Thomas & Mack Center: SeatGeek’s Guide to Events at Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada

When it comes to live entertainment in Las Vegas, few venues have the legacy and versatility of the Thomas & Mack Center. Located on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), the arena has been a central hub for college basketball, professional sports, major concerts and large-scale events since opening in the early 1980s. From hosting championship basketball to welcoming music superstars and the annual National Finals Rodeo, the Thomas & Mack Center has earned its place as one of the most important arenas in the country.

About Thomas & Mack Center

• Location: 4505 S Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89154

• Opened: 1983

• Capacity: Approximately 18,000 for basketball, up to 19,500 for concerts

• Primary Tenant: UNLV Runnin’ Rebels basketball

• Other Uses: Concerts, boxing, MMA, conventions, rodeo and family shows

History and Legacy

The Thomas & Mack Center was named after two prominent Nevada bankers, E. Parry Thomas and Jerome Mack, who were instrumental in financing the project. When it opened in 1983, the arena immediately gave UNLV basketball a nationally recognized home. The Runnin’ Rebels dominated college basketball in the late 1980s and early 1990s, including winning the 1990 NCAA Championship inside this very building.

Over the years, the arena has expanded its reach far beyond college sports. It has hosted NBA Summer League games, world championship boxing matches, UFC events, professional wrestling and concerts from some of the biggest names in music. Its most iconic recurring event is the National Finals Rodeo, which brings tens of thousands of rodeo fans to Las Vegas every December.

Getting to Thomas & Mack Center

Driving and Parking

The arena is conveniently located just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip and McCarran International Airport. Parking is available in surrounding lots, with both general and premium parking options offered depending on the event. For major events like the rodeo or sold-out concerts, purchasing parking in advance is highly recommended.

Public Transit

The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) operates bus routes that stop near the UNLV campus, making it accessible for fans traveling without a car.

Rideshare

Given the arena’s proximity to the Strip, rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are popular. The arena has designated pickup and drop-off zones to streamline traffic during large events.

Plan Your Visit

• Doors Open: Typically 60–90 minutes before tipoff, showtime, or event start.

• Event Duration: College basketball games run around two hours, while concerts and rodeo sessions vary.

• Tickets: The arena uses mobile ticketing as the primary method of entry.

Food and Beverages

Concessions at Thomas & Mack Center include traditional arena favorites such as hot dogs, popcorn and nachos, as well as upgraded options like specialty sandwiches, BBQ and local food vendors. Beer, cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages are widely available. Premium seating areas and suites offer access to exclusive dining and catering.

Seating and Experience

• Lower Bowl: Provides close-up views for basketball, boxing and concerts, creating an intimate and electric atmosphere.

• Upper Bowl: More affordable seating with wide views of the court, stage, or arena floor.

• Club Seats and Suites: Offer extra comfort, private concessions and excellent sightlines.

• Concerts: Configurations vary, but floor seating puts fans right in front of the stage, while elevated side sections balance views with comfort.

The arena is designed to keep sound inside, making concerts and big games especially loud and energetic.

Arena Policies

• Bag Policy: Clear bag policy in effect, with bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” permitted. Small clutches and medically necessary items are exceptions.

• Security: Metal detectors and bag checks are mandatory for all guests.

• Prohibited Items: Outside food and beverages, large signs, professional cameras and noisemakers are not allowed.

• Alcohol Policy: Alcohol sales are available to fans of legal age, with limits per transaction and sales ending before the final minutes of events.

• Re-Entry: Re-entry is not permitted once you leave the building.

Why Thomas & Mack Center Stands Out

What makes this arena unique is its combination of tradition and versatility. It’s one of the most storied homes in college basketball, but it’s also equally known for rodeo, boxing and concerts. Few venues can claim to have hosted both a national basketball championship team and the biggest rodeo in the world. Its location near the Strip makes it easy for visitors to combine events with everything Las Vegas has to offer.

Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek

Whether you’re watching the Runnin’ Rebels, catching a world-class concert, or attending the iconic National Finals Rodeo, the Thomas & Mack Center provides an unforgettable event experience in Las Vegas. SeatGeek makes it simple to find tickets, compare seating options and plan your visit to one of the most versatile arenas in the United States.