When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Jon M. Huntsman Center
Why Jon M. Huntsman Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Jon M. Huntsman Center is a distinguished 15,000-seat indoor arena located on the University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City. Since its opening in 1969, it has served as the primary venue for the Utah Utes basketball and gymnastics teams and has cemented itself as a cornerstone of collegiate athletics in the region. What makes this center an exceptional place to meet and watch games with friends is its rich history, impressive architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. Originally called the Special Events Center, it was renamed in 1987 to honor Jon M. Huntsman, a noted entrepreneur and philanthropist. The arena has hosted countless exciting games, highlighted by the men’s basketball team's strong home record of 701 wins to 184 losses and the women's team’s dominant 575-136 record, with multiple undefeated seasons at home. The recent renovations have modernized the facility, including upgraded LED scoreboards, new floors, and enhanced sound and lighting systems, creating an immersive and thrilling experience for spectators. Additionally, the connected Jon M. and Karen Huntsman Basketball Facility and the Sorensen Legacy Foundation High Performance Center provide state-of-the-art training and wellness amenities for athletes, further enhancing the arena’s prestige. Overall, the Huntsman Center stands out as a perfect gathering place for fans and friends to enjoy world-class athletic events in a dynamic and historic setting.
Here's what people think of Jon M. Huntsman Center
As of recent, Jon M. Huntsman Center holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1085 reviews.
User reviews of the Jon M. Huntsman Center reflect a strong overall satisfaction, reflected in its 4.5-star rating from over 1,000 reviews. Positive comments frequently highlight the arena's impressive seating capacity and exceptional home court atmosphere, which many describe as energizing and intimate despite its size. Fans praise the modern renovations and upgrades, noting improvements to lighting, video scoreboard clarity, seating comfort, and enhanced amenities that contribute to an enjoyable game day experience. The convenience of underground tunnels linking the arena to the HPER complex and basketball facilities is also appreciated, as it simplifies access and adds to the venue's prestige. Conversely, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as parking difficulties on busy event days and the arena’s older infrastructure in areas not recently renovated, which occasionally impacts comfort or accessibility. A few users have noted that certain concourse areas can become congested and improvements in concessions or restroom facilities could enhance the experience further. In conclusion, while minor criticisms exist mainly about logistics and aging parts of the building, the Huntsman Center is overwhelmingly regarded as a premier sports venue that delivers excellent viewing experiences and supports a passionate fan community for the University of Utah teams.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
shane jolley
Came here with part of my family to watch Tony hawk's vert alert. It was awesome, I thought the staff did an excellent job. And I'm in a wheelchair and my seating may have been high but it was at a good sight line.
Emiliano Pardo
Went on March 1st: Utes vs Arizona Sun Devils I like the concourse a lot, it feels pretty open. Pretty good sightlines all around. Love the quick concessions. One of my top arenas.
Bernard Weimar
The event I saw there was awesome, Bernie Sanders and AOC! However, some of the employees of the Huntsman were rude. The event went very well, but the rude employees make it less than 5 stars
Ali Route
Great place for a rally! Lines to get in moved really fast. Comfy seats. Great views.
Gary Drew
As area it is a nice venue with good access to public transportation and reasonable parking. But it was a mainly great because we got to see Bernie and AOC.
How to reach Jon M. Huntsman Center
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Why Jon M. Huntsman Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at the Jon M. Huntsman Center with your friends? This iconic arena on the University of Utah campus offers an unbeatable atmosphere for group gatherings, combining superior seating capacity with top-tier sporting and entertainment events. With a spacious 15,000-seat indoor setup, the Huntsman Center ensures that every group member has an excellent view, fostering a shared and electrifying experience. Its long-standing history since 1969 ties the venue to a rich tradition of college sports, including basketball, gymnastics, and volleyball, meaning every visit is steeped in passion and excitement. The arena’s recent $6 million renovation introduced modern amenities such as enhanced LED lighting, a sophisticated sound system, new video boards, and a high-quality maple wood floor, all contributing to a comfortable and visually impressive environment perfect for rallying with friends or family. Whether you’re cheering for the Utah Utes or attending a special event, the Huntsman Center creates memorable moments ideal for bonding and celebration in a lively, energetic setting.
What activities are available at the Jon M. Huntsman Center for group meetups? The center serves as the primary venue for Utah Utes’ basketball and gymnastics games, offering fans the chance to witness intense NCAA competitions. Attending a game here means immersing in a vibrant environment with passionate crowds, creating an exhilarating experience perfect for groups. Besides athletics, the Huntsman Center hosts volleyball matches that showcase high-energy collegiate play, expanding options for sports enthusiasts. Beyond sports, the arena is a prime location for concerts, commencements, and specialty events like NBA All-Star Weekend components, providing diverse entertainment that appeals to varied interests within a group. The large seating capacity coupled with modern video and sound technology enhances group enjoyment, making it easy to socialize while enjoying top-quality entertainment. Facilities also feature spacious concourses and multiple entrances, accommodating large parties without crowding, ensuring comfort and convenience during your group’s visit.
