Don Haskins Center

Don Haskins Center Visiting Hours, Tickets, and El Paso Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Don Haskins Center, located on the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) campus, stands as a landmark of sports, culture, and community life in El Paso, Texas. Renowned for its pivotal role in NCAA basketball history and its vibrant lineup of events, the arena has been a cornerstone for both local pride and national significance. Whether you’re attending a basketball game, concert, graduation, or exploring the rich tapestry of El Paso’s historical sites, this guide will provide you with all the essential details for a memorable visit.

For up-to-date schedules, ticketing, and visitor information, always refer to the official UTEP Special Events website and the Don Haskins Center event calendar (El Paso Matters, The Stadium Wanderer, UTEP Special Events).

Don Haskins Center north entrance before a basketball game

Origins and Construction of the Don Haskins Center
Naming and the Legacy of Don Haskins
Significance in Sports History
Role in Local Culture and Community
Visiting Information
Architectural Features and Modernization
Notable Events and Milestones
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary & Call to Action
References

Origins and Construction of the Don Haskins Center

Opened in 1977 as the Special Events Center, the arena was built to replace the aging Memorial Gym and provide UTEP and the wider community with a modern, multi-purpose venue. Situated at 151 Glory Road, it boasts a bowl-shaped seating design and a capacity of over 12,000, making it one of the largest indoor arenas in West Texas (El Paso Matters).

Naming and the Legacy of Don Haskins

In 1998, the arena was renamed in honor of Don Haskins, the trailblazing coach who led the Texas Western Miners (now UTEP Miners) to a historic NCAA Championship in 1966 by starting an all-Black lineup in the title game—a pivotal act in the advancement of racial equality in college sports. This courageous decision, memorialized in the film “Glory Road,” positioned the Don Haskins Center as a national symbol of progress and inclusivity (College Net Worth, donhaskins.com).

Significance in Sports History

The Don Haskins Center serves as home court for the UTEP Miners men’s and women’s basketball teams, with a passionate fan base and a formidable home record. The arena has hosted multiple NCAA and Conference USA tournaments, as well as high school championships, volleyball, and wrestling events, cementing its place in regional sports (donhaskins.com).

Role in Local Culture and Community

This venue is a hub for community life, hosting high school and college graduations, major concerts, cultural festivals, and family-friendly shows. It regularly draws big-name artists and serves as a gathering place for pivotal community events, reinforcing its central role in El Paso’s cultural fabric (El Paso Matters, All Events in El Paso).

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours

The Don Haskins Center operates primarily during scheduled events.
Doors typically open 1–2 hours before event start times.
For special tours or non-event visits, arrangements must be made in advance through the UTEP Office of Special Events.
Check the official information page for updates.

Tickets and Pricing

Tickets are available online via the UTEP Ticket Center, at the box office, and through authorized sellers.
Prices vary by event, seat location, and ticket type (discounts are often available for students and seniors).
Early purchase is recommended for high-demand events.

Accessibility

The arena is ADA compliant, offering accessible entrances, seating, restrooms, and parking.
For special assistance, contact the box office prior to your visit.

Parking and Transportation

Multiple parking lots are available around the venue. Parking may be limited during major events, so arrive early.
The venue is accessible from major highways and is served by public transit.
Ride-sharing and taxi services are widely used (The Tourist Checklist).

Guided Tours and Photography

Guided tours are not regularly scheduled but may be arranged for groups or special occasions by contacting UTEP athletics.
The distinctive architecture and historic court make for excellent photo opportunities, especially on game days.

Architectural Features and Modernization

The Don Haskins Center features a bowl-shaped design for optimal sightlines, seven electronic scoreboards (including two video replay boards), and advanced lighting and acoustics systems. Recent upgrades include improved security (clear bag policy), seating comfort, and enhanced accessibility (El Paso Matters). Its design, influenced by southwestern Pueblo traditions and Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta, visually anchors the center in El Paso’s unique cultural landscape (SAH Archipedia).

Notable Events and Milestones

1966 NCAA Championship Celebrations: The arena regularly commemorates the Miners’ historic win with reunions and ceremonies (donhaskins.com).
Major Concerts: Artists like Ramon Ayala, Marco Antonio Solis, Banda MS, and Kali Uchis have performed here (All Events in El Paso).
Community and Graduation Events: Annual graduations for UTEP, EPCC, and local high schools, plus craft nights and book festivals (El Paso Matters).

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

El Paso Museum of Art: Regional and international art collections.
Plaza Theatre: Historic venue with live performances.
Magoffin Home State Historic Site: 19th-century architecture and local history.
Scenic Drive Overlook: Panoramic city and desert views.
Franklin Mountains State Park & El Paso Zoo: Outdoor and family activities.

Travel Tips:

Arrive early for parking.
Use public transit or rideshare for large events.
Dress comfortably and stay hydrated, especially in summer.
Review event-specific policies (clear bag, no outside food, no re-entry).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Don Haskins Center visiting hours?
A: Visiting hours align with event schedules, typically opening 1–2 hours before start times. For non-event access, contact the UTEP Office of Special Events.

Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Buy tickets online via UTEP Special Events, at the box office, or through authorized sellers.

Q: Is the Don Haskins Center wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the arena offers accessible entrances, seating, restrooms, and parking.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Not regularly, but may be arranged by contacting the venue.

Q: What events are held here?
A: NCAA basketball, concerts, graduations, WWE, and community events.

Summary & Call to Action

The Don Haskins Center is a vibrant hub for sports, entertainment, and community in El Paso. With a rich legacy rooted in civil rights and collegiate achievement, it offers visitors an immersive experience—whether you’re a sports fan, music enthusiast, or history buff. Plan ahead by checking event schedules, securing tickets early, and exploring nearby attractions for a well-rounded trip.

Enhance your visit by downloading the Audiala app for real-time event updates, exclusive content, and personalized recommendations. Follow the Don Haskins Center on social media to stay informed about upcoming events and special offers.