| Gainbridge Fieldhouse Quick Guide | Indiana Pacers (NBA), Indiana Fever (WNBA) |
|---|---|
| Opened | 1999 (renovated in 2022) |
| Capacity | ~17,274 for basketball |
| Best Value Seats | Balcony Sideline (Sections 205–209) – Great sightlines at a lower price |
| Premium Seating | Lexus Loft, Lightbound Courtside Club, Krieg DeVault Club Level |
| Top Arena Foods | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, Indy Dog, Sun King Beer Cheese Pretzel |
| Nearby Bars | Kilroy’s Bar & Grill, The Eagle, Slippery Noodle Inn |
| Closest Hotels | Conrad Indianapolis, Hilton Garden Inn Downtown, Hyatt Regency |
| Transit Access | IndyGo public buses; walking distance from downtown garages |
🔍 Need a custom plan for your Pacers or Fever gameday? Use our Gameday Guides AI to get personalized tips on where to sit, what to eat, and where to stay near Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Best Seats At Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Gainbridge Fieldhouse sits right in the heart of downtown Indianapolis and feels like a modern arena that still respects basketball tradition. Home to the Pacers since 1999 and the Fever, this place gets loud when the crowd’s into it—the seats are close to the court, sightlines are excellent from almost everywhere, and the 60-foot-wide concourses mean you’re never fighting through bottlenecks. Fair warning: this is an indoor arena where the energy depends on the team’s performance and crowd turnout, so playoff games hit different than mid-week January matchups. But if you’re looking for accessible downtown hoops with solid food options and a walkable pregame scene, Gainbridge delivers.
Seating Guide
Gainbridge Fieldhouse holds about 17,200 for basketball in a traditional bowl layout with lower bowl (100s), mezzanine level (also 100s, elevated), and upper balcony (200s). The venue is intimate—even upper deck seats don’t feel miles away, and every seat is at least 20-22 inches wide. Think about proximity to the court versus elevation for perspective when choosing your section.
The Sweet Spots: Best Non-Premium Seats
Sections 105 and 116, Mezzanine Level: These center court side sections on the mezzanine level are elevated 20-25 rows from the court with excellent sight lines and fewer than 15 rows per section. You get the perfect angle to see plays develop without being too low where you’re turning your head constantly. Trade-off: these are more expensive than upper balcony but still significantly cheaper than courtside or club seats. This is the best balance of view quality and price in the building.
Sections 104 and 117, Mezzanine Level: Just off center court on the mezzanine with similar elevation and intimacy to 105/116. Slightly angled view but still excellent for seeing the full floor. You’re close enough to feel the game without paying courtside prices. Great value at typically $60-120 depending on opponent.
Section 1, Lower Bowl: Reddit’s favorite budget-friendly lower bowl section with super easy access when entering and exiting, bar and restrooms right nearby, and close to the action. You’re right behind the basket with energy when your team scores. Trade-off: you’ll miss some detail at the far end of the court, but the convenience and atmosphere make this a fan favorite for casual games.
Best Value Seats
Sections 208, 209, 224, 225, Upper Balcony Center Court: These upper deck center court sections offer elevated views of the full floor at the cheapest prices—usually $20-50 depending on the game. You’re high up but the sightlines are solid because Gainbridge’s upper bowl geometry is well-designed. Trade-off: you’re far from the action and won’t see facial expressions, but you get the full strategic view of plays developing.
Budget Option
Sections 207, 210, 223, 226, Upper Balcony: Just off center court in the upper deck with 26 seats per row in the widest sections. Cheapest seats in the house at $15-30 for less popular games. You’re far and slightly angled, but it’s affordable basketball with decent views. Downside: steep climb to get there and you’ll miss fine details of the game.
What to Avoid
Corner sections 107-114 and 221-222: Lower bowl corners can have up to 15 seats per row, which means you’re either too close to the baseline or stuck in the middle of a long row with obstructed sight lines when players and refs move. Upper corner sections have awkward angles where you’re constantly turning your head. Not worth it even if they’re cheaper.
Far end sections 200s behind the baskets: You’re high and directly behind the basket with terrible depth perception on plays at the opposite end. Save your money or upgrade to center court upper deck instead.
Premium Seating Options
Gainbridge has a deep premium landscape with courtside, multiple club levels, loge boxes, and theater boxes across different tiers. The best experiences are at the courtside and Krieg DeVault Club Level. Here’s what actually matters.
