About this venue
Smoothie King Center is more than a place to catch a game or a show—it’s a signature indoor arena where New Orleans delivers its biggest nights at full volume. The design keeps fans close to the action, with steep seating angles and clear sightlines toward both the court and the stage. Depending on the event setup, capacity sits around 16,800 for NBA games and can rise to roughly 18,500 in larger configurations.
Inside, the experience feels compact and energetic—built for impact in both sport and live music. Strong acoustics, comfortable seating, and easy-to-follow section layouts keep everything smooth, while a wide food-and-beverage selection helps you stay in the moment. Club areas and suites add a premium layer if you want a more elevated night out.
The venue sits next to the Superdome complex, making the last stretch to the entrance simple and straightforward. The exact address is 1501 Dave Dixon Dr, New Orleans, United States. Public garages and nearby surface lots are right by the building, so you can park and walk directly to the main doors; for broader getting-around tips across the city, check the New Orleans guide further down the page.
About the city
New Orleans, the legendary city on the banks of the Mississippi River, is known for an energy you can feel at every step—from music-filled streets to arenas and stadiums that regularly host major sports and concert events. Here, a night out isn’t limited to a single venue: the whole city feels like a stage, so visitors can easily pair ticket buying with an authentic taste of local culture, cuisine, and nightlife. That mix of atmosphere and smooth organization makes it a destination you’ll want to return to, whether you’re coming for a concert, a game, or simply for a city that always offers “something more”.
A major advantage is the infrastructure and how practical it is to move between neighborhoods and key event locations. The public transit system, RTA (New Orleans Regional Transit Authority), includes streetcar lines and bus routes, so reaching many arenas and stadiums is often quick and low-stress, with an easy blend of walking and transit. If you arrive by train, the main hub is New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, while most air travelers land at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY); from there it’s simple to continue toward downtown and the busiest event districts, whether by taxi, on-demand rides, or connected city lines.
As a tourist bonus, the French Quarter invites you to stroll historic streets, colorful balconies, and iconic squares like Jackson Square, and along the riverfront promenade by the Mississippi River it’s easy to slow down before or after an event. For a different vibe, there’s the elegant Garden District and the spacious City Park, perfect for a break, photos, and a short escape from the crowds. Add in the local flavors and a culture that’s lived openly and spontaneously, and you get a city where the ticket is only the beginning—and the rest of the experience follows naturally.
