Crypto.com Arena stands in downtown Los Angeles as one of the most recognizable sports and entertainment venues in the world. Opened in October 1999 under the name Staples Center, the arena serves as the permanent home court for the Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Kings (NHL), and the Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA). While fans still frequently talk about the building by its original moniker, a historic naming rights shift in late 2021 reshaped its identity.
Understanding this venue requires looking beyond the corporate name change. You'll find a massive multi-use complex that hosts hundreds of events annually, from NBA playoff games to concert tours and award ceremonies. Let's break down how the building operates, its seating layout, and what you need to know before visiting.
The Evolution From Staples Center to Crypto.com Arena
For over two decades, the corner of Figueroa Street and 12th Street bore the name of an office supply retailer. That era ended in December 2021 when the venue officially transitioned to Crypto.com Arena following a record-setting naming rights agreement valued at $700 million over twenty years.
The transition sparked heavy debate among purists and long-time ticket holders. Yet, the physical structure remained largely unchanged during the initial phase. Built by Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) for $375 million (roughly $725 million adjusted for inflation), the facility underwent a multi-year, nine-figure capital improvement project starting in 2022. These upgrades modernized the concourses, added vast LED video displays, and revamped private hospitality areas like the Delta SKY360 Club.
Seating Capacity and Layout for Lakers Games
When the Lakers take the court, the arena holds an official seating capacity of 18,997 fans. The bowl design divides sharply into distinct tiers, which directly impacts sightlines and ticket pricing.
- Lower Bowl (100 Level): Encompassing roughly two-thirds of the lower seating bowl, these sections place you close to the hardwood. Tickets here command top dollar, especially rows closest to the floor.
- Suite Levels: Three distinct tiers of private suites (Levels A, B, and C) sit between the lower and upper bowls, housing roughly 160 luxury suites.
- Upper Bowl (300 Level): The highest tier in the building offers steep inclines and a more distant view of the action. While lighting can appear dim in the upper rows during pre-game introductions that use theatrical staging, tickets here provide the most budget-friendly entry point for regular-season matchups.
For those looking at elite options, courtside seats put you right on the NBA floor. These tickets include access to exclusive ground-level lounges with all-inclusive food and beverage options.
Location, Access, and Surrounding Infrastructure
The arena sits adjacent to the L.A. LIVE entertainment district, giving visitors access to numerous restaurants, hotels, and nightlife options within walking distance. Navigating to a game requires planning because downtown Los Angeles traffic routinely snarls surface streets during evening rush hours.
Public transit offers a reliable alternative to driving. The Metro Pico Station sits just blocks away, serving both the Blue and Expo lines. Fans traveling from outlying suburbs frequently utilize park-and-ride lots along the rail lines to bypass parking fees and congestion near the venue. If you choose to drive, the area features thousands of structured parking spaces within a four-block radius, though pre-booking parking passes ahead of game night saves both time and money.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Staples Center officially become Crypto.com Arena?
The name change took effect on December 25, 2021, following the announcement in November 2021.
Do the Los Angeles Clippers still play at Crypto.com Arena?
No. The Clippers played their final season at the arena in 2024 before moving into their newly constructed home, the Intuit Dome, located in Inglewood.
Are bags allowed inside Crypto.com Arena?
Large bags and backpacks are prohibited. Small purses and clutches that do not exceed 5 x 9 x 1 inches are permitted and must go through security screening at the entrances.
What other teams share the arena with the Lakers?
The venue hosts the Los Angeles Kings of the NHL and the Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA.
How early do doors open before a Lakers game?
Doors generally open 90 minutes prior to tip-off for standard ticket holders, while premium seat and suite holders gain access two hours before the game starts.
