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MGM Grand Garden Arena: SeatGeek’s Complete Guide to Events at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada

Nov 8, 2025

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Mary Callahan

Few venues capture the excitement of Las Vegas like the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Located inside the legendary MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, this world-famous indoor arena has hosted everything from championship boxing matches and UFC fights to sold-out concerts, award shows and special events. Whether you’re catching a superstar performer or a title bout, MGM Grand Garden Arena is one of the most iconic event destinations on the Strip.

About MGM Grand Garden Arena

  • Location: 3799 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89109

  • Opened: December 1993

  • Capacity: Up to 17,000 (varies by event)

  • Primary Uses: Boxing, MMA, concerts, award shows and special events

Part of the sprawling MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, the arena sits at the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Its central location, luxurious amenities and unmatched atmosphere make it a cornerstone for live entertainment in Sin City.

A Look Back at MGM Grand Garden Arena’s History

When it opened in 1993, MGM Grand Garden Arena immediately became synonymous with world-class boxing. Some of the sport’s most famous fights have taken place here, including:

  • Mike Tyson vs. Evander Holyfield II (1997): Known for the infamous “bite fight.”

  • Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao bouts: Each cemented the arena’s reputation as boxing’s biggest stage.

  • UFC Debut in 2001: The arena became a key venue for mixed martial arts’ rise in popularity.

Beyond combat sports, the venue has hosted:

Over the years, MGM Grand Garden Arena has transformed into a versatile venue capable of staging nearly any type of entertainment.

Getting to MGM Grand Garden Arena

By Car: Parking is available at MGM Grand, though event-day traffic can be busy. Self-parking and valet options are offered. Guests are encouraged to allow extra time for Strip congestion.

Public Transit: The Las Vegas Monorail stops directly at MGM Grand, providing a convenient option for those staying elsewhere along the Strip.

Walking: The arena is located inside MGM Grand, making it easily accessible from the hotel’s casino floor, restaurants and entertainment areas.

Rideshare: Designated Uber and Lyft drop-off zones are located near the hotel entrances.

Seating at MGM Grand Garden Arena

The arena’s flexible design allows for different seating configurations depending on the event:

  • Concerts: Stage setups range from end-stage to in-the-round. Floor seating brings fans closest to the performers, while lower bowl seats balance proximity and views.

  • Boxing & MMA: Ringside seating provides the most exclusive experience, while tiered lower-level sections ensure sharp sightlines. Upper-level seats are more affordable but still provide strong views.

  • Special Events: Award shows and conventions use custom layouts, with VIP seating and premium hospitality options.

With a capacity just under 17,000, MGM Grand Garden Arena feels intimate compared to larger stadiums, amplifying the energy at every event.

Food & Drink at MGM Grand Garden Arena

The arena offers both traditional arena snacks and elevated dining reflective of Las Vegas’ food culture:

  • Classic Concessions: Hot dogs, nachos, pretzels and popcorn.

  • Beverages: Full-service bars with beer, wine and cocktails.

  • Casino Dining Nearby: MGM Grand’s restaurants—including Tom Colicchio’s Craftsteak, Morimoto, and Joel Robuchon—are just steps away, making pre- or post-event dining an event in itself.

Atmosphere at MGM Grand Garden Arena

The energy at MGM Grand Garden Arena is unlike anywhere else in the world.

  • Boxing & MMA: The crowd buzz is electric, with celebrities often spotted ringside. The atmosphere builds with every round, creating legendary moments that resonate globally.

  • Concerts: World-famous artists love playing Vegas, and the arena’s acoustics make for powerful, immersive performances.

  • Award Shows: The glitz and glamour of Las Vegas are on full display, with red carpets, celebrity appearances and high production value.

Whether you’re there for a fight night or a sold-out concert, the atmosphere inside the arena is always larger than life.

Arena Policies

  • Bag Policy: Small bags only; oversized bags and backpacks are prohibited.

  • Mobile Tickets: Most events use mobile entry. Download your tickets before arriving.

  • Cashless Venue: Concessions and merchandise stands primarily accept card or mobile payments.

  • Prohibited Items: Outside food/drinks, professional cameras, large signs and noisemakers.

  • Re-Entry: Not permitted once you leave the arena.

Notable Events at MGM Grand Garden Arena

Over the years, the arena has staged countless historic events:

Each of these moments helped solidify MGM Grand Garden Arena as one of the entertainment capitals of the world.

Nearby Attractions

Being inside MGM Grand gives visitors access to endless options:

  • Restaurants & Bars: From fine dining to casual bites, everything is steps away.

  • Casino Floor: One of the largest casinos in Las Vegas, offering slots, table games and poker.

  • Nightlife: Hakkasan Nightclub and other lounges inside MGM Grand are iconic Vegas party spots.

  • Shows: In-house entertainment like KÀ by Cirque du Soleil.

  • The Strip: The arena’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions like the Bellagio fountains, New York-New York and The Cosmopolitan.

Why MGM Grand Garden Arena Stands Out

MGM Grand Garden Arena isn’t just another venue—it’s a piece of Las Vegas history. Known globally for hosting some of the biggest moments in sports and entertainment, it blends the city’s signature flair with an intimate, high-energy atmosphere. From legendary boxing nights to world-class concerts, the arena delivers unforgettable experiences you can only find in Vegas.

Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek

Whether you’re watching a championship fight, a chart-topping musician, or an awards show, MGM Grand Garden Arena is a must-visit stop on the Las Vegas Strip. Use SeatGeek to explore tickets, compare seating options and plan your perfect night at one of the most iconic venues in the world.