Petersen Events Center
Capacity is 12,508.
Some events here are sold only by the venue or the club. Petersen Events Center official site
Upcoming shows and schedule
There are currently no confirmed tour dates on the immediate calendar for Petersen Events Center. Check back regularly as newly announced tour legs and ticket allocations are added following promoter releases.
Area and accommodation
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Upcoming events at Petersen Events Center
No upcoming events listed
There are currently no tickets listed for this venue. Check back soon for newly announced tour dates.
What time do doors open at Petersen Events Center?
Doors typically open 60-90 minutes prior to the scheduled event start time, though this can vary depending on the performance.
Door times vary by event — check your ticket or the venue's own website on the day.
About Petersen Events Center: Layout, History & Architecture
Opened in 2002, the Petersen Events Center serves as a multi-purpose arena primarily for the University of Pittsburgh's athletic programs, notably basketball. Its architectural style is characteristic of modern collegiate facilities, featuring a robust concrete and brick exterior that presents a formidable presence on the Oakland campus. Designed to accommodate approximately 12,508 spectators for basketball, its capacity can be reconfigured for a range of live events, including concerts, by utilizing a retractable seating system to create a floor-level general admission or reserved seating area.
The internal layout consists of a steep, tiered seating bowl that encircles the central performance area. Sightlines are generally clear from most seats, though distance can be a factor for patrons in the upper echelons of the bowl during stage-focused events. Acoustically, the hall, with its vast, high-ceilinged concrete structure, presents the typical challenges associated with large arena spaces. Clarity of sound for musical performances is heavily dependent on the quality and configuration of the touring sound reinforcement system, and a degree of natural reverberation is to be expected.
The Live Experience & Current Schedule
Entering the arena typically involves a managed flow through multiple entry points located on Terrace Street, leading to expansive concourse levels that house various concession stands and foyer bars. For concerts, the experience can vary significantly between the energetic, often dense standing pit on the main floor and the elevated, more expansive views from the tiered seating above. The atmosphere within the venue is largely dictated by the event itself, ranging from the intense enthusiasm of a university basketball game to the collective energy of a live concert crowd. With 0 live performances scheduled, upcoming entry prices start from standard pricing. The next confirmed event on the calendar is upcoming live performances on soon.
How do I get to Petersen Events Center, Pittsburgh?
Petersen Events Center is at 3719 Terrace St, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA. Open in Google Maps
By train and tube
For those traveling to the Petersen Events Center via train, the primary Amtrak station is Pittsburgh Union Station (also known as Penn Station). This station is located approximately 3-4 miles from the venue, translating to a 10-15 minute taxi or rideshare journey. Several bus routes connect Union Station to areas closer to the Petersen Events Center, offering a more economical option. While Amtrak doesn't operate direct subway lines, the convenience of arriving directly into the city center makes it a popular choice for those coming from major US cities like New York, Washington D.C., or Chicago. Journey times from these key cities can range from a few hours to over ten hours, depending on the origin. Pittsburgh Union Station offers essential facilities, including ticketing services, waiting areas, and accessibility features to assist passengers with disabilities. Planning your onward travel from the station to the Petersen Events Center is straightforward with the readily available public transportation and ride-sharing services.
By bus
Reaching the Petersen Events Center by bus is a convenient option for many Pittsburgh residents and visitors. Several key bus stops are located within a short walking distance of the venue, often along major arteries like Forbes Avenue and Fifth Avenue. The Port Authority of Allegheny County operates an extensive network of bus routes that serve the area surrounding the Petersen Events Center. Notable route numbers that frequently pass near the venue include the 51, 55, and 61 series buses, which connect various neighborhoods across the city, including downtown Pittsburgh, Oakland, Shadyside, and the East End. Journey times from downtown Pittsburgh are typically around 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Some routes offer extended service hours, and the Port Authority provides information on their website regarding late-night or 24-hour service options on select lines, ensuring accessibility for events concluding at later times.
By car and parking
Driving to the Petersen Events Center is a common choice for many attendees. The venue is conveniently located in Pittsburgh, easily accessible from major interstates. If you are coming from the east on I-376 E (Parkway East), you will take the Forbes Avenue exit. From the west on I-376 W (Parkway West), you would typically use the Oakland exits. For GPS navigation, using the ZIP code 15260 will direct you to the vicinity of the University of Pittsburgh campus where the center is located. Parking options at the Petersen Events Center include several on-site garages and surrounding surface lots. Official venue parking is usually available for a fee, which can range from $10-$30 or more for major events. Street parking may be available in surrounding neighborhoods but is often limited and subject to time restrictions. Accessible parking spaces are designated within the venue's primary parking areas for individuals with valid permits. Consider pre-purchasing parking passes if available to ensure a spot.
Accessibility
The Petersen Events Center is committed to providing an accessible experience for all patrons. The venue features ADA-compliant wheelchair accessibility throughout its entrances, concourses, and seating areas, ensuring easy navigation for guests with mobility impairments. Accessible elevators are available to reach all levels of the arena. Restrooms that are accessible and meet ADA standards are located throughout the facility. For guests with hearing impairments, induction loop systems are typically available to enhance audio clarity. Service animals are welcome within the venue, provided they are under the control of their handler. Companion care facilities are also available. Designated accessible parking spaces are conveniently located in the venue’s main parking garages, with accessible drop-off zones available at main entrances. Venue staff are trained to provide assistance to patrons with disabilities, and information regarding specific accessibility needs can be requested in advance.
Entry and security
The primary spectator entrances are situated along Terrace Street. Security measures, including bag checks and metal detectors, are standard procedure upon entry. To ensure a smooth ingress and allow ample time for security screening and finding your seat, arriving at least 45-60 minutes before the scheduled event start time is recommended, particularly for high-capacity events.