Introduction
Located in the heart of Glendale, Arizona, Desert Diamond Arena stands as one of the premier venues for hosting world-class concerts, sporting events, and entertainment experiences. Originally known as Gila River Arena, this multi-purpose facility has been a cornerstone of Arizona’s entertainment landscape since its opening in 2003. Over the years, Desert Diamond Arena has evolved into a hotspot for NHL games, live concerts, family shows, and special events, attracting visitors from across the state and beyond.
In this comprehensive article, we will explore the history, design, events, and impact of Desert Diamond Arena, shedding light on what makes it such a pivotal part of Glendale’s cultural and sports scene.
History and Development of Desert Diamond Arena
Initial Conception and Opening
Desert Diamond Arena, formerly Gila River Arena, was constructed as part of the larger Westgate Entertainment District, which aimed to transform Glendale into a key entertainment and tourism destination. The arena officially opened its doors on December 26, 2003, and quickly gained attention as the home arena of the Arizona Coyotes, the state’s NHL team.
With a construction cost of approximately $220 million, the arena was designed to be a state-of-the-art venue capable of hosting a wide range of events, from hockey games to concerts and more. Over the years, the arena has undergone various upgrades to maintain its status as a modern and versatile venue.
Name Changes Over the Years
Since its inception, the arena has undergone several name changes:
- Glendale Arena (2003–2006)
- Jobing.com Arena (2006–2014)
- Gila River Arena (2014–2022)
- Desert Diamond Arena (2022–Present)
The current name reflects a partnership with Desert Diamond Casinos, a well-known brand in Arizona’s gaming and hospitality industry. This collaboration has further strengthened the arena’s reputation as a hub for both entertainment and business.
Architecture and Design
Capacity and Layout
Desert Diamond Arena boasts a seating capacity of approximately 18,300 for concerts and about 17,125 for hockey games. The arena features:
- Multiple seating levels, including lower bowl, upper bowl, and premium seating.
- Luxury suites and club seats, providing VIP experiences for guests seeking added comfort and exclusivity.
- Spacious concourse areas with food and beverage options.
- State-of-the-art acoustics and lighting systems, making it ideal for live performances and televised events.
Accessibility and Amenities
The arena is designed to be fully accessible, offering features such as:
- ADA-compliant seating and entrances.
- Ample parking facilities, including accessible parking spots.
- Nearby access to restaurants, shops, and hotels within the Westgate Entertainment District.
- High-quality sound systems and large video boards to enhance the viewing experience.
Key Events and Highlights
Sports Events
While it served as the home of the Arizona Coyotes until 2022, Desert Diamond Arena continues to host a variety of sporting events, including:
- Professional and college hockey tournaments.
- Wrestling events, such as WWE and AEW shows.
- Boxing and MMA matches, attracting top fighters and promoters.
- Basketball exhibitions and other sporting showcases.
Concerts and Entertainment
Desert Diamond Arena has been a stage for some of the biggest names in the music industry, hosting artists across genres such as rock, pop, country, and hip-hop. Some notable performers have included:
- Elton John
- Ariana Grande
- Justin Bieber
- Metallica
- Shakira
In addition to music concerts, the arena also hosts family-friendly shows, such as:
- Disney on Ice
- Cirque du Soleil
- Monster Jam
- WWE and UFC events
Special Events and Conventions
The versatile nature of Desert Diamond Arena allows it to be a preferred venue for:
- Corporate events and conferences.
- Trade shows and expos.
- Graduations and ceremonies.
The arena’s adaptable space can be configured to suit the needs of various large-scale gatherings.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Boosting Glendale’s Economy
Desert Diamond Arena plays a significant role in driving economic activity in Glendale and the greater Phoenix area. The events held at the arena attract thousands of visitors, supporting local businesses such as:
- Hotels and accommodations.
- Restaurants and bars.
- Retail outlets.
With its strategic location within the Westgate Entertainment District, the arena contributes to a thriving entertainment and hospitality sector.
Promoting Community Engagement
The arena is not just a commercial venue; it also engages with the local community through various outreach programs and partnerships. These include:
- Youth sports programs and hockey clinics.
- Charity events and fundraisers.
- Educational partnerships with local schools and organizations.
By hosting community-centered events, Desert Diamond Arena strengthens its connection with Arizona residents.
Future Prospects and Developments
With its strong partnership with Desert Diamond Casinos and ongoing demand for high-profile events, the future of Desert Diamond Arena looks promising. Potential future developments include:
- Technological upgrades for enhanced fan experiences, such as improved mobile app integration and virtual experiences.
- Expanded partnerships with entertainment companies to bring more world-class events to Glendale.
- Sustainability initiatives to make the venue more eco-friendly and energy-efficient.
