Chaifetz Arena: SeatGeek’s Complete Guide to The Home of St. Louis Billikens Basketball

Located on the campus of Saint Louis University, Chaifetz Arena is one of St. Louis’s premier venues for live entertainment, sports and community events. Since opening in 2008, the arena has become the proud home of the Saint Louis Billikens men’s and women’s basketball teams while also hosting a wide range of concerts, family shows and special events throughout the year. With modern amenities, a prime location near Midtown St. Louis and a seating capacity of around 10,600 for basketball and up to 11,600 for concerts, Chaifetz Arena offers fans an intimate but high-energy experience that sets it apart from larger arenas.

A Modern Home for the Billikens

Chaifetz Arena is best known as the home of Billikens basketball, where the atmosphere comes alive during college hoops season. Fans regularly pack the arena to support one of the most competitive programs in the Atlantic 10 Conference. With its modern seating layout, great sightlines and passionate fan base, Chaifetz delivers a true home-court advantage for the Billikens.

The arena was named after businessman and philanthropist Dr. Richard Chaifetz, whose generous donation made the facility possible. Over the years, it has established itself as a must-visit destination for NCAA basketball fans, blending cutting-edge design with the energy of a proud university community.

Concerts and Live Entertainment

Beyond sports, Chaifetz Arena has become a hub for live music and entertainment in St. Louis. The venue’s size makes it ideal for major touring acts that prefer a more intimate space than massive stadiums. Over the years, Chaifetz has welcomed artists across all genres, from rock and pop to country and hip-hop.

In addition to concerts, Chaifetz Arena also hosts comedy shows, family-friendly productions and community gatherings. Events like Disney on Ice, Cirque du Soleil and professional wrestling shows are regular favorites, giving the arena year-round appeal. Its versatile layout allows it to adapt easily, whether for a high-energy concert, a corporate event or a basketball showdown.

State-of-the-Art Amenities

One of the arena’s biggest strengths is its modern fan experience. Opened in 2008, Chaifetz Arena was designed to maximize comfort and convenience. The seating is steeply pitched, meaning fans are closer to the action no matter where they sit. With great acoustics and lighting, the venue is equally impressive for basketball games and live performances.

Concessions at Chaifetz Arena highlight a mix of classic arena fare and local St. Louis favorites. Fans can enjoy everything from hot dogs and popcorn to more gourmet options and local specialties. The venue also features convenient entry points, updated technology and ample parking nearby, making it a hassle-free experience for attendees.

Location and Accessibility

Chaifetz Arena is located on Saint Louis University’s campus, just minutes from downtown St. Louis. Its central location means fans have access to a wide range of pre- and post-event activities. Whether you’re looking to grab dinner in Midtown, explore the city’s nightlife, or visit nearby attractions like the Gateway Arch or Forest Park, the arena’s location makes it easy to turn an event into a full day or weekend outing.

Public transportation and rideshare options also make the arena easily accessible, while nearby parking lots and garages provide convenience for those driving in. Its position within a vibrant university neighborhood gives it a unique charm, blending college spirit with big-city amenities.

Why Chaifetz Arena Stands Out

What makes Chaifetz Arena special is the balance it strikes between intimacy and energy. Unlike massive arenas that can feel overwhelming, Chaifetz offers a closer, more personal experience while still packing in enough fans to create an electric atmosphere. This makes it a favorite among concert-goers and basketball fans alike.

Its role as both a college basketball arena and a major entertainment venue ensures that Chaifetz Arena remains one of the most versatile destinations in St. Louis. Fans know they can expect top-tier performances, whether from the Billikens or from world-class touring artists.

Plan Your Visit

When heading to Chaifetz Arena, it’s worth arriving early to explore the area. Midtown St. Louis offers a growing selection of restaurants, breweries and bars, perfect for pre- or post-event gatherings. Inside the arena, fans will find plenty of concession stands, merchandise shops and comfortable seating options.

If you’re visiting from out of town, St. Louis has no shortage of attractions to round out your trip. From baseball games at Busch Stadium to live music on Delmar Loop and from the city’s world-famous barbecue to its thriving art and cultural scene, Chaifetz Arena fits right into St. Louis’s reputation as a city that loves sports, music and entertainment.

Final Thoughts

Chaifetz Arena may not be the largest venue in the country, but its impact on St. Louis’s sports and entertainment scene is undeniable. With its combination of modern amenities, a vibrant location and an intimate yet energetic atmosphere, it’s no wonder that both the Billikens and major touring acts call it home.

Whether you’re catching a heart-pounding basketball game, singing along with your favorite artist, or bringing the family for a live show, Chaifetz Arena delivers an unforgettable experience. For anyone in or around St. Louis, this arena is a must-visit destination for world-class entertainment.