Beijing Wukesong Culture and Sports Center building exterior

Cadillac Arena

Cadillac Arena Beijing: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Cadillac Arena (凯迪拉克中心), formerly known as Wukesong Arena, stands in Beijing’s Haidian District as a leading destination for sports, concerts, and cultural events. Originally built as the Wukesong Indoor Stadium for the 2008 Summer Olympics, Cadillac Arena has since transformed into a multifaceted venue, showcasing Beijing’s modern architectural innovation and hosting a diverse range of international and domestic events. Its exceptional transport links, sustainable design, and proximity to major Beijing historical sites make it a must-visit for both locals and travelers.

This comprehensive guide offers the latest on Cadillac Arena visiting hours, ticketing options, accessibility, transportation, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re attending a Beijing Ducks basketball game, an international concert, or simply exploring Beijing’s vibrant urban landscape, this article provides all the information you need for a seamless visit (Cadillac Arena Beijing: Visiting Hours, Tickets, History & Attractions, The Beijinger, ChinaDiscovery).

Introduction
Historical Background and Naming Evolution
Construction and Early Years (2005–2008)
Olympic Legacy and International Significance
Naming Evolution
Visiting Cadillac Arena: Essential Information
Visiting Hours
Tickets and Booking
Accessibility
Transportation and Parking
Amenities and Facilities
Special Events and Guided Tours
Photographic Highlights
Role in Beijing’s Sports and Entertainment Scene
Architectural and Technological Features
Nearby Attractions and Beijing Historical Sites
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Visitor Tips
Sources and Further Reading

Historical Background and Naming Evolution

Construction and Early Years (2005–2008)

Cadillac Arena was developed as part of Beijing’s preparations for the 2008 Summer Olympics. Construction began in March 2005, with a vision to create a world-class indoor stadium. The result was a multi-purpose venue covering 160,000 square meters, featuring three underground and four above-ground levels, and a capacity of up to 19,000 spectators. Notably, the design incorporated sustainability measures such as rainwater recycling and extensive use of glass to maximize natural light.

Olympic Legacy and International Significance

As the primary basketball venue for the 2008 Olympics, the arena hosted pivotal games witnessed by global audiences. Since then, it has maintained its reputation by accommodating basketball, ice hockey, concerts, esports, and other major events, cementing its place as a cornerstone of Beijing’s cultural and sporting life.

Naming Evolution

Wukesong Indoor Stadium (2008–2011): The original Olympic-era name.
MasterCard Center (2011–2015): Reflecting a sponsorship deal.
LeSports Center (2016–2017): Named after LeEco’s sponsorship.
Cadillac Arena (2017–Present): Adopted after a partnership with Cadillac, a luxury automotive brand.

During IOC-sanctioned events such as the Winter Olympics, the arena reverts to the non-commercial “Wukesong Arena” designation.

Visiting Cadillac Arena: Essential Information

Visiting Hours

Cadillac Arena’s opening hours depend on scheduled events. Typically, doors open 1–2 hours before event start times and close one hour after. Guided tours, when available, are by appointment. Always check the official website or ticketing platforms for up-to-date schedules.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for concerts, sports, and special events are available through the official Cadillac Arena website, Damai.cn, and at the venue box office. Prices vary by event and seating category. For major events, advance purchase is strongly recommended.

Accessibility

The arena is fully accessible, offering:

Wheelchair ramps and elevators
Designated accessible seating
Accessible restrooms
Trained assistance staff (advance notice recommended)

Transportation and Parking

Public Transport:

Subway: Wukesong Station (Line 1) is a five-minute walk from the arena.
Bus: Multiple routes stop nearby; signage is available in both Chinese and English.
Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Widely available; present the address “海淀区复兴路69号” to drivers.

Parking:

Paid on-site parking is available but fills quickly during large events. Public transport is advised.

Amenities and Facilities

Seating: Up to 19,000 capacity with VIP, standard, and accessible areas (Wikipedia)
Food and Beverage: Numerous outlets serve Chinese and international cuisine; pop-up vendors operate during major events.
Shopping: Event merchandise and souvenirs available.
Technology: High-definition screens, surround sound, free Wi-Fi.
Other Services: Restrooms (including accessible and family facilities), first aid, cloakroom, storage lockers, lost and found, and multilingual signage.

Special Events and Guided Tours

Cadillac Arena regularly hosts international sports tournaments, concerts, family shows, and esports competitions. Guided tours, when available, provide behind-the-scenes insights into the venue’s history and state-of-the-art design. Check the official website for up-to-date information.

Photographic Highlights

Best spots for photos include the arena’s main entrance with its glass facade, the illuminated exterior at night, and panoramic shots from the surrounding plaza.

Role in Beijing’s Sports and Entertainment Scene

Home Teams and Regular Events

The arena is home to the Beijing Ducks (CBA) and has hosted teams such as the Beijing Lions (arena football) and Kunlun Red Star (ice hockey). It is a top venue for CBA finals, international basketball, ice hockey, and major esports tournaments.

Major International Events

Notable events include the 2008 Olympic basketball finals, FIBA World Cup games, and key matches during the 2022 Winter Olympics (as Wukesong Arena). The arena is also a favored site for international music acts and cultural festivals.

Architectural and Technological Features

Modern multi-purpose design: Elliptical glass and steel structure with a column-free interior for excellent sightlines.
Sustainability: Energy-efficient systems, rainwater recycling, and eco-friendly materials.
Technology: Fully programmable LED lighting and advanced acoustics deliver an immersive experience.
Premium experiences: 45 luxury suites and flexible floor configurations for various event types (The Beijinger).

Nearby Attractions and Beijing Historical Sites

Cadillac Arena’s central location in Haidian District places it near several must-see sites:

Military Museum of the Chinese People’s Revolution
Capital Museum
Central Radio & TV Tower
Wanshou Temple
Yuyuantan Park
Beijing Zoo
Summer Palace

Visitors can easily combine event attendance with cultural sightseeing (ChinaDiscovery).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Cadillac Arena’s visiting hours?
A: Hours vary by event; doors usually open 1–2 hours before start time. Check the official website for specific details.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online via the official website, Damai.cn, or at the box office.

Q: Is the arena accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with wheelchair access, elevators, accessible restrooms, and staff assistance.

Q: Are there nearby attractions?
A: Yes, including the Military Museum, Capital Museum, Summer Palace, and Beijing Zoo.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited paid parking is on-site. Public transportation is recommended during major events.

Conclusion and Visitor Tips

Cadillac Arena is a landmark of Beijing’s modern entertainment and sporting scene, offering world-class facilities, excellent accessibility, and a diverse calendar of events. Its proximity to key historical and cultural sites makes it an ideal destination for visitors seeking both excitement and heritage.

Visitor Tips:

Purchase tickets early for popular events.
Arrive 30–60 minutes before event start for security and seating.
Use Wukesong Station (Line 1) for convenient access.
Explore nearby historical sites to enrich your visit.
Download the Audiala app for real-time event updates and exclusive content.

For the latest event information, ticketing, and travel tips, visit the official Cadillac Arena website and follow the arena’s social media channels.