McKenzie Arena

If you are looking for the center of sports and cultural life in Tennessee, then McKenzie Arena is a place you cannot miss. Located in the picturesque city of Chattanooga, this multi-purpose venue is the pride of the USA and the main home for university sports teams.

Locals often call the building "The Roundhouse." The arena earned this nickname due to its unusual circular shape, which refers to the region's rich railroad traditions. This majestic structure holds about 11,000 spectators and serves as the primary home court for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's men's and women's basketball teams (UTC Mocs).

McKenzie Arena is more than just a stadium; it is a modern complex covering over 19,000 square meters. It hosts not only heated sports battles but also grand concerts by international stars, ice shows, and rodeos, making it the entertainment heart of the entire city.

To check the event schedule or purchase tickets, you can use the official communication channels. Please note that on match or concert days, ticket office hours may vary.

The main reason people come to McKenzie Arena is for the incredible atmosphere of college sports. Attending a Chattanooga Mocs basketball game will give you a boost of energy: the stands painted in university colors and the competitive spirit create the unique feel of American sports. A modern video cube is installed above the court, ensuring you don't miss a single detail of the action.

If you're not a sports fan, the arena will surprise you with its variety of entertainment programs. It regularly hosts world-class concerts, massive Disney on Ice shows, rodeos, and even circus performances. It's an ideal place for family leisure, where everyone will find a spectacle to their liking.

Be sure to check out the new Wolford Center, where you can see the Hall of Fame exhibits. It houses memorabilia related to the university's sports history, including memorials to outstanding athletes. A walk through the arena's concourse will also allow you to see themed plaques and design elements dedicated to Chattanooga's railway heritage.

Finding McKenzie Arena is easy—it is conveniently located at 720 E 4th St, right on the campus of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. The venue is in close proximity to the Tennessee Riverfront, allowing you to combine your visit with a pleasant walk through the city center.

For those who prefer public transport, the local CARTA bus network is ideal, as it regularly runs through the campus and stops just a few minutes' walk from the entrance. If you are coming from Chattanooga Airport (CHA), a trip by taxi or via Uber and Lyft services will take about 20 minutes.

Travelers by car can use the parking lots located around the arena, although it is recommended to arrive early on major game days. Chattanooga is easily accessible via the main I-24 and US-27 highways, which connect the city with neighboring regions.

The history of this iconic venue began on October 8, 1982. The opening was marked by a grand concert by the legendary Kenny Rogers, which drew 12,000 spectators. Originally, the complex was simply called "UTC Arena," but in 2000, it received its current name—McKenzie Arena—in honor of generous donors Toby and Brenda McKenzie.

The arena owes its unofficial nickname, "The Roundhouse," to Chattanooga's historical legacy as a major railroad hub. In the past, roundhouses were used for turning and servicing locomotives, and the stadium's architectural shape is a symbolic nod to this important era in the city's life.

Over its decades of existence, the arena has hosted not only university teams but also world-class stars. Legends such as Elton John, Cher and Billy Joel have performed here. Interestingly, this venue has hosted NBA preseason training camps, including the Atlanta Hawks, and future basketball legends like Michael Jordan and Stephen Curry have taken to the floor here.

In recent years, the complex has continued to evolve. In 2024, a major expansion was completed with the opening of the Wolford Family Athletics Center. This multi-million dollar renovation added state-of-the-art training facilities and improved infrastructure, maintaining the arena's status as one of the most advanced sports venues in the region.

When planning your visit to McKenzie Arena, you should base it on the type of event. If you are going to a basketball game or a major concert, budget about 3 to 4 hours in your schedule. This time is enough to pass through security, find your seats, enjoy the event, and leave the building without rushing after it ends.

For those who just want to see the architecture of "The Roundhouse" from the outside and visit the Wolford Center with its sports Hall of Fame, 1–2 hours will be sufficient. This is a great way to learn about the achievements of the UTC Mocs teams and see memorable exhibits without being tied to a major show schedule.

The operating schedule of McKenzie Arena depends directly on the calendar of planned events. Usually, doors open for visitors 1–1.5 hours before the start of a match or concert. During weekdays, administrative offices and box offices may operate on a standard schedule; however, for tourists, free access inside on non-event days may be limited.

To ensure your visit goes smoothly, we strongly recommend checking the university's official website or the event calendar before your trip. The latest information on show start times and entry rules is always published there.

The arena's location in the heart of the city opens up plenty of additional opportunities for tourists. Chattanooga is famous for its parks, museums, and unique natural attractions, many of which are just a few minutes' drive away.

Exploring the surroundings after a match or concert will allow you to fully experience the hospitable atmosphere of Tennessee. Below is a list of interesting places to visit nearby: