| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Team(s) | Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA); hosts concerts, UFC, PBR, NCAA tourneys & more |
| Opened | June 8, 2002 as Ford Center; became Paycom Center in 2021 |
| Capacity | Basketball: 18,203; Hockey: 15,152; Concerts: ~16,591; MMA/Boxing: ~16,757 |
| Best Value Seats | Upper-level corners & center loge — great sightlines at lower prices |
| Premium Seating | 48 Terrace Suites, 29 Private Suites, 7 Bunker Suites; Club level (Cox Club) with upscale lounges |
| Top Arena Foods | Standard concessions; in-club upscale dining; mobile ordering options |
| Nearby Bars/Eats | Bricktown district bars/restaurants—short walk across convention center |
| Closest Hotels | Downtown stays: Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield Inn, Colcord Hotel — all walkable |
| Transit Access | OKC Streetcar stops at Arena Station; Amtrak proximity via Cox Convention Center; easy freeway & rideshare access |
| Unique Highlights | “Loud City/The Thunderdome” reputation; $20 M renovation in 2023 added new high-tech scoreboard & refreshed seating |
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Best Seats At the Paycom Center
Paycom Center opened in 2002 in downtown Oklahoma City as the home of the Thunder, who moved from Seattle in 2008 and immediately turned this into one of the loudest, most passionate NBA home courts in the league. The arena sits on the western edge of Bricktown—OKC’s entertainment district packed with restaurants, bars, and honky-tonks—making it easy to grab dinner and drinks before walking to the game. With a capacity of around 18,200 for Thunder games, Paycom Center is intimate by NBA standards, and the Thunder faithful are known for creating a deafening atmosphere that gives the team a legitimate home-court advantage. The arena underwent renovations in recent years adding upgraded club spaces and premium seating, but the bones are still classic NBA: bowl seating, tight sightlines, and fans right on top of the action.
Seating Guide: Where to Sit
Paycom Center uses a traditional NBA bowl layout with lower level (100s), club level (200s), and upper level (300s). The Thunder bench is in front of sections 116-117; the visitor’s bench is in front of sections 114-115.
The Sweet Spot: Lower Level Sideline (Sections 104 to 107, 114 to 117): Sections 104-107 on one sideline and 114-117 on the opposite sideline are the best regular seats in the house—center court, close to the floor, and perfect sightlines. The first ten rows in these sections put you right on top of the action, close enough to hear players and coaches.
Section 105 and 106 and 115 and 116 at center court are the absolute premium spots—you’re directly across from the benches with the ideal viewing angle. Pricing runs $200-$600+ depending on opponent and row. Lakers, Warriors, or playoff games hit the high end; weekday games against rebuilding teams go cheaper.
If you can swing it, these are the seats you want. Thunder fans are loud in the lower bowl, and you’ll feel every momentum swing.
Best Value: Upper Level Behind the Basket (Sections 310-311, 320-321): Upper level sections behind the baskets offer solid views at budget-friendly prices. Section 311 specifically gets love from locals for basketball games—you’re elevated enough to see plays develop but still engaged in the action.
Tickets often go for $30-$80 depending on opponent. If you’re looking for higher energy and don’t mind being far from midcourt, sections 110-111 and 120 in the lower bowl behind the baskets are also solid budget options with more crowd energy.
The catch: You’re far from center court, and watching fast breaks toward the opposite basket can be tricky. But the Thunder faithful pack the upper deck, so the atmosphere is still electric.
Corner Sections: Mid-Tier Option (Sections 102-103, 108-109, 118-119): Corner sections on the lower level offer angled views at prices between midcourt and upper deck. You’re still in the lower bowl with padded seats and close to the floor, but you’re removed from center court. Pricing runs $100-$300 depending on opponent and row.
Good for fans who want lower bowl experience without paying $400+ per ticket. Just know that sightlines aren’t as clean as center court sections.
