When Did Desert Diamond Arena Open? Timeline, Capacity, and Glendale Entertainment Guide
Desert Diamond Arena is a key attraction in the Phoenix metropolitan area, hosting blockbuster concerts, major sporting events, and family shows year-round. But many fans and visitors want to know: when did Desert Diamond Arena open? In this SEO-focused blog post, you’ll get the answer, stadium details such as capacity, and discover what’s around this Glendale landmark for an unforgettable live entertainment experience.
When Did Desert Diamond Arena Open?
Desert Diamond Arena (formerly Gila River Arena) officially opened its doors on December 26, 2003. Located in Glendale, Arizona, the multipurpose venue was built to anchor the Westgate Entertainment District and serve as a new home for the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes until 2022. Since its opening night—featuring a concert by Bette Midler—the arena has welcomed millions for hockey, basketball, MMA, wrestling, and top musical acts.
What Is the Desert Diamond Arena Capacity?
The Desert Diamond Arena capacity varies by event setup:
- Hockey: 17,125 seats
- Basketball: 18,300 seats
- Concerts: Configurable from 7,000 up to around 19,000
VIP suites, club-level seating, and flexible floor setups make the venue adaptable for high-profile performers and major sporting crowds.
What Is Around Desert Diamond Arena?
When visiting for an event, you’ll find a vibrant entertainment district surrounding the arena:
- Westgate Entertainment District: Dozens of restaurants, bars, grills, coffee shops, and retail nearby (Yard House, Bar Louie, Dave & Buster’s, and more)
- Desert Diamond Casino – West Valley: Just minutes away for gaming and nightlife options
- State Farm Stadium: NFL Arizona Cardinals’ home right next door for even larger events, postseason games, and special attractions
- Shopping: Tanger Outlets Phoenix for outlet deals within walking distance
- Hotels: Multiple hotels from budget inns to full-service options right in the district for easy overnight stays
Table: Desert Diamond Arena Key Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Opened | December 26, 2003 |
| Location | Glendale, AZ (Westgate Entertainment District) |
| Capacity (Hockey/Concert) | 17,125 / up to 19,000 |
| Nearby Attractions | Westgate District, State Farm Stadium, Tanger Outlets |
Frequently Asked Questions About Desert Diamond Arena
- When did Desert Diamond Arena open?
December 26, 2003. - What is the Desert Diamond Arena capacity?
17,125 for hockey, up to about 19,000 for concerts. - What’s around Desert Diamond Arena?
Plenty! Restaurants, shops, casino, hotels, and State Farm Stadium—all in the Westgate Entertainment District.
Conclusion: Your Guide to Desert Diamond Arena’s History & Surroundings
Now you know when Desert Diamond Arena opened, what its capacity is, and the hottest places to eat, shop, and play in the area. Whether you’re catching a world-class concert or a play-off game, Glendale’s Westgate sector offers entertainment at every turn—making Desert Diamond Arena a true Arizona live event hub.