The Best Club
CareSource Courtside Club – Floor Level Behind Baskets: This is the crown jewel—ultra-plush leather courtside seats with access to the most exclusive club in the Fieldhouse just steps away. You’re sitting within feet of the players, hearing everything on the court, and then retreating to a private club space during timeouts and halftime. Includes premium food and beverage, private entry, and VIP treatment throughout the game. Trade-off: this is the most expensive option in the building, often $300-600+ per seat depending on opponent and availability.
Best Premium Value
Krieg DeVault Club Level – Sideline Club Sections 103-105, 116-118: These club seats on the second tier offer upscale seating, access to upgraded concourses with full-service bars and enhanced concessions, club restrooms, and lounge seating areas. You’re elevated with excellent sightlines and all the premium amenities without paying courtside prices. Pricing typically $100-250 depending on the game. Best middle-ground option for fans who want the club experience without breaking the bank.
Other Notable Clubs or Premium Options
- Lexus Loft – South End of Krieg DeVault Level: Mix of 4-seat Loge and Theater Boxes with access to an all-inclusive club and hospitality space for Pacers and Fever games plus select events. Exclusive area perfect for entertaining clients or groups.
- East & West Verandas – KeyBank Suite Level: Eight 4-seat Loge Boxes on each veranda with access to all-inclusive hospitality space. Private setting on the suite level with full-service bar, 318 square-foot LED screen, and upscale sports bar vibe.
- Theater Boxes and Loge Boxes: Small-group premium options seating 4-6 guests with club access and premium amenities. Good for couples or small groups wanting a step up from regular seats.
- PointsBet Hardwood Club and Sire Spirits ’67 Club: Additional club spaces with food, beverage, and lounge areas accessible to various premium seat holders.
Suites & Group Options
Suites at Gainbridge range from $2,000 to $6,000 per game depending on size, location, and opponent. Private suites on the Club Level seat 10-20 guests, while one Party Suite accommodates up to 50. All suites include climate control, private atmosphere with comfortable furnishings, HDTV, and access to the Krieg DeVault Club Level with upgraded concessions and bars. Most suites come inclusive of food and beverage or include a catering credit.
Gainbridge Fieldhouse Seating Chart
The capacity of Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis is 18,165 for Pacers games and events. Here is an updated Seating Chart of the arena.
Tickets To Indiana Pacers Games
Here are some common ways to obtain tickets for Pacers games and events at Gainbridge Fieldhouse:
- Get Your Indiana Pacers or Indiana Fever Tickets Here! Check the link for all events at Gainbridge Fieldhouse from Pacers games, to Fever Games or concerts and shows. Vivid Seats has you covered.
- Official Team Website: Visit the official Indiana Pacers website. Teams often sell tickets directly to fans through their official online platforms.
- Box Office: Purchase tickets directly from the Gainbridge Fieldhouse box office. This allows you to avoid third-party fees and buy tickets in person.
- Season Tickets: Consider becoming a season ticket holder for the Indiana Pacers. Season ticket holders often enjoy perks like priority seating, special events, and discounts.
- Fan Clubs and Memberships: Join Pacers fan clubs or memberships, as they may offer exclusive access to presale tickets, discounts, or other perks.
- Group Tickets: If you plan to attend with a group, check if there are group ticket options available, as these often come with discounts.
- Local Retailers: Some local retailers may partner with the team to sell tickets. Check with authorized sellers in the area.
Gainbridge Fieldhouse Bag Policy
Bags larger than 6″ x 9″ x 1.5″ are not allowed inside Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Small clutches or wristlets up to 4.5″ x 6.5″ are permitted. Clear bags up to 12″ x 12″ x 6″ are allowed for easier security screening. Backpacks are prohibited except for single-compartment drawstring bags that meet size requirements. Diaper bags and medically necessary bags are allowed but subject to thorough screening—arrive early if carrying these. There is no bag check available, so don’t bring oversized bags.
Additional Policies and Tips
- Digital Tickets: All event tickets for Gainbridge Fieldhouse are exclusively digital. Guests are encouraged to have their mobile tickets ready as they enter the Fieldhouse.
- Cashless Facility: Gainbridge Fieldhouse operates as a cashless facility. Credit cards and other forms of contactless payment, such as Apple Pay, will be accepted at all points of purchase throughout the Fieldhouse.
For a full list of policies check the Arena website.
Getting To Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Downtown Indianapolis is car-centric, but Gainbridge is walkable from most downtown hotels and Mass Ave. Driving and parking in nearby garages is the most common option, though rideshare works well if you avoid surge pricing.
Parking
The Virginia Avenue Parking Garage on the northeast corner of Gainbridge offers the closest covered parking and connects directly to the Fieldhouse via covered sky bridge on the third floor. Entrance is off Maryland Street. Event parking rates vary by event, typically $10-20. Other nearby options include Market Square Parking and garages throughout downtown within a 5-10 minute walk. Street parking downtown is limited and meters run until 9 PM. Arrive before 6 PM for evening games to guarantee a spot.
