Pinnacle Bank Arena: SeatGeek’s Guide to the Home of Nebraska Cornhuskers' Basketball

Located in the heart of Lincoln’s vibrant Haymarket District, Pinnacle Bank Arena is the premier venue for live entertainment and sports in Nebraska. Since opening in 2013, it has served as the home of the Nebraska Cornhuskers men’s and women’s basketball teams while also becoming a top destination for concerts, family shows and special events. With a modern design, excellent amenities and an exciting downtown location, Pinnacle Bank Arena offers one of the best event experiences in the Midwest.

About Pinnacle Bank Arena

• Location: 400 Pinnacle Arena Drive, Lincoln, NE 68508

• Opened: 2013

• Capacity: About 15,500 for basketball and 16,000 for concerts

• Primary Tenant: Nebraska Cornhuskers basketball (Big Ten Conference)

• Operator: ASM Global

Events at Pinnacle Bank Arena

The arena is the proud home of Nebraska Cornhuskers basketball, giving fans a chance to see Big Ten competition in one of the nation’s most modern college basketball venues. Beyond hoops, Pinnacle Bank Arena attracts top touring concerts and entertainment acts. Past performers have included Elton John, Garth Brooks, Pink, Paul McCartney, The Eagles and Bruno Mars.

The arena also hosts family-friendly events such as Disney on Ice, Harlem Globetrotters and monster truck shows, as well as community events, graduations and university ceremonies.

History and Design

Pinnacle Bank Arena was a centerpiece of Lincoln’s West Haymarket Redevelopment Project, which revitalized the area with shops, restaurants and hotels alongside the arena. Its horseshoe-shaped seating bowl provides excellent sightlines for both basketball games and concerts and its sleek design has made it a recognizable landmark in Lincoln.

The arena has been credited with transforming downtown Lincoln into a year-round entertainment hub, drawing visitors from across Nebraska and surrounding states.

Getting to Pinnacle Bank Arena

Driving: The arena is conveniently located near I-180 and U.S. Route 6, providing easy access for visitors from around the state. Multiple garages and surface lots surround the arena, with pre-purchased parking recommended for major events.

Public Transit: StarTran, Lincoln’s public transportation system, provides service to the downtown area, including stops near the arena.

Rideshare: Uber and Lyft both operate in Lincoln, with designated pickup and drop-off zones around the arena on event nights.

Walking: The arena’s central location makes it easily walkable from downtown hotels, bars and restaurants in the Haymarket District.

Seating and Experience

Basketball: The lower bowl seats offer an up-close view of the action, while the upper levels still provide excellent sightlines. The student section brings energy and noise, creating a lively game-day atmosphere.

Concerts: Flexible configurations allow for both end-stage and center-stage setups. Floor seats put fans right in the middle of the action, while the upper levels provide sweeping views of the entire show.

Premium Seating: Suites and club-level seating are available, offering private amenities, upgraded concessions and VIP access.

Food and Concessions

Fans can expect a mix of traditional stadium fare and local Nebraska favorites. Concessions include hot dogs, nachos, pizza, popcorn and burgers, as well as regional offerings that highlight Lincoln’s food scene. Beer, wine and cocktails are available at most events.

The arena frequently updates its food and beverage program to feature rotating specialty vendors, giving fans variety beyond the standard concessions.

Atmosphere

For Nebraska basketball games, Pinnacle Bank Arena has quickly built a reputation as one of the toughest home courts in the Big Ten. Fans pack the arena in scarlet and cream, creating an intense and passionate environment that rivals any in college basketball.

Concerts at Pinnacle Bank Arena benefit from excellent acoustics and engaged audiences, making it a favorite stop for artists on national tours. Family events bring a welcoming and kid-friendly atmosphere that appeals to all ages.

Policies and Accessibility

Bag Policy: Clear bags measuring no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” are permitted. Small clutches and medically necessary bags are also allowed. Security: All guests pass through metal detectors and bag checks. Accessibility: ADA seating, elevators, accessible restrooms, companion seating and assistive listening devices are available. Re-Entry: Re-entry is generally not allowed once you leave the arena.

Why Pinnacle Bank Arena Stands Out

In just over a decade, Pinnacle Bank Arena has become a cornerstone of Lincoln’s cultural and sports landscape. It is more than just the home of Cornhuskers basketball—it is a regional hub for concerts, family shows and community events. With modern amenities, excellent location and a passionate fan base, the arena delivers memorable experiences for every type of guest.

Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek

Whether you are catching Big Ten basketball, seeing a superstar concert or attending a family event, Pinnacle Bank Arena is the place to be in Lincoln. With SeatGeek, you can compare tickets, explore seating options and plan your visit with ease.