Amarillo Civic Center Complex

The Amarillo Civic Center Complex is a massive multi-purpose space located in the heart of Amarillo. As the premier cultural and event hub of the region, this center in the USA brings together opportunities for sports, the arts, and business meetings under one roof. The vast grounds of the complex span six city blocks, offering visitors a variety of venues for any occasion.

The building's architecture catches the eye with its striking Brutalist style. One of its main features is a continuous arcade that harmoniously links different parts of the complex, including the legendary Cal Farley Coliseum, a spacious auditorium for theatrical performances, and modern exhibit halls. The facility covers an impressive total area of 31,586 square meters.

The heart of the complex is the Grand Plaza—an elegant space of about 1,500 square meters. It is decorated in a traditional Texas style with a unique floor design, luminous ceilings, and fountains, creating an atmosphere of hospitality and grandeur. This is where large-scale architecture meets the warm energy of Texas, making every event here feel truly significant.

To check the event schedule or inquire about venue rentals, you can contact the complex administration directly. Key contact information is provided below.

A visit to the complex is always an opportunity to witness a vibrant event. Sports fans come here to cheer on local heroes: the complex is the home arena for the Amarillo Wranglers hockey club and the Amarillo Dusters arena football team. Dynamic matches in the Cal Farley Coliseum are always accompanied by incredible energy and support from the stands.

If you prefer cultural leisure, be sure to check the schedule at the Civic Center Auditorium. It hosts Broadway shows, symphony concerts, and world-class theatrical productions. The hall's professional acoustics and cozy atmosphere allow you to fully immerse yourself in the performance.

For those visiting during exhibitions or festivals, the massive pavilions are a must-see. The exhibit halls frequently host trade fairs, auto shows, and themed conventions. Don't forget to walk through the Grand Plaza—its fountains and original interior with Texas-themed elements serve as a wonderful backdrop for photos and relaxation between events.

The complex is located at 401 S Buchanan St, right in the heart of the city's central business district. Thanks to its proximity to the state's major highways, getting here by car from any area is straightforward. Extensive parking areas surrounding the building are available for visitors.

If you prefer public transportation, city bus routes pass in the immediate vicinity of the center. You can also use taxis or popular ridesharing services, which can quickly take you to the main entrance from anywhere in the city or the airport.

Within walking distance is the historic Santa Fe Depot and its adjacent pavilion—an open plaza often used as additional space for city events. This makes the Civic Center area an important transportation and social hub for Amarillo.

The history of the Amarillo Civic Center Complex began on August 31, 1968. Its construction was part of an ambitious urban infrastructure renewal plan. In the 1960s, city authorities cleared land east of the government center, demolishing old warehouses and industrial buildings to make way for a modern public space.

The complex was designed by the architectural firm Caudill Rowlett Scott in collaboration with Hannon and Daniel. The building was executed in a Brutalist style: a massive concrete structure finished with quartz aggregate, featuring a characteristic continuous arcade that unified the various halls into a single architectural ensemble. This project provided a powerful boost to the revitalization of downtown.

The walls of the complex remember legendary performances. The most iconic events in the venue's history are considered to be the two sold-out concerts by the "King of Rock and Roll," Elvis Presley, which took place here on June 19, 1974, and March 24, 1977. The memory of these great past events is carefully preserved within the center today.

Another important detail is located in front of the building entrance—the Rick Husband Memorial. An Amarillo native and commander of the Space Shuttle Columbia, he became a national hero, and his connection to his hometown is immortalized in the Texas Panhandle's most significant public space.

The time required to visit the complex depends directly on the purpose of your visit. If you are coming just to see the architecture or peek into the Grand Plaza, 1 to 2 hours will be sufficient. This is enough time to appreciate the scale of the Brutalist building and see the memorials outside.

For those planning to attend a specific event—such as a concert, hockey match, or theatrical production—you should budget 2–4 hours. If your visit involves participating in a large-scale conference, trade fair, or festival, the complex might occupy your entire day.

The complex administration office follows a standard schedule: Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The office is closed on weekends; however, the building itself operates according to the schedule of planned events.

The main Box Office for purchasing tickets is open Monday through Saturday from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. On show days, the box offices at specific venues usually open an hour before the event begins. To ensure you don't miss an interesting event, it is recommended to check the calendar on the complex's official website in advance.

The complex's central location offers excellent opportunities to further explore the region's culture and entertainment. After attending an event at the Civic Center, take a stroll around the area to see architectural landmarks and family-friendly spots.