What to Avoid: Deep Upper Corners
Upper level corner sections (sections 302-309, 316-323) are too far from the action with awkward angles. You’re watching from a distance at a diagonal. Only sit here if tickets are dirt cheap or you’re just trying to be in the building for a playoff atmosphere
Premium Seating Options
Paycom Center’s premium offerings include Courtside Club, Club Level seating, Executive Suites, and Terrace Suites.
Courtside Club Seats: Courtside seats are the ultimate premium experience at Paycom Center—you’re literally on the edge of the court with an unparalleled view of the action. Courtside Club includes in-seat wait service, access to VIP lounges, and complimentary food and beverages.
Pricing is typically not publicly listed but expect $800-$2,000+ per seat for Thunder games. This is white-glove service—you’re watching from courtside with unlimited food and drinks, private lounge access, and the ability to see every detail of the game.
Who it’s for: High-end corporate entertainment, special occasions, or die-hard fans willing to splurge for the best seats in the house.
Club Level Seating (200 Sections): Club Level seats (sections 201-234) offer excellent sightlines with exclusive access to the Club Level concourse featuring private lounges, upscale restaurants and bars, larger padded seats with cup holders, and upscale restrooms. Private Club/Suite entrance on the east side of the arena lets you avoid main entrance crowds.
Sections 208 and 223 are directly at center court and typically the most expensive club tickets. Pricing runs $150-$400 per seat depending on section and opponent.
Club Level is the sweet spot for fans who want premium amenities—comfort, better food and drink, private lounges—without paying courtside prices. Great for business entertaining or special occasions.
Executive Suites (16-20 Guests): Executive Suites accommodate 16-20 guests with personal suite attendant for in-suite food/beverage service, 3 parking passes, exclusive club level access, and complimentary VIP parking. Pricing runs $3,000-$8,000+ for Thunder games depending on opponent.
Suite Members automatically receive tickets for most other arena events, making these great for season-long entertainment or frequent visitors.
Terrace Suites (4-6 Guests): Terrace Suites are the small-group premium option—4-6 guests with personal suite attendant, 2 parking passes, and club level access. Pricing runs $1,500-$4,000 for Thunder games.
Perfect for smaller VIP groups or couples who want suite amenities without renting a full 16-20 person Executive Suite.
Riverwind Terrace Ledge Tables (2-6 Guests): Riverwind Terrace Ledge Tables offer 2-6 tickets with reserved table seating within the Riverwind Terrace Lounge and 1 parking pass per two seats. This is the most affordable premium option—you’re not in a private suite, but you have a reserved table in an upscale lounge with club access.
Great for small groups who want elevated experience without full suite pricing.
Paycom Center Seating Chart
The Paycom Center in Oklahoma City has a seating capacity of up to 19,711 for most events, with three seating levels and a fourth level added during concerts. Here is an updated Paycom Center Seating Chart.
Before purchasing tickets, always verify the authenticity of the source to avoid scams or counterfeit tickets. Additionally, check for any promotions, discounts, or special offers that may be available for specific games or events.
OKC Thunder Tickets
To secure tickets for Oklahoma City Thunder games and events at the Paycom Center, you have several options. Here are some common ways to purchase tickets:
- Get your Oklahoma City Thunder Tickets Here! With our partnership with Vivid Seats you can get tickets to concerts, Thunder games, Sooners or Cowboys tickets. Just about any event!
- Official Team Website: Visit the official website of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Teams often sell tickets directly through their websites, offering various seating options and packages.
- NBA Ticket Exchange: The NBA Ticket Exchange is an official resale marketplace where fans can buy and sell tickets. It’s a secure platform affiliated with the league.
- Local Box Office: Visit the Paycom Center’s local box office in person to purchase tickets directly. This option allows you to avoid online service fees.
- Season Tickets and Packages: Consider season tickets or special packages offered by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Season ticket holders often enjoy additional benefits and perks.
