Williams Arena: SeatGeek's complete guide to events at University of Minnesota

Williams Arena is one of the most historic indoor sports venues in the United States and the home of the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers men’s and women’s basketball teams. Located on the University of Minnesota campus in Minneapolis, the arena hosts college basketball, concerts, university events and special programs throughout the year. This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting Williams Arena.

What is Williams Arena?

Williams Arena is a multi-purpose indoor arena on the University of Minnesota campus. Opened in 1928, it serves as the home court for the Minnesota Golden Gophers men’s and women’s basketball teams and also hosts concerts, university gatherings and other special events. The arena is named after Henry L. Williams, a legendary University of Minnesota football coach, and is known for its iconic raised floor, historic architecture and passionate fan atmosphere.

Where is Williams Arena located?

Williams Arena is located at 1800 University Avenue Southeast in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on the University of Minnesota campus. The arena is adjacent to other athletic facilities and campus buildings, making it a central destination for students, alumni and visiting fans. Its location also provides convenient access from downtown Minneapolis and surrounding neighborhoods.

What events are held at Williams Arena?

Williams Arena hosts a variety of sports and entertainment events throughout the year.

Minnesota Golden Gophers basketball games

Men’s and women’s basketball games are the main events at Williams Arena. Conference matchups, rivalry games and NCAA tournament contests bring enthusiastic crowds and create a lively, high-energy game-day experience.

Concerts and special events

The arena hosts concerts, family shows, and other entertainment events throughout the year. Its historic design and intimate seating create a unique experience for audiences attending performances.

University events

Williams Arena also accommodates university gatherings, alumni events, commencement ceremonies and special programs. Its facilities are suitable for large groups and campus-wide activities.

Williams Arena seating guide

Williams Arena has a seating capacity of approximately 14,625 for basketball games, with flexible configurations for concerts and other events. The arena features a unique raised court and a bowl-style seating layout that keeps fans close to the action and amplifies crowd noise.

Best seats at Williams Arena

Lower level sections along the sidelines offer the best views of the court, while end zone sections provide a lively fan experience. Club and suite seating offer premium amenities, and upper level seats provide a more affordable option with good sightlines. Event-specific seating charts should be reviewed before attending.

Getting to Williams Arena

Planning transportation ahead of time makes attending an event easier, especially for high-demand basketball games or concerts.

Parking near Williams Arena

Parking is available in university-operated lots and nearby garages surrounding the arena. Availability may vary depending on the event, so arriving early is recommended. Many fans also use nearby private lots or rideshare services to avoid post-event congestion.

Public transportation and walking

Williams Arena is accessible via local Metro Transit bus routes and light rail. Many fans also walk from nearby hotels, campus housing or parking areas. Rideshare services are commonly used for convenience during events.

What to know before you go

Williams Arena is a smoke-free venue and requires security screenings at entry. Bag policies may apply depending on the event, and concessions and merchandise stands are available throughout the arena. Checking event-specific policies ahead of time helps ensure a smooth visit.

FAQs about Williams Arena

Here are the most frequently asked questions about Williams Arena:

How many people does Williams Arena hold?

The arena holds approximately 14,625 fans for basketball games, with capacity varying slightly for concerts or other special events.

Is Williams Arena only used for basketball?

No. While basketball is the primary use, the arena also hosts concerts, family shows, university events and other special programs.

Is Williams Arena accessible by public transportation?

Yes. The arena is accessible via local Metro Transit bus routes, light rail and walking from nearby campus parking areas and hotels.

Why Williams Arena stands out

Williams Arena combines historic architecture, a central campus location and a passionate fan culture. From Golden Gophers basketball to concerts and university events, it provides a unique and engaging live experience for fans across Minneapolis and the surrounding region.