Although no longer hosting NHL games, the arena remains a key player in Arizona’s entertainment scene, continually attracting concerts, sporting events, and special functions.
Visitor Tips and Recommendations
If you plan to visit Desert Diamond Arena, here are a few helpful tips:
- Book tickets early for high-demand events to ensure good seating.
- Arrive early to enjoy the Westgate Entertainment District, which offers dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
- Check parking options in advance—several lots and garages are available within walking distance.
- Consider VIP packages if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, including club seating and private suites.
- Stay updated on the arena’s event calendar via its official website to catch the latest announcements.
Conclusion
Desert Diamond Arena continues to be a landmark venue that has significantly contributed to Glendale’s reputation as a leading entertainment destination in Arizona. With its modern design, versatile event capabilities, and rich history of hosting top-tier concerts and sports, the arena offers unforgettable experiences to visitors from all walks of life.
Whether you’re a sports fan, music lover, or attending a special event, Desert Diamond Arena provides a dynamic space that brings people together for shared moments of excitement and entertainment. As it evolves with new partnerships and events, Desert Diamond Arena remains an essential part of Arizona’s vibrant cultural scene.
If you’d like, I can also create a visitor guide, list of upcoming events, or fun facts about Desert Diamond Arena. Let me know!
FAQ on Desert Diamond Arena
1. What is Desert Diamond Arena?
Desert Diamond Arena is a multi-purpose entertainment and sports venue located in Glendale, Arizona, hosting concerts, sporting events, and special shows.
2. Where is Desert Diamond Arena located?
It is located in the Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale, Arizona.
3. What types of events are held at Desert Diamond Arena?
The arena hosts concerts, sporting events, family shows, wrestling, boxing matches, and corporate events.
4. What is the seating capacity of Desert Diamond Arena?
The arena can hold approximately 18,300 for concerts and 17,125 for hockey games.
5. Was Desert Diamond Arena formerly known by another name?
Yes, it was previously known as Gila River Arena, Jobing.com Arena, and Glendale Arena.
What is the Desert Diamond Arena used for now?
Desert Diamond Arena is currently used as a multi-purpose venue hosting a wide variety of events, including concerts, family shows, combat sports, and special events. Although it was formerly home to the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes, the arena has since shifted its focus to being a premier location for major music tours, wrestling events like WWE and AEW, boxing and MMA fights, and family-friendly entertainment such as Disney on Ice. Located in Glendale’s vibrant Westgate Entertainment District, Desert Diamond Arena also serves as a venue for corporate events, expos, and community gatherings, making it one of Arizona’s top destinations for live entertainment and large-scale events.
Who owns the Desert Diamond Arena?
Desert Diamond Arena is owned by the City of Glendale, Arizona. Although the city retains ownership of the facility, the arena’s naming rights and management have changed over time through partnerships with private entities. Currently, ASM Global, a leading venue management company, operates the arena, handling day-to-day management, event bookings, and operations. The naming rights are held by Desert Diamond Casinos, a well-known brand in Arizona’s gaming industry, following a partnership agreement. This collaboration between public ownership and private management allows Desert Diamond Arena to host a wide range of high-profile concerts, sporting events, and special shows while contributing to the local economy.
How big is Desert Diamond?
How many people can fit in the Desert Diamond Arena?
Which country has most diamonds?
Russia is the country that has the largest diamond reserves and is the leading producer of diamonds by volume in the world. The country is home to some of the richest diamond mines, including the famous Mirny and Udachny mines located in the Siberian region. Russia’s vast natural resources allow it to produce millions of carats of diamonds annually, both gem-quality and industrial-grade. Following Russia, other major diamond-producing countries include Botswana, Canada, and Australia, but Russia consistently tops the list in terms of production output. The Russian company ALROSA, one of the world’s largest diamond mining firms, is responsible for a significant portion of the country’s diamond production.
Which country is known as diamond of Desert?
How big is Desert Diamond Arena ?
Desert Diamond Arena is a sizable gaming and entertainment complex, with several locations throughout Arizona, each varying in size. The Desert Diamond arena West Valley, located in Glendale, is one of the largest, covering over 75,000 square feet of gaming space. This expansive casino features more than 1,400 slot machines, table games, poker rooms, and high-limit gaming areas, offering a wide range of entertainment options for visitors. In addition to gaming, Desert Diamond Arena also includes restaurants, bars, lounges, and event spaces, making it a full-service entertainment destination. Other Desert Diamond Casino locations, such as those in Tucson, Sahuarita, and Why, Arizona, also offer extensive gaming and hospitality services, though their sizes may vary. Overall, Desert Diamond Arena is considered one of the largest and most popular arena brands in Arizona.
Parker is an insightful author at Best Reacts, specializing in delivering thoughtful and engaging content. His writing bridges the gap between information and inspiration, making every piece a compelling read.