- Social Media and Promotions: Follow the official social media accounts of the Oklahoma City Thunder for announcements, promotions, and exclusive ticket offers.
- Game-Day Tickets: In some cases, you may find last-minute tickets available on game days. However, this option is riskier, especially for popular matchups.
Paycom Center Bag Policy
Bags 6 x 9 x 2 inches maximum (this includes clear bags). This is one of the strictest bag policies in the NBA—way smaller than most arenas that allow 12 x 6 x 12 inch clear bags.
Detachable chain bag straps of any kind are NOT permitted. All bags are subject to search by security.
No bag check available. If your bag is too big, you’ll have to return it to your vehicle or it will be confiscated. Paycom Center will not safeguard any personal belongings
Pack ultra-light for Paycom Center. The 6 x 9 x 2 inch policy is tiny—most women’s purses won’t fit. Consider bringing just your phone, wallet, and keys in your pockets. If you must bring a bag, make sure it’s smaller than 6 x 9 x 2 inches or you’re not getting in.
General Policies
- Re-Entry: Once a person exits the Paycom Center, re-entry is prohibited.
- Smoking: Paycom Center is a smoke-free environment
- Restrooms: There are a total of 48 restrooms, including 12 unisex family restrooms with diaper-changing stations and accessibility for persons with disabilities
- Prohibited Items: Strictly forbidden are weapons of any kind, including knives, mace, blades, tasers/stun guns, pepper spray, bats, clubs, and tools.
- Screening: Guests may undergo screening using x-ray machines, wands, pat-downs, and walk-thru metal detectors. Please remove items such as cell phones, electronics, keys, eyeglass cases, cameras, large belt buckles, large jewelry, and other substantial metal items before entering the metal detector.
- Cashless Venue: Credit cards or mobile wallet only!
- Fun Tip: Submit a shoutout, if you want a birthday or special message on the big screen. Email fans@okcthunder.com at least 48 hours before the game.
Paycom Center Parking
Downtown OKC has multiple parking garages and lots within walking distance of Paycom Center, with event rates typically running $10 for most garages. The closest options are Cox Center Garage (1 Myriad Gardens, 2-minute walk), Century Center Garage (100 W. Main St., 6-minute walk), and OKC Convention Center (15 SW 4th St., 7-minute walk)—all charge $10 for event parking.
Street parking downtown is free after 5pm at metered spots, but it’s hard to find close to the arena on game nights. If you’re willing to walk 10-15 minutes, you can usually find free street parking in less crowded areas near Myriad Gardens or farther into Bricktown.
Pro tip from locals: Park at Bass Pro Shops (behind the boat section), The Garage in Midtown, or McNellie’s area for free parking, then take the OKC Streetcar to the arena for around $1. You’ll save $10 and avoid sitting in post-game parking garage traffic entirely.
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft pickup and drop-off is at Second Street and Harvey Avenue, located on the west side of Paycom Center. Expect to pay $10-20 from most OKC neighborhoods depending on demand. After the game, prices can surge 2x during peak times, so either wait 20-30 minutes for surge pricing to drop or schedule a pickup in advance.
OKC Streetcar
The OKC Streetcar runs through downtown and Bricktown with stops near Paycom Center. It costs around $1 per ride, and if you’re staying in Midtown or downtown, it’s an easy, cheap way to get to the game without driving. The streetcar runs frequently on game nights, and you can grab a beer at The Garage or McNellie’s before hopping on.
Walking
If you’re staying in Bricktown or downtown OKC, Paycom Center is walkable from most hotels—typically 5-15 minutes depending on your location. The area is safe and well-lit, and you’ll be surrounded by other fans heading the same direction. This is the easiest option if you’re staying close.
Paycom Center Insider Tips
Paycom Center sits on the western edge of downtown OKC with Bricktown—the city’s entertainment district—one block east across the Amtrak tracks. The area is packed with restaurants, bars, and nightlife within easy walking distance, making it one of the better NBA pregame scenes.