Post-game parking exit strategy: If you parked in the Virginia Avenue Garage or other lots right next to the arena, expect 30+ minutes to exit after big games. Park south of the stadium (like the $20 lots on South Street near Arby’s, one block away) to skip the exit gridlock and get out fast.
Rideshare
Uber/Lyft drop-off and pickup on Pennsylvania Street near the main entrances. Expect $8-15 from most downtown locations, $20-30 from the airport or suburbs. Prices surge 2x-3x after games—wait 20-30 minutes after the final buzzer or walk a few blocks away to avoid $40+ rides. Some fans walk to Mass Ave bars post-game and grab a cheaper ride from there.
Public Transit
IndyGo buses service various routes leading directly to Gainbridge, but Indianapolis public transit is limited compared to other cities. Transit score is 66 out of 100—fine if you’re staying on a direct route, but most fans drive or rideshare. Buses are infrequent, especially after games.
Walking & Biking
If you’re staying in downtown Indy, Gainbridge is a 10-15 minute walk from most hotels along Washington Street or Meridian Street. Safe, walkable neighborhood with shops and restaurants along the way. Bike racks are available near entrances, and downtown has designated bike lanes if you’re cycling in.
Gainbridge Fieldhouse Insider Tips
Gainbridge is all about timing and knowing the new layout—doors open later than most arenas, the brand-new Commission Row dining complex literally connects to the building, and if you’re coming for a Fever game to see Caitlin Clark, you need a sprint strategy. Here’s what actually helps.
Access & Gate Strategy
Doors open 60 minutes before tip-off for general admission—not 90 minutes like some older guides say. If you show up earlier expecting to wander the concourse, you’ll be standing outside in the Indiana cold. Club and suite holders might get earlier access, but regular fans enter at 60 minutes.
The sky bridge hack: Park in the Virginia Avenue Garage and use the heated covered sky bridge on the 3rd floor that connects directly to the Fieldhouse. You never step outside in winter. This is the move November through March.
Food & Drink Strategy
Three Point Taqueria (Section 115): Carne Asada Nachos are massive and the best value in the building. Grab extra napkins—you’ll need them.
Warehouse District BBQ (Sections 15 & 216): Order the Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese. Heavy, filling, and actually tastes like real BBQ instead of generic arena food.
Boom Baby! Burgers (Section 117): Named after Slick Leonard’s legendary catchphrase, these are fresh-pressed smashburger-style burgers that blow away the generic stands. Way better than you’d expect.
Club Level secret: If you have a club ticket, hit The Kitchen (Section 17). Rotating local chef concepts, often less crowded than main concourse stands, and the quality is noticeably better.
Fast Break grab-n-go stands (Sections 4 & 18): Checkout-free concession stands powered by Zippin technology—you enter with your credit card, grab what you want, and get billed automatically when you walk out. Way faster than standing in line, especially for beer and drinks. No cashier, no waiting.
Chick-fil-A price hack: The arena Chick-fil-A at Section 11 charges $10.50 for a plain sandwich versus regular Chick-fil-A prices. Hit the Chick-fil-A on Washington Street near the Fieldhouse before the game if you want it—same food, half the price.
Arrival & Gate Timing
Arrive right at the 60-minute door time if you want to catch warmups or grab giveaway items on promotional nights—the first 10,000-15,000 fans get the promo item and it runs out. Parking fills up by 6:00-6:30 PM for 7:00 PM tip-offs on weekends and big games, so don’t wait until last minute.
The Caitlin Clark / Fever Warmup Sprint
Since doors only open 60 minutes before tip-off, Fever players are often wrapping up their main warmup routine by the time you get in. The move: Enter immediately when doors open and sprint straight to Sections 2-3 near the tunnel to catch the final shots and autograph opportunities. Don’t stop for merch or drinks first—go directly to the lower bowl or you’ll miss it. Demand is insane for Caitlin Clark sightings.
For Fever tickets, mid-week games (Tuesday/Wednesday) early in the season offer the best value before playoff hype drives prices up.
Commission Row & Bicentennial Unity Plaza
Commission Row is the new pre-game destination—it’s literally connected to the arena via Bicentennial Unity Plaza, so you eat/drink and walk 100 feet to the entrance. Skip the longer walk to Mass Ave if you’re short on time. The complex has a high-end steakhouse upstairs, but Mel’s speakeasy in the basement is the hidden gem for a pre-game cocktail without the crowd.
