Smoothie King Center Travel Guide

Home of the New Orleans Pelicans

Last Updated: March 30, 2026

Quick Info

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Address

1501 Dave Dixon Dr

New Orleans, LA USA

Planning Links

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Seating Capacity: Basketball: 16867

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basketball NBA New Orleans New Orleans Pelicans NoLa Smoothie King Center

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Stadium Information

About Smoothie King Center

Originally known as New Orleans Arena, this stadium opened in 1999 almost three years before a basketball team was even playing there. The arena actually did quite well during Hurricane Katrina and opened only one month after the storm cleared.

Learn more about the teams that play here and upcoming events on our team pages.

Tour Info

There doesn't appear to be any public tour offerings at this time.

Fan Tips

Smoothie King Center brings NBA action into the heart of New Orleans, serving as home to the Pelicans and offering a game-day experience shaped by the city’s unique culture.

Located next to the Caesars Superdome, the arena is accessible by car, rideshare, and nearby transit routes.

The seating bowl keeps fans close to the court, creating an energetic but comfortable viewing experience.

Food options reflect New Orleans cuisine, with regional favorites alongside traditional stadium fare.

After the game, fans can head toward downtown or the French Quarter for dining and nightlife.

Security Screenings

Like almost all US and Canadian Stadiums, you will need to enter through a metal detector before entering the stadium.  Be sure to give yourself extra time and don't bring any weapons or devices that could be seen as a weapon inside.  Pat down searches may be required.

Bag Policy

All bags larger than 14"x14"x6" such as backpacks, suitcases, beach bags, etc. will be prohibited from entry into the arena.  All bags are subject to inspection before entry.

Note: Bag and security policies listed above are for typical sporting events. Special events, concerts, and other situations may result in variations. Please check the event website for any changes.

Getting to Smoothie King Center

Public Transit: There are numerous bus routes available near the Superdome, but no direct stops at the stadium as far as we can tell. For more information and to plan your route, please visit the NORTA website. No rail service available

Rideshare: Over a dozen taxi companies offer service in downtown Indianapolis. Pick up fees will vary between $1.25 and $5.00, and rates are typically $2.00/mile. Add $3.25/mile per additional passenger.

Book Flights

Flying in for the game? Search current flight options for this destination.

Closest Major Airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)

Parking & Transportation

Parking Options

There are seven garages and two large surface lots on the property of the Mercedes Benz Superdome that are sometimes used for the stadium.

We're setting up a partnership with a new parking company. Stay tuned for more details.

Bus Service

There are numerous bus routes available near the Superdome, but no direct stops at the stadium as far as we can tell. For more information and to plan your route, please visit the NORTA website.

Rail Service

No rail service available

Taxi & Rideshare Service

Over a dozen taxi companies offer service in downtown Indianapolis. Pick up fees will vary between $1.25 and $5.00, and rates are typically $2.00/mile. Add $3.25/mile per additional passenger.

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Area Stadiums

Top Reviews

Yelp Reviews

Yelp user profile

Danielle R.

Yelp star rating

I go to a good bit of events at the smoothie king center every year. Most recently I went to the pelicans game for HBCU night. Lately the pelicans games...

Posted On: 2026-02-28 21:09:48

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Yelp user profile

Genie M.

Yelp star rating

New Orleans venues are all loads of fun! Even though their teams are losing, it feels like they are winning! The music and events within the events makes...

Posted On: 2025-12-01 18:20:37

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Yelp user profile

Juliet H.

Yelp star rating

GO PELS! I enjoy games here. The hubs and I usually have amazing seats, the courtside club and the energy here is pretty epic! The staff is friendly and...

Posted On: 2025-01-02 15:11:06

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