Do you know the feeling of walking into a massive arena, the roar of the crowd echoing around you, and a palpable energy filling the air? It's an incredible experience, and often, the sheer scale of these venues leaves us wondering: just how many people can fit in here? If you're pondering the capacity of a landmark like the Marriott Center, you're in the right place!
This comprehensive guide will not only answer your burning question about the Marriott Center's seating capacity but also take you on a journey through its history, renovations, and what makes it such a significant venue.
Unveiling the Numbers: How Many Seats Does the Marriott Center Have?
Let's dive straight into the heart of the matter!
Step 1: Get Ready for the Big Reveal!
Before we unveil the precise number, take a moment to guess! What's your estimate for a major college arena that hosts everything from basketball games to devotionals? Think about the atmosphere, the sheer volume of people that fill such a space. Got your number in mind? Great!
The Current Seating Capacity
As of its latest renovations in 2022, the Marriott Center, home to the Brigham Young University (BYU) Cougars men's and women's basketball teams, has a seating capacity of 17,978.
That's a significant number, making it one of the largest on-campus basketball arenas in the United States and the largest in the Big 12 Conference.
Step 2: A Look Back - The Marriott Center's Evolving Capacity
The Marriott Center wasn't always this exact size. Like many large venues, it has undergone several transformations over the years to enhance the fan experience and accommodate changing needs. Understanding its history provides valuable context to its current capacity.
Sub-heading: The Grand Opening and Early Years
When the Marriott Center first opened its doors on December 3, 1971, it was truly a monumental facility. At that time, it boasted an impressive total seating capacity of 23,054. This was broken down into approximately:
10,092 chair seats
12,590 bleacher seats
372 other spaces
This made it the largest college arena in the United States at the time of its completion! Imagine the energy in those early games with such a massive crowd.
Sub-heading: Modernization and Strategic Reductions
Over the decades, as technology advanced and the focus shifted towards optimizing comfort and modern amenities, the Marriott Center underwent several renovations. These updates, while enhancing the overall experience, often led to strategic reductions in seating capacity to allow for more legroom, improved sightlines, and the integration of new features.
2012 Renovations: In April 2012, BYU announced significant renovations. The lower bench seating on the north side was replaced with prime chair seating, and a new sound system was installed. These changes reduced the capacity from 22,700 to 20,951.
2015 Renovations: Further updates in 2015 saw the remaining lower bench seating replaced with padded chairs. This brought the seating capacity down to approximately 18,987. This renovation also included new video boards and the addition of the Marriott Center Annex for practice facilities.
2022 Renovations: The most recent major seating upgrade was completed in 2022. This phase involved replacing the upper bowl's yellow seats, resulting in the current capacity of 17,978. The decision to reduce capacity was driven by the need to replace aging seats and enhance the overall comfort for patrons.
Step 3: Beyond the Numbers - What Makes the Marriott Center Unique?
The Marriott Center is more than just a large arena; it's a hub of activity and a significant part of BYU's campus life.
Sub-heading: A Multi-Purpose Venue
While primarily known as the home of BYU basketball, the Marriott Center hosts a diverse range of events, including:
Weekly Campus Devotionals and Forums: These gatherings are a cornerstone of the BYU experience, drawing thousands of students, faculty, and staff.
Concerts and Live Performances: National and international artists have graced the Marriott Center stage.
Graduation Ceremonies: A memorable setting for celebrating academic achievements.
Conferences and Special Events: Its vast space makes it suitable for large-scale gatherings.
Sub-heading: Accessibility and Fan Experience
BYU is committed to providing an accessible and enjoyable experience for all attendees. The Marriott Center includes:
Disability Seating: Wheelchair-accessible seating is available on the concourse level, with provisions for companion tickets.
Elevators: A single elevator on the north side provides access to all three levels (playing floor, ticket lobby, and concourse).
Guest Services: Assistance for wheelchairs, first aid, and other needs is readily available.
Step 4: Planning Your Visit - Tips for Experiencing the Marriott Center
If you're planning to attend an event at the Marriott Center, here are some practical tips to enhance your experience:
Sub-heading: Ticketing and Entry
Purchase Tickets in Advance: For ticketed events, it's always best to purchase your tickets beforehand, especially for popular games or concerts.
Arrive Early: This is particularly crucial for free, general admission events where seating is first-come, first-served. Arriving at least an hour early is recommended.
Be Aware of Prohibited Items: The Marriott Center has a clear policy on prohibited items, including bags (with exceptions for diaper and medical bags), outside food or drink, weapons, and artificial noisemakers. Check the BYU Athletics website for the most up-to-date list.
Sub-heading: Navigating the Venue
Concourse Level: This is where most public restrooms and concessions are located. It's also where disability seating is typically found.
Getting to Your Seat: Familiarize yourself with your section and portal number to easily locate your seat. Ushers are available to assist if needed.
Parking: Plan your parking in advance, as lots can fill up quickly during major events. Check the BYU campus parking maps for accessible parking options.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
Here are some quick answers to common questions about the Marriott Center:
How to find out about upcoming events at the Marriott Center?
You can find information about upcoming events by visiting the official BYU Athletics website, the BYU Special Events website, or by checking local event listings for Provo, Utah.
How to purchase tickets for events at the Marriott Center?
Tickets can typically be purchased online through the BYU Tickets website, or in person at the Marriott Center Ticket Office.
How to access disability seating at the Marriott Center?
Disability seating is located on the concourse level near specific portals. For ticketed events, wheelchair section tickets are required, and for free events, it's first-come, first-served. Contact the ticket office in advance for specific accommodations.
How to get to the Marriott Center?
The Marriott Center is located on the campus of Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. You can use public transit (like UVX, stopping at BYU Stadium station) or drive and utilize campus parking.
How to bring a service animal to the Marriott Center?
Service animals (dogs or miniature horses trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities) are permitted. It's recommended to notify the BYU Special Events Department in advance.
How to find restrooms at the Marriott Center?
All public restrooms, including disability-accessible restrooms, are located on the concourse level of the arena.
How to find first aid at the Marriott Center?
For large events, a first aid station is located on the concourse between portals R and Q. For smaller events, you can ask an usher for assistance.
How to know what items are prohibited inside the Marriott Center?
Generally, prohibited items include weapons, large bags, outside food/drink, fireworks, glass bottles, and artificial noisemakers. Always check the BYU Tickets website for the most current list before attending an event.
How to get a wheelchair for transport within the Marriott Center?
A limited number of wheelchairs are available to borrow at the Guest Services booth (between portals A and Y) to transport guests to their seats. They are not available for rent.
How to inquire about lost and found items at the Marriott Center?
For inquiries about lost and found items, you should contact the Marriott Center Special Events Office.
