{‘_article’: ’# Heritage Bank Center Cincinnati: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction: Heritage Bank Center’s Legacy and Significance
Cincinnati’s Ohio Riverfront is home to the Heritage Bank Center, a versatile indoor arena with a rich history as a hub for entertainment and sports since its opening in 1975 as the Riverfront Coliseum. Located at 100 Broadway Street, it’s a key landmark in downtown Cincinnati’s revitalization efforts, situated near major attractions like the Great American Ball Park and The Banks entertainment district. As the largest indoor venue in the region, its capacity exceeds 17,500, making it a significant site for large-scale events, from major concerts to professional sports. The arena’s evolution, including its many name changes and ongoing discussions about modernization, reflects Cincinnati’s dynamic urban narrative. For visitors, Heritage Bank Center offers a blend of historical significance and contemporary entertainment, providing access to key Cincinnati historical sites and a vibrant local scene (Heritage Bank Center Official Site, Wikipedia).
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Arena Origins and Architectural Features
- Name Changes and Sponsorships
- Signature Events: Sports, Concerts, and Community Gatherings
- Visiting Hours and Ticketing
- Accessibility and Amenities
- Getting There: Parking and Transit
- Nearby Attractions
- Visitor Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
- References
Arena Origins and Architectural Features
Heritage Bank Center was a product of Cincinnati’s 1970s vision to establish itself as a major metropolitan center. Construction commenced in 1973, with the venue opening its doors two years later. Designed by Pattee Architects, Inc., it was conceived as a flexible facility ready to host ice hockey, basketball, concerts, and conventions. Its distinctive domed, circular structure was engineered to optimize spectator sightlines and acoustics. Subsequent renovations in 1997 and 2015 updated seating, concourses, and amenities, enhancing visitor comfort while preserving the arena’s core architectural identity (cincinnatichamber.com, thestadiumwanderer.com, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heritage_Bank_Center).
Name Changes and Sponsorships
The arena has operated under several names throughout its history, each tied to its sponsorship agreements:
- Riverfront Coliseum (1975–1997)
- The Crown (1997–1999)
- Firstar Center (1999–2002)
- U.S. Bank Arena (2002–2019)
- Heritage Bank Center (2019–present)
These name transitions reflect national trends in venue sponsorship and highlight the arena’s sustained role as a significant civic institution (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heritage_Bank_Center).
Signature Events: Sports, Concerts, and Community Gatherings
Sports
Heritage Bank Center has been the home for a variety of sports:
- Cincinnati Stingers (WHA, 1975–1979): Introduced professional hockey to the city.
- Cincinnati Cyclones (ECHL): The current primary tenant, drawing a dedicated fan base.
- NCAA Basketball: Hosted NCAA tournament games and University of Cincinnati events.
- Other Events: Including wrestling, figure skating, tennis, and select NBA preseason games (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heritage_Bank_Center, thestadiumwanderer.com).
Concerts and Entertainment
The arena is celebrated for its concert history, having hosted iconic artists such as The Who, Paul McCartney, Taylor Swift, U2, and Stevie Nicks. A notable event was The Who’s 1979 concert, which tragically led to nationwide reforms in crowd safety policies following a crowd crush incident (thestadiumwanderer.com, vividseats.com).
Community and Civic Events
Heritage Bank Center frequently serves as a venue for community events, including high school graduations, political rallies, religious gatherings, and major conventions, reinforcing its role as a central community anchor (heritagebankcenter.com).
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
- Event Entry: Doors typically open 60–90 minutes before the scheduled event start time.
- Box Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, with extended hours on event days.
- Tickets: Purchase directly from the official website, authorized vendors, or at the box office. Early purchase is recommended for high-demand events (Bandsintown, Live Nation).
Accessibility and Amenities
Heritage Bank Center is fully accessible and compliant with ADA standards:
- Seating: Wheelchair-accessible seating and companion seats are available.
- Facilities: Elevators and accessible restrooms are provided throughout the venue.
- Assistance: Assistive listening devices are available upon request.
- Animals: Service animals are welcome.
Additional amenities include a range of dining options, merchandise stands, baby changing stations, and complimentary Wi-Fi in select areas. The arena operates on a cashless system, accepting credit/debit cards and mobile payments (Heritage Bank Center Venue Info).
Getting There: Parking and Transit
- Address: 100 Broadway, Cincinnati, OH 45202
- Parking: Numerous parking garages and lots are conveniently located nearby, such as the East Garage and Central Riverfront Garage. Booking parking in advance is advised for ease of access (Heritage Bank Center Parking).
- Public Transit: The arena is well-served by Cincinnati Metro buses, TANK’s Southbank Shuttle, and the Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar, with local Red Bike stations also available for cyclists (Heritage Bank Center Directions).
Nearby Attractions
Within walking distance of Heritage Bank Center, visitors can explore:
- Great American Ball Park: The home stadium of the Cincinnati Reds.
- Smale Riverfront Park: Offers walking trails, gardens, and scenic river views.
- National Underground Railroad Freedom Center: A museum dedicated to the history of freedom and civil rights.
- The Banks District: A lively area featuring numerous restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues (PlanetWare).
These attractions complement a visit to the arena, offering a comprehensive Cincinnati experience.
Visitor Tips
- Arrive Early: To secure parking and avoid long queues at entry points.
- Bag Policy: Adhere to the clear bag policy (max 12”x6”x6”) to expedite security checks. Check the venue website for the most current regulations (Heritage Bank Center Venue Info).
- Accessibility Needs: Contact the venue beforehand if special accommodations are required.
- Cashless Payment: Be prepared to use cards or mobile payment methods, as cash transactions are not accepted.
- Dining: Explore the diverse culinary options in The Banks district before or after your event.
- Stay Updated: Follow official channels for event updates and venue information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Heritage Bank Center’s visiting hours? Event entry typically begins 60–90 minutes before the start time. Box office hours are Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
How can I buy tickets? Tickets are available through the official website, authorized ticket vendors, and the venue’s box office.
Is the arena wheelchair accessible? Yes, Heritage Bank Center provides accessible seating, restrooms, elevators, and assistive listening devices.
Where can I park? Several nearby parking garages and lots are available. Advised to arrive early or book parking in advance.
Are guided tours available? Regular guided tours are not typically offered. Please check the official website for any special event tours.
Is outside food permitted? No, outside food and beverages are generally not allowed, except for specific medical requirements. Concessions are available inside.
Are pets allowed? Only service animals are permitted, subject to venue guidelines.
Conclusion
Heritage Bank Center serves as a vital hub for entertainment and community in Cincinnati, embodying the city’s spirit and progress. Its storied past, prime riverfront location, and commitment to accessibility create a welcoming atmosphere for all attendees. Whether enjoying a concert, a Cyclones game, or exploring the historic riverfront, the arena is a gateway to Cincinnati’s cultural heart.
Stay informed about upcoming events and visitor details by joining the Heritage Bank Center mailing list or downloading the Audiala app for personalized recommendations and real-time updates. Plan your visit to experience the best of Cincinnati’s live entertainment and community spirit.