Petersen Events Center: Your complete guide to events at Pitt

Petersen Events Center is one of Pittsburgh’s premier indoor venues and the home of Pitt Panthers basketball. Located on the University of Pittsburgh campus in the city’s Oakland neighborhood, the arena hosts college basketball, concerts, family shows and university events throughout the year. Whether you’re heading to a Pitt game or a live performance, this guide covers everything you need to know before visiting the Petersen Events Center.

What is Petersen Events Center?

Petersen Events Center is a multi-purpose indoor arena on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh. Opened in 2002, the venue serves as the home court for Pitt Panthers men’s and women’s basketball and regularly hosts concerts, commencements, and touring entertainment. The arena is named in honor of longtime university benefactors John C. Petersen and Gertrude C. Petersen and is known for its modern design and strong sightlines.

Where is Petersen Events Center located?

Petersen Events Center is located at 3719 Terrace Street in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, within the Oakland neighborhood. The arena sits near major academic buildings, hospitals and museums, making it a central destination for both students and visitors. Its location offers convenient access from downtown Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.

What events are held at Petersen Events Center?

Petersen Events Center hosts a wide range of sports and entertainment events throughout the year, with basketball serving as the main attraction.

Pitt Panthers basketball games

Pitt men’s and women’s basketball teams play their home games at Petersen Events Center. Conference matchups and rivalry games often bring energetic crowds and create a lively college basketball atmosphere.

Concerts and live entertainment

The arena is also a regular stop for concerts, comedy tours, and family-friendly shows. Its size allows for strong views of the stage while maintaining an intimate feel compared to larger arenas.

Other events at Petersen Events Center

In addition to sports and concerts, the venue hosts university commencements, community events and special performances depending on the season.

Petersen Events Center seating guide

Petersen Events Center has a seating capacity of approximately 12,500 for basketball games, with different configurations available for concerts and special events. The arena features a bowl-style layout designed to provide clear views from nearly every section.

Best seats at Petersen Events Center

Lower level center sections offer the best views for basketball games, floor seats provide the closest access to the stage for concerts and upper level seats offer a more affordable option with solid sightlines. Seating layouts can vary by event, so checking the seating chart for your specific show is recommended.

Getting to Petersen Events Center

Planning transportation in advance can make attending an event smoother, especially during sold-out games or concerts.

Parking near Petersen Events Center

Parking is available in several university-operated garages and surface lots near the arena. Availability and pricing may vary depending on the event, so arriving early is recommended.

Public transportation and walking

The arena is accessible via Port Authority bus routes, and many fans choose to walk from nearby campus areas or Oakland parking garages. Rideshare services are also commonly used for events.

What to know before you go

Petersen Events Center is a smoke-free venue, and security screenings are required for entry. Bag policies may apply depending on the event, and concessions and merchandise stands are available throughout the arena. Reviewing event-specific policies ahead of time can help ensure a smooth visit.

Frequently asked questions about Petersen Events Center

Here are a few common questions fans have before attending an event at the arena.

How many people does Petersen Events Center hold?

Petersen Events Center holds approximately 12,500 guests for basketball games, with capacity varying based on event setup.

Is Petersen Events Center only used for basketball?

No. While it is home to Pitt basketball, the arena also hosts concerts, commencements and a variety of live entertainment events.

Is Petersen Events Center accessible by public transportation?

Yes. The venue is accessible via multiple Pittsburgh public transportation routes and is located in a walkable campus area.

Why Petersen Events Center stands out

Petersen Events Center combines a central Pittsburgh location with a flexible event schedule and modern amenities. From college basketball to major touring acts, it offers a reliable and engaging live event experience for fans across the region.