Littlejohn Coliseum

Imagine the epicenter of athletic energy and student spirit—this is the best way to describe Littlejohn Coliseum. This modern multi-purpose arena, located in the heart of Clemson, serves as the home court for the university's legendary basketball teams. With a capacity of approximately 9,000 spectators, it hosts not only intense sports battles but also grand shows, making it a key cultural landmark on the USA map.

Originally founded in 1968 and undergoing a major renovation in 2017, the coliseum today looks like an ultra-modern complex. The updated design, featuring brick accents and spacious glass galleries, blends harmoniously with the university campus. It is more than just a sports hall; it's a venue with a special atmosphere where tradition meets the latest in fan comfort technology.

Beyond basketball, Littlejohn Coliseum hosts over 150 events annually, ranging from celebrity concerts and career fairs to commencement ceremonies. The arena's significance is underscored by its role in the local community—there is always something happening here, bringing students and tourists together under one roof.

To find out more about upcoming events, tickets, and entry rules, you can use the official contact details for Littlejohn Coliseum.

The main reason to visit Littlejohn Coliseum is the unforgettable atmosphere of collegiate sports. Attending a men's or women's Clemson Tigers game lets you witness a true "orange sea" of fans. Thanks to the thoughtful post-renovation layout, the seating is as close to the court as possible, creating a fully immersive experience. Besides basketball, the arena often hosts spectacular gymnastics competitions.

If sports aren't your primary goal, check the cultural event schedule. The arena's stage has hosted stars like Ozzy Osbourne and Rod Stewart. Major trade shows and gala evenings are also regular fixtures here. Be sure to stop by the Burton Gallery—a spacious, light-filled lobby that serves as the main entrance and meeting point—and check out the modern video boards and premium lounge areas that offer top-tier comfort.

For curious travelers, exploring the renovated exterior and the Swann Pavilion is a great way to see how modern architectural solutions—like metal panels and panoramic glazing—blend with the classic look of an American university. A walk around the arena allows you to feel the pulse of one of the state's most active athletic hubs.

Littlejohn Coliseum is conveniently located on the Clemson University campus at 219 Perimeter Rd. If you are traveling by car, the easiest route is via I-85 (Exit 19B), following US-123 toward Clemson. Parking for event attendees is usually provided in the adjacent university lots, though it is recommended to arrive early on major game days.

For those who prefer public transportation, the nearest major hub is Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), which is about a 45-minute drive by taxi or rental car. Buses run from neighboring cities like Greenville and Anderson. Once in the city center, you can reach the arena on foot or by bicycle in just 10–15 minutes while enjoying the college town atmosphere.

Littlejohn Coliseum owes its existence to a large-scale university development program in the mid-1960s. Construction began in December 1966, and the first basketball game was held here in November 1968. The arena was named after James Corcoran Littlejohn, a distinguished 1908 alumnus who dedicated nearly half a century to the university and played a key role in developing many of the campus's athletic facilities.

Over decades of service, the complex has been updated multiple times, but the most significant milestone was the massive 2015–2017 renovation, which cost over $63 million. During the project, the court was literally rotated 90 degrees to provide spectators with the best possible sightlines, and the building's facade took on a modern look with brick accents and metal panels that harmonize with the overall architectural style of Clemson.

One of the most important additions was the Swann Pavilion—a state-of-the-art space for athlete training and recovery. Today, the arena is considered one of the most technologically advanced collegiate sports facilities in the USA, hosting more than 150 diverse events each year, from graduation ceremonies to concerts by world-class stars.

When planning a visit to Littlejohn Coliseum, you should base your time on the type of event. If you are attending a basketball game or a concert, allow an average of 2–3 hours. This is enough time to clear security, find your seats, enjoy the event, and exit comfortably with the crowd.

For those who simply want to see the architecture of the renovated arena, walk through the Burton Gallery, or view the exterior while touring the campus, 45 minutes to 1 hour will be sufficient. Please note that during major athletic events, indoor access is only possible with a ticket.

The operating hours of Littlejohn Coliseum depend entirely on the schedule of planned events. The arena does not have fixed visiting hours for tourists in a museum format. Basketball games usually take place in the evenings from November through March, while concerts and exhibitions are held according to organizer announcements.

We highly recommend checking the current event schedule on the official website of the Clemson Tigers before visiting. If no private practices or scheduled events are taking place, you can view the building from the outside and visit the adjacent public campus areas during daylight hours.

A visit to Littlejohn Coliseum is a perfect excuse to explore the Clemson University campus. The area surrounding the arena is filled with historical monuments and interesting locations that help you dive deeper into the local culture.