Chase Center (San Francisco, CA)

exciting basketball game at san francisco s chase center

The Chase Center is more than just an arena; it is a premier sports and entertainment venue and the home of the six-time NBA champion Golden State Warriors. Located in the dynamic Mission Bay neighborhood of San Francisco, the arena is a modern landmark that boasts a stunning waterfront location and is a centerpiece of the larger mixed-use development known as Thrive City. Opened in 2019, this state-of-the-art facility provides an unparalleled experience for fans and visitors alike. This guide provides all the essential information for your visit to this iconic venue.

History and Design

The site of the Chase Center was born out of the Golden State Warriors’ desire for a new home in San Francisco, after spending over 40 years in Oakland’s Oracle Arena. The arena was the first major sports venue to open in San Francisco since 1999 and was designed by Manica Architecture. The project was entirely privately financed, making it one of the largest private construction projects in the city’s history.

The design is a testament to modern engineering and fan-centric planning. The arena is characterized by its sleek, glass-and-steel facade and its intimate seating bowl that places fans close to the action. It features multiple levels of clubs and suites, and the concourses offer stunning views of the bay and the city skyline. A key design element is the public plaza, Thrive City, which surrounds the arena and offers a variety of retail, dining, and open spaces for events.

Major Events Hosted

The Chase Center has quickly become a hub for world-class events in sports and entertainment.

  • NBA Basketball: The primary tenant is the Golden State Warriors, and the arena hosts all of their regular season and playoff home games, including the 2022 NBA Finals.
  • Major Music Concerts: The venue is a must-stop for global tours, hosting artists such as The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Billie Eilish, and Ariana Grande.
  • Esports and Comedy: The arena’s flexible design allows it to host major esports tournaments and stand-up comedy specials by renowned comedians.
  • Conferences and Corporate Events: Due to its central location and modern facilities, it is a popular venue for large-scale corporate meetings and conferences.

Getting to the Chase Center

Chase Center’s location in a bustling urban area means public transport is the most efficient way to get to an event.

By Air

  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO): This is the closest and most convenient airport. From SFO, you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or BART train to the Embarcadero Station, which is a short Muni light rail ride away from the arena. The journey typically takes 30-45 minutes.

By Public Transport Public transport is highly recommended on event days.

  • Muni: The San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni) provides direct service to Chase Center via the T Third Street light rail line, with a station right at the arena plaza. Several other bus lines also have stops within a short walking distance.
  • BART: The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system connects the East Bay, Peninsula, and San Francisco. From any BART station, you can transfer to Muni at the Embarcadero station to reach the arena.
  • Caltrain: The Caltrain commuter rail has its San Francisco station at 4th and King, which is just a 10-15 minute walk from the Chase Center.
  • Ferries: The San Francisco Bay Ferry offers direct service from East Bay locations to a terminal at Pier 48, which is just a few minutes’ walk from the arena.

By Car & Parking Driving to the Chase Center is not advised on event days due to significant traffic and very limited, expensive parking. If you must drive, it’s highly recommended to book parking in advance through official apps or websites, or consider using a rideshare service to drop you off a few blocks from the arena to avoid congestion.


Tickets & Tours at Chase Center

Tickets for the Golden State Warriors

Tickets for Golden State Warriors games and major concerts are primarily sold through Ticketmaster, the arena’s official ticketing partner.

Stadium Tours

The Chase Center offers a variety of tours that provide behind-the-scenes access to the arena. Tours typically include a walk through the players’ locker rooms, a trip onto the court, and an inside look at the state-of-the-art facilities. You can purchase tour tickets and find more information on the official Chase Center website.


Where to Stay Near Chase Center

Staying near the arena is convenient for events, but San Francisco’s robust public transport system makes it easy to stay in other parts of the city as well.

  • Mission Bay: This is the immediate neighborhood around the arena. It is a newly developed area with modern hotels and a growing number of restaurants and bars.
  • SOMA (South of Market): Located a short walk or rideshare away, the SOMA district offers a wide range of hotel options, from boutique hotels to large chains.
  • Union Square & Financial District: These areas are packed with hotels, restaurants, and shopping options. They are a short Muni ride away and are great for a full San Francisco experience.

Booking Tips:

  • Book Well in Advance: Hotel availability can be limited during major events or city-wide events.
  • Check Transport Links: Ensure your accommodation is conveniently located for public transport to and from the stadium.
  • Use Reputable Booking Sites: Utilise well-known and reputable booking websites like Tripadvisor to find and compare accommodation options. Always verify reviews and ratings before booking.
TripAdvisor

Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit

Last Updated on August 28, 2025 by Sports Tourist