The Staples Center is a multipurpose arena in downtown Los Angeles known for hosting major concerts, sports, and entertainment events. Originally opened in 1999, it has become one of the busiest venues on the West Coast for live experiences.
Over time, the venue has built a reputation for excellent sightlines, modern amenities, and flexible configurations. Fans often reference the venue by its original name or by its current branding depending on the era of their visit.
Staples Center Basic Facts At A Glance
| Attribute | Detail | Reference Or Source | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Name | Staples Center | Venue signage and historical records | Also known as Crypto.com Arena |
| Location | 1111 S Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA | Official venue website | Adjacent to L.A. Live and the Convention Center |
| Opened | 1999 | Historical archives and news reports | Replaced the Great Western Forum |
| Capacity (Concerts) | Approximately 20,000 | Venue specifications | Varies by event configuration |
| Primary Tenants | Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers | Team press releases and league schedules | Former home of Los Angeles Kings and Sparks |
History And Naming Evolution
Since its opening in 1999, the Staples Center has documented a dynamic timeline of sports and entertainment milestones. Early plans focused on modernizing downtown Los Angeles and creating a year round venue for major events.
Originally named for its sponsor Staples, the arena later added the branding of telecommunications partner AT T. More recently, the venue transitioned to a crypto focused identity under the name Crypto.com Arena, reflecting shifting sponsorship strategies.
Throughout these changes, the building itself has remained a hub for championship games, Grammy performances, and globally televised award shows. Understanding this naming evolution helps contextualize search interest and online references over different decades.
Event Programming And Major Concerts
The arena hosts a wide mix of event types, ranging from National Basketball Association playoffs to international music tours and televised award ceremonies. Because of its central location, production teams favor the Staples Center for high profile shows that require advanced staging.
Annual events such as the Academy of Motion Picture Sciences Governors Awards and major conference concerts have become part of the venue portfolio. By reviewing past schedules, planners can forecast demand patterns and anticipate road closures or security protocols.
As a result, audience members often align their travel plans with touring acts announced months in advance. This predictable programming supports robust secondary market activity for tickets and hospitality packages.
Transport Accessibility And Onsite Amenities
Public transportation options make reaching the venue straightforward, with multiple Metro lines stopping near L.A. Live. Dedicated rideshare zones are clearly marked, although peak event times can create congestion in the surrounding streets.
Inside, fans find a range of concessions, team stores, and technology enabled features like mobile ordering and digital signage. Clear signage and staff assistance help visitors navigate the concourses, even during busy pregame periods.
For attendees with accessibility needs, the venue provides designated seating, companion areas, and assistance request processes well documented on official channels.
Comparisons With Other Downtown Los Angeles Venues
| Venue | Primary Use | Capacity | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staples Center | NBA, concerts, awards | Up to 20,000 | Multiple configurations, premium lounges |
| Dodger Stadium | MLB baseball | 56,000 | Outdoor, iconic views |
| SoFi Stadium | NFL, large concerts | 70,000 | Newest roofed venue, advanced tech |
| The Forum | Concerts, legacy events | 17,000 | Historic, renovated acoustics |
Venue Policies And Operational Details
Attendance policies at the Staples Center emphasize safety, including clear bag restrictions and entry screening procedures. Event specific rules can affect whether outside food, cameras, or professional recording devices are permitted.
Weather related delays are rare indoors, but operational updates may arise from technical rehearsals or last minute production changes. Ticket holders are encouraged to review entry windows and upgrade options when planning their visit.
Parking structures nearby provide multiple rate tiers, while public transit passes offer alternative cost effective choices. Understanding these policies ahead of time reduces stress and supports a smoother entry experience.
Key Takeaways For Visitors
- Check the current name, as branding has changed from Staples Center to Crypto.com Arena.
- Review event specific policies on bags, recording, and concessions before arrival.
- Plan transportation in advance using Metro lines or rideshare zones to avoid congestion.
- Consult seating charts to choose optimal views based on your ticket category.
- Monitor official channels for updates on parking, road closures, and entry procedures.
FAQ
Reader questions
What is the current name of the arena formerly known as Staples Center?
The arena is now called Crypto.com Arena, following a sponsorship agreement change. Many fans still use the Staples Center name out of habit or when referencing older events.
Which professional basketball teams play their home games at Staples Center?
The Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers are the primary NBA tenants, while the Los Angeles Kings and the Sparks have also played there in the past.
What is the seating capacity of Staples Center for concerts?
The capacity is approximately 20,000 for concerts, though specific configurations can lower or raise these numbers depending on the stage setup.
How does public transportation work for events at Staples Center?
Multiple Metro lines serve the nearby Pico Station and Grand Avenue Station, with dedicated rideshare zones and parking structures available for those driving in.