The XL Center is a vibrant entertainment hub located in the heart of downtown Hartford, Connecticut. This multi-purpose arena serves as the center of exciting live events in the region, hosting everything from thrilling sports competitions to unforgettable concerts. When you visit the XL Center, you’ll find yourself in Connecticut’s largest indoor entertainment facility, offering seating for over 15,000 people and numerous amenities to enhance your experience.
As you explore this iconic venue, you’ll discover it’s home to the Hartford Wolf Pack hockey team and frequently hosts the University of Connecticut’s basketball games. The convenient downtown location makes it easy to include in your Hartford adventures, with an attached parking garage that keeps you comfortable in any weather. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or music lover, the XL Center provides the perfect setting for creating lasting memories during your Connecticut travels.
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XL Center
The XL Center is Hartford’s premier sports and entertainment venue. You’ll find this impressive arena hosting a variety of exciting events throughout the year. From thrilling hockey games to spectacular concerts, there’s always something happening that will catch your interest.
When you visit, you’ll experience the electric atmosphere that only a large arena can provide. The venue regularly welcomes thousands of enthusiastic fans for University of Connecticut basketball games and Hartford Wolf Pack hockey matches. The energy during these sporting events is contagious!
Beyond sports, you can enjoy world-class entertainment at the XL Center. Major touring concerts, family shows, and special events make their way to this Hartford landmark. If you want to stay informed about upcoming events, you can sign up for their newsletter to get early access to ticket sales and presale opportunities.
The center’s downtown location makes it easy to incorporate into a day trip to Hartford. You’ll find plenty of dining options nearby, making it simple to grab a meal before or after an event.
Rating: 4.3 (3514 reviews)
Location: 1 Civic Center Plaza, Hartford, CT 06103
Contact: (860) 249-6333
Website: Visit Website
History of XL Center
The XL Center in downtown Hartford has a rich and sometimes dramatic history dating back to the 1970s. This iconic venue has evolved from its humble beginnings to become Connecticut’s premier sports and entertainment destination.
Early Beginnings
The facility opened its doors on January 9, 1975, as the Hartford Civic Center. Glen Campbell headlined the inaugural event, kicking off what would become a legendary concert venue. The original complex included both a coliseum and exhibition center, serving as the heart of downtown Hartford’s entertainment scene.
Just three years after opening, disaster struck. On January 17, 1978, the roof of the Civic Center collapsed under heavy snow, just hours after hosting a UConn basketball game attended by nearly 5,000 fans. Had the collapse occurred during the game, it could have been one of the worst disasters in Connecticut history. Thankfully, the building was empty when the roof gave way.
Major Renovations
Following the roof collapse, the Hartford Civic Center underwent significant reconstruction. Engineers redesigned the roof structure, raising the columns by 12 feet to create more seating and improve safety. The venue reopened in 1980 with its new design.
In December 2007, the facility underwent another transformation when it was renamed the XL Center after insurance company XL Group purchased the naming rights. This change marked a new era for the venue.
Today, the XL Center continues to be managed by the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) under a lease with the City of Hartford. It remains the center of sports and entertainment for Hartford and all of Connecticut, hosting major concerts, sporting events, and shows that you can enjoy year-round.
Events at XL Center
The XL Center hosts a diverse lineup of exciting events throughout the year. From thrilling sports competitions to memorable concerts and large conventions, there’s something for everyone at this Hartford venue.
Sports
The Hartford Wolf Pack, the AHL affiliate of the New York Rangers, calls the XL Center home. You can catch them facing off against teams like the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins during the 2024-2025 season.
UConn basketball is another major draw. Both the men’s and women’s Huskies teams play select home games here, bringing NCAA Division I action to downtown Hartford. The electric atmosphere during these games is something you won’t forget.
The venue also hosts special sporting events like gymnastics competitions, professional wrestling, and exhibition games. With seating for over 15,000 fans, you’ll find good views from nearly anywhere in the arena.
Check the XL Center website for upcoming game schedules and ticket information.
Concerts
Music lovers flock to the XL Center for performances by top touring artists. The venue attracts a wide range of musical acts spanning different genres.
Past performers have included Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen, Justin Timberlake, and Elton John. The 2025 concert schedule promises more unforgettable shows.
The arena’s acoustics and lighting create an immersive experience for concertgoers. Premium seating options give you the chance to enhance your experience with better views and added amenities.
You can purchase tickets through the XL Center’s official website or Ticketmaster. Following the venue on social media is a great way to get alerts about newly announced shows and presale opportunities.
Conventions
The XL Center transforms to host conventions, expos, and special events throughout the year. Its flexible space accommodates everything from consumer shows to corporate gatherings.
Popular annual events include home shows, car expos, and hobby conventions. These events often feature vendors, demonstrations, and interactive experiences.
The central location in downtown Hartford makes this venue easily accessible. You’ll find plenty of nearby restaurants and hotels if you’re attending a multi-day event.
Convention schedules typically appear on the XL Center website months in advance. Many events offer discount tickets for early registration or group purchases.
The staff works hard to ensure smooth operations during these large gatherings, with clear signage and helpful personnel throughout the venue.
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