Where the Pelicans Play and How to Get There
The New Orleans Pelicans play their home games at Smoothie King Center, located at 1501 Girod Street in the Warehouse District of New Orleans. The arena opened in 1999 as the Smoothie King Center (it was called the New Orleans Arena from 1999 to 2021, then the Smoothie King Center after the naming rights agreement). It sits near the Mississippi River, a short walk from the French Quarter and the Central Business District.
If you're driving, the arena has its own parking garage with multiple levels. Street parking is also available in the surrounding Warehouse District, though it fills up on game nights. Public transit options include the RTA streetcar lines and bus routes that serve the area. The closest major highway access is via I-10, which connects to local streets leading to Girod Street.
The venue is also home to the New Orleans Pelicans' G League affiliate, the Birmingham Squadron, and hosts concerts, conventions, and other sporting events throughout the year.
Key Takeaways
- Smoothie King Center is located at 1501 Girod Street in the Warehouse District, about a mile from the French Quarter.
- The arena has an on-site parking garage, and street parking is available nearby, though both fill quickly on game nights.
- Public transportation via RTA buses and streetcars serves the area, and rideshare services drop off at designated zones.
- The venue holds roughly 16,900 people for basketball and has hosted major events since opening in 1999.
- Concessions, restrooms, and accessible seating are distributed throughout the arena, with family zones and club-level areas available.
Parking and Transportation Options
The Smoothie King Center parking garage is the most straightforward option if you're driving. It's attached to the building and charges a flat rate on game nights (the exact amount varies by event, but typically ranges from $15 to $25). The garage has multiple levels and elevators that connect directly to the arena entrance. Arrive early on game nights, as spaces fill up quickly, especially for popular matchups.
Street parking in the Warehouse District is free but limited and competitive on event nights. Metered spots are available on nearby streets like Tchoupitoulas and Magazine, though enforcement is active during business hours and event times. Some residents and businesses offer private lot parking for a fee.
The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates bus and streetcar lines that serve the arena. The Rampart-St. Claude streetcar line stops near the venue, and multiple bus routes connect the Warehouse District to other parts of the city. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in New Orleans and have designated pickup and drop-off zones near the arena entrance on Girod Street.
What to Bring and What's Not Allowed
The arena allows bags, but they must be clear and no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches. This is a standard security measure at most NBA venues. Small clutches and wallets without straps are also permitted. Cameras are allowed, but professional equipment (tripods, large lenses) may be restricted depending on the event.
Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the arena. The venue has concession stands throughout the building selling hot food, snacks, and drinks at typical arena prices. You can bring an empty water bottle and refill it at water fountains, which helps reduce costs.
Weapons of any kind, including pocket knives, are prohibited. Glass bottles, cans, and outside alcohol are not allowed. Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside the building, though designated outdoor areas may be available. Check the Pelicans' official website or your ticket confirmation for the most current prohibited items list, as policies can change.
Seating Sections and Venue Layout
Smoothie King Center has seating arranged in sections numbered 101 through 120 around the lower bowl, 201 through 220 in the upper bowl, and club-level seating in between. Lower bowl seats are closer to the court and offer better sightlines for most fans. Upper bowl seats are more affordable and still provide a good view of the action, though they're farther from the court.
Club-level seating includes premium amenities like wider seats, better food options, and private restrooms. Accessible seating for people with disabilities is distributed throughout the arena, and companion seating is available next to accessible spots. The arena also has family zones in certain sections where the atmosphere is geared toward younger fans and families.
Restrooms are located on both the lower and upper bowl levels, with additional facilities in club areas. Concession stands are spread throughout the venue so you don't have to walk far to get food or drinks. The arena's layout is straightforward, and staff members are positioned throughout to help fans find their seats and locate amenities.
Game Day Experience and Amenities
Smoothie King Center typically opens its doors about 90 minutes before tip-off, giving fans time to find their seats, grab food, and settle in before the game starts. The pre-game atmosphere includes music, video highlights on the scoreboard, and team introductions. Halftime features entertainment, which varies by game but often includes local performers or special events.
The arena has a full-service concession menu with options beyond typical stadium fare. You'll find po'boys, gumbo, and other New Orleans-style food alongside hot dogs, nachos, and pizza. Alcoholic beverages are sold at concession stands and bar areas. Prices are higher than outside restaurants, as is standard at sports venues.
The Pelicans' in-arena entertainment team creates an energetic environment with music, crowd participation, and fan engagement activities. The team mascot, King Cake, appears throughout the game. Local traditions and New Orleans culture are woven into the game-day experience, from the music played to the food served.
Getting Tickets and Event Information
Pelicans tickets are sold through the team's official website, Ticketmaster, and authorized resellers. Single-game tickets go on sale at different times depending on the opponent and date. Season ticket holders get first access, followed by the general public. Prices vary widely based on the opponent, day of the week, and seat location — a regular-season game against a less popular team might cost $20 to $50 for upper bowl seats, while a matchup against a rival or playoff game could cost significantly more.
The Pelicans' official website lists the full schedule, ticket availability, and pricing. You can also sign up for the team's email list to receive notifications about ticket sales and special promotions. Some games sell out, particularly playoff games and matchups against popular teams, so buying in advance is recommended.
Ticket information, parking details, and arena policies are also available on the Smoothie King Center's official website. If you have questions about accessibility, seating, or other accommodations, the Pelicans' customer service team can be reached through the team's contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food or drinks into Smoothie King Center?
No, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the arena. You can bring an empty water bottle and refill it at water fountains. Concession stands throughout the venue sell food and drinks, including New Orleans-style options like po'boys and gumbo.
What is the parking situation on game nights?
The arena's attached parking garage is the most reliable option and charges a flat rate (typically $15 to $25 per vehicle). Street parking is available in the Warehouse District but fills up quickly. Arrive early or use rideshare services to avoid parking hassles.
Are there accessible seating options for people with disabilities?
Yes, the arena has accessible seating throughout the lower and upper bowls, with companion seating available next to accessible spots. Contact the Pelicans' customer service team in advance if you need specific accommodations or have questions about accessibility.
How early should I arrive before a game?
The arena typically opens about 90 minutes before tip-off. Arriving 60 to 90 minutes early gives you time to park, find your seat, and get food without feeling rushed. For popular games, arriving even earlier is a good idea.
What items are prohibited at Smoothie King Center?
Weapons, outside food and beverages, glass bottles, cans, and outside alcohol are not permitted. Bags must be clear and no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches. Check the Pelicans' website for the most current prohibited items list.