Sullivan Arena

A striking example of sports architecture and the heart of Alaska's cultural life, the Sullivan Arena welcomes visitors to the city of Anchorage. Opened in 1983, this multi-purpose complex is named after former mayor George M. Sullivan, whose contribution to the region's development is highly regarded. Today, it stands as one of the premier venues in the USA for northern sports competitions.

Sullivan Arena. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The arena building immediately catches the eye with its bold Brutalist style: massive concrete pillars supporting the dome and expressive vertical elements create an image of reliability and strength. Inside lies a modern Olympic-standard ice rink that easily transforms for basketball games or grand performances. The seating capacity exceeds 6,000 spectators, ensuring a high-energy atmosphere during major events.

The arena is part of the Chester Creek sports cluster and is widely known among locals by the nickname "Sully." Following a major renovation in the mid-2010s, the complex was updated with comfortable new seating and improved acoustics, making it a pleasant destination for the whole family. It is a place where sports legends are born and the state’s most vibrant concerts take place.

To check the event schedule or inquire about ice rentals, you can use the following contact details:

The main reason to visit the Sullivan Arena is, of course, legendary Alaskan hockey. Starting with the 2024–2025 season, you can cheer for the Wolverines and experience the unmistakable atmosphere of northern sports. Active lifestyle enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to hit the Olympic-sized ice themselves during public skating sessions periodically held at the complex.

Beyond the ice battles, the arena regularly transforms into a concert venue for national stars, an exhibition center, or a site for large-scale trade fairs. It famously hosted the Great Alaska Shootout basketball tournament, and the spirit of major competition still lives within these walls.

Visitors should take note of the stadium's modern amenities: recent upgrades include excellent acoustic systems and state-of-the-art video screens. The Sullivan Arena is perfect for family leisure, offering convenient lounge areas and food courts where you can grab a bite while discussing the game’s highlights or your impressions of the show.

The Sullivan Arena is conveniently located in the Fairview neighborhood at 1600 Gambell St. Thanks to its proximity to the city center, it is easy to reach by both private and public transport.

If you are driving from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, the trip will take about 10–15 minutes. Parking is available near the arena, but spots fill up quickly during major matches or concerts, so it is best to arrive early. From the city center, the sports complex is about a 30–40 minute walk, offering a chance to enjoy the sights of the northern city.

For those preferring public transport, the Anchorage People Mover bus system is a great option. Routes #40 and #65 stop in the immediate vicinity of the complex. Taxis and popular rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available to take you directly to the main entrance.

The history of this venue began in 1983, at a time when Anchorage was experiencing a significant construction boom fueled by revenues from the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Mayor George M. Sullivan envisioned the city as a future sports hub of the North, and the arena became the first major project in this ambitious modernization program.

Interestingly, the architects designed the Olympic-sized ice rink inspired by the legendary "Miracle on Ice," hoping to host the 1992 Winter Olympics. Although the Games eventually went to France, the arena served as the home of professional hockey for decades, hosting the famous Alaska Aces and the UAA Seawolves college team.

After a brief hiatus, "Sully" (as locals affectionately call the arena) underwent a revival in 2023. Under the management of O'Malley Ice & Sports, the complex once again opened its doors to athletes and fans. Today, it is not just a stadium, but a symbol of the state's sporting traditions, where men's and women's hockey are celebrated with equal pride.

When planning a visit to the Sullivan Arena, consider the type of event you are attending. If you are going to a hockey match or a concert, allow 2 to 4 hours. This will give you enough time to go through security, find your seat, and enjoy the show.

For those who just want to admire the Brutalist architecture or plan a public skating session, 1–2 hours should be sufficient. If you decide to combine your visit with a walk through the entire Chester Creek Sports Complex—visiting Mulcahy Stadium or the Ben Boeke Ice Arena—the excursion could take half a day.

The Sullivan Arena operating hours depend directly on the current event schedule. Technically, the venue can operate around the clock for ice maintenance and preparation; however, access for the general public is only available during matches, concerts, or exhibitions.

Before visiting, we strongly recommend checking the complex's official website to confirm the start time of a specific event or the schedule for public skating sessions, as general admission outside of programmed events is typically not provided.

A stroll around the sports complex allows you to better understand the history and culture of this northern city. The Chester Creek area is rich not only in sports facilities but also in landmarks reflecting the spirit of Alaska.