Magness Arena

Gleaming with gold in the sun, Magness Arena is the true heart of sports life at the University of Denver. This modern multi-purpose complex, opened in 1999, is located in the picturesque city of Denver and is part of the massive Daniel L. Ritchie Center. The facility was named after philanthropist Bob Magness, whose contribution helped create one of the best collegiate arenas in the USA.

One of the building's main architectural features is the majestic 66-meter Williams Tower, crowned with a carillon of 65 bells. Its golden spire serves as an excellent landmark for tourists and locals alike. The arena's interior is versatile, accommodating between 6,000 and 8,000 spectators depending on the event.

Today, this venue is known not only as the home stadium for decorated hockey and basketball teams but also as a hub for significant public and cultural events. The combination of cutting-edge technology and an academic spirit makes visiting this site a must for sports fans and architecture enthusiasts.

For event details and ticket purchases, you can use the official contact information below.

The main reason to visit is the incredible energy of college sports. Be sure to catch a hockey game featuring the Denver Pioneers. Hockey is practically a religion here, and the fan support, accompanied by a live pep band, creates a truly electric atmosphere rarely found in professional arenas.

Beyond the ice, you can watch basketball and gymnastics performances. Spectators can expect modern amenities: comfortable seats with drink holders, a massive four-sided video board, and great views from every seat. During intermissions, stop by the souvenir shop or grab a bite at the food court.

If you're not there for a game, it's worth taking a stroll through the Ritchie Center complex itself. Here, you can see the El Pomar Natatorium Olympic-sized pool and additional training facilities. End your walk at one of the local craft breweries, like Fermaentra, which is just a couple of blocks away and very popular with campus visitors.

Finding this sports complex is easy, as it is located in the northern part of the University of Denver campus. For those preferring public transport, the most convenient option is the RTD Light Rail to the "University of Denver" station. From the stop, the entrance to the building is just a few minutes' walk away.

If you plan to take a taxi or rental car from the city center, use the address 2250 E Jewell Ave. The trip from downtown takes about 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Dedicated parking zones are available on campus for drivers.

The area around the arena is very pedestrian-friendly and well-landscaped. After an event, you can easily walk to nearby cafes and restaurants, which are concentrated within a 10–15 minute walk of the main entrance.

The history of this venue began in the late 90s when it was decided to build a modern multi-purpose complex on the site of the old university arena. Magness Arena was built in record time — less than two years — and officially opened its doors in September 1999. The project was made possible by a generous $10 million donation from cable mogul Bob Magness.

Over the years, the venue has earned recognition not just from athletes but also in the media: in 2000, Westword magazine named it the "Best New Sports Venue." However, its true fame comes from its hockey program — the Denver Pioneers are college sports legends, having won numerous national championships.

Beyond sports achievements, the facility has secured its place in US political history. It hosted a massive campaign rally for Barack Obama in 2008, drawing about 10,000 people, and in 2012, the arena served as the site for the first presidential debate between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney.

When planning your visit, base your timing on the event format. If you are attending a hockey or basketball game, budget about 3–4 hours. This allows enough time to park, pass through security, buy merchandise, and fully enjoy the game.

If your goal is simply to admire the campus architecture and check out the Ritchie Center as a tourist, then an hour or an hour and a half will be plenty. You'll have time to see the famous golden tower and stroll through the university's well-maintained grounds.

As Magness Arena is an active athletic and educational facility, its operating hours depend directly on the schedule of practices, student games, and concerts. On major game days, doors typically open an hour or an hour and a half before the event begins.

To ensure your visit is successful, we strongly recommend checking the current schedule on the official Denver Pioneers website or contacting the administration by phone. This will help you plan your trip effectively and see the venue at its best during an event.

A visit to the sports arena can be paired with trips to other interesting locations in the city. Exploring the surroundings will help you feel the rhythm of local life and find entertainment for every taste, from water parks to adventure centers.