The American Airlines Center stands as a beacon in downtown Dallas, Texas. Its distinctive architecture features brick, limestone, and granite, adorned with signature arches. The building boasts four entrances, one on each side. The north and south ends showcase dramatic outdoor balconies at the Platinum Level, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline.
This multipurpose arena serves as the home court for the Dallas Mavericks of the NBA and the Dallas Stars of the NHL. The Mavericks joined Dallas in 1980, while the Stars relocated from Minnesota. Both teams have built strong followings and deliver exciting games for fans.
The venue’s design prioritizes fan experience. Its seating arrangement is notably vertical, providing excellent sightlines for various events, including basketball, hockey, and concerts. This setup ensures that spectators can enjoy clear views from every angle.
Ticket prices are set to accommodate a wide range of budgets, with some seats available for as low as $12 in the terrace level. Fans can purchase tickets through several channels:
- Walk-up box office (North side of the arena)
- Online through Ticketmaster
- Phone reservations
The box office operates Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM, and during events. For most events, doors open 90 minutes before start time.
For those interested in a behind-the-scenes look, the American Airlines Center offers public tours. These educational experiences include visits to:
- Press box
- Luxury suite
- Party rooms
- Team locker room (when available)
Tour Schedule:
- Days: Non-event Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
- Times: 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM
- Reservations: Required at least 1 week in advance
- Booking window: Up to 3 months ahead
Tour Pricing:
- Adults: $4
- Seniors (65+): $3
- Children (3-17): $3
Free parking for tour attendees is available in Lot F, across from the north entrance on All-Star Way.
The American Airlines Center’s location in Victory Park offers convenient access. Here are driving directions from different areas:
From Northwest:
- Take I-35E South (Stemmons Freeway) towards downtown
- Exit 429B to Continental Avenue
- Turn left under the freeway onto Continental Avenue
- Left on Houston
From South:
- Take I-35E North (Stemmons Freeway) to Denton
- Exit 429C to Victory Ave/Hi-Line Dr
- Right on Victory Avenue
From West/Fort Worth:
- Take I-30 East
- Exit 45A to Denton/I-35 North
- Exit 429C to Victory Ave/Hi-Line Dr
- Right on Victory Avenue
Parking at the American Airlines Center is ample, with approximately 5,300 spaces available. Most are within a two-block radius, and over 3,000 spots are located south and east of the venue, easily walkable for most patrons.
For those dropping off or picking up guests, Valor Place on the west side of the arena is ideal. It provides easy access to all levels of the building and is just steps away from the West Doors. Buses, limousines, taxis, and personal vehicles can use this area.
Important notes for visitors:
- Grilling and open flames are not permitted in parking areas
- Food preparation is prohibited in parking lots
- Consumption of alcoholic beverages is not allowed in parking areas
- Tailgating is not permitted on American Airlines Center property
The American Airlines Center has established itself as a cornerstone of Dallas entertainment. Whether attending a Mavericks game, cheering on the Stars, or enjoying a concert, visitors can expect a world-class experience in this modern, well-designed venue. Its central location and thoughtful amenities make it a favorite destination for sports fans and music lovers alike.
History of the American Airlines Center
In 1998, the Dallas Mavericks, owned by H. Ross Perot Jr., and the Dallas Stars sought a new arena to replace the old and undersized Reunion Arena. Fortunately, the people of Dallas approved a new rental car tax and hotel tax, which helped generate funds to cover a portion of the construction costs. The two benefiting teams also contributed to the funding. It was decided that the new arena would be built just north of Woodall Rodgers Freeway.
In March 1999, American Airlines announced they would acquire the naming rights for the new arena, paying a substantial $195 million. This decision was fitting, as American Airlines is headquartered in Fort Worth.
The first event held at the American Airlines Center was an Eagles concert. The following night, the arena hosted the final show of Michael Flatley’s Feet of Flames tour. The first sports event took place in 2001, featuring a World Indoor Soccer League game where the Dallas Sidekicks played against the San Diego Sockers.
Additional Activities Around the AAC
Whether you arrive early or stay late after your event, take some time to explore these great nearby attractions.
Dallas World Aquarium
If you’re looking for an attraction near the American Airlines Center and don’t want to venture far, the Dallas World Aquarium is the perfect place to visit. Here, you can see exotic birds soaring freely, mesmerizing Mayan dance performances, a 40-foot waterfall, and thrilling crocodile feedings. The aquarium also features sloths, car-sized catfish, New World monkeys, and a 400,000-gallon shark tank.
Dallas Museum of Art
If you’re an art lover staying near the American Airlines Center, the Dallas Museum of Art is a must-visit. This museum is the top destination for exploring art in Dallas, with a collection of more than 23,000 works, including Pacific Island sculptures and European paintings. The museum also hosts several international exhibitions.
John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
The Kennedy Memorial Plaza is a unique and significant site to visit near the American Airlines Center. Created as a tribute to John F. Kennedy, this plaza has become an essential part of Dallas’ urban landscape and cultural heritage. The centerpiece is a square-shaped, roofless cenotaph memorial that stands 30 feet high and 50 feet wide.
Klyde Warren Park
If you’re looking to relax before watching a game at the American Airlines Center, consider visiting Klyde Warren Park. Located between Uptown and Downtown, this park features a green space with a children’s playground, croquet area, fitness zone, dog park, and more. If you’re lucky, you might catch a concert or scheduled event at the park. There’s also a food truck station where you can grab a snack while enjoying the fresh Dallas air.
