Golden 1 Center is the home of the Sacramento Kings in downtown Sacramento
Golden 1 Center opened in 2016 and sits in the central business district of Sacramento, California. The arena holds about 16,000 people for basketball games and hosts the Kings' 82-game regular season schedule plus playoffs. The building is also used for concerts, other sports events, and community gatherings throughout the year.
The arena is located at 500 David J. Sauer Forum Drive, a few blocks from the State Capitol and the Sacramento River. If you are planning to attend a game or event, knowing the basics about parking, seating, what you can bring, and how to get there will make your visit smoother.
Key Takeaways
- Golden 1 Center is in downtown Sacramento and accessible by car, light rail, or bus, with multiple parking options nearby.
- You can buy Kings tickets through the official NBA website, the Kings' own website, or resale platforms like StubHub and Ticketmaster's resale section.
- The arena has clear rules about what you can bring inside — no outside food or drinks, but you can bring an empty water bottle to fill at fountains.
- Seating ranges from upper-level standing room only to premium club seats, and prices vary widely depending on the opponent and time of season.
- The arena offers accessible seating and services for people with disabilities, and you should contact the box office ahead of time if you need accommodations.
Getting to Golden 1 Center by car and parking
If you drive, several parking lots and garages surround the arena. The official arena parking garage is attached to the building and fills up quickly on game nights, especially for popular matchups. Parking typically costs between $10 and $20 depending on the event and how far in advance you reserve. You can reserve parking through the Kings' website or through third-party apps like SpotHero.
Street parking is available in the surrounding downtown area, though spaces are limited and meters have time restrictions. Arriving at least 90 minutes before tipoff gives you a better chance of finding a spot. If you plan to drink alcohol at the game, using a rideshare service or public transit is a safer choice than driving yourself.
Using public transportation to reach the arena
Sacramento's light rail system, called the Gold Line, has a stop directly at Golden 1 Center. The light rail runs from the airport and other parts of the city, making it a straightforward option if you live on or near the line. Fares are low — usually a few dollars for a round trip — and the train runs frequently on game days.
Sacramento Regional Transit (RT) also runs bus routes that stop near the arena. You can check the RT website or use Google Maps to find the route that works for your starting point. Public transit is often faster than driving during peak traffic times and eliminates the need to find parking.
How to buy tickets and what prices typically look like
Tickets for Kings games are sold through the official NBA website (NBA.com), the Sacramento Kings' official website (Kings.com), and resale platforms including StubHub, Ticketmaster's resale section, and Vivid Seats. Prices depend on several factors: which team is visiting, whether it is a weekend or weekday game, how far away the game is, and how close the seats are to the court.
A typical regular season game against a non-rival team might have upper-level seats starting around $20 to $40. Games against popular teams like the Los Angeles Lakers or Golden State Warriors cost significantly more — sometimes $100 to $300 or higher for the same seat location. Playoff games are more expensive across the board. The Kings' website shows all available games and current prices, and you can filter by date and price range to find what works for your budget.
What you can and cannot bring into the arena
Golden 1 Center does not allow outside food or drinks to be brought into the building. You cannot bring your own alcohol, and glass containers are prohibited. However, you can bring an empty water bottle and fill it at water fountains inside the arena at no cost.
You are allowed to bring a small bag or backpack, though it may be searched at the entrance. Cameras and phones are permitted. If you have a medical condition that requires you to bring specific food or drink, contact the box office before the game to request an exception — the arena often grants these for documented medical reasons.
Seating options and what different price points offer
Golden 1 Center has several seating tiers. The upper level is the least expensive and farthest from the court, with views of the entire floor. Mid-level seats offer a closer view and cost more. Lower-bowl seats are close to the action and command higher prices. Club seats include amenities like wider chairs, private restrooms, and complimentary food and drink, and cost the most.
Standing room only tickets are sometimes available for popular games at a lower price point than seated tickets. These allow you to stand in designated areas and watch the game but do not may provide a specific view. The arena's design means that even upper-level seats have decent sightlines — there are no obstructed-view seats.
Accessibility and accommodations for people with disabilities
Golden 1 Center has wheelchair-accessible seating throughout the arena, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking spaces. If you need a wheelchair space, companion seating, or other accommodations, you should contact the Kings' box office before buying tickets. They can reserve the right seats for your needs and explain what services are available.
The arena also offers assisted listening devices for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Service animals are permitted. If you have questions about specific accommodations, call the box office or email through the Kings' website — staff can answer questions about what is available and help you plan your visit.
What to expect on game day and arena rules
Arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before tipoff, especially if you are unfamiliar with the building. This gives you time to park, get through security, find your seat, and grab food or drinks if you want them. Security screening is standard — expect to go through a metal detector or bag check at the entrance.
The arena has clear policies about conduct: no standing in aisles during play, no throwing objects, and no abusive language toward other fans or players. Violations can result in removal from the arena without a refund. Alcohol is sold inside the building, and the arena enforces a strict policy against intoxicated behavior. If you plan to drink, do so responsibly and know your limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own seat cushion or blanket to the game?
Yes, you can bring a personal seat cushion or blanket. Many fans bring cushions because arena seats can be uncomfortable during a long game. Just make sure it does not block the view of people sitting behind you.
What time do doors open before a game?
Doors typically open about 90 minutes before tipoff, though this can vary by event. Check the Kings' website or your ticket confirmation for the specific door time for the game you are attending.
Is there a dress code for attending a Kings game?
No official dress code exists. Fans wear everything from casual clothes to team jerseys. The arena is climate-controlled, so you do not need to worry about the weather inside.
Can I leave the arena and come back in during the game?
Most venues, including Golden 1 Center, do not allow re-entry once you leave. Check your ticket or ask an usher before you exit to confirm the policy for your specific event.
Are there food options for people with dietary restrictions?
Golden 1 Center has concession stands with various options including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. Prices are higher than outside restaurants — typical arena pricing applies. If you have severe allergies, you may want to contact the arena ahead of time to discuss options.