Hinkle Fieldhouse: SeatGeek’s Complete Guide to Events at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana

Few arenas in the United States carry the history, charm and tradition of Hinkle Fieldhouse. Located on the campus of Butler University in Indianapolis, Hinkle is one of college basketball’s most iconic venues. Opened in 1928, it has witnessed nearly a century of unforgettable moments, from NCAA tournament games and high school state championships to Olympic team trials and presidential visits.

Today, Hinkle Fieldhouse is best known as the home of the Butler Bulldogs men’s and women’s basketball teams, but its legacy extends far beyond a single program. With a capacity of around 9,100 seats, the arena combines historic character with modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination for basketball fans and history buffs alike.

A Building Steeped in History

When Hinkle Fieldhouse first opened, it was the largest basketball arena in the country, capable of seating more than 15,000 fans. Originally called Butler Fieldhouse, it became a hub for Indiana’s basketball culture, famously hosting the Indiana high school state basketball championships for decades.

The building was renamed in 1966 after Tony Hinkle, Butler’s legendary coach and athletic director, who left an indelible mark on the university and the sport. Hinkle was a pioneer, credited with introducing the orange basketball to improve visibility during games.

Perhaps Hinkle’s most famous moment came in 1954, when tiny Milan High School stunned powerhouse Muncie Central to win the Indiana state championship. That game became the inspiration for the classic sports film “Hoosiers,” parts of which were filmed inside the arena.

Atmosphere on Game Day

Hinkle Fieldhouse is a shrine to the sport of basketball. Walking inside feels like stepping back in time, with its red brick exterior, arched steel trusses and natural light pouring in through massive windows. Despite renovations, the building has retained its historic charm and intimate feel.

On game days, Butler fans pack the arena, creating an atmosphere that’s both passionate and welcoming. As a member of the Big East Conference, Butler regularly hosts some of the nation’s top programs and the fieldhouse roars with energy when the Bulldogs square off against rivals like Villanova, Xavier, or Georgetown. The student section, known as the Dawg Pound, brings the noise, while longtime fans bring a sense of tradition that ties every game to the building’s storied past.

Beyond Butler Basketball

While Butler games are the main draw today, Hinkle Fieldhouse has a long history of hosting major sporting events. It has been the site of NCAA tournament games, Olympic trials, professional basketball exhibitions and championship boxing matches.

In addition to athletics, Hinkle has also hosted political rallies, community gatherings and concerts. Presidents from Herbert Hoover to Barack Obama have spoken within its walls, underscoring the arena’s role as a civic landmark as well as a sports venue.

Renovations and Modern Amenities

Despite its age, Hinkle Fieldhouse has been carefully preserved and upgraded to meet modern standards. A major $36 million renovation completed in 2014 added new seating, hospitality spaces, training facilities and updated concessions, all while maintaining the historic feel that makes the arena special.

The improvements enhanced the fan experience, with better sightlines, upgraded restrooms and new video boards, but the building’s classic architecture and charm remain untouched. For many visitors, the combination of modern comfort and historic character is what sets Hinkle apart from newer arenas.

Location and Accessibility

Hinkle Fieldhouse sits on the Butler University campus, about five miles north of downtown Indianapolis. The campus itself is scenic and worth exploring before or after an event, with walking paths, green spaces and historic buildings.

Parking is available in nearby lots and garages and the arena is accessible by car, rideshare, or public transit. Being in Indianapolis, known as the “Basketball Capital of the World,” means fans can easily pair a visit to Hinkle with other basketball landmarks, including Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, or the city’s NCAA headquarters.

Why Hinkle Fieldhouse Stands Out

What makes Hinkle Fieldhouse truly unique is its ability to balance history and modernity. Few venues in sports still carry the architectural beauty and authenticity of their original design while remaining fully functional as a top-tier arena. Hinkle achieves this effortlessly.

It’s a place where fans can sit in wooden bleachers beneath towering steel beams, hear the squeak of sneakers echo through the building and feel the weight of history in every play. For basketball purists, it’s nothing short of sacred ground.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re heading to Hinkle Fieldhouse, plan to arrive early. Take time to admire the historic architecture from the outside, walk through the concourse and soak in the atmosphere before tipoff. The Butler campus provides a pleasant backdrop and nearby Indianapolis offers plenty of dining and entertainment options.

Inside, grab concessions and settle in for a game where the atmosphere feels closer, louder and more personal than in many modern arenas. Every seat in Hinkle Fieldhouse feels connected to the action, which is part of its magic.

Final Thoughts

Hinkle Fieldhouse isn’t just an arena—it’s a living museum of basketball history. From high school championships and Hollywood films to Butler’s rise as a national basketball power, the venue has been at the center of countless iconic moments.

Whether you’re a Butler fan, a visiting rival, or simply a basketball enthusiast, a trip to Hinkle is an unforgettable experience. With its blend of historic charm, passionate atmosphere and ongoing legacy, Hinkle Fieldhouse remains one of the crown jewels of college basketball.