Bicentennial Unity Plaza transforms into an ice rink in winter—larger than the one at Rockefeller Center. Great photo op even if you don’t skate.
Arena-Specific Quirks
We talked about this before, but bags larger than 6″ x 9″ x 1.5″ are not allowed—this is one of the strictest bag policies in the NBA. Most “small purses” are too big. If it doesn’t fit in your pocket, leave it in the car. They X-ray everything and will turn you away.
Temperature warning: They keep Gainbridge cold for the players, especially when they’re transitioning the floor for hockey below. Even in July for a Fever game, bring a hoodie if you run cold.
Lucas Oil Family Night: The Pacers run promotional nights where $19-39 balcony tickets include a hot dog, chips, small Pepsi, and a Pacers hat. Best deal in the building for families. Check the Pacers website for scheduled Family Night games throughout the season.
Pre-Game Drink Hack
Most fans crowd the main atrium bars when doors open. Instead, grab a drink at Mel’s speakeasy (basement of Commission Row, just outside the north entry) and hang there until 50 minutes before tip-off. By then, the initial “doors just opened” line has died down. Walk 100 feet to the arena entrance, breeze through security with zero wait, and you got a better drink plus skipped the cluster. Works every time.
Hotels Near Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Most Pacers and Fever fans are local from Indianapolis and from the state but if you’re traveling in for a game, concert, or weekend series, staying downtown within walking distance of Gainbridge is the move. Downtown Indy is walkable, safe, and loaded with hotels within a few blocks of the Fieldhouse—you can walk to Mass Ave for dinner and pregame drinks, then stroll to the game.
Nice/Mid-Tier Hotels
Hyatt Place Indianapolis Downtown (130 S Pennsylvania St): Literally across the street from Gainbridge—about a 2-minute walk. Friendly staff, comfortable rooms, walkable to restaurants and the convention center. Best location for game-goers who want zero stress getting to and from the arena.
Hampton Inn Indianapolis Downtown Across From Circle Centre (105 S Meridian St): 2 minutes from Gainbridge with excellent valet service that handles everything quickly. Perfect location for events at the Fieldhouse, walking distance to restaurants and nightlife.
Conrad Indianapolis (50 W Washington St): Upscale option about a 5-minute walk from Gainbridge. Excellent location in the heart of downtown within walking distance of restaurants and a 10-minute walk to the arena. Higher-end service and amenities.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Indianapolis-Downtown (211 S Meridian St): Extended-stay setup close to Gainbridge, Circle Centre mall, and restaurants. Good for families or longer trips with kitchen suites and free breakfast.
Omni Severin Hotel: Historic downtown hotel with classic elegance and walking distance to Gainbridge. Great for fans who want a traditional hotel experience with upscale service.
Hyatt Regency Indianapolis (1 S Capitol Ave): Connected to the convention center and walking distance to both Gainbridge and Lucas Oil Stadium. Multiple on-site restaurants with great service, solid choice if you’re doing multiple sporting events or convention business.
Hotel Indy, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel (141 E Washington St): Boutique option in the middle of downtown about a 4-minute walk from Gainbridge. Walking distance to Circle Centre mall, tons of restaurants, and local bars. Around $220/night for modern boutique vibes.
Budget Options
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Indianapolis Downtown: Budget-friendly chain option close to Gainbridge with standard amenities. No frills but reliable and affordable.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown: Extended-stay budget option with kitchen suites and walking distance to the Fieldhouse. Good value for families or groups splitting costs.
Neighborhood Recommendation
Stay anywhere within a 3-4 block radius of Gainbridge along Pennsylvania, Meridian, or Washington Streets for maximum convenience. You’ll be walking distance to Mass Ave restaurants and bars, the arena, and Circle Centre mall. Downtown Indy is safe and pedestrian-friendly, especially around the Fieldhouse and convention center district. Avoid older motels outside downtown—stick with recognizable chains in the core for the best gameday experience.
Restaurants Near Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Gainbridge sits in downtown Indianapolis where you’ve got three distinct pregame zones: Commission Row (the brand-new complex literally connected to the arena), Mass Ave (the arts district about a 10-15 minute walk north with local restaurants and bars), and downtown proper along Meridian and Washington Streets (classic steakhouses and hotel bars within a few blocks). Commission Row is the move if you’re short on time or it’s cold outside—you never leave the building. Mass Ave is where you go for the full “Indianapolis dining scene” vibe with locally owned spots. Downtown is for convenience and name-brand reliability.
