Oct 25, 2025
·Mary Callahan
Golden 1 Center is the crown jewel of Sacramento’s entertainment scene and home to the NBA’s Sacramento Kings. Opened in 2016, the state-of-the-art arena is celebrated for its innovative design, sustainable technology and fan-first experience. Located in the heart of downtown Sacramento, Golden 1 Center has quickly become one of the most advanced sports and entertainment venues in the world.
Beyond basketball, Golden 1 Center regularly hosts concerts, family shows and cultural events, welcoming global superstars like Elton John, Drake, Harry Styles and Paul McCartney. With its sleek design and vibrant downtown setting, the arena has transformed Sacramento into a must-visit destination for live entertainment.
About Golden 1 Center
Address: 500 David J Stern Walk, Sacramento, CA 95814
Golden 1 Center seats 17,608 fans for basketball games and up to 19,000 for concerts. The venue is renowned for its eco-friendly design, boasting LEED Platinum certification, a smart ventilation system that uses Sacramento’s delta breeze, and one of the largest 4K ultra-HD videoboards in the NBA.
The arena is also known for sourcing 90% of its food and beverage options locally, giving fans a true taste of Northern California’s farm-to-fork culture.
A Look Back at Golden 1 Center’s History
The Sacramento Kings played for decades at ARCO Arena (later Sleep Train Arena) before moving to their new home in 2016. Golden 1 Center represented more than just a new arena—it was part of a massive revitalization of downtown Sacramento, with the adjacent DOCO (Downtown Commons) development featuring dining, shopping and entertainment options.
Since its opening, Golden 1 Center has hosted not only Kings basketball but also the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, major concerts, UFC events and award shows, cementing its status as one of the premier indoor arenas in California.
How to Get to Golden 1 Center
Driving: Located in downtown Sacramento, Golden 1 Center is easily accessible from I-5, I-80 and Highway 50.
Parking: DOCO and surrounding areas feature multiple garages and surface lots, with prepaid parking available for convenience.
Public Transit: Fans can use SacRT Light Rail and bus lines, with stations just steps from the arena.
Biking & Walking: Bike racks and pedestrian-friendly streets make biking and walking convenient for locals.
Rideshare: Dedicated Uber and Lyft zones streamline pick-up and drop-off after events.
Plan Your Visit to Golden 1 Center
Opening Times: Arena doors typically open 90 minutes before events.
Event Duration: Kings games last about 2.5 hours; concerts and other shows vary.
Ticketing: Golden 1 Center uses mobile ticketing only for quick and secure entry.
Food & Beverages: One of the arena’s standout features is its local dining options, including:
Paragary’s – farm-to-fork cuisine with fresh, seasonal dishes.
Selland’s Market Café – artisanal pizzas, salads and comfort food.
Centro Cocina Mexicana – bold and authentic Mexican flavors.
A wide selection of California craft beers and regional wines.
Family-Friendly Options: The arena features a wide variety of kid-friendly dining choices and family programming throughout the year.
Stadium Policies
Bag Policy: Only clear bags 12” x 6” x 12” or smaller are allowed.
Cashless Venue: All concessions and retail transactions are cashless, with cards and mobile payments accepted.
Security: Metal detectors and bag checks are required at entry.
Re-Entry: No re-entry is permitted once you leave the venue.
Inside Golden 1 Center
Golden 1 Center was designed with fan comfort in mind. Its five-story glass hangar doors can open to let in fresh air, creating a unique indoor-outdoor feel. The massive center-hung videoboard stretches nearly wall-to-wall, ensuring that every fan has a clear view of the action.
The concourses are wide, modern, and lined with local food options, while the seating bowl offers excellent sightlines for both basketball and concerts. Luxury suites and club seating provide premium amenities for those seeking an elevated experience.
Make the Most of Your Visit
Best Value Seats: Upper-level sideline seats offer great views of the court at affordable prices.
Premium Experience: Courtside seats, lofts, and suites deliver top-notch hospitality.
Concert Hot Spot: Floor seating offers fans a close-up experience with the biggest acts in music.
Before & After the Event: Explore DOCO, filled with dining, bars and entertainment just steps from the arena.
Legacy at Golden 1 Center
Golden 1 Center is more than just the Kings’ home—it’s a showcase of Sacramento’s innovation, sustainability, and culture. Whether it’s a buzzer-beater, a sold-out concert or a family-friendly event, the arena delivers unforgettable experiences in the heart of California’s capital city.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
From Kings basketball to world-class concerts, Golden 1 Center is Sacramento’s ultimate destination for live events. Use SeatGeek to explore tickets, compare prices and make your next visit unforgettable.