The Dallas Mavericks play at American Airlines Center in downtown Dallas

The Dallas Mavericks are the NBA team based in Dallas, Texas, and they play their home games at American Airlines Center (often called AAC), located at 2500 Victory Avenue in downtown Dallas. The arena opened in 2001 and has been the Mavericks' home since the team moved from the Reunion Arena. American Airlines Center also hosts the Dallas Stars (NHL) and the Dallas Wings (WNBA), plus concerts, conventions, and other events throughout the year.

If you are planning to attend a Mavericks game, knowing the basics about the arena — where it is, how to get there, what to bring, and what to expect — will help you have a smoother experience on game day.

Key Takeaways

  • American Airlines Center is in downtown Dallas at 2500 Victory Avenue, accessible by car, public transit, and rideshare services.
  • You can purchase Mavericks tickets through the official NBA website, the team's website, or resale platforms like StubHub and Ticketmaster.
  • The arena has assigned seating, and your ticket shows your section, row, and seat number — arrive early to find your section without rushing.
  • Bags are subject to a clear bag policy: clear bags no larger than 12 by 6 by 12 inches are allowed, along with small clutches and wallets.
  • Parking is available in multiple lots around the arena, though prices vary by event and lot; public transit and rideshare are alternatives to driving.

Getting to American Airlines Center

American Airlines Center sits in the Victory Park neighborhood of downtown Dallas, about 2 miles north of downtown's main business district. The address is 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, TX 75219. If you are driving, the arena has multiple parking lots on the surrounding blocks, though parking fills up quickly on game nights and prices can range from $10 to $25 depending on the lot and event.

Public transit is an option if you want to avoid parking. The DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) light rail Red Line stops at the Victory Station, which is a short walk from the arena. You can also take a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft directly to the arena entrance. Many people choose rideshare on game nights to avoid the parking lot congestion after the game ends.

If you are flying into Dallas, both Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) are about 20 to 30 minutes away by car or rideshare, depending on traffic.

How to Buy Mavericks Tickets

Tickets for Mavericks games are sold through several channels. The official source is NBA.com or the Dallas Mavericks official website (mavericks.com), where you can see the full schedule, select your game, and choose your seats. Ticketmaster is another official vendor and often has the same inventory as the team website.

If the official channels are sold out or you want to compare prices, resale platforms like StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats let you buy from other fans. Prices on resale sites fluctuate based on demand — games against popular teams or playoff games tend to be more expensive, while regular-season games against less popular opponents may be cheaper closer to game day.

Ticket prices vary widely depending on the opponent, the day of the week, and the seat location. Lower-bowl seats (closer to the court) cost more than upper-bowl seats. Weekend games and games against teams like the Lakers or Warriors typically cost more than weekday games against smaller-market teams.

What the Clear Bag Policy Means for What You Can Bring

American Airlines Center enforces a clear bag policy for security reasons. You are allowed to bring one clear bag that is no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches — roughly the size of a small backpack or tote. The bag must be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC so security can see inside.

In addition to one clear bag, you can also bring a small clutch or wallet (no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches) and a phone. You cannot bring large backpacks, duffel bags, or non-clear bags. Prohibited items include weapons of any kind, outside food and drink, recording devices, and laser pointers.

If you are unsure whether an item meets the policy, check the Mavericks website or call the arena directly before you come. Security lines move faster when people follow the bag policy, so arriving with a compliant bag saves time at entry.

Seating, Sections, and Where to Sit

American Airlines Center has assigned seating throughout the arena. When you purchase your ticket, it shows your section number, row, and seat number. The lower bowl (sections 101 to 120) wraps around the court at ground level and offers the best views, but costs more. The upper bowl (sections 201 to 220) is higher up and farther from the court, but is more affordable.

The arena also has club seats and suites for groups or fans who want premium amenities like food and beverage service. These are more expensive but include perks like wider seats, better climate control, and private restrooms.

Arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before tipoff so you can find your section, get through security, and settle into your seat without feeling rushed. The arena gets crowded in the final 15 minutes before the game starts.

Food, Drinks, and Amenities Inside the Arena

American Airlines Center has concession stands throughout the building selling hot dogs, nachos, pizza, popcorn, candy, and soft drinks. Prices are typical for an arena — expect to pay $12 to $18 for a hot dog or sandwich, $6 to $8 for a small drink, and $5 to $7 for snacks. Beer and wine are also sold at designated stands.

The arena has multiple restrooms on both the lower and upper levels. Lines can get long during halftime, so plan accordingly. Cell phone service is generally available, though it can be slow during the game when thousands of people are using their phones at once.

You cannot bring outside food or drink into the arena, so plan to purchase what you need once you are inside. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, some concession stands can provide information about ingredients.

Parking and Getting Out After the Game

Parking lots around American Airlines Center fill up quickly on game nights. Arrive at least 90 minutes before tipoff if you want a spot in the closer lots. Parking attendants direct traffic, but expect congestion in the lots after the game ends — it can take 30 minutes or more to exit the parking area.

If you parked in a lot far from the arena, it may take 10 to 15 minutes just to walk back to your car. Some fans choose to stay in the arena for 15 to 20 minutes after the game ends to let the initial rush clear out before heading to their car.

Rideshare pickup is located on the north side of the arena. If you used Uber or Lyft to get there, request your ride from inside the arena or from the designated pickup zone to avoid waiting outside in bad weather.

Game Day Schedule and What to Expect

Mavericks games typically start at 7:30 p.m. on weeknights and 7:00 p.m. on weekends, though some games start at different times depending on television broadcasts. Check your ticket or the Mavericks website to confirm the exact start time for your game.

Doors usually open 90 minutes before tipoff, giving you time to find your seat, get food, and watch the pre-game warmups. The national anthem is played about 15 minutes before the game starts. Halftime is 15 minutes long and includes entertainment like dance performances or contests.

Games last about 2.5 to 3 hours from tipoff to final buzzer, depending on timeouts and fouls. Plan your evening accordingly if you have other commitments or a long drive home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food or drinks into American Airlines Center?

No, outside food and drink are not permitted. You must purchase food and beverages from the concession stands inside the arena. If you have a medical condition that requires specific food, contact the arena in advance to discuss your situation.

What is the best way to get to the arena if I don't want to drive?

The DART light rail Red Line stops at Victory Station, a short walk from the arena. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft also drop off directly at the arena entrance. Both options avoid parking hassles and post-game traffic.

Are there wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms?

Yes, American Airlines Center has wheelchair-accessible seating throughout the arena and accessible restrooms on multiple levels. When you purchase your ticket, you can select an accessible seat, or contact the Mavericks ticket office to discuss your needs.

Can I bring a camera or phone to record the game?

You can bring a phone to take photos and videos for personal use. Professional recording devices and cameras with detachable lenses are not permitted. Check the arena's website for the current policy on recording devices.

What should I do if I lose my ticket or it doesn't scan at the gate?

If you purchased your ticket digitally, you can show your mobile ticket on your phone at the gate. If you have a paper ticket and lose it, contact the Mavericks ticket office or Ticketmaster as soon as possible — they may be able to reissue it or provide a replacement.