Step Inside American Airlines Center, Home of the Dallas Mavericks

Home of the Mavericks & Stars

Located in the Victory Park neighborhood in downtown Dallas, American Airlines Center opened in 2001 to provide a new home for local NBA team the Dallas Mavericks and NHL franchise the Dallas Stars, who had previously played at the Reunion Arena.

American Airlines Center History

Construction for American Airlines Center broke ground in September 1999, and the arena officially opened on July 17, 2001. Its brick, limestone and granite architecture strike the perfect balance between classic and modern. Some fans have nicknamed it “The Hangar” due to its Quonset hut-like roof, and the fact that American Airlines holds the naming rights.

The arena also features two adjacent outdoor spaces, Victory Plaza and Woodall Rodgers Plaza, which serve as the location for pre- and post-event gatherings.

Parking and Admission at American Airlines Center

There are over 5,000 parking spots near the venue, many within a two-block walk. Parking lots open two hours before events and remain open for two hours after. Parking passes can be pre-purchased through the venue’s website.

At American Airlines Center, a bag policy is in place. The following items are permitted and prohibited:

Permitted Items:

• Wristlet, clutch, or wallet no larger than 4.5”x6.5”
• Small purses that do not exceed 14” x 14” x 6”
• Medical bags and parenting bags

Prohibited Items:

• Backpacks and large totes
• Outside food and drinks (with exceptions for baby formula or medical needs)
• Drones, glassware, umbrellas, brooms, laptops, and tablets

The list of prohibited items is subject to change, so be sure to check the official guidelines before attending an event.

American Airlines Center Capacity & Seating Options

With a seating capacity ranging from 19,000 for sporting events to 21,000 for concerts, the multi-use arena is the crown jewel of Dallas’ entertainment scene.

Consult the American Airlines Center’s Ticketmaster page to view seating maps for the venue’s various event configurations. Luxury suites are also available to rent by event or to lease.

Food & Beverage Options at American Airlines Center

American Airlines Center features various concession-stand options, as well as in-house bars and restaurants. In addition to countless concession options — from the AvoEats taco stand to good ol’ Pizza Hut — American Airlines Center features over a dozen bars and restaurants for those who don’t want to drink and eat in their seat. Whether you’re getting a premium patty from Valor Bar & Burger or a full-course gourmet meal at the Gentleman Jack Lounge, no one leaves American Airlines Center hungry. Drink connoisseurs can cruise the venue’s various whiskey, tequila, craft beer and bourbon speciality bars.

Hotels Near American Airlines Center in Dallas

There are several options for hotels in proximity to the American Airlines Center. Some of the top-rated hotels include:

1. Hotel ZaZa Dallas
2. Le Méridien Dallas, The Stoneleigh
3. HALL Arts Hotel Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton
4. Hyatt Regency Dallas
5. Hyatt House Dallas/Uptown
6. Fairmont Dallas
7. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dallas – Market Center
8. Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Dallas