Kohl Center: SeatGeek’s Guide to Events in Madison, WI

In the heart of Madison, Wisconsin, the Kohl Center stands as one of the Midwest’s premier multi-purpose arenas. Opened in 1998, it is home to the University of Wisconsin’s men’s and women’s basketball programs as well as the men’s hockey team. With its modern design, rich Badgers tradition and ability to host a wide variety of events, the Kohl Center has become a cornerstone of sports and entertainment in Wisconsin’s capital city.

About Kohl Center

• Location: 601 W Dayton St, Madison, WI 53703

• Opened: 1998

• Capacity: Approximately 17,287 for basketball; 15,359 for hockey

• Primary Tenants: Wisconsin Badgers basketball and hockey

• Other Uses: Concerts, family shows, community events

The arena was made possible by a major donation from Herb Kohl, a University of Wisconsin alumnus, former U.S. senator and longtime owner of the Milwaukee Bucks. His vision helped bring a state-of-the-art facility to the university, ensuring a first-class experience for athletes, students and fans.

History and Highlights

Since its opening, the Kohl Center has been a central hub for Wisconsin athletics. It replaced the UW Field House as the home of Badgers basketball and hockey, offering larger capacity and modern amenities. The men’s basketball team has hosted countless NCAA Tournament-level games here, including deep March Madness runs under coaches like Bo Ryan and Greg Gard.

In addition to sports, the Kohl Center has welcomed major touring concerts, comedy shows and special events, further establishing itself as one of Madison’s cultural landmarks. Its location near the university campus and State Street makes it especially accessible for students and visitors alike.

Getting to Kohl Center

Driving and Parking

The arena is easily accessible via U.S. Highways 12, 14, 18 and 151. Parking garages and surface lots are available near the venue, but spaces fill quickly on event days. Pre-purchasing a parking pass is recommended.

Public Transit

Madison Metro Transit buses stop within walking distance of the arena, making public transportation a convenient option.

Rideshare

Uber and Lyft are widely available in Madison. Designated pickup and drop-off zones near the venue make rideshare a simple choice for visitors.

Plan Your Visit

• Doors Open: Typically 60–90 minutes before tip-off, puck drop, or showtime.

• Tickets: Mobile ticketing is the standard for most events.

• Event Duration: Basketball games last around 2 hours; hockey games around 2.5 hours. Concerts and other events vary.

Food and Beverages

Concessions at the Kohl Center include stadium favorites like hot dogs, pizza, nachos and pretzels. Fans can also enjoy Wisconsin-inspired options such as brats and cheese curds, as well as beer and other alcoholic beverages for guests 21 and older.

Seating and Experience

• Lower Level: Provides the closest view of the action for basketball and hockey, perfect for die-hard fans.

• Upper Level: Offers a more affordable option while still maintaining excellent sightlines.

• Student Section (The Grateful Red): Famous for its energy and creativity, the student section creates one of the most intimidating environments in college basketball.

• Premium Seating: Suites and club seating provide upgraded amenities, comfortable seating and exclusive concessions.

No matter where you sit, the Kohl Center is designed to provide a loud, electric and intimate gameday experience.

Venue Policies

• Bag Policy: Clear bag policy enforced; bags must be 12” x 6” x 12” or smaller. Small clutches and medically necessary bags are allowed.

• Security: All guests are subject to screening upon entry.

• Prohibited Items: Outside food and drinks, large umbrellas, noisemakers, coolers and professional cameras.

• Re-Entry: Re-entry is generally not permitted.

Why Kohl Center Stands Out

The Kohl Center perfectly balances tradition and modern amenities. It’s a place where Wisconsin’s proud sports culture thrives, amplified by passionate student sections and loyal fans. Beyond athletics, its role as a concert and event venue makes it a versatile destination for entertainment in Madison. Its prime location in the heart of a lively college town further enhances the experience.

Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek

Whether you’re catching a Badgers basketball or hockey game, seeing a touring artist or attending a community event, the Kohl Center delivers one of the best live-event experiences in the Midwest. SeatGeek makes it easy to find tickets, compare seating options and plan your perfect trip to Madison.