Fifth Third Arena Events

Fifth Third Arena

Fifth Third Arena is a sports venue that’s located within the Shoemaker Center on the University of Cincinnati campus in Cincinnati, Ohio. The venue serves as the home court of the University of Cincinnati men’s and women’s basketball teams, as well as the school’s women’s volleyball team. Fifth Third Arena first opened in 1989 and underwent extensive renovations in 2017 and 2018. Since opening, the Cincinnati Bearcats men’s basketball team has won more than 80% of its home games at Fifth Third Arena. For basketball games, Fifth Third Arena has a capacity of just over 12,000 fans.

Where are the Best Places to Sit at Fifth Third Arena

Sections 103-105 and 115-117 are the best sections for basketball games at Fifth Third Arena, as these sections are located in the middle of the court, while the Cincinnati student section is located behind each basket. In the upper level of the arena, sections 203-205 and 215-217 can also offer a great view of the entire court from a higher angle. However, the back rows of these sections are far from the court, so the closer to the front of the section, the better when dealing with the upper level at Fifth Third Arena.

Tips for Visiting Fifth Third Arena

It never hurts to arrive early for a game at Fifth Third Arena. The University of Cincinnati campus has some amazing architecture for folks who want to take a walking tour of the campus before a game. For basketball fans, there is also a statue of Oscar Robertson outside the arena. At the same time, parking can be difficult because the arena is in the middle of campus. For most people without a parking pass, there is some walking required, including uphill walking after you arrive on campus. However, there are bars and restaurants for fans to visit while walking to the arena.

Food to Try at Fifth Third Arena

Fifth Third Arena has done a nice job of incorporating local foods into its concessions. Of course, this includes Skyline Chili, which is a Cincinnati delicacy. The venue also includes Frisch’s Big Boy, for burgers and chicken tenders, and Taste of Belgium, which is well known for its pretzels and chicken & waffles. Fans should also be encouraged to check out both the Armory Bar on the main concourse and the Queen City Bar on the upper concourse. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Fifth Third Arena located?

Fifth Third Arena is located within the Shoemaker Center on the University of Cincinnati campus in Cincinnati, Ohio.

What kind of events does Fifth Third Arena host?

Fifth Third Arena events don’t range too greatly, with basketball and volleyball being the main events that take place. 

Which team is playing at Fifth Third Arena?

The venue is primarily used as the home for the Cincinnati men’s and women’s basketball teams, as well as the school’s women’s volleyball team. 

Where can I park for free at Fifth Third Arena?

The official public parking lots available for Fifth Third Arena events are reserved for Fifth Third Arena Clients. For non-clients, there are a number of public parking lots in the vicinity, as well as street parking available. Always double-check which permits may be needed before parking. 

What is the seating capacity of Fifth Third Arena?

Fifth Third Arena events can host over 12,000 cheering fans. 

Who owns Fifth Third Arena?

Fifth Third Arena is owned by the University of Cincinnati.

How do I get to Fifth Third Arena using public transport?

Fans wishing to reach Fifth Third Arena events by public transport have plenty of bus routes, metro lines, and taxi services at their disposal.