Traditions: “Loud City” Rules
The “Standing” Rule: Do not sit down after the national anthem. In OKC, the entire arena stands on their feet until the Thunder score their first basket. If you sit early, you will be the only one sitting, and you might get looks or even get booed. It’s the most unifying tradition in the building and one of the coolest things about attending a Thunder game—the crowd stays locked in and engaged from the opening tip.
“Loud City” (The 300 Level): The upper deck isn’t called the “nosebleeds” at Paycom Center—it’s marketed as “Love’s Loud City,” and fans up there take serious pride in being rowdier and louder than the lower bowl. If you want a party atmosphere where fans are standing, chanting, and bringing energy for half the price of lower-level seats, sit in the 300s. The crowd up there genuinely makes the experience better, and you’ll feel more connected to the game than sitting quietly in a lower bowl corner.
Food Strategy: Local Icons vs. Bricktown
The “Inside” Move: Local Favorites: Skip the generic arena burger and hit the legendary Oklahoma chains inside Paycom Center that are legitimately better than standard stadium food:
- Schwab’s Meat Co. (Sections 101, 111): An OKC institution since 1912 serving the “Thunder Dog” and smoked sausage that locals swear by. This is real, quality food, not mass-produced concessions garbage.
- Taco Mayo (Section 120): Forget Taco Bell—get the Potato Locos (tater tots covered in queso). It’s the ultimate comfort food and an OKC staple you can’t find outside the region.
- Mazzio’s Pizza (Sections 112, 119): Thick, generous slices that beat standard stadium pizza every time. This is an Oklahoma chain that’s been around since 1961, and it’s significantly better than generic arena pizza.
The “Outside” Move: Budget Hack: Since Paycom Center is right in Bricktown (see more below), save serious money by eating before you enter the arena. Bricktown Brewery and Pearl’s Crabtown are a 5-minute walk from the arena, and you’ll get a full meal for the price of one arena beer. Pearl’s has $2.50 PBRs all day, and Bricktown Brewery has solid pub food and house-brewed beer. Eat there, then walk to the game and skip the $15 concession stand chicken tenders entirely.
Access & Gate Strategy
The East Entrance Hack: Most fans flood the main North and South entrances, but the East Entrance (near the Club Level) is often open to all ticket holders and typically has shorter security lines. If you’re running late or just want to get inside faster, circle around to the east side and you’ll save 10-15 minutes waiting in line.
Autograph Alley Doors open 90 minutes before tip-off, and if you want autographs from players during warm-ups, immediately head to Section 119 (Thunder Tunnel) or Section 117 (Visitor Tunnel). Ushers are generally lenient about letting fans down to the rail for the first 30 minutes before the game to get signatures and take photos. After that, they tighten up and you’ll need a lower-level ticket to get close.
Instagrammable Spots & Photo Ops
The iconic Thunder horse statue outside the arena on the north side is the go-to photo spot—every Thunder fan takes a pic there before walking in. Inside, the court-level concourse during warm-ups gives you a great background shot with players in the frame if you’re sitting close.
The Bricktown Canal is a 5-minute walk from the arena and makes for a great pre-game or post-game photo, especially at night when the lights reflect off the water.
The New Oklahoma City Arena: Coming 2028
The Thunder are building a $900+ million state-of-the-art arena set to open by late summer 2028. The new venue will be built across the street from Paycom Center on the site of the former Cox Convention Center (later Prairie Surf Studios), which is currently being demolished.
The design features a 360-degree glass curtain wall wrapping the entire exterior, offering panoramic views of downtown OKC from all interior concourses. The arena will be at least 750,000 square feet and hold fewer than 18,203 seats (slightly smaller capacity than Paycom Center) to create more space, wider concourses, and premium amenities.
