Planning a visit to the Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center? You’re in for a treat! This iconic venue, nestled in the heart of the University of Florida’s campus, has long been a hub for thrilling sports events, captivating concerts, and memorable community gatherings.
Whether you’re a die-hard Gators fan or just looking for a fun night out, the O’Connell Center promises an experience like no other. From its state-of-the-art facilities to the electric atmosphere on game nights, you’ll find plenty to love about this beloved Gainesville landmark.
Overview of Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center
Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center, nestled in the heart of the University of Florida’s campus, captures the vibrant spirit of sports. With a seating capacity of around 10,133, this multi-purpose indoor arena is a haven for sports enthusiasts like you. The Gators’ home games in basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics bring a rush of excitement with every match. Alumni Hall, with its plaques and trophies, showcases the rich history of Gators’ achievements.
The atmosphere inside Exactech Arena is electric during game days. As a former athlete and current coach, you can appreciate the advanced facilities that include state-of-the-art training rooms and locker rooms. The court’s design, lighting, and sound systems heighten the experience, putting you on the edge of your seat with every play.
For those who live for the thrill of live sports, this arena doesn’t disappoint. Not only does it host collegiate sports, but it also features concerts and other community events. This makes it a go-to venue for entertainment beyond just sports.
As you navigate through the arena, you’ll notice the modern amenities. Concession stands with a variety of food and drink options keep you fueled throughout the event. The concourses are designed for easy movement, so you won’t miss any action while grabbing a quick bite.
In addition to the stellar sports events, the arena fosters a sense of community. Whether you’re attending a high-energy basketball game or a heartfelt graduation ceremony, Exactech Arena is a cornerstone venue that brings people together, celebrating both athletic and personal triumphs.
History and Background
Construction and Opening
Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center, often called “The O’Dome,” opened in December 1980. The original construction cost $14 million and aimed to provide a versatile venue for sports and community events. As a sports enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the arena’s storied history, having hosted countless memorable moments in Gators’ sports.
Major Renovations
Over the years, the arena went through significant renovations to enhance the experience for athletes and fans like yourself. One major refurbishment took place from March 2016 to December 2016, costing $64.5 million. Renovations included updated seating, concession areas, and improved training facilities. The revamped arena now stands as a testament to the commitment to maintaining a top-notch venue for sports and entertainment.
Facilities and Amenities
Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center offers top-tier facilities that enhance the overall event experience for everyone, from dedicated sports enthusiasts to casual visitors.
Seating and Accessibility
With around 10,133 seats, Exactech Arena ensures every guest gets a good view. The arena’s design makes for an electric atmosphere, no matter where you sit. Accessible seating areas cater to fans with disabilities, allowing everyone to enjoy the game. Wide concourses minimize crowding, enabling easier movement around the venue.
Concessions and Dining Options
You’ll find a variety of food and drink options at Exactech Arena to satisfy your game-day cravings. Concession stands offer classic stadium fare like hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn, alongside healthier selections and local favorites. Drink stands serve everything from sodas to craft beers, ensuring you won’t go thirsty during a high-energy game or lively concert.
Restrooms and Cleanliness
Restrooms at Exactech Arena are well-maintained and conveniently located throughout the venue. They’ve been updated to handle large crowds efficiently, reducing wait times. Frequent cleaning ensures a comfortable environment, so you can focus on enjoying the game or event without any concerns.
Experiences and Events
Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center offers a wide variety of experiences and events. As a sports enthusiast, the arena readily becomes your go-to spot for exciting and memorable events.
Sports Events
The arena pulses with energy during sports events. You watch the Gators’ basketball team electrify the crowd with high-flying dunks and clutch three-pointers. Volleyball matches bring intense rallies and acrobatic saves that keep you on the edge of your seat. Gymnastics events showcase the athletes’ grace, strength, and precision, filling the arena with awe-inspiring performances. This is where the thrill of sports meets the passion of the fans, creating a unique atmosphere.
Concerts and Shows
While sports may be your first love, concerts and shows at Exactech Arena do not disappoint. You’ll find the venue transforms into a stage for some of the biggest names in music. The superb acoustics enhance every note, allowing you to enjoy an immersive audio experience. You can catch a range of performances from rock bands, pop stars, and even local artists, making it a versatile venue for all types of entertainment.
Community Events
Exactech Arena also serves as a hub for community events. Whether you’re attending a graduation ceremony or a local festival, the arena fosters a sense of community and celebration. These events are a wonderful way to connect with others and celebrate local talent and achievements. The arena’s spacious design and modern facilities make it an ideal spot for gathering and enjoying communal activities.
Visitor Tips
Preparing for a game or event at the Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center adds to the excitement. For the best overall experience, consider these insights on seating and parking.
