The Smoothie King Center sits right beside the Caesars Superdome in downtown New Orleans, a short walk or streetcar ride from the French Quarter. Home to the New Orleans Pelicans, it pairs the game with unbeatable food, music, and nightlife.
Getting There
Fly into New Orleans (MSY), about 20–30 minutes from downtown. You'll drive or rideshare in from the airport.
The arena is downtown, walkable from the CBD and French Quarter, with the streetcar nearby. You won't need a car once you're in the city.
Where to Stay
Stay in the French Quarter or the CBD/Warehouse District, both are a walk or short streetcar ride from the arena and put you in the food and nightlife.
This is a city where where you stay is half the trip; base yourself in or near the Quarter.
Parking & When to Arrive
There are garages and lots downtown, and prepaid is smart, but the arena is walkable from the Quarter and CBD, so most fans don't need to drive.
Roof & Climate
Yes, indoor arena, fully enclosed and climate controlled year-round.
Smoothie King Center is a fully enclosed, climate-controlled indoor arena, and it can run cool. Bring a layer even in summer.
Where Visiting Fans Sit
It's a comfortable arena with good sightlines and no major obstructed views.
Lower-bowl seats are pricier while the upper deck is good value. Pelicans crowds are welcoming and fun for visiting fans.
Food & What to Bring
This is New Orleans, so eat everywhere (po'boys, gumbo, jambalaya, beignets) the food is the whole trip.
Check the bag policy, as arena clear-bag or small-bag rules usually apply. It's indoors, so weather isn't a factor inside.
Comparing parks? We checked bag policies at all 30 MLB ballparks.
The Pregame Scene
The French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and the Warehouse District are the pregame — walkable, lively, and unmatched.
Grab food and drinks in the Quarter or CBD, then walk over to the arena for tip-off.
Insider Tips
Stay in or near the French Quarter and walk — the city is the experience. Eat everything.
Enjoy a welcoming crowd and one of the most fun away trips anywhere. Pair it with a full New Orleans weekend.
Build your Smoothie King Center trip
Choose each piece: flights into MSY, a hotel in the French Quarter or CBD within walking distance, Pelicans tickets, and a rental car only if you want it (the arena is walkable from the Quarter). Save it to My trips to keep your dates. Nothing books until you're ready.