Hotels Near the Paycom Center
Most Thunder fans are local or drive in from within a few hours, but if you’re traveling to OKC for a game, stay in the Bricktown area—it’s walking distance to Paycom Center, packed with restaurants and bars, and you won’t need a car once you check in. Hotels in Bricktown book up for big games and prices can surge for playoffs or marquee matchups, so book early if you’re coming for a high-demand game.
Nice/Mid-Tier Hotel Options
Omni Oklahoma City Hotel – Located right in the heart of downtown, walking distance to Paycom Center and Bricktown. Upscale hotel with excellent service, rooftop pool, and solid restaurant. Perfect if you want a premium experience and easy access to everything.
Wyndham Grand Oklahoma City Downtown – On North Broadway Avenue, about a 5-minute walk to Paycom Center. Great location close to Bricktown, clean rooms, good amenities. Solid mid-tier choice for Thunder fans.
Skirvin Oklahoma City, a Hilton Hotel – Historic downtown hotel with character and charm, walkable to the arena. Beautiful building, good restaurant and bar, classic OKC experience.
Hampton Inn & Suites Oklahoma City-Bricktown – On East Sheridan, very close to Bricktown restaurants and bars. Clean, reliable, good breakfast. Easy walk to Paycom Center and you’re surrounded by nightlife.
Hilton Garden Inn Oklahoma City Bricktown – In the middle of Bricktown, short walk to the arena. Clean rooms, solid amenities, good location for gameday.
Courtyard by Marriott Oklahoma City Downtown – Downtown location with easy access to Paycom Center and Bricktown. Reliable Marriott quality, walkable to everything.
Aloft Oklahoma City Downtown – Bricktown – Modern hotel in Bricktown with a younger, trendier vibe. Good bar scene, walkable to the arena and restaurants.
Budget Options
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Oklahoma City – Bricktown – $80-120 – On E Reno Avenue, about a 10-minute walk to Paycom Center. Clean, budget-friendly, and close enough to walk. Good if you just need a place to sleep and want to save money.
MainStay Suites Bricktown – Near Medical Center – On E Reno Ave, about a 10-minute walk to the arena. Ultra-budget option, basic but clean. You’ll need to walk or rideshare, but it’s cheap and gets the job done.
Neighborhood Recommendation
Stay in Bricktown if you want walkability to bars, restaurants, and the arena—it’s the entertainment district and everything is within a few blocks. If you’re just passing through or want cheaper options, hotels near I-40 or I-35 are 10-15 minutes from downtown by car but you’ll need to drive or rideshare to the game.
Bricktown Bars and Restaurants
Bricktown is a vibrant entertainment district located in downtown Oklahoma City located adjacent to the Paycom Center. Known for its historic red brick buildings, picturesque canal, and a wide array of attractions. Based on experience, you should always hit Bricktown if you’re an out of towner. Visitors can enjoy a variety of fun activities before or after a game. Here are some great places to go before or after the game:
Restaurants/Bars in Bricktown
Whiskey Chicks Cocktails & Kitchen – Located between Paycom Center and Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, Whiskey Chicks serves over 250 whiskeys from around the world, craft cocktails, and tasty bar food including fall-off-the-bone wings, whiskey burgers, and “secret crack tots”. Live music almost every night, great atmosphere, and voted best pre/post venue for sporting events by Oklahoma Gazette. Known for creative drinks like jalapeño cucumber margaritas and a laid-back vibe perfect for Thunder pregame.
JJ’s Alley Bricktown Pub – The coziest, friendliest neighborhood bar in the heart of Bricktown with live acoustic music seven nights a week. Open mic every Saturday and Sunday, no cover charge, inexpensive drinks, and two outdoor patios (upstairs and downstairs). Multiple bands playing on different floors make this a lively spot for casual drinks before or after Thunder games.
