiences are as unique as this student-led dance marathon, where thousands come together for an unforgettable cause.

• Concerts: The energy is electric, with floor seats offering up-close access to the action and upper decks providing wide views of the stage.

• Community Events: From commencements to family entertainment, the arena has a welcoming and spirited vibe.

Policies & Tips

• Bag Policy: Clear bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” are permitted. Small clutches and medically necessary items are exceptions.

• Security: All guests pass through metal detectors and bag checks.

• Accessibility: ADA seating, elevators, accessible restrooms and wheelchair services are available.

• Re-Entry: Typically not permitted once you exit the building.

• Best Tip: Arrive early, as traffic around Penn State’s campus can be heavy on event days, especially when combined with Beaver Stadium events.

Why the Bryce Jordan Center Stands Out

More than just an arena, the Bryce Jordan Center is a cornerstone of Penn State culture and a premier entertainment destination for central Pennsylvania. It brings together students, alumni and the local community for unforgettable experiences—whether it’s cheering on the Nittany Lions, dancing for THON, or singing along with world-class artists.

Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek

From Big Ten basketball and family entertainment to once-in-a-lifetime concerts, the Bryce Jordan Center is central Pennsylvania’s go-to venue. With SeatGeek, you can easily browse tickets, compare seat options and plan your perfect trip to Penn State’s premier arena.