There is a state religion in Indiana: basketball. Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis is the Sistine Chapel, hosting the Indiana Pacers, the Indiana Fever (WNBA), and the Big Ten Conference Tournaments. Opened in November 1999 as Conseco Fieldhouse, the venue's current name was acquired in 2011. The Fieldhouse has won many awards, including Best Venue in the NBA by Sports Business Journal, according to NBA.com.
Parking and Public Transportation for Bankers Life Fieldhouse
Parking is within walking distance of Bankers Life Fieldhouse throughout the downtown area, and you can reserve a parking space through ParkWhiz.com, according to the Fieldhouse website. The closest bus stop is a block away, and times vary by the route. Check IndyGo.net for more information.
Best and Worst Times to Go to Bankers Life Fieldhouse
As a general rule, the earlier you get there for an event, the better. Purchase tickets days in advance to avoid the crowds. Allow for time to get caught in traffic on event days.
Admission to Bankers Life Fieldhouse
Admission to Bankers Life Fieldhouse depends on the event. The Box Office is located in the Entry Pavilion, and its hours are Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. On event days, the Box Office opens at least two hours prior to the event.
Must See/Do at Bankers Life Fieldhouse
Visit Home Court, the 10,000-square foot official gift shop of the Pacers and the Fever. The shop includes a bar, a Dunkin' Donuts, interactive activities for all ages, a 12-foot tall Boomer (the Pacers mascot), and an 18-foot in diameter basketball. The Locker Room Restaurant has a wide array of food available in addition to a fully-stocked bar. It is open to Suite ticket holders, Courtside Seat ticket holders, and Sponsors during Pacers games and to all ticket holders during Fever games. It opens one and a half hours before tipoff.
Other Places to Visit Near Bankers Life Fieldhouse
Bankers Life Fieldhouse is close to several restaurants and tourist attractions, including Indianapolis City Market, Dick's Bodacious Bar-B-Q (the Hoss Baked Potato is excellent), and Circle City Coffee Shop (where you can get an Irish Cream latte year-round and a seasonal Pumpkin Spice latte made with real pumpkin puree).
Insider Tip for Bankers Life Fieldhouse
Indiana takes beer seriously. Indiana Brewed, located in Section 16 of the Indianapolis Star Pavilion, sells local craft and micro brews. Indianapolis favorite Sun King can be purchased at several locations throughout the Fieldhouse--the Wee Mac, a Scottish-style ale with an ABV of 5.3 percent and an IBU of 23, is a popular selection.
Author's bio: Becky Oberg is a professional writer who has lived in Indianapolis on and off for almost thirty years. Her hobbies include acting, singing, writing and playing video games.
