Colonial Life Arena: SeatGeek’s Guide to Columbia's Live Sports & Entertainment Center

Located in the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, Colonial Life Arena is the premier indoor venue for sports, concerts and live entertainment in the region. Since opening in 2002, the arena has become a central hub for the University of South Carolina, hosting Gamecocks basketball as well as national touring acts, family shows and large-scale community events. With modern amenities, excellent acoustics and a central downtown location, Colonial Life Arena offers a memorable experience for all visitors.

About Colonial Life Arena

• Location: 801 Lincoln Street, Columbia, SC 29208

• Opened: 2002

• Capacity: Approximately 18,000 for basketball, up to 19,000 for concerts

• Primary Tenant: South Carolina Gamecocks men’s and women’s basketball

• Operator: University of South Carolina

Events at Colonial Life Arena

Colonial Life Arena hosts a wide range of events:

• College Basketball: Home to the South Carolina Gamecocks, the arena sees intense SEC matchups and spirited fan engagement.

• Concerts: The arena regularly welcomes top touring artists, including Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Taylor Swift, Elton John and Luke Bryan.

• Family Shows: Disney on Ice, Cirque du Soleil, Harlem Globetrotters and other family-friendly events are frequent highlights.

• Community Events: Graduations, university ceremonies, charity events and other large gatherings are held throughout the year.

History and Design

Opened in 2002, Colonial Life Arena replaced the Carolina Coliseum as the University of South Carolina’s primary indoor venue. The arena features a modern, multi-purpose design with a horseshoe-shaped seating bowl that provides excellent sightlines for both basketball and concerts.

The arena quickly became known as one of the loudest and most intimidating venues in the Southeastern Conference, thanks to passionate fans and the energy of the student section. Over the years, it has hosted numerous high-profile NCAA tournaments, concerts and national events, solidifying its status as a top venue in the Southeast.

Getting to Colonial Life Arena

Driving and Parking

Located in downtown Columbia, the arena is easily accessible from I-126 and U.S. Highway 76. Multiple nearby parking garages and surface lots are available for event attendees. Pre-purchased parking is recommended for major games and sold-out concerts.

Public Transit

COMET, Columbia’s public transportation system, provides bus service to downtown and the arena.

Rideshare

Designated Uber and Lyft drop-off and pickup zones are available around the arena, making rideshare a convenient option.

Walking

The arena’s downtown location allows for easy walking access from nearby hotels, restaurants and attractions.

Seating and Experience

• Basketball: Lower bowl seats provide an immersive, up-close view of the game, while upper sections offer excellent panoramic sightlines. The student section adds energy and intensity during Gamecocks contests.

• Concerts: Flexible stage setups allow for both end-stage and center-stage configurations. Floor seats place fans near the action, while upper levels offer a complete view of the performance.

• Premium Seating: Suites and club-level seats offer private amenities, enhanced concessions and VIP access.

Food and Concessions

Colonial Life Arena provides a mix of classic stadium fare and local favorites:

• Hot dogs, nachos, burgers, pretzels and pizza

• Beer, wine and soft drinks

• Rotating specialty vendors highlighting local cuisine and unique offerings

Atmosphere

The arena is known for its high-energy atmosphere during Gamecocks basketball games, with passionate fans creating an intense home-court advantage. Concerts and special events benefit from the arena’s excellent acoustics and sightlines, while family-friendly shows offer a welcoming environment for all ages.

Policies and Accessibility

• Bag Policy: Clear bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” are permitted, along with small clutches and medically necessary items.

• Security: Metal detectors and bag checks are conducted at all entrances.

• Accessibility: ADA seating, accessible restrooms, elevators and companion seating are available throughout the arena.

• Re-Entry: Re-entry is generally not permitted once a guest leaves the arena.

Why Colonial Life Arena Stands Out

Colonial Life Arena is a central hub of sports and entertainment in South Carolina. From SEC basketball matchups to national touring concerts and family shows, the arena delivers a modern, high-energy experience. Its combination of passionate fans, excellent facilities and prime downtown location make it a must-visit venue for residents and visitors alike.

Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek

Whether attending a Gamecocks basketball game, a sold-out concert, or a family-friendly show, Colonial Life Arena offers a top-tier event experience. SeatGeek makes it easy to find tickets, compare seating options and plan your visit to this premier Columbia venue.