Hilton Coliseum

Capacity: 14,267

Home Teams: Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA College Basketball)

Hilton Coliseum Events

The grand old Hilton Coliseum has been home to the men’s and women’s Iowa State Cyclones basketball teams ever since it opened in 1971, as well as the Iowa State University’s wrestling, volleyball, and gymnastics teams. The venue also hosted the varsity hockey teams until 2001. Despite upgrades and renovations over the years, the Coliseum retains the rare vintage feel of a 1970s basketball venue, built with a solid concrete shell and steel doors that hold in the sound (of one of the loudest crowds in the NCAA). Iowa State has historically been better known for its football team than for success on the hardcourt, but the Cyclones men’s basketball team has emerged on the national stage over the past few decades as a program that others need to take seriously, with all but one of their 22 appearances in the NCAA March Madness postseason tournament coming since 1985. The Cyclones have made it to the Sweet 16 a total of 6 times and the Elite 8 on 2 occasions (most recently in 2000). Their only Final Four appearance was way back in 1944 during World War II. The Hilton Coliseum is said by local Iowa fans and sportswriters to confer a special sort of home advantage known as “Hilton Magic,” based on a number of notable comebacks and defeats of strong rivals. Anyone who has ever attended a game at the Hilton Coliseum will find it hard not to believe just a bit in “Hilton Magic” after encountering the wall of sound emanating from the cardinal and gold clad supporters that buoys the home team on (and intimidates the opposition). As well as Cyclones basketball games and other sporting competitions, Hilton Coliseum, among the largest indoor arenas in Iowa, is also a regular concert and comedy show venue, hosting such talents as Guns N’ Roses, Justin Timberlake, and Garth Brooks through the years. Hungry visitors to Hilton Coliseum will find tasty snacks like walking tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, and pizza at the concessions, though alcohol is not available (except in premium seating areas like Johnny’s Bar). Those interested in buying Cyclones merchandise can go to shops and kiosks at Hilton Coliseum or around campus.

How can I find the cheapest tickets to games and events at Hilton Coliseum?

Despite the venue’s large capacity, Iowa State Cyclones basketball games and concerts at Hilton Coliseum frequently sell out. While this goes a long way towards creating the incredible atmosphere known as Hilton Magic, it can make tickets tricky to find. To get a hold of the cheapest tickets to Auburn Tigers home games or other events at Hilton Coliseum, check the TicketX listings on this page and use our handy TicketX seating chart to compare seating options based on price and location.

Hilton Coliseum Seating Chart

Hilton Coliseum is a large venue with many different seating options for visitors to choose from. Those looking for a more luxurious experience can opt for premium seating areas like Johnny’s Bar, club seats, or courtside seats. Large sections of general admission seating throughout the rest of the venue are great places to experience “Hilton Magic” and actually provide comfortable seats (unlike some college sporting venues!).

Getting to Hilton Coliseum (Transportation and Parking)

Visitors can access Hilton Coliseum via public transportation or driving their own vehicle. 

Getting to Hilton Coliseum via public transportation

While there are local city buses that stop near Hilton Coliseum, a taxi or ride-share might be a better option if you are not familiar with the city. Walking is doable if you will be located on or near campus. 

Getting to Hilton Coliseum by car

Driving your own vehicle to Hilton Coliseum is easy if you allow for time to get through the game day traffic. Visit the Iowa Cyclones website for maps and driving directions. Plan to get there early!

Does Hilton Coliseum have on-site parking?

Yes, there is still plenty of public parking around campus, though certain lots are reserved for donors and season ticket holders. Some lots have also been closed due to construction around campus. Check the Iowa Cyclones website for parking details and a color coded parking map. 

How much does Hilton Coliseum parking cost?

Public parking on campus near Hilton Coliseum is free during basketball games (subject to change, charges may apply for other events). Lots are first come, first served. Check the Iowa Cyclones website for updated information on parking arrangements and prices.