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Capital One Arena

Washington Wizards · Washington, USA

National Basketball Association basketball arena active
77
TurfNurd Score — Iconic venue
Based on capacity, historical significance and visitor interest
Team
Washington Wizards
Capacity
20,356
Year Built
1997
Surface
hardwood
Indoor / Outdoor
indoor
Country

About Capital One Arena

Capital One Arena

Right in the heart of DC's vibrant Penn Quarter sits Capital One Arena, one of the most conveniently located sports venues you'll ever visit. The building rises directly above the Gallery Place Metro station in Chinatown, which means you can literally step off the train and walk straight into the arena—no parking nightmares, no expensive rideshares, just pure urban convenience. This prime location puts you within walking distance of dozens of restaurants, bars, and attractions, making it perfect for turning game day into a full downtown adventure.

Since opening its doors in 1997, the arena has been home to thrilling Capitals hockey, Wizards basketball, and countless concerts and events. While you might hear locals still call it the Verizon Center or even the MCI Center (showing their DC tenure), the official name became Capital One Arena in 2017, a nod to the financial giant based just outside the city in Tysons. Whatever you call it, this 20,000-seat venue delivers an electric atmosphere that captures the passionate energy of DC sports fans, all wrapped up in one of the country's most transit-friendly packages.

Historic moments
1998
NBA Finals Game 4 - Chicago Bulls vs Washington Bullets
20,674 attendance
Other
2001
NBA Finals Game 1 - Los Angeles Lakers vs Philadelphia 76ers
20,674 attendance
Other
2017
WWE WrestleMania 33 Axxess
Other
2018
Stanley Cup Finals Game 3 - Washington Capitals vs Vegas Golden Knights
18,506 attendance
Cup Final
2018
Stanley Cup Finals Game 4 - Washington Capitals vs Vegas Golden Knights
18,506 attendance
Cup Final
Score breakdown: Capacity 8p · Historic events 30p · League prestige 35p