Opened in 2007, the T-Mobile Center is located in the Power & Light District of downtown Kansas City, Missouri. The arena is one of the most visited in the country despite not hosting any professional sports teams. Instead, the T-Mobile Center plays host to numerous college basketball tournaments as well as some of the most significant acts in show business. It opened its doors with a performance from Elton John and has featured Garth Brooks, Coldplay, Lady Gaga, and many others. The central location in Kansas City and a seating capacity of almost 19,000 helps make the T-Mobile Center a favorite stop for performers.
Inside the arena, guests can enjoy different styles of food from one gate to the next including BBQ, Mex Fresh Cantina, and Boulevard Tap Shop. Also inside the arena, you’ll find the official College Basketball Hall of Fame, a must-see for any NCAA fan.
T-Mobile Center Facts
- Location: Kansas City, MO
- Capacity: 18,972
- Walk-ability: 9/10*
What to Expect When You Arrive
Security: Unlike other arenas, there is no size limit on bags, but every bag is checked at the entrances; although, backpacks of any kind are prohibited. The T-Mobile Center also prohibits any iPads or tablets larger than 7”. For a full breakdown of their policies, check the FAQs on the T-Mobile Center website.
Parking: The T-Mobile Center is very accessible off I-70, so driving into the area isn’t difficult, but plan for event traffic. There are two garages near the arena, but downtown Kansas City offers plenty of other lots and garages to choose from. Event parking prices will vary as you get closer to the arena entrances. On the East side of the arena, there is an ADA drop-off area as well.
The Best Seats at the T-Mobile Center
Floor sections 1-3 put you directly in front of the stage, and they are usually the priciest, but sections 116-117 and 106-107 offer great views, comfortable seats, and ticket prices that can rival the floor seats.
We recommend floor sections 4 and 6. You’re a little further from the stage, but the price difference can be enormous and completely worth the tradeoff.
If you’re looking for value seats, the upper bowl sections 224-226 and 204-206 offer much lower prices. The views aren’t as great, but you won’t sacrifice sound, which after all, is why you’re there!
Top Restaurants Near the T-Mobile Center
For a different and low-key dining experience that won’t break the bank, Koko Thai is a perfect choice. The casual Thai eatery is only a few minutes’ walks south of the arena entrance and provides a simple, delicious menu.
If you’re looking for something a little more traditional, the BRGR Kitchen and Bar is also only a few steps from the arena and features classic American fare like burgers, Mac&Cheese, and some “Not-So-Standard” Tots. With a chic design and a decent kid’s menu, this spot will satisfy the whole party.
Directly across from the arena entrance, you’ll find The Dubliner KC. This Irish pub has a great beer menu, pool, darts, and live music. If you’re looking for bars near the T-Mobile Center and something fun after the event or just some late-night bites, The Dubliner KC is a great option.
Top Hotels Near the T-Mobile Center
The T-Mobile Center features quite a few options for where to hang your hat at the end of the day. We like to give you some options from where to stay in luxury to the best value spot, but downtown Kansas City provides excellent spots close by where you don’t have to sacrifice service for the price. Here are our recommendations for the best hotels near the T-Mobile Center.
Luxury:
The Hilton President Kansas City is only a four-minute walk from the arena and fits the bill for our luxury choice. Described as “upscale with historic décor,” the Hilton President features two restaurants and a surprisingly low price tag. It lines up as one of the top recommendations from the T-Mobile Center as well.
Value:
You don’t have to take too much of a step down to hit our value choice at the Hotel Phillips. This modern, 4-star hotel is a short seven-minute walk from the arena entrance and offers live music most nights to go along with several dining options. Prices are usually lower than the average 4-star spot without sacrificing amenities, so the Hotel Phillips comes in as one of our top recommendations.
Affordable
The Hotel Indigo Kansas City Downtown is a 3-star, affordable option that provides a unique experience. It comes highly rated by other guests, and the 1930’s style gives it the perfect retro feel. Have a drink in their cocktail lounge and enjoy one of the lowest rates within walking distance.
Other Attractions Near the T-Mobile Center
The Power & Light District is brimming with restaurant and shopping options, but the big draw of this area is the other performance venues. The Arvest Bank Theatre, Kauffman Center for Performing Arts, and Municipal Auditorium are all within walking distance of this downtown district. It’s a great excuse to extend your stay.
If you want to get out of the area a little, head south to the trendy Crossroads District for an eclectic atmosphere and some great shopping. Being in the heart of downtown also provides great access to the Metro which can take you all over the area to explore!
*Walk-ability score is based on the proximity of parking, dining, lodging, and other entertainment. The T-Mobile Center’s parking options are scattered and sometimes expensive and the lodging options don’t provide a real luxury experience, but everything you need is within a 10-minute walk from the arena. The T-Mobile Center scores a 9/10.