Best Seating Areas
To immerse yourself in the action, seats closer to the court or field are a must. You’re right there with the teams, catching every play and hearing the coaches’ strategies. For basketball, the first few rows of sections 101 and 129 offer fantastic views of the entire court. Volleyball enthusiasts will appreciate the center court view in sections 112 and 114. Gymnastics fans get the best vantage point in sections 109 and 111, where you’ll see every flip and jump in detail.
Prefer a broader view? The mid-level sections like 205-207 give an overview without losing the sense of the excitement on the ground. They’re perfect for catching the flow of the game, especially during fast-paced basketball matches. Thoughtful design ensures you have clear sightlines, enhancing the overall experience. Accessible seating options are available throughout for fans with disabilities, demonstrating the arena’s inclusive spirit.
Parking Information
Parking near the Exactech Arena can be busy, especially on game days. Arriving early is key to securing a good spot. The parking garage on the North side of the O’Connell Center, Garage 7, offers the most convenient access. With a capacity of several hundred vehicles, it usually fills up fast for popular events.
If Garage 7 is full, the larger Garage 5, located a bit further away, also serves the arena. It’s a 10-minute walk, giving you time to soak in the game-day atmosphere. Several surface lots around the arena provide additional parking, though they, too, can fill up quickly. Always check event-specific parking plans and restrictions as they sometimes adjust these based on the event’s scale.
For a hassle-free experience, some visitors use ride-sharing services, which drop you off near the entrances. This can save you time and the stress of parking, letting you focus on the excitement of the event itself. Ensure you know the designated pick-up and drop-off points to streamline your arrival and departure.
Pros and Cons
As a sports enthusiast, Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center offers plenty of features to get excited about, but it’s also important to know the potential drawbacks. Here are some key points to consider.
Advantages
- Electric Atmosphere: The energy during Gators’ home games is unmatched. Every fan passionately supports the team, creating a vibrant atmosphere that boosts the players’ performance.
- Seating Capacity: With around 10,133 seats, there’s enough space for a large number of fans, ensuring a thrilling, collective experience. Special sections bring you closer to the action.
- Modern Facilities: Advanced training rooms, spacious locker rooms, and Alumni Hall showcase the history and elevate the game day experience.
- Concessions Variety: A wide range of food and drink options caters to different tastes. Enjoy classic stadium fare or choose healthier options, keeping you fueled throughout events.
- Accessibility and Comfort: The arena includes accessible seating and well-maintained restrooms. Wide concourses minimize crowding, providing a more enjoyable visit.
- Parking Challenges: Parking can be tricky, especially during big events. Even with the North side garage, spots fill up quickly. Arrive early or use ride-sharing services for convenience.
- Crowd Management: The large seating capacity sometimes results in long lines at entrances and concessions during peak times. Patience is required.
- Acoustic Limitations: Although excellent for sports, some concert attendees note that the acoustics don’t always meet expectations, affecting sound quality.
- Event Overlap: During busy seasons, scheduling multiple events can create logistical issues, potentially impacting the overall experience. Plan ahead to avoid conflicts.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a die-hard Gators fan or just looking for a fun night out the Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center offers a lively and memorable experience. With its modern facilities and diverse events there’s always something exciting happening.
The arena’s rich history and recent renovations ensure that it remains a top-notch venue for sports and entertainment. While parking and crowd management can be a bit challenging the overall atmosphere and amenities make it worth the visit.
So next time you’re in Gainesville make sure to check out what’s happening at the Exactech Arena. You won’t be disappointed!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center known for?
Exactech Arena is known for hosting exciting sports events, concerts, and community gatherings on the University of Florida’s campus, making it a popular destination for Gators fans and entertainment seekers alike.
What is the seating capacity of Exactech Arena?
The arena has an impressive seating capacity of around 10,133, ensuring a lively atmosphere during events.
What sports events are commonly held at Exactech Arena?
Exactech Arena hosts Gators’ home games in basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics, providing an electric atmosphere for sports fans.
What amenities does Exactech Arena offer?
The arena boasts modern facilities, including advanced training rooms, locker rooms, a variety of food and drink options at concession stands, and accessible seating for fans with disabilities.
When was Exactech Arena opened and how much did it cost?
The arena opened in December 1980 at a construction cost of $14 million.
What significant renovations has Exactech Arena undergone?
A major refurbishment from March to December 2016, costing $64.5 million, updated seating, concession areas, and training facilities.
What types of events besides sports are held at Exactech Arena?
Beyond sports, the arena hosts concerts featuring major music acts and various community events, fostering a sense of connection and celebration among attendees.
What visitor tips does the article provide for events at Exactech Arena?
The article recommends the best seating areas for different sports, advises arriving early to secure parking, and suggests using ride-sharing services for convenience.
What are the pros of attending events at Exactech Arena?
Pros include the electric atmosphere during games, modern facilities, a variety of concessions, and accessibility features.
What are the cons of attending events at Exactech Arena?
Cons include parking challenges, crowd management issues, acoustic limitations for concerts, and event overlap during busy seasons.
