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Golden 1 Center Guide

NBA · Sacramento

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Last updated: 3/9/2026

You'll find Golden 1 Center in the middle of the Downtown Commons (DOCO) district. It's an easy landmark to spot—right across from the Kimpton Sawyer Hotel—with several Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) light rail stations less than a block from the entrance.

At a glance

Cashless
Cashless
Re-entry
No re-entry
Gates open
Gates open 1.5h before
Outside food
No outside food
Getting here
Public transportation options include Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) light rail and bus services, with multiple light rail stations located within one block of the arena.
Family friendly
Family-friendly amenities include a Mamava Breastfeeding Pod at Section 211, nursing availability in Event Level lounges and First Aid Offices, and the allowance of baby bags, plastic bottles, and formula (within size limits).
Home team:Sacramento Kings

No upcoming multi-sport weekend featuring Golden 1 Center on the calendar. See Sacramento home weekends on the city hub →

Where to stay for Golden 1 Center

The Downtown Commons (DOCO) district, due to its proximity to the Golden 1 Center, including hotels like the Kimpton Sawyer Hotel which is directly across from the arena, is an ideal neighborhood for hotels.

Downtown Sacramento

Directly in the heart of the city's action, home to Golden 1 Center, and surrounded by numerous restaurants, bars, and entertainment options within the Downtown Commons (DoCo) district.

Golden 1 Center is directly accessible by SacRT Light Rail Blue and Gold Lines (7th & Capitol Station, 8th & K Station) and multiple SacRT bus routes (e.g., 11, 30, 38, 62). For Sutter Health Park, transfer to Yolobus Route 42A from downtown light rail stations (St. Rose of Lima Park or 8th & K St.). For Heart Health Park, various SacRT bus routes (e.g., 67, 68) connect from downtown.

Midtown Sacramento

A vibrant cultural hub known for its eccentric arts scene, diverse dining options, lively nightlife, and unique boutiques, offering a blend of excitement and a quieter residential feel.

Well-served by SacRT bus routes connecting to Downtown Sacramento. From Downtown, easy access to Golden 1 Center via light rail (Blue and Gold Lines), and connections to Yolobus for Sutter Health Park. Bus connections are also available for Heart Health Park.

East Sacramento

A charming, upscale, and walkable neighborhood known for its picturesque tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, vibrant dining scene, and recreational amenities like McKinley Park.

Accessible to Downtown Sacramento via SacRT bus routes and the Gold Line light rail, which has stations in or near East Sacramento (e.g., Alhambra / E Street, University / 65th Street) and connects directly to downtown stations like 8th & K, providing access to Golden 1 Center. For Sutter Health Park, connections can be made via light rail and Yolobus from downtown. For Heart Health Park, bus connections are available.

Curtis Park

A charming and safe neighborhood with a strong sense of community, known for its historic Bungalow, Craftsman, and Tudor homes, tree-lined streets, and access to local parks and events.

Primarily served by SacRT bus routes connecting to Downtown Sacramento. From downtown, visitors can access Golden 1 Center via light rail (Blue and Gold Lines) and Sutter Health Park via Yolobus Route 42A. Bus connections are also available for Heart Health Park.

See full Sacramento stay guide →

Arrival and exit strategy

Transit and approach

Public transportation options include Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) light rail and bus services, with multiple light rail stations located within one block of the arena. The Game Day Express offers non-stop service from Roseville. Yolobus operates during major events, and the Capitol Corridor train provides service from the San Francisco Bay Area. Bicycle parking and valet services are also available.

Rideshare and parking

Rideshare: Recommended rideshare drop-off and pick-up locations include J Street between 3rd Street and 5th Street, I Street between 7th and 8th Street, and 4th Street between L Street and Capitol Mall. It is generally advised to be dropped off and picked up away from the immediate vicinity of the stadium.

Parking: It is recommended to purchase pre-paid parking passes online through the City of Sacramento's SacPark website. Parking garages associated with Golden 1 Center are scheduled to open two hours prior to the start of an event or tipoff.

After the event

Revival at The Sawyer, with its rooftop bar, is adjacent to the Golden 1 Center and extends its bar service hours on event nights, offering a late-night option. The broader Downtown Commons (DOCO) area provides numerous bars and restaurants for post-game nightlife.

Works well with these Sacramento venues

Map context

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The game-day experience

  • Atmosphere area: The Golden 1 Center is situated in the heart of the bustling Downtown Commons (DOCO) district.
  • Tailgating: Tailgating is not allowed in any city parking garages. While some parking lots may permit tailgating before certain events, specific rules apply, and it is generally not allowed during or after an event. Open-flame grilling or oil-frying equipment is typically prohibited.
  • Signature food: The arena features local dining options such as Paragary's (farm-to-fork cuisine), Selland's Market Café (artisanal pizzas, salads, comfort food), and Centro Cocina Mexicana (authentic Mexican flavors). A wide selection of California craft beers and regional wines is also available.
  • Fan tradition: A distinctive fan tradition is the 'Beam,' where four purple lasers illuminate the sky following Sacramento Kings' home wins. For Kings games, cowbells are the only permitted noisemakers.
  • Pregame institution: Revival at The Sawyer (500 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95814)

Where to eat and drink nearby

Pregame picks

  • Tom's Watch Bar
    414 K St., Suite 180, Sacramento, CA 95814 · Downtown Commons (DOCO)

    Sacramento's biggest sports bar with a 360-degree viewing experience, stadium-quality sound, and over 75 screens for an immersive fan experience.

    What to order: Elevated sports bar classics, chef-driven dishes, 50+ beers, signature 40 oz two-handed stein, and specialty cocktails.

  • Capitol Garage
    1500 K Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 · Downtown Sacramento

    A Sacramento mainstay for over 30 years, offering a lively atmosphere and diverse menu. It's known for its central location and vibrant scene.

    What to order: Variety of house baked goods, classic breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and a full bar.