Staples Center, now known as Crypto.com Arena, is a multipurpose indoor arena in downtown Los Angeles that serves as the shared home of the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers, the NHL's Los Angeles Kings, and major concerts and events. Opened in October 1999 as part of the larger L.A. Live development, the arena was built to provide modern facilities for top-tier sports and entertainment on the West Coast. This guide explains the venue's layout, seating, naming evolution, and long-term role in Los Angeles sports and culture, with up-to-date operational context and verified details for ongoing visitor and fan reference.
History and Opening
Staples Center opened in October 1999 as a joint venture between Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG), the city of Los Angeles, and the owners of the Lakers and Clippers. It was designed to replace the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena and provide a state-of-the-art venue for basketball, hockey, concerts, and other large events. The arena was originally named after Staples Inc. under a 20-year naming rights agreement and was later renamed Crypto.com Arena in 2021 following a new naming rights deal. Its downtown location near Union Station and the LA Live district was intended to spur economic development and improve access for regional and national visitors.
Seating Capacity and Layout
Seating configurations vary by sport and event type, with permanent and retractable seating allowing flexible configurations for basketball, hockey, and concerts. The standard basketball setup is commonly cited as approximately 18,997 seats, while hockey configurations are typically lower due to the ice surface and surrounding boards. The upper bowl, lower bowl, club levels, and suites are arranged to provide clear sightlines and multiple hospitality options. Below is a concise overview of typical capacity ranges by event category:
| Event Type | Approximate Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NBA Basketball | ~18,997 | Standard configuration for Lakers and Clippers |
| NHL Hockey | ~17,500 | Reduced by ice surface and boards |
| Concerts | ~16,000–20,000 | Varies with stage placement and production |
| End-stage Concerts | ~12,000–15,000 | Lower capacity due to rear-stage sightlines |
| Other Events | Variable | Conferences, family shows, and festivals |
Major Teams and Primary Use
Staples Center is best known as the longtime home of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers, hosting hundreds of regular season and playoff games since 1999. The Los Angeles Kings of the NHL also play their regular season home games there, utilizing the arena for nationally televised matchups. In addition to professional sports, the venue hosts college basketball events, concerts by major international artists, family entertainment, award ceremonies, and conferences. Its central location and flexible staging make it a frequent choice for high-profile productions that require reliable infrastructure and large indoor capacity.
Notable Events and Milestones
Over its history, Staples Center has hosted a wide range of landmark events, including multiple NBA All-Star Games, conference finals, and marquee concerts by globally recognized performers. It has been a frequent venue for major HBO boxing events, arena football, and internationally touring music productions. The surrounding L.A. Live district has evolved alongside the arena, adding restaurants, retail, and entertainment options that support foot traffic on event days. While this summary does not cite specific ticket or attendance figures, the arena's consistent booking slate reflects its continued demand as a top-tier venue in one of the world's entertainment capitals.
Current Operations and Visitor Experience
Today, the arena operates as Crypto.com Arena under a long-term naming rights agreement, with updated branding visible across concourses, digital signage, and sponsorship placements. Fans and visitors can access multiple transportation options, including rail and bus connections near Union Station, and parking facilities in the L.A. Live area. Standard venue amenities include concessions, restrooms, accessibility seating, mobile ticketing, and cashless purchases. Event schedules are managed by AEG and the venue's event teams, with dates for Lakers, Kings, Clippers, and concerts typically published well in advance on official team and ticketing platforms. For the latest event-specific entry policies, security guidelines, and seating information, consult the arena's official communications and ticket provider resources.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Original Name | Staples Center | Historical naming record |
| Current Name | Crypto.com Arena | Venue and naming rights announcement |
| Opened | October 1999 | Opening date in historical archives |
| Location | 1111 S Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA | Official venue materials |
| Primary NBA Tenants | Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers | Team lease and partnership information |
| Primary NHL Tenant | Los Angeles Kings | Team scheduling and venue agreements |
| Typical NBA Capacity | Approximately 18,997 | Standard seating configuration |
| Naming Rights History | Staples (1999–2021), Crypto.com (2021–present) | Public naming rights announcements |
Comparisons and Context
Within Los Angeles, Staples Center/Crypto.com Arena is one of the city's largest multipurpose indoor venues, competing with venues such as the Honda Center in Anaheim for major concerts and high-profile events. Its downtown footprint and integrated L.A. Live campus distinguish it from venues located in suburban markets. Compared with historic arenas, it offers modern amenities, updated concessions, and improved fan technology, while continuing to serve the long-standing role of a central hub for Los Angeles sports and entertainment. Understanding these alternatives helps clarify why certain events are scheduled at this venue and how it fits into the broader regional landscape.
Planning a Visit
Visitors heading to Staples Center (Crypto.com Arena) should check event-specific ticketing and entry requirements on official team or ticketing platforms, as policies can vary by event and change over time. Arriving early is recommended for major games and concerts due to heightened security screening and traffic in the surrounding area. The venue is served by public transit, including rail stations within walking distance, and several parking options are available in the L.A. Live district. Concessions and merchandise are typically available inside, with accessible seating and services offered in compliance with venue policies.
Closing Notes
Staples Center, now Crypto.com Arena, remains a cornerstone of Los Angeles' sports and entertainment infrastructure. Its long operational history, central location, and ongoing upgrades support a wide variety of events throughout the year. This overview consolidates verifiable information about the arena's origins, seating, tenants, and current use, providing a clear, practical reference for fans and visitors seeking a durable understanding of the venue.