America First Event Center

When exploring the cultural life of Utah, you cannot overlook the Southern Utah University Arena, officially known today as the America First Event Center. This modern multipurpose complex, located in Cedar City, is the pride of the local campus and a major draw for visitors across the USA.

The arena is an impressive structure capable of seating thousands of spectators. It serves as the home court for the SUU Thunderbirds sports teams and regularly hosts basketball games, volleyball tournaments, as well as large-scale concerts and community conferences. High ratings on global platforms confirm the quality of service and excellent visibility from every seat.

The venue stands out for its versatility, harmoniously blending the drive of sporting battles with the solemnity of university events. Thanks to its convenient location in the heart of the campus, the complex has become an essential part of the travel itinerary for those wishing to experience the true spirit of American college life.

To plan your visit or check details for upcoming events, it is best to use the official communication channels. Below are the current contact details for the complex for your convenience. This will help you book tickets in advance or stay informed about any schedule changes.

Visiting the arena is, first and foremost, an opportunity to immerse yourself in the thrilling atmosphere of American sports. You can witness exciting basketball battles or university volleyball matches. Dynamic cheerleading shows and lively interaction with mascots make every event truly spectacular and emotional.

Beyond sports, the complex regularly serves as a venue for music concerts, exhibitions, and entertainment shows that are perfect for a family outing. The compact seating arrangement allows spectators to be close to the center of the action, providing an excellent view and a full sense of presence.

During breaks between performances, be sure to stop by the university souvenir shops to purchase branded apparel and merchandise featuring Thunderbirds symbols. There are also food courts on-site where you can try popular local fast food and drinks while enjoying time with other fans in dedicated fan zones.

The multipurpose arena is conveniently located in the heart of the city at 351 W Center St, UT 84720. If you are traveling by car, the easiest way is to use Interstate 15 (I-15): take the exit leading to the city center. Parking zones for event visitors are provided on the university campus.

For those arriving by air, the trip from Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC) by car or taxi takes only about 10–15 minutes. The city also operates the SUU Shuttle—special buses running to the university campus, making the venue easily accessible for students and tourists alike.

If you are staying in the city center, the arena is within easy walking distance. The walk takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on your pace, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere of this cozy American town along the way. A taxi from downtown also remains a quick and affordable option.

The Southern Utah University Arena, also known as the America First Event Center, is a key element of the university campus infrastructure. It was named in honor of its primary sponsor, America First Credit Union, highlighting the close connection between the educational institution and the local business community.

As the home court for the SUU Thunderbirds sports teams, the arena has remained the heart of student life for many years. It is where the university's sporting victories have been forged, and the walls of the complex are steeped in the spirit of competition and fan unity.

While it is a modern sports facility, it plays an important cultural role for the entire region. The complex is constantly modernized to meet high standards of comfort and technology, remaining one of the most recognizable and visited venues in this part of the state.

For those planning to attend a specific sporting event or concert, you should allow approximately 1–3 hours. This is usually enough time to enjoy the main action and feel the energy of the stands.

If you want to explore the complex in more detail, browse the souvenir shops, and have a bite at the local food court, we recommend setting aside 2 to 4 hours for your visit. This leisurely approach will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of campus life.

The arena's operating hours depend directly on the schedule of planned events. Generally, the complex doors open to visitors 1–2 hours before the start of a game or show, giving guests enough time to find their seats and look around.

Since there are no fixed visiting hours outside of events, we strongly recommend checking the current schedule and start times on the official suutbirds.com website before your trip. It is also best to purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee access to the most popular games.

Exploring the surroundings of the university campus can significantly enrich your trip. Many interesting locations reflecting the cultural heritage and modern pace of the city are concentrated around the arena.