Alerus Center: SeatGeek’s Complete Guide to Events at Alerus Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota

In the heart of Grand Forks, North Dakota, the Alerus Center stands as one of the region’s most versatile entertainment venues. Opened in 2001, this multipurpose facility is home to University of North Dakota football while also serving as a major hub for concerts, trade shows, conventions and community gatherings. Its flexible design and modern amenities make it one of the premier destinations for sports and entertainment in the upper Midwest.

About Alerus Center

• Location: 1200 S 42nd Street, Grand Forks, ND 58201

• Opened: February 2001

• Capacity: Approximately 12,000 for football, up to 22,000 for concerts

• Primary Tenant: University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks football

• Surface: Artificial turf

History and Design

The Alerus Center was built to provide UND football with a state-of-the-art indoor stadium while giving Grand Forks a multipurpose venue capable of hosting large-scale events. Its domed structure allows for year-round use, crucial in a region where weather can be unpredictable. Beyond football, the arena floor can be configured for basketball, hockey exhibitions, conventions and concerts, making it one of the most adaptable facilities in the Midwest.

The venue’s design emphasizes versatility, with retractable seating, a spacious main concourse and luxury suites. Its convention center wing adds more than 85,000 square feet of space, allowing it to host everything from business expos to weddings.

Getting to Alerus Center

Driving and Parking

The Alerus Center is located near Interstate 29, just minutes from downtown Grand Forks. The venue offers more than 4,000 on-site parking spaces, with both general and premium options. Parking is typically included in the ticket price for many events, but it’s best to check in advance.

Public Transit

Grand Forks’ Cities Area Transit (CAT) buses provide service to the area, making it an option for fans coming from downtown or nearby neighborhoods.

Rideshare

Uber, Lyft and local taxi services are available in Grand Forks and provide convenient drop-off and pick-up near the arena’s main entrances.

Plan Your Visit

• Doors Open: Usually 60–90 minutes before football games and concerts.

• Event Duration: UND football games last about three hours, while concert times vary depending on the artist.

• Tickets: The Alerus Center uses mobile ticketing, so saving your ticket in advance is recommended.

Food and Beverages

Concessions at Alerus Center include classic stadium fare such as burgers, hot dogs, pretzels, nachos and pizza. Local vendors occasionally set up stands offering North Dakota favorites and alcoholic beverages are available to guests of legal drinking age. For premium seating and suites, catering options with more upscale dining choices are available.

Seating and Experience

• Lower Bowl: Brings fans close to the field or stage, creating a lively atmosphere.

• Club Seating: Provides upgraded comfort, with wider seats and access to private concessions.

• Luxury Suites: Offer a premium experience with private seating, catering and excellent sightlines.

• Concert Configurations: Depending on the stage setup, floor seating can be added for major shows, while end-stage and center-stage layouts provide flexible options.

No matter where you sit, the dome design keeps sound inside, creating a loud and energetic experience, especially during UND football games.

Arena Policies

• Bag Policy: Clear bags up to 12” x 6” x 12” are allowed, along with small clutches and medically necessary items.

• Security: Guests pass through metal detectors and bag checks before entering.

• Prohibited Items: Outside food and drinks, weapons, large umbrellas and noise-making devices are not permitted.

• Alcohol Policy: Alcohol sales are available at most events, typically ending before the final quarter of football games or near the end of concerts.

Why Alerus Center Stands Out

The Alerus Center is unique in that it blends the excitement of a sports stadium with the flexibility of a convention center. It provides UND football with one of the best facilities in the FCS division while also giving Grand Forks a venue capable of hosting everything from national concert tours to community celebrations. Its indoor dome ensures fans enjoy events in comfort regardless of the weather outside.

Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek

Whether you’re cheering on the Fighting Hawks, catching a major concert, or attending a convention, the Alerus Center offers a welcoming and versatile event experience in Grand Forks. SeatGeek helps you find the best tickets, compare seating options and plan your visit to one of North Dakota’s top venues.