Nov 7, 2025
·Mary Callahan
In the heart of downtown Omaha, CHI Health Center Omaha is the city’s crown jewel for sports, concerts, and conventions. With a modern arena connected to a massive convention center, it has become Nebraska’s go-to destination for live entertainment and major events. Whether you’re here for a Creighton basketball game, the Olympic Swim Trials or a sold-out concert, CHI Health Center Omaha guarantees an unforgettable experience.
About CHI Health Center Omaha
Location: 455 N 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68102
Opened: 2003 (originally Qwest Center Omaha, later CenturyLink Center Omaha)
Capacity: ~18,300 for basketball, ~17,500 for hockey, up to 19,500 for concerts
Primary Tenants: Creighton Bluejays Men’s Basketball (NCAA)
Connected to a 194,000-square-foot convention center, CHI Health Center Omaha is more than just an arena—it’s a multipurpose complex that draws sports fans, music lovers, and business travelers alike. Its downtown location near the Missouri River and Old Market entertainment district makes it one of the most accessible and lively venues in the Midwest.
A Look Back at CHI Health Center Omaha’s History
The arena opened in September 2003 as the Qwest Center, quickly putting Omaha on the map as a premier event city. It replaced the Omaha Civic Auditorium as the region’s main indoor venue and gave Creighton basketball a true home court advantage.
Over the past two decades, CHI Health Center Omaha has hosted:
Creighton Basketball: The Bluejays regularly rank among the top 10 nationally in attendance.
Olympic Swim Trials: Since 2008, Omaha has transformed the arena into a world-class swimming venue, hosting the trials multiple times.
NCAA Tournaments: Men’s and women’s basketball tournament games have brought national attention.
Concerts: Everyone from Garth Brooks and Elton John to Taylor Swift and Drake has headlined here.
Special Events: The Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholders Meeting, hosted by Warren Buffett, draws tens of thousands from around the world.
Its ability to shift seamlessly from basketball to concerts to conventions has made it one of the most versatile arenas in the country.
Getting to CHI Health Center Omaha
By Car: The arena is easily accessible from I-480, I-80, and U.S. Highway 75. Parking is available at on-site lots and garages, though pre-purchasing parking is highly recommended for major events.
Public Transit: Omaha Metro Transit buses serve the downtown area, with stops near the arena.
Walking: Many downtown hotels, restaurants, and attractions are within walking distance. The venue is also connected to nearby hotels by enclosed skywalks.
Rideshare: Designated drop-off and pick-up zones for Uber and Lyft are available outside the arena.
Seating at CHI Health Center Omaha
The arena holds just under 20,000 fans, with seating options to fit every budget and preference:
Lower Level (100s): Closest to the action, perfect for basketball fans or concertgoers who want to be up close.
Club Level (200s): Mid-tier views with extra comfort and access to upgraded concessions.
Upper Level (300s): More affordable options with wide sightlines.
Courtside/Stage Pit: Premium seating for Creighton games and concerts, offering an unforgettable experience.
Suites: Private boxes with catering, exclusive amenities and great views of the floor.
For concerts, floor seating is added, with configurations varying by performer. The arena’s design ensures clear sightlines from nearly every angle.
Food & Drink at CHI Health Center Omaha
Fans can enjoy both classic arena bites and local Omaha flavors:
Runza: A Nebraska favorite—savory stuffed sandwiches unique to the region.
Local Brews: Craft beers from Nebraska Brewing Company and other local breweries.
Fan Favorites: Pizza, nachos, pretzels and hot dogs are available throughout the concourse.
Specialty Options: Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free choices at select stands.
Premium Clubs: Club and suite ticket holders can access upgraded food and drink selections.
Atmosphere at CHI Health Center Omaha
The vibe at CHI Health Center is electric no matter the event:
Creighton Basketball: Few college programs boast such a loyal following—Bluejay fans consistently sell out the arena and create a deafening home-court advantage.
Concerts: The arena’s acoustics and flexible staging make it a favorite stop for national tours.
Olympic Swim Trials: The transformation into a temporary Olympic-sized pool is one of the most unique sporting spectacles in the country.
Berkshire Hathaway Meeting: Thousands flock to hear Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, creating a one-of-a-kind corporate atmosphere.
Stadium Policies
Bag Policy: Bags larger than 12” x 12” x 6” are not permitted. Clear bags are recommended.
Mobile Tickets: Most events use mobile entry via smartphones.
Cashless Venue: Many concessions are cash-free; cards and mobile payments are encouraged.
Prohibited Items: Outside food/drink, professional cameras, large signs and noise-making devices.
Re-Entry: Not allowed once you leave the arena.
Notable Events at CHI Health Center Omaha
2008, 2012, 2016, 2021 Olympic Swim Trials – solidifying Omaha as the nation’s swimming capital.
Creighton’s Big East Tournament Appearances – sellout crowds rocking in “Blue Out” fashion.
Concert Tours: Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift, Paul McCartney and more.
Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting – Omaha’s most famous corporate gathering.
NCAA Tournaments: Regular host of men’s and women’s March Madness games.
Nearby Attractions
The arena’s location makes it easy to pair your event with downtown fun:
Old Market District: Just blocks away, filled with restaurants, pubs and boutiques.
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge: A scenic walk over the Missouri River, connecting Nebraska to Iowa.
Durham Museum: Housed in a historic train station, perfect for history lovers.
TD Ameritrade Park: Home of the College World Series, right across the street.
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo: One of the best zoos in the world, a short drive from the arena.
Why CHI Health Center Omaha Stands Out
CHI Health Center Omaha combines big-city events with small-city convenience. Its versatility, passionate crowds, and prime downtown location make it one of the Midwest’s premier venues. Whether you’re catching a Bluejays game, watching the world’s best swimmers, or singing along at a sold-out concert, this arena guarantees a world-class experience.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
From basketball to Broadway tours, Olympic swimming to mega concerts, CHI Health Center Omaha has it all. Use SeatGeek to grab the best tickets, compare seat options and make your visit to Omaha’s premier arena unforgettable.