Commission Row & Bicentennial Unity Plaza (Connected to Arena)
Mel’s Speakeasy (basement of Commission Row): The insider pick for a pre-game cocktail without the crowd. Basement location, craft cocktails, way better atmosphere than the main atrium bars inside the arena. You’re literally 100 feet from the Fieldhouse entrance.
Commission Row Steakhouse (upstairs): High-end steakhouse if you want a full sit-down meal before the game. Connected via the plaza, so you walk straight to your seats after dinner.
Bicentennial Unity Plaza: The outdoor space between Commission Row and the Fieldhouse. In winter it’s an ice rink larger than Rockefeller Center—great photo op even if you don’t skate. In warmer months it’s a gathering spot with outdoor seating.
Mass Ave (10-15 Minute Walk North)
Yats: Local favorite for Creole and Cajun food that’s delicious and affordable. Casual counter-service setup with big portions. Get the étouffée or jambalaya and you’re set for under $12.
Bluebeard: Trendy spot with a diverse menu built around locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Wood-fired dishes, cocktails, and a cool warehouse vibe. Reservations recommended if you’re going before a big game.
KanKan: Modern French cuisine in a stylish setting on Mass Ave. Quality over quantity—good for a date night or if you want something more upscale before the game.
Mass Avenue Pub: Straightforward neighborhood bar with pub food, local beers, and a chill vibe. Good spot to grab a beer and burger without the fuss.
Downtown Classics (Walking Distance)
St. Elmo Steak House (127 S Illinois St): The most iconic restaurant in Indianapolis, established 1902. World-famous shrimp cocktail with spicy signature sauce, excellent steaks, and old-school Chicago saloon decor. This is where you go for a special occasion or if you want the full Indianapolis experience. Expensive but worth it. Reservations required—book ahead.
Workingman’s Friend (234 N Belmont Ave): Classic dive tavern known for tasty smash burgers and a laid-back, no-frills vibe. Cash only, small space, huge local following. Go here if you want a solid burger and beer for under $15 before the game.
Sports Bars
Tom’s Watch Bar (1 Monument Circle, downtown): Multi-level sports bar with hundreds of TVs, massive screens, and solid pub food. Great for watching other games before or after the Pacers, and it’s walking distance from Gainbridge.
Kilroy’s Bar & Grill (multiple locations including downtown): Popular sports bar chain with a college-bar energy, good for groups, and reliably packed on game nights. Wings, burgers, and a lively crowd.
Chatham Tap (719 Massachusetts Ave): Smaller, more intimate sports bar with a solid bar food menu. Known for game-viewing parties and a relaxed atmosphere compared to the bigger spots.
High Velocity (JW Marriott, 10 S West St): High-tech sports bar inside the JW Marriott with a massive multi-dimensional media wall, private HDTVs, and quality food. More upscale than the typical sports bar—good if you want craft cocktails and a nicer setting.
Tavern on South: Lively bar with a wide drink selection and vibrant atmosphere, solid for pre or post-game gatherings with a group.
Why These Spots Work
Commission Row changed the pregame game—you can stay warm, have a real drink or meal, and walk directly into Gainbridge without stepping outside. Mass Ave gives you the “real Indianapolis” dining experience with local spots that aren’t chains. Downtown classics like St. Elmo are bucket-list spots if you’ve never been. And the sports bars deliver exactly what you expect: TVs, beer, wings, and energy. Pick your vibe, show up early, and you’ll have a better night than rushing straight to your seat.
Things To Do In Indianapolis
Indianapolis is a city with a rich cultural heritage and offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Here’s a list of some of the best things to do in Indianapolis:
Indianapolis Motor Speedway: Home to the iconic Indianapolis 500, the speedway offers tours and a museum showcasing the history of racing.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis: One of the largest children’s museums in the world, featuring interactive exhibits and engaging activities for kids of all ages.
Indianapolis Zoo: Explore diverse habitats and animal exhibits, including the Dolphin Dome and the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center.
Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields: An art museum set amidst beautiful gardens, offering a diverse collection of art from various periods and cultures.
NCAA Hall of Champions: Celebrate the history of collegiate sports with interactive exhibits and displays dedicated to various sports.
Why You Should Go
Gainbridge Fieldhouse delivers intimate, accessible NBA basketball in a downtown setting that feels like a real city experience without the chaos of bigger markets. The seats are close, the sightlines are excellent from almost anywhere, and the arena food is surprisingly good for the price. Pair a Pacers game with Mass Ave bars and restaurants, and you’ve got a solid night out that won’t drain your wallet like arenas in LA or New York. If you want honest hoops in the heartland with good vibes and walkable downtown energy, this is it.
Check out some of our other guides:
United Center in Chicago and Soldier Field
Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.