The Side Chick – I was unable to verify this bar exists in Bricktown based on current search results. It’s possible the name has changed, the bar closed, or it’s not a well-known establishment. I’d recommend sticking with verified spots like Whiskey Chicks, JJ’s Alley, or other Bricktown favorites like O Bar, Joe’s Coconut Monkey, or Stag Lounge.
Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse – Oklahoma City’s premier steakhouse located on Mickey Mantle Drive in historic Bricktown since 2000. Hand-cut prime beef, award-winning wine list with nearly 500 labels, live music, and warm atmosphere. Named after Oklahoma’s baseball legend, this upscale spot is perfect for special occasions or pregame fine dining before Thunder games.
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop – Casual Tex-Mex spot serving affordable tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Quick-service restaurant perfect for grabbing a bite before heading to Paycom Center without breaking the bank. Been here many times in other towns.
Bricktown Brewery – Oklahoma City’s original craft brewery and restaurant right in the heart of Bricktown, serving handcrafted beers brewed on-site alongside classic American bar food. Award-winning brews, burgers, pizzas, wings, and entrees in a lively sports bar atmosphere with plenty of TVs for catching pregame action. Multiple locations across Oklahoma, but the Bricktown flagship is the go-to spot for Thunder fans—easy walk to Paycom Center, full bar, and a menu that hits all the game-day cravings.
More Bricktown Stuff
Bricktown Canal: Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Bricktown Canal, lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visitors can also take a relaxing ride in a water taxi to explore the area from a unique perspective.
Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark: Sports fans can experience the excitement of minor league baseball at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, home to the Oklahoma City Dodgers. Enjoying a game and savoring ballpark favorites is a popular pre or post-game activity1.
Brickopolis: This entertainment complex offers a range of activities, including mini-golf, a bungee trampoline, and an outdoor climbing facility, making it an ideal destination for families and thrill-seekers.
Revolutions by HeyDay: Located on the Bricktown Canal, this entertainment venue features bowling, billiards, arcade games, and a bar & grill, providing a lively and engaging atmosphere for visitors of all ages
Things To Do In Oklahoma City
Discover the Science Museum Oklahoma: Engage in interactive exhibits and hands-on activities at the Science Museum Oklahoma. Ideal for visitors of all ages, the museum showcases science and technology in an entertaining and educational manner. Explore exhibits on space, aviation, and experimentation, making it a captivating experience for both children and adults alike.
Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum: Pay tribute to the victims of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing at the Oklahoma City National Memorial. The memorial includes the Outdoor Symbolic Memorial with the Gates of Time, Reflecting Pool, and Field of Empty Chairs, as well as the Memorial Museum, providing a poignant and educational experience. This is a really well done memorial and should absolutely be seen.
Tour the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum: Immerse yourself in the rich history of the American West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Explore exhibits showcasing art, artifacts, and cultural heritage, including a replica Western town and an extensive collection of Western-themed art.
Visit the Oklahoma City Museum of Art: Discover a diverse range of art at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, featuring a renowned collection of European and American art, contemporary pieces, and an impressive glass sculpture by Dale Chihuly. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace with scenic views of the city.
Experience the Myriad Botanical Gardens: Unwind in the serenity of the Myriad Botanical Gardens, a beautifully landscaped urban oasis in downtown OKC. Explore the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, stroll through themed gardens, and enjoy events and activities in this picturesque setting.
Why You Should Go
Paycom Center is home to SGA and the defending NBA champs, and the atmosphere—especially when the Thunder are good like they are now—is electric and genuinely fun. The arena is compact and intimate, so even budget seats give you a solid view, and the Bricktown location means you can walk to bars and restaurants without dealing with a car. If you’re looking for an affordable NBA experience with a passionate fanbase and a walkable entertainment district, OKC delivers.
Oklahoma Football and Oklahoma State Football
The American Airlines Center In Dallas, AT&T Stadium in Dallas and Globe Life Field.
And for you Chiefs fans down in Oklahoma. Its always fun to check out Arrowhead Stadium.
Thanks for reading!
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.