Why is the Jon M. Huntsman Center the ideal place for a group meetup? Its location on the University of Utah campus is easily accessible, providing ample parking and proximity to local amenities, which benefits those arriving together from around Salt Lake City. The arena’s design guarantees outstanding sightlines from every seat, so no one in your group misses the action. Updated facilities, including energy-efficient LED lighting and a crystal-clear sound system, contribute to an immersive atmosphere that heightens shared experiences, whether during a basketball buzzer-beater or a gymnastics routine. The venue’s history as a landmark and hub of collegiate athletics adds a sentimental value that enhances group visits, allowing friends and family to connect not only with the event but the legacy of Utah sports culture. Additionally, the versatility of the arena to host various events means your meetup can be tailored to your interests, spanning sports, concerts, or formal university ceremonies.
What makes the sporting events at the Huntsman Center special for groups? The center has been the site of numerous NCAA championships and local high school commencements, meaning your group can participate in events that carry both competitive prestige and community significance. Watching the Utah Utes basketball team play provides an intense, close-up look at top college athletics in a passionate home-court environment. Gymnastics fans enjoy the Huntsman Center’s reputation as a premier venue, having hosted nine national gymnastics championships and multiple Pac-12 championships, allowing group members with varied sports interests to find enjoyment in the same venue. The energy of the crowd during these events is contagious and unites fans in shared excitement, an ideal setting for groups looking to rally together. The arena’s facilities also cater to group comfort with premium seating options and accessible concourses, making it easier to socialize between game periods or events.
How does the 2014 renovation enhance group experiences at the Jon M. Huntsman Center? The $6 million renovation transformed the arena’s interior by removing the old steel cloud and installing a super-grid ceiling structure, which improved lighting distribution and overall structural aesthetics. The new maple wood floor installed as recently as 2024 offers athletes a top playing surface, ensuring the highest level of competition and spectacular performances for spectators. Brighter, energy-efficient LED lights illuminate the arena and concourse, enhancing visibility and creating an upbeat atmosphere conducive to energetic gatherings. Upgraded sound systems deliver crisp, clear audio, crucial for ensuring that announcements, music, and cheers resonate throughout the venue and contribute to the electric group experience. Two grand entrances now also feature a Hall of Fame and Legacy Hall, giving visitors a chance to appreciate the rich history of Utah athletics, an inspiring addition that can make group visits culturally enriching.
What are some non-sporting uses of the Huntsman Center that appeal to groups? The arena doubles as a venue for concerts and special events, offering an alternative to sports when your group wants a different type of outing. These events benefit from the same state-of-the-art sound and lighting setups, ensuring professional production quality for a captivating experience. Additionally, the Huntsman Center hosts university and area high school commencements, which can serve as meaningful gathering points for families and friends celebrating milestones together. Community and cultural events are also held in this versatile space, creating opportunities for groups to engage in broader social experiences within a well-equipped, spacious arena. The multiplicity of uses makes it easy to plan group meetups that combine entertainment, celebration, and community connection in one central Salt Lake City location.
How does the Huntsman Center accommodate large groups and ensure comfort? With a seating capacity of 15,000, the arena is designed to welcome large crowds without overcrowding, making it an excellent choice for meetups that involve family reunions, friend circles, or fan clubs. Chair seating throughout the arena guarantees comfort during long events, unlike venues with bench seating where space can be limited. Wide concourses and improved lighting create an environment conducive to socializing, allowing group members to easily navigate, gather, and enjoy refreshments in a convivial atmosphere. The presence of multiple entrances helps reduce congestion during entry and exit, saving group members from frustrating waits and helping keep everyone together. Amenities like upgraded restrooms, concession stands, and fan merchandise shops add convenience and make the entire outing smooth and enjoyable for all ages.
Why is the Jon M. Huntsman Center a landmark venue with lasting appeal? As one of the top college arenas in the nation, the Huntsman Center has been a stage for historic moments in Utah sports and entertainment for over five decades. Its architectural design, once highlighted by the unique steel cloud scoreboard system, and now modernized for contemporary needs, reflects a perfect blend of history and innovation. The venue’s ongoing upgrades and maintenance demonstrate a commitment to excellence, ensuring that it remains a premier destination for NCAA events and beyond. This reputation attracts not only sports fans but also cultural event attendees, enriching the social fabric of Salt Lake City and the University of Utah community. By choosing this center for a group meetup, you tap into a space that symbolizes pride, legacy, and vibrant community spirit, encouraging memorable shared experiences.
What makes the Huntsman Center a great value for group events? Despite its scale and advanced amenities, the Huntsman Center remains accessible to the wider public through university events, NCAA games, and occasional concerts, making it a cost-effective meeting spot. The compatibility of various event types within one venue means groups can find tailored experiences that fit their preferences without needing to travel elsewhere. Hosting or attending an event at this iconic center offers numerous entertainment and social possibilities in one location, saving logistical hassle and expenses. Furthermore, the availability of ample parking and proximity to dining and lodging options nearby adds convenience and affordability for out-of-town groups. The blend of historic significance, modern technology, and diverse activities ensures excellent value for anyone choosing the Huntsman Center as their meetup venue.
In summary, the Jon M. Huntsman Center excels as a premier, versatile venue for group gatherings, offering sports, concerts, ceremonies, and community events in a newly modernized, comfortable setting. Its blend of history, capacity, technology, and location creates an inviting environment that amplifies shared experiences, making it an outstanding choice for your next meetup with friends or family.