McCamish Pavilion

A modern sports arena located in the heart of a bustling technology campus, this venue is one of the landmarks Atlanta is most proud of. Located in the USA, the complex serves as the home stadium for the "Yellow Jackets" men's and women's basketball teams and is renowned for its incredible energy during games.

Designed to hold approximately 8,600 spectators, the facility underwent a massive renovation while preserving its unique historic roof with 32 steel ribs. The updated space was named after Hank McCamish, whose contribution helped transform the old arena into a high-tech pavilion with excellent sightlines from every seat.

Thanks to its innovative design and LEED Gold certification, the arena is considered a model of sustainability and architectural vision. It attracts not only sports fans but also lovers of modern architecture wanting to see how respect for heritage combines with the latest engineering solutions.

For ticket information and the schedule of upcoming events at the sports complex, you can use the official contact details. The arena administration recommends checking the website for the latest updates before planning your visit.

The main highlight for any visitor is attending a live basketball game. Thanks to the compact seating and lack of "blind spots," you'll be right in the heart of the action and can experience the atmosphere of the legendary "Thrillerdome." It is the perfect place to witness the skill of student-athletes and share the sporting thrill with thousands of fans.

Beyond the sports action, it is worth taking time to explore the building's architectural features. Walk through the spacious concourses with glass walls that allow you to see the court even while grabbing snacks. The theatrical lighting used during games creates a unique effect, focusing all attention on the hardwood and turning the match into a true spectacle.

During halftime, you can browse official shops for Georgia Tech team merchandise or enjoy the eco-friendly relaxation zones around the pavilion. Occasionally, the arena hosts major cultural events and ceremonies, offering a chance to see the complex in a completely different light.

Located at 965 Fowler St NW, the pavilion is situated directly on the Georgia Institute of Technology campus in the West Midtown area. If you are already in the vicinity, walking or cycling is the most convenient way to reach the venue, thanks to the well-developed network of pedestrian paths.

For those who prefer public transport, the MARTA rail system is the best option. The North Avenue station (Red and Gold lines) is approximately a 15–20 minute walk from the arena. You can also use bus routes #10, 45, or 49, which stop nearby.

A taxi or rideshare trip (Uber/Lyft) from downtown Atlanta will take just 10–15 minutes. If you plan to arrive by car, keep in mind that parking at the arena itself can be limited on game days, so it is better to find a spot in nearby campus garages using specialized apps in advance.

The history of this sports facility began in 1956 when it opened as the Alexander Memorial Coliseum, named in honor of the legendary football coach William Alexander. One of the most remarkable features of the original building was its massive steel dome without internal supports, created by the local Calvert Iron Works. This design allowed spectators to enjoy panoramic views of the court from any point in the arena.

Over the decades, the arena has served as a temporary home for professional clubs. For instance, the NBA's Atlanta Hawks played here during the construction of their own stadiums in the 1960s and late 1990s. Despite its rich history, by the beginning of the 21st century, the building required major updates, leading to a large-scale renovation between 2010 and 2012.

During the reconstruction, which cost over $45 million, the interior was almost completely transformed; however, architects from the firm Populous chose to preserve the iconic curved roof with its 32 steel ribs. The renovated arena was renamed in honor of philanthropist Hank McCamish, whose family made a significant contribution to the project. On November 9, 2012, the updated complex officially opened with a sold-out game against Tulane University.

Interestingly, following its renovation, the facility received the prestigious LEED Gold certification for outstanding performance in energy efficiency and environmental protection. It was also the first time in the history of college sports that an innovative theatrical lighting system was implemented in an arena, creating a dramatic atmosphere by focusing the audience's attention exclusively on the court.

If you plan to attend a basketball game, we recommend allowing 2 to 4 hours for your visit. This time includes passing through security, grabbing a snack at the food court, purchasing souvenirs, and, of course, the game itself. It is especially important to arrive early on major game days when the stands are packed to capacity.

For those who just want to see the pavilion's architecture from the outside and take a short walk around the adjacent campus area, one hour will be quite sufficient. Such an express visit will allow you to appreciate how modern technology and historical design elements coexist harmoniously in one space.

The arena's schedule is entirely dependent on the calendar of events, whether they are home games or official ceremonies. The pavilion doors typically open to spectators 1–2 hours before the event begins, allowing visitors to find their seats and explore the facilities without rushing.

For those wishing to visit the facility outside of competition times, keep in mind that there are no fixed hours for free tourist entry. It is recommended to regularly check the official Georgia Tech website to stay informed about current game dates and times.

After attending a game or touring the arena, you can continue exploring the entertainment options this region has to offer. There are many interesting sites nearby, ranging from amusement parks to modern sports centers.