Formerly the Verizon Center, the Capital One Arena has dominated the Chinatown/Penn Quarter neighborhood since its construction in 1997. The massive indoor arena welcomes guests to a variety of sporting events, concerts, trade shows, and family shows as well as special events such as the historic Harlem Globetrotters and Washington International Horse Show. In addition to the games and shows, arena visitors can also enjoy lounges, clubs, shopping, and dining.
The Capital One Arena is conveniently located right next to the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro stop (Red, Green, and Yellow lines) making it easy to reach the arena by Metrorail. It is also easily accessible on foot or by bus. Avoid driving your own car—traffic and parking are difficult during events.
Visit October through June for a basketball game or check the arena’s event schedule to catch a concert at any time of the year. The dates of other special events can also be found on the event schedule.
The Capital One Arena has been at the heart of a redevelopment project that revitalized the Chinatown/Penn Quarter neighborhood. Beginning with the arena’s construction, the surrounding area has become a hub for entertainment. Visitors can enjoy lively bars, clubs, restaurants, and shopping opportunities of the surrounding 7th Street corridor before or after catching